As we move towards a more sustainable future, the construction industry is facing new regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One of the significant changes on the horizon is the supplement update to the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (CAL Green Nonresidential) Intervening Code, effective July 2024,which aims to tackle the often-overlooked environmental impact of building materials and building reuse. This Journal post will break down these amendments, their implications, and how Omgivning can help you navigate these new requirements.
As we move towards a more sustainable future, the construction industry is facing new regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One of the significant changes on the horizon is the supplement update to the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen Nonresidential) Intervening Code, effective July 2024, which aims to tackle the often-overlooked environmental impact of building materials and building reuse. This Journal post will break down these amendments, their implications, and how Omgivning can help you navigate these new requirements.
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Effective July 1, 2024, the Embodied Carbon Amendments will introduce mandatory measures to reduce the carbon footprint of non-residential buildings and schools. The goal is to cut emissions in half by 2030 and achieve near-zero emissions by 2050. These amendments address the "embodied carbon" – the total greenhouse gas emissions generated to produce, transport, and assemble building materials.
Applicability:
Three Compliance Pathways:
Prescriptive: Meet specific embodied carbon thresholds for materials like concrete, steel, and glass.
Performance: Demonstrate a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through Whole Building Life Cycle Assessments (WBLCA).
Note: This method requires a computer model similar to an energy model, with a focus on specifying materials. The materials scope includes building enclosure components (glazing assemblies, insulation, and exterior finishes) and primary and secondary structural members (footings and foundations, structural columns, beams, walls, roofs, and floors). Interiors, MEP, Site and Landscaping, and FFE are optional to include in the assessment.
A 10% reduction in GWP must be reached to meet the mandatory measure.
Building Reuse: Reuse at least 45% of an existing building’s primary structural elements and enclosure to minimize demolition and new material usage.
Phased Implementation:
Embodied carbon is responsible for about 11% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. By addressing this through the new amendments, California is leading the way in sustainable building practices. These regulations encourage innovation in material production, promote the reuse of existing structures, and aim to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the construction industry.
Note: Local jurisdictions may incorporate stricter restrictions, Los Angeles approved in April ‘24 the approval of the CAL Green supplemental code amongst other measures to help curb the impact of construction on the environment.
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At Omgivning, we are committed to sustainable design and construction practices. Our expertise in adaptive reuse and sustainable architecture uniquely positions us to assist clients in meeting the new CAL Green Embodied Carbon Amendments. Here’s how we can support you:
Adaptive Reuse Projects:
We specialize in repurposing existing buildings, ensuring compliance with the building reuse pathway.
Our projects, like the transformation of existing structures into modern spaces, demonstrate our commitment to sustainability.
Material Selection and Procurement:
We help clients choose low-carbon materials and navigate the complexities of environmental product declarations (EPDs).
Our collaboration with suppliers ensures that materials meet the new regulatory standards.
Whole Building Life Cycle Assessments (WBLCA):
Our team can assist in finding the right team to assist with the comprehensive life
We provide detailed review and documentation required for compliance with performance pathways.
Consultation and Compliance:
We offer guidance throughout the project lifecycle, from planning and design to construction and post-completion.
Our knowledge of local regulations and sustainable practices ensures that your project not only meets but exceeds regulatory requirements.
The 2022 CAL Green Intervening Code2023 LA Embodied Carbon Amendments represent a significant step towards greener construction practices. At Omgivning, we are ready to help you navigate these changes, ensuring that your projects are sustainable, compliant, and efficient. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in reducing your project’s carbon footprint. For more information and to see examples of our work, visit our website at Omgivning.
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