Green Construction Code Could Increase Energy Efficiency, Reduce Carbon
Footprint
August 5, 2009
Buildings consume approximately 40 percent of energy used and produce
about the same amount of the nation's carbon emissions, so finding
ways to increase energy efficiency has become top priority for many
with ties to the commercial glazing industry.
The International Green Construction Code (IgCC) initiative, launched
by the International Code Council (ICC) is just one opportunity
designed to help reduce energy usage and the carbon footprint of
commercial buildings. Titled "IgCC: Safe and Sustainable By
the Book," the initiative is focused on developing a model
code for new and existing commercial buildings.
"We believe the time has come for us to develop a code that
will stand as a useful and credible regulatory framework for creating
a greener commercial building stock," said Code Council chief
executive officer Richard P. Weiland. "We applaud and plan
to utilize the good work of those who have developed systems, guidelines
and standards to address green buildings."
Some glass industry organizations say the ICC's move to develop
a green code is a positive step for seeing an increased use in energy-efficient
glass.
"As the move toward energy-efficient green technologies continues
with efforts such as this ICC green codes initiative, the opportunities
for increased glass usage in construction will only expand,"
says Stanley Yee, chairman of the GANA: Energy Committee. "We
will continue to drive these opportunities through our own committee
and look forward to providing the world with a better daylighting,
energy efficient experience in the future."
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