California Gets a Greener Building Code

Posted on July 18, 2008
Tag(s): Energy, Going Green, Green Building, Greenhouse Gas Emissions / Global Warming | | Email this

It frequently seems like California sets the trends for the rest of the country, and hopefully, the state’s latest idea will catch on elsewhere. The California Building Standards Commission announced today the adoption of the nation’s first statewide green building code, becoming mandatory beginning in 2010.

The new and improved building code will increase energy efficiencies and water conservation in all new residential and commercial construction. The use of products containing recycled content is also encouraged. Storm water management that works with nature, rather than against it, is another issue that will be addressed.

According to the U.S. Green Building Council, “buildings nationwide account for 70 percent of electricity consumption, 39 percent of energy usage, 12 percent of potable water consumption, 40 percent of raw materials usage, 30 percent of waste output (136 million tons annually), and produce 39 percent of associated greenhouse gases (CO2).”

This green building code will create sustainable building practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize pollution.

Source: News Blaze

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