New Jersey will become the first state in the U.S. to require builders to consider the impact of climate change in order to gain project approval.
The governor said the state will not sign off on a proposed building project if it does not align with broader efforts to combat climate change. A non-compliant plan would have to be amended or it would not be approved.
Murphy’s plan employs seven key strategies for emissions cuts. These include expanding use of electric vehicles, accelerating the growth of the state’s renewable energy sector, strengthening energy efficiency standards, and expanding the clean energy economy.
The governor also signed a new executive order for new regulatory reforms to make the Garden State more resilient to future climate change impacts. Among them: Reform land use rules to further reduce development in flood-prone areas and to restore wetlands.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2016
Washington State Energy Code updates include dedicated outdoor air system requirements
The updates will change design approach to HVAC.
Codes and Standards | Sep 22, 2016
Construction firms pulling back from federal market due to new reporting rules
‘Subjective, very vague’ policies are said to create too much risk.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2016
Airbnb presents legal liability for multifamily owners
How building owners can reduce risks.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2016
Healthy buildings becoming a key design priority for both architects and building owners
Nationwide survey finds nearly three of four architects cite health impacts influencing design decisions
Data Centers | Sep 19, 2016
New ANSI/ASHRAE data center standard is performance-based, more flexible
The aim of the standard was to ‘not stifle innovation.’
Codes and Standards | Sep 16, 2016
Calm weather tidal flooding impacting several communities on East and Gulf Coasts
Local officials face the prospect of costly mitigation projects.
Codes and Standards | Sep 15, 2016
OSHA appoints new director for its construction directorate
The forty-year industry veteran has been a GC and business owner.
Energy | Sep 13, 2016
Oberlin College to hold conference on post-fossil fuel economy
The gathering will address climate change and new sources of energy.
Industry Research | Sep 12, 2016
Evidence linking classroom design to improved learning mounts
A study finds the impact can be as much as 25% per year.
Legislation | Sep 8, 2016
Half of U.S. states now allow design-build on public projects
Missouri is the latest to enact design-build legislation.