Environmental Law and Policy Center » Greener Architecture

ELPC Commends EPA on Endangerment Finding

elpc — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 01:09:03 +0000

“We commend US EPA Administrator Jackson and the Obama Administration for today’s endangerment finding. Sound science makes it clear that greenhouse gas pollution is endangering our public health.

“We now call for the EPA to implement strong and fair standards that will reduce global warming pollution if Congress does not step up with legislation. Implementing effective global warming solutions, such as energy efficiency and renewable energy development and high-speed rail development can create job growth, spur economic development, and help to solve our global warming problems.”

- Statement from Howard Learner, Executive Director, Environmental Law & Policy Center

ELPC Receives Natural Leader Award from US Green Building Council – Chicago Chapter

pgray — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 20:02:52 +0000

In recognition of ELPC’s leadership on Illinois’ Energy Efficient Building Code and the Chicago Climate Action Plan, the Chicago Chapter of the US Green Building Council has chosen to honor ELPC as a Natural Leader.

The “Intent to Matter” award will be presented to ELPC at the Emerald Gala, USGBC’s annual celebration of the sustainable building movement, on May 16, 2009.

Read the press release here

Promoting Green Architecture

elpc — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:08:04 +0000

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 successful public advocacy campaign for energy efficiency building codes in Illinois. 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.

In 2009, the General Assembly passed HB 3987 that amends the energy efficient building code to include all residential and commercial buildings.

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.