California passes green building standards code
In January, the California Building Standards Commission adopted the mandatory Green Building Standards Code (CALGREEN), which will require all new buildings in the state to be more energy efficient and environmentally responsible. Taking effect on Jan. 1, 2011, CALGREEN will require that new buildings reduce water consumption by 20 percent, divert 50 percent of construction waste from landfills and install low pollutant-emitting materials. The California Air Resources Board estimates that the mandatory provisions will reduce greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalent) by 3 million metric tons equivalent in 2020. “Today’s action lays the foundation for the move to greener buildings constructed with environmentally advanced building practices,” said California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in a statement.
