Category: News

As our country continues to face increasing threats from natural disasters—ranging from wildfires to floods—the need for robust, proactive solutions to safeguard our communities has never been more critical. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recognizes this urgency and is reintroducing its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program for the 2024 Fiscal Year. This program is a vital opportunity for local governments, tribes, and territories to enhance building code adoption, enforcement, and training, ultimately fostering safer and more resilient infrastructure.

What is BRIC Funding?

The BRIC program is designed to shift the federal focus from reactive disaster spending to proactive investment in community resilience. It aims to support states and local governments in reducing hazard risks while encouraging innovation and fostering partnerships. Through BRIC, FEMA provides essential funding for disaster mitigation projects that prioritize infrastructure improvements, climate resilience, and the adoption of hazard-resistant building codes.

In 2024, BRIC will facilitate several funding opportunities, including:

  • State or Territory Allocation
  • Tribal Set-Aside
  • State or Territory Building Code Plus-Up
  • Tribal Building Code Plus-Up
  • National Competition

In total, FEMA is allocating over $882.6 million for the BRIC program, along with additional funding for recipient management costs, bringing the overall total for this grant cycle to nearly $1 billion. This funding presents a significant opportunity for communities to invest in the future and enhance their disaster preparedness.

Why is BRIC Important for California?

California is particularly vulnerable to a wide range of natural hazards, including wildfires, floods, and earthquakes. The BRIC program offers a unique chance for local governments to address these challenges head-on by investing in infrastructure that is not only resilient but also sustainable. By leveraging this funding, communities can implement innovative projects that go beyond traditional risk reduction measures.

For instance, BRIC projects may involve:

  • Nature-Based Solutions: Utilizing natural systems to mitigate hazards while enhancing ecosystem health.
  • Climate Resilience Initiatives: Developing infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change.
  • Community Partnerships: Fostering collaborations between various sectors to maximize funding sources and project benefits.

Through these initiatives, the BRIC program aims to ensure that vulnerable populations are protected, infrastructure is fortified against future disasters, and communities are better prepared for extreme weather events.

ID360: Supporting Your Team with BRIC Funding

At ID360, we understand that securing funding and implementing successful projects can be a complex process. That’s where we come in. As a California-based sustainability consulting firm with over a decade of experience, we specialize in supporting organizations who are navigating the intricacies of federal and state funding, including the BRIC program. We pride ourselves on our extensive knowledge of green building codes, sustainability programs, and climate resilience strategies. We also have experience supporting regional energy networks and community choice aggregation efforts in California. 

Navigating the BRIC funding process requires careful planning and strategic partnerships. ID360 can assist in the following ways:

  1. Supporting Eligible Projects: Together with our industry partners, we help organizations determine which projects align with BRIC funding priorities and develop innovative solutions that meet the program’s criteria.
  1. Grant Application Support: Our team will provide resources to get you through the grant application process, ensuring all necessary documentation is in order and deadlines are met.
  1. Technical Assistance: With our direct technical assistance programs, we can provide resource support to help with project implementation.
  1. Community Engagement: Building strong partnerships is key to successful BRIC projects. We can facilitate community engagement efforts to ensure all stakeholders are involved and invested in the project outcomes.
  1. Long-term Sustainability Planning: Beyond securing funding, we will work with your organization to develop long-term sustainability and climate action plans that align with community needs and resilience goals.

The reintroduction of the BRIC program presents a tremendous opportunity for communities to invest in their future resilience. By harnessing this funding, local governments can not only enhance their infrastructure but also protect their residents and ensure a sustainable environment for generations to come.

Contact us today to explore how we can help you achieve your sustainability goals and contribute to smarter, high-performance buildings and communities. 

As global efforts to combat climate change increase, the built environment plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. This year, ID360 is proud to participate in Net Zero Buildings Week, taking place from September 16-20, 2024. This commemorative week, now in its fourth year, highlights the necessity of collaboration, innovation, and cutting-edge strategies to achieve net zero buildings. Throughout the week, ID360 will join hundreds of other organizations in sharing resources, success stories, and tools to propel the decarbonization of the built environment.

