Inspired at DCEFF: Why Authentic Green Architecture Means Doing More with Less

Inspired at DCEFF: Why Authentic Green Architecture Means Doing More with Less

Last week, I attended the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation's Capital for my second year, and I'm excited by how their programming—especially around Built Environment themes—continues to grow and evolve. Events like this remind me how vital it is to step beyond industry silos and connect our construction and design conversations to broader environmental dialogues.

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Navigating Tradeoffs in LEED v5 Requirements for General Contractors

Navigating Tradeoffs in LEED v5 Requirements for General Contractors

The construction industry plays a critical role in shaping the built environment. However, it also has a significant impact on the environment. According to a 2020 study by McKinsey & Company, approximately 26 percent of all GHG emissions and 37 percent of combustion-related emissions come from the construction and operation of the built environment. And, according to a 2021 report from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, the construction industry is responsible for 38% (14 gigatons) of all energy-related greenhouse gas emissions each year.

So, as the world grapples with climate change, this sector presents a tremendous opportunity for decarbonization. LEED certification plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable building practices and reducing the construction industry's environmental impact.

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The Road Less Traveled: Embracing Renovation for a Sustainable Future

The Road Less Traveled: Embracing Renovation for a Sustainable Future

As we observe Earth Month, my story is a testament to the impact of individual actions. It's a call to embrace innovation, from heat pumps to smart thermostats and electric vehicles, recognizing that the path to sustainability is one of collective effort and shared responsibility. This narrative is not just about sharing my journey but about inspiring others to reflect on their choices and their potential to contribute to a more sustainable, efficient, and comfortable world.

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What Will It Take? Reflections on a 2021 Series Exploring the Future of Carbon-Free Buildings

What Will It Take? Reflections on a 2021 Series Exploring the Future of Carbon-Free Buildings

Explore key strategies for reducing embodied carbon across design, operations, development, and construction. This four-part series, hosted by Clark Construction Group in partnership with IMT’s Building Innovation Hub, features expert insights on decarbonizing the built environment by 2050. From electrification and green financing to circular construction practices and policy incentives, the series uncovers what it will take to build a carbon-free future. Watch the videos and discover actionable takeaways for architects, developers, contractors, and building operators.

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New Insights on Oil & Gas Drilling Productivity in the U.S.

EIA Administrator Adam Sieminski announced the newly published Drilling Productivity Report at Columbia University this week, and the key takeaway is that fewer wells have been needed to sustain production growth levels due to mechanical, technological, and operational efficiencies by drilling companies.

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A FLAT CAFE RISES: The Resurgence of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Regulations

Abstract

Although the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) standards began as very modest, insufficient regulations to improve fuel economy without any additional regulation of CO2 emissions from privately owned vehicles, political and economic events through the course of its enactment converged to catapult the CAFÉ regulations toward new milestones in reducing carbon pollution.

As a result of the 2009 Obama administration’s mandates for a new national fuel economy standard that redrafted the calculations for carbon pollution per vehicle on a “footprint” calculus, and a strong shift in public approval of lower costs in transportation expenses in a high unemployment economy, CAFÉ standards paved the way for innovative market solutions to meet aggressive new CO2 reduction goals for the next 13 years.

Download the full report here

 

Memo: Creation of the Energy Management Committee [EMC] on U.S. Energy Policy and Programs

The U.S. endeavors to include all energy sources in it's policy approach to a competitive marketplace for fuels and power. This academic memorandum addressed to President Barack Obama is intended to drive sustainable action on key issues of energy policy.

Recommended Action

Mr. President, per your request, after careful consideration of effective means to develop and implement a forward-looking energy policy in the United States, I recommend creating a new Energy Management Committee [EMC] to coordinate a multi-agency taskforce that will oversee the policy, management, technology, and public relations of energy resources.

Download the complete memorandum here