What You Need to Know: Understanding the 2022 CAL Green Intervening Code (Effective July ‘24)

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.

What are the 2022 CAL Green Mandatory Measures for Embodied Carbon

See FAQ here by AIA: Link

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.

Key Points of the Embodied Carbon Intervening Code:

Applicability:

1. Non-Residential Buildings: Projects over 100,000 sq ft. Mixed Use projects apply (only areas with qualifying factors)
2. Schools: Projects over 50,000 sq ft.
3. Exclusions: Single-family residential, multifamily residential, and hospitality projects are not covered under these amendments.

Three Compliance Pathways:

1. Prescriptive: Meet specific embodied carbon thresholds for materials like concrete, steel, and glass.

   • Note: Requires the specification of permanently installed materials that must have a Type III Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), where you will find either product-specific or factory-specific GWP data. Each material must comply and will be limited to 175% of the industry wide EPD’s GWP value.

2. 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.

3. Building Reuse: Reuse at least 45% of an existing building’s primary structural elements and enclosure to minimize demolition and new material usage.

   • Note: Primary structural elements include foundations, columns, beams, walls, floors, and lateral elements. Existing building enclosure elements include roof framing, wall framing, and exterior finish materials. Excluded from this calculation are window assemblies, insulation, and portions of the building deemed structurally unsound or hazardous

Phased Implementation:

• Initial requirements start from July 2024.
• Additional stricter mandates may be introduced over time to further reduce emissions.

Why this is important:

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.

Read More Here:_ Link

How Omgivning Can Help:

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.

Conclusion:

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.

Sources:

• AIA Los Angeles | Link
• CAL Green Guide Supplemental Code | Link
• Guide on CAL Green Embodied Carbon Steps | Link