Decarbonizing the built environment with USGBC-CA & USGBC-TX

Decarbonizing the built environment in North America is a multifaceted challenge, and the insights from the executive directors of USGBC-CA and USGBC-TX, along with a sustainability expert from One Click LCA, offer valuable guidance for professionals in the field.

Introduction to USGBC local chapters and their role in decarbonization

USGBC (U.S. Green Building Council) chapters across various states play a crucial role in decarbonizing the built environment. Both Ben Stapleton, Executive Director of USGBC California, and Jonathan Kraatz, Executive Director of USGBC Texas, highlight the significance of community engagement and education in this mission. These independent entities focus on leveraging the built environment to create more sustainable, resilient, and equitable regions.

Focus on community and education

Ben Stapleton emphasizes that USGBC communities are about people. Projects, software tools, and designs don't happen without people, and supporting the professionals doing this work is critical. This support helps them operate more sustainably, increase their impact, and accelerate market transformation. Similarly, Jonathan Kraatz shares how USGBC Texas engages volunteers across the state to improve the built environment for current and future generations.

The future of sustainable built environments

The conversation shifts to the future of sustainable built environments in the US. Both directors agree that addressing existing building stock is paramount. Most buildings that will be in use in 2050 already exist, making their decarbonization essential. Jonathan mentions the importance of solving this issue to make significant progress, noting that no two projects are the same. Ben adds that while new buildings get more attention, the harder task is retrofitting existing ones. He discusses the launch of a building performance hub in California to support cities in improving building performance.

Embodied carbon and material transparency

The panel also discusses embodied carbon, which has gained rapid attention. Transparency around embodied carbon has driven significant progress, especially with materials like concrete. Ben notes that increased digital connectivity and data availability are crucial for meaningful action. However, he stresses the need for better occupant health connections to sustainability, highlighting the built environment's impact on health and performance.

Market-driven progress and policy

In Texas, progress is market-driven rather than policy-driven. Companies relocating to Texas bring their own sustainability goals, pushing the market forward. Ben points out that California benefits from policy alignment, which drives innovation and creates standards. For example, the CALGreen code mandates compliance pathways for embodied carbon in commercial and school buildings, establishing a market for better knowledge around embodied carbon and EPDs (environmental product declarations).

Challenges and preparation for compliance

AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) professionals face challenges in preparing for regulations like CALGreen. Ben emphasizes the importance of education, stating that once people learn, they don't unlearn. Educating architects, engineers, and developers on compliance is crucial. He also mentions the need for clear specifications to ensure compliance and prevent misunderstandings during project execution.

Educational initiatives and workforce development

Both directors highlight numerous educational initiatives. USGBC Texas conducts extensive events, including deep dives into decarbonization and tours of innovative projects. In California, there are weekly training sessions and programs targeting various stakeholders, from architects to janitors. Ben stresses the importance of creating a community where professionals can find mentors, join committees, and continuously learn.

The role of EPDs and standardization

EPDs are essential for conducting LCAs (life-cycle assessments) but can be costly for small to medium manufacturers. Ben discusses efforts to subsidize these costs to ensure broader participation. Standardization of EPDs can help reduce costs and drive wider adoption, benefiting the entire industry.

Final thoughts on decarbonization

The panel concludes with final thoughts on the future of embodied carbon. Ben emphasizes the need to humanize buildings and focus on creating value. He suggests that demonstrating the economic benefits of decarbonization is crucial for broader adoption. Jonathan adds that sustainability is a team effort, requiring collaboration across various stakeholders to achieve the desired outcomes.

In summary, decarbonizing the built environment in North America involves addressing existing buildings, increasing material transparency, aligning policy and market forces, and focusing on education and workforce development. By humanizing buildings and emphasizing the economic and health benefits, we can drive meaningful progress in creating a sustainable future.

How can One Click LCA help AEC professionals decarbonize their projects?

One Click LCA's innovative software platform simplifies the life-cycle assessment process, enabling accurate measurement and reduction of embodied carbon. Integrating seamlessly with popular BIM (building information modeling) and BOM (bill of materials) tools, One Click LCA makes LCA creation fast and easy. By leveraging these tools, professionals can effectively meet sustainability goals and drive the transformation towards a low-carbon built environment.