Building Green, New Codes unveiled…

Posted on | May 27, 2010 | No Comments

The International Code Council announced the release of Public Version 1.0 of the International Green Construction Code (IGCC) to regulate construction of new and existing commercial buildings. The IGCC aims to significantly reduce energy usage and greenhouse gasses. It addresses site development and land use, including preservation of natural and material resources. Enforcement of the code will improve indoor air quality and support the use of energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy systems, water resource conservation, rainwater collection and distribution systems, and the recovery of used water (graywater). Principals from the ICC, AIA and ASTM pointed out how the IGCC helps further the mission of their organizations and members.

We talked to communities who indicate that their voluntary green building programs reach only, but an important, 30 percent of the built environment,” said Code Council CEO Richard P.

Weiland. “This means that there is a clear need for a regulatory tool to establish a baseline to help jurisdictions meet their sustainability goals.” The IGCC emphasizes building performance, including features such as a requirement for building system performance verification and building owner education to ensure the best energy-efficient practices. A key feature of the new code is a section devoted to “jurisdictional electives” that will allow customization of the code beyond its baseline provisions to address local priorities and conditions.

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