Themes of Net Zero Buildings Week

Net Zero Buildings Week 2024 focuses on three core themes emphasizing collective action and innovative solutions for achieving net zero goals by 2050.

Harnessing the Power of Collective Impact (Sept 16-17): These days highlight the importance of collaboration across sectors to drive systemic change. From architects and engineers to government agencies and sustainability consultants, achieving net zero requires a unified effort. ID360 believes in the power of partnerships and is committed to working across professionals and industries to achieve high-performance buildings.

Strategy, Synergy, Success (Sept 18-19): Midweek, the focus shifts to the practical tools and resources that will shape the future of sustainable building design. ID360 is committed to offering insights into resilient design strategies that prioritize both sustainability and occupant well-being to ensure that buildings can withstand the challenges of climate change while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Charting the Future of Net Zero Buildings (Sept 20): The week concludes with a forward-looking vision of net zero buildings. As we look to the future at ID360 we aim to share valuable knowledge and approaches to green high-performance buildings that will help contribute to a more sustainable industry and planet.

ID360’s Role in the Journey Toward Net Zero

As a participating organization in Net Zero Buildings Week, ID360 is excited to showcase our expertise in sustainable design, consulting, and education. Our participation reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the built environment through high-performance building strategies.

One of the most important aspects of our work is focusing on resilient building design, a critical component of sustainable architecture. Resilient buildings are designed to adapt to extreme weather, power outages, and other disruptions, making them better suited to meet the challenges posed by climate change. To advance knowledge in this area, ID360 is offering a free webinar on Resilient Building Design Strategies during Net Zero Buildings Week.

Resilient Building Design Strategies Webinar

Our Resilient Building Design webinar provides valuable insights into how resilient design can be incorporated into the planning and execution of sustainable buildings. Attendees will gain an understanding of what makes a building resilient and learn about practical strategies for integrating resilience into high-performance building designs. As extreme weather events become more frequent, resilient design is essential in creating buildings that not only reduce carbon emissions but also protect communities and ecosystems.

Join ID360 During Net Zero Buildings Week

We are proud to participate in Net Zero Buildings Week! Join us in the celebration by using the hashtag #NetZeroNow to show your support for a net zero future and spread the word about Net Zero Buildings Week! Together, we can make a net zero future a reality. 

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification stands as the gold standard for green building practices. This globally recognized rating system, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), not only represents a commitment to sustainability but also offers a plethora of tangible benefits for building owners, developers, and occupants.

For businesses, municipalities, and institutions looking to enhance their environmental impact, achieve financial efficiency, and create healthier spaces, pursuing LEED certification is an essential step that benefits people as well as the environment. Here is a closer look at why it is beneficial to obtain LEED certification

Environmental Responsibility

At the heart of LEED certification is a commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of the built environment. Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste production. By pursuing LEED certification, projects contribute to lowering carbon emissions, reducing energy and water consumption, and minimizing waste. 

Financial Benefits

LEED-certified buildings typically enjoy lower operational costs due to energy and water efficiency measures. These savings can be substantial over the lifecycle of the building. Additionally, LEED-certified projects may qualify for various incentives, such as the 179D commercial buildings energy efficiency tax deduction in the United States, which can significantly offset the costs associated with green building strategies.

A LEED certification can also enhance the marketability of a property, attracting tenants who prioritize sustainability and may be willing to pay a premium for spaces that align with their environmental values. This competitive edge in the market can result in higher occupancy rates and increased rental income.

Health and Wellness

LEED-certified buildings prioritize indoor environmental quality, including access to natural light, improved air quality, and the use of low-toxicity materials. These factors contribute to healthier, more productive indoor environments, which is increasingly important in a world where people spend a significant portion of their lives indoors. Healthier buildings lead to happier occupants, which can translate to higher employee satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and better overall productivity.

