IGCC aims for regulatory framework for green construction
On June 29, the International Code Council (ICC), in conjunction with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) announced the launching of a new initiative, the International Green Construction Code (IGCC). The IGCC will be a model code for commercial and high performance buildings, with a framework based on environmentally sound standards. The goal is to create a sustainable regulatory framework that can be adopted into local, state, and federal law.
The main goals of the IGCC are to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that buildings emit, while encouraging efficient use of energy, water, materials, and other resources. The IGCC will also address indoor environmental quality, site design, and education for building owners and facility management. There will also be provisions that take account of existing buildings. The IGCC will include compliance criteria, and will include mandatory language that provides the flexibility necessary to take account for local conditions. Architects and designers are expected to have a primary role in the implementation of the Code.
ICC Executive Officer Richard P. Weiland noted that the AIA and ASTM’s involvement in this process signifies a commitment to “recognized and verifiable approaches to standards.” Notably, the AIA has an initiative of carbon neutral buildings by 2030.
The Sustainable Building Technology Committee (SBTC), which the Code Council Board established last year, will hold public meetings, culminating in an initial draft, followed by a public comment period. The final draft of the IGCC will be available by 2010, at which point it will go through development and final action hearings. The IGCC is not the first green building initiative. The IGCC follows Standard 189, the first minimum, code-enforceable standard for green buildings.
