After 19 cities signed a declaration to make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2030, the question is: How will they get there?
Part of the answer will come down to political will to withstand expected opposition from developers. To reach net-zero carbon, energy usage of buildings will have to be cut anywhere from 50% to 85%.
Stretch codes, an extra layer of local, more stringent regulations on top of the base building codes, could be used. More stringent credentials for designers, contractors, and inspectors, may also be needed.
The 2030 goal is feasible, according to an official with the Alliance to Save Energy. One example is Melbourne, Australia’s Pixel Building, the country’s first carbon-neutral building. It features colorful panels that control the amount of light coming into the building, and smart windows that allow heat to escape.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Apr 20, 2021
U.S. electric grid is halfway to zero carbon
Other sectors including buildings lag power industry.
Codes and Standards | Apr 19, 2021
Failed landmark preservation effort in Chicago provides lessons for planners
Gentrification fears heightened among Pilsen neighborhood residents doomed ambitious preservation plan.
Codes and Standards | Apr 14, 2021
New Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment standard debuts in 2021
Will affect 250,000 commercial real estate deals a year.
Codes and Standards | Apr 13, 2021
British Columbia moves to accelerate mass timber construction
Province funds demonstration projects as part of economic recovery.
Codes and Standards | Apr 12, 2021
WoodWorks and Think Wood release first Mass Timber Design Manual
Interactive collection of information on mass timber products, design best practices, taller wood construction and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | Apr 8, 2021
Sensors used in tunable lighting systems found to have high reliability
DOE study investigated items used to control lumen depreciation, chromaticity shifts, and changes in drivers.
Codes and Standards | Apr 7, 2021
Red tape ruined the U.K.’s home retrofit program
Lessons learned could help US avoid that fate.
Codes and Standards | Apr 6, 2021
Lendlease achieves net-zero carbon in Boston, Chicago multifamily portfolio
New projects in New York, Los Angeles on track to reach goal.
Codes and Standards | Apr 5, 2021
Specification for sliding door, lift and slide roller assemblies updated
Addresses market trend toward heavy sliding doors.
Codes and Standards | Apr 5, 2021
Construction employment rebounds in March following February drop
Rising costs, supply-chain woes, and cancellations threaten outlook.