Long-Term Resilience

Sustainability and resilience go hand in hand. LEED certification encourages building practices that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance a building’s ability to withstand natural disasters, climate change, and other external stresses. By incorporating strategies such as efficient water management, durable material selection, and energy resilience, LEED-certified buildings are better equipped to adapt to and recover from adverse conditions, ensuring long-term operational continuity.

Working with a LEED Expert

While the benefits of LEED certification are clear, achieving it requires careful planning, expertise, and a deep understanding of the certification process. This is where working with a LEED expert, like the team at ID360, becomes invaluable.

Expertise and Experience

LEED certification involves navigating a complex set of requirements, from selecting the appropriate rating system to fulfilling specific credit criteria. At ID360, our consultants bring more than 20 years of experience in green building and sustainability. We’ve been involved in the LEED certification process for countless projects and this experience allows us to anticipate potential hurdles and craft tailored solutions that align with your project’s unique goals.

Tailored Guidance

Every project is different, with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Our team at ID360 takes the time to understand your project’s vision, goals, and constraints. Whether it’s a new construction, a major renovation, or a campus-wide sustainability initiative, we provide tailored guidance that ensures your project not only meets LEED certification requirements but does so in a way that maximizes value and impact.

Comprehensive Support

From the initial planning stages through to post-occupancy, our LEED experts are with you every step of the way. We facilitate integrated design charrettes, coordinate with all members of the project team, and manage the extensive documentation required for LEED certification. This comprehensive support ensures that nothing falls through the cracks and that your project stays on track to achieve its sustainability goals.

Reduced Stress and Risk

The LEED certification process can be daunting, especially for teams unfamiliar with the requirements. By partnering with ID360, you gain a trusted advisor who handles the complexities of the process, reduces the risk of costly mistakes, and provides peace of mind that your project is in capable hands. Our transparent and predictable process ensures that all team members are aligned and that your project achieves its LEED certification efficiently and effectively.

Pursuing LEED certification is not just an investment in the environment; it’s an investment in the long-term success and resilience of your building project. The benefits of LEED certification—from financial savings to enhanced occupant well-being—are well worth the effort. However, achieving LEED certification requires expertise, careful planning, and a commitment to excellence. By partnering with ID360, you gain access to a team of LEED experts who are dedicated to guiding your project through the certification process, ensuring that your sustainability goals are met and that your project stands out.

Sustainable building practices are becoming more commonplace in construction. One element of sustainable building that construction professionals should be aware of is embodied carbon. As architects and construction professionals increasingly prioritize reducing carbon footprints, understanding embodied carbon becomes essential for making informed decisions that contribute to environmentally friendly building practices. 

What is Embodied Carbon?

Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the entire lifecycle of construction materials, including their extraction, production, transportation, and eventual disposal. Unlike operational carbon emissions, which are released during the use phase of buildings (such as heating, cooling, and lighting), embodied carbon accounts for emissions that are released before the building is even occupied.

Common construction materials can vary significantly in their embodied carbon intensity. For example, materials like concrete, steel, and glass tend to have higher embodied carbon due to their energy-intensive production processes. However, materials like wood and recycled materials generally have lower embodied carbon because they require less energy to manufacture.

Why is Embodied Carbon Important?

The environmental impact of embodied carbon cannot be overlooked. Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of global GHG emissions, with construction materials accounting for approximately 11% of annual global emissions. Addressing embodied carbon is crucial for mitigating climate change and reducing the overall environmental footprint of buildings.

Embodied carbon also has strong economic considerations tied to it. Beyond environmental benefits, reducing embodied carbon can lead to long-term cost savings. Sustainable building materials often contribute to improved building performance, resilience, and operational efficiency, offering economic advantages over conventional counterparts.

Challenges and Opportunities for Architects and Construction Professionals

While the importance of reducing embodied carbon is clear, the construction industry faces several challenges in implementing sustainable practices. Traditional construction practices often prioritize cost and availability over environmental considerations, resulting in higher embodied carbon in building materials.

