The Biden administration has unveiled a new federal definition for zero-emissions buildings, aiming to set a national benchmark for sustainable construction.
The new guidelines, announced by White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi, aim to provide a consistent framework for defining zero-emissions buildings.
The definition emphasizes energy efficiency, zero on-site greenhouse-gas emissions, and reliance on clean energy sources.
The guidance, while not legally binding, seeks to encourage the private sector to adopt these standards to support the transition to sustainable building practices.
Key quote:
“The National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building will support the sector as it advances innovative solutions essential to creating resilient communities and high-quality jobs.”
— Jennifer M. Granholm, Secretary of Energy
Why this matters:
Buildings account for one-third of U.S. carbon emissions, making improved energy efficiency crucial for reducing the country's carbon footprint. Establishing clear standards can drive investments in clean energy technologies and help meet ambitious emission reduction targets.
More architects in the United Arab Emirates, the host of this year’s U.N. climate summit, are moving past glass skyscrapers and focusing on sustainability.
Environmental activists could clash with developers at a public hearing in New York today on how best to enforce Local Law 97, an effort to limit the fossil fuel emissions of some of the biggest polluters in the city: large buildings.
Kaua’i County passed an ordinance requiring new structures to be elevated to a certain level, based on future projections about how much sea-level will rise.
