Promoting Green Architecture
The built environment has a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health and productivity. Breakthroughs in building science, technology and operations are available to designers, builders and owners who want to build green and maximize both economic and environmental performance.
Doing energy efficiency “right” at the new construction and major rehab stage is by far the most cost-effective time to make these pro-environmental and energy cost reduction investments. This is the single most important policy step that a state can take to increase energy efficiency in buildings and reduce pollution through avoided electric power and natural gas use.
ELPC waged a two-year public advocacy campaign for an energy efficiency building code in Illinois that came to fruition in 2004. The Illinois General Assembly passed the Illinois Energy Efficient Commercial Building Act, HB 4099 requires all new construction or substantial rehab of existing buildings to meet energy efficiency standards established by the International Energy Conservation Code. It covers all commercial, industrial and multi-unit residential properties, but does not cover single-family home construction.
ELPC’s own eco-office is a case study of how environmental protection and economic development go hand-in-hand.
Learn more about the benefits of building green.
