Cities with Green Building Programs Have Increased Fourfold Since 2003
In a survey of communities with populations of greater than 50,000, it was found that one in seven have green building programs.
In a
survey of communities with populations of greater than 50,000, it was found that one in seven have green building programs.
Since 2003 the number of cities with green building programs has risen from 22 to 92, an increase of 418 percent. The report found that 39 percent of citizens live in cities with green building programs.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) report analyzed 661 communities’ best practices, strategies and trends, and provides recommendations for cities that are looking to implement green building programs.
“Sustainable design practices have the potential to transform the built environment from an energy intensive past towards a more energy efficient, green future,” says Paul Mendelsohn, AIA vice president, Government and Community Relations. “Technological advances now allow for the design of buildings that are efficient, modern, possess great aesthetics and are financially viable. High premiums for green buildings are no longer the case as costs are coming more in line with traditional building practices.”
Among the reports recommendations to communities are suggestions to include all professionals in the design and construction industry when developing a green building program to work in a collaborative manner. Also, investigating far-reaching sustainability initiatives including green purchasing programs, hybrid fleets and streamlining the solar permitting process is desirable.
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