However, there is a growing shift towards sustainable building certifications and regulations that incentivize low-carbon construction. Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and initiatives such as the Federal Buy Clean Initiative in the United States are driving demand for materials with lower embodied carbon.

Strategies for Embodied Carbon Reduction

Architects and construction professionals can adopt several strategies to minimize embodied carbon. These include:

  • Material Selection

Sourcing materials is critical for minimizing embodied carbon. Locally sourced, renewable, and low-carbon materials should be a priority.

  • Lifecycle Analysis

Conducting thorough lifecycle assessments to evaluate the environmental impact of materials from extraction to disposal.

  • Construction Technique

Implementing efficient construction methods that minimize waste and optimize material use.

The Role of Regulations and Initiatives

While builders and architects play a large role in reducing embodied carbon, they are not the only ones that impact progress toward sustainable construction. Governments and organizations play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of sustainable building practices.

Regulatory frameworks, such as building codes and standards like ASHRAE 90.1, set minimum requirements for energy efficiency and encourage the use of low-carbon materials. EPDs provide transparent information about the environmental impact of construction products, including their embodied carbon. They enable architects and construction professionals to make informed decisions and compare the environmental performance of different materials.

Initiatives like the Federal Buy Clean Initiative promote the procurement of low-carbon construction materials through federal funding and incentives. By leveraging public procurement power, governments can drive market demand for sustainable materials and accelerate the transition towards net-zero carbon buildings.

In conclusion, addressing embodied carbon is not just a matter of environmental responsibility, but also a strategic imperative for architects and construction professionals. By understanding and actively managing embodied carbon in construction materials, stakeholders can contribute to global climate goals while promoting sustainable development and resilience in the built environment.

At its core, WELL Building revolves around the notion that our built environments profoundly impact our health and well-being. It goes beyond conventional sustainability frameworks by prioritizing human-centric design and operation principles. Spearheaded by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the WELL Building Standard sets rigorous benchmarks across ten categories, encompassing aspects like air quality, water purity, and community engagement. Its historical trajectory traces back to a collective effort by leading organizations like the Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI) to codify best practices in healthy building design and operations.

Core Components of WELL Building

WELL Building is a multifaceted framework that addresses various facets of human health and well-being. Its ten categories serve as pillars for creating optimal indoor environments, fostering productivity, and enhancing quality of life. From ensuring adequate ventilation and natural light to promoting physical activity and mental wellness, each category is underpinned by scientific research and empirical evidence. WELL’s performance-based approach underscores its commitment to tangible outcomes, with medical research playing a pivotal role in shaping its standards.

Benefits of WELL Building

The benefits of WELL Building extend far beyond mere aesthetics or environmental stewardship. By prioritizing occupant health and well-being, WELL-certified spaces contribute to improved physical and mental health outcomes. Studies have shown that access to natural light, clean air, and ergonomic design elements can significantly enhance productivity and foster a sense of belonging among employees. WELL Building serves as a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent, as today’s workforce increasingly values employers who prioritize their well-being.

WELL Building and ESG Performance

In an era marked by a heightened focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, WELL Building emerges as a linchpin for organizations seeking to enhance their sustainability credentials. By aligning with ESG goals, WELL-certified projects demonstrate a holistic commitment to fostering healthier, more equitable communities. Moreover, WELL Building underscores corporate responsibility by showcasing leadership in promoting human-centric design principles and advancing societal well-being.

Implementing WELL Building Standards

Embarking on the journey towards WELL certification entails a systematic approach, involving meticulous planning and execution. Businesses seeking certification must navigate a series of steps, from conducting pre-assessments and engaging stakeholders to implementing design interventions and undergoing performance verification. Fortunately, a wealth of digital tools and resources, coupled with the guidance of WELL-accredited professionals, like ID360, simplifies the certification process and ensures compliance with WELL standards.

ID360 works closely with design and construction professionals to identify, integrate, and execute viable building design strategies into your new or existing structures. We find synergies between other rating systems and WELL to apply to projects and the various phases of verification. Our experts guide teams from the initial concept through the construction phase and building occupancy, preparing and organizing documents for WELL certification. 

As we stand at the nexus of health, sustainability, and corporate responsibility, the importance of WELL Building cannot be overstated. By prioritizing human health and well-being, WELL-certified spaces not only enhance productivity and engagement but also serve as catalysts for positive societal change. As stewards of our built environment, let us seize the opportunity to embrace WELL Building principles and create a future where every space nurtures the health and vitality of its occupants.

To learn more about our WELL consulting services, contact us to discuss how we can integrate WELL into your next project. 

San Jose, CA, June 13, 2024. ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today the promotion of Michelle Mann to Project Manager.

Mann previously served as an Associate for the female-founded ID360, working with sustainable policy, programs and third-party green building rating systems to support public and private sector clients. In her new role, Mann will provide leadership across the ID360 portfolio working directly with local governments and design professionals to advance goals for more sustainable buildings and communities. 

“Michelle has demonstrated success in many aspects of her work here at ID360,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder, ID360. “This promotion is the culmination of her hard work, dedication, and subject matter expertise.”

Mann holds a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in International Relations from the University of Alabama. Additionally, she is certified in Natural Resource Management through the University of Denver and is trained in OSHA safety standards.

“This new role is an exciting next step in my career and I am grateful for the opportunity to build on successes, grow, and expand my impact,” said Michelle Man, Project Manager, ID360. 

To learn more about ID360 visit www.id360.green.com

San Jose, CA, June 04, 2024. ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today the promotion of Leila Silver to Associate Principal of our Sustainable Buildings and Communities team. 

Silver takes on this new role while maintaining her role as Sustainable Policy and Programs Manager for the female-founded, San Jose-based ID360. Silver’s expanded role positions her to provide project delivery leadership and subject matter expertise to ensure ID360 clients’ goals are met to the highest caliber. 

“With her exceptional leadership, dedication, and proven track record of success, Leila is an invaluable asset to our team,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder ID360. “This promotion is a testament to her hard work and commitment and I am confident she will excel in this new role advancing our mission of sustainable buildings and communities.”

Silver is a graduate of San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts and Liberal Sciences in Sustainability. She is licensed as a CALGreen Inspector and Plans Examiner and is credentialed as a LEED Accredited Professional with a specialty in Building Design & Construction. Silver started with ID360 more than six years ago as a Project Manager and has successfully worked across sustainability projects with the cities of Palo Alto, South San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, Culver City, and many others. 

“I am excited and grateful for this opportunity,” said Leila Silver. “In this new role, I intend to build on our success and continue to grow our reach and support for sustainable buildings and communities.”

 To learn more about ID360 visit www.id360.green. 

Each May we celebrate Building Safety Month to raise awareness about the critical role of building codes in ensuring safe structures around the country. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate individuals, communities, and industry professionals on the importance of adhering to building codes. 

As the construction industry evolves and environmental challenges mount, the need for robust building codes becomes increasingly important. By highlighting the significance of building safety, this annual campaign underscores the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in creating and maintaining structures that are safe for communities.

The History of Building Safety Month

Building Safety Month has a rich history spanning 44 years. Since its inception, the campaign has garnered recognition from government officials and industry professionals, highlighting the widespread support for prioritizing building safety in our communities.

Building Safety Month has also evolved into a global initiative, with communities worldwide participating in educational events and advocacy efforts. Through social media efforts, workshops, and community gatherings, the campaign continues to raise awareness about the importance of building safety codes and standards.

Building Safety Month Weekly Themes

Building Safety Month has five weekly themes, each offering an emphasis on different facets of building safety and community engagement.

  • Week 1: Understanding the Mission

Participants are introduced to the foundational principles of building safety, gaining insights into the significance of building safety practices in their daily lives.

  • Week 2: Preparing a Building Safety Plan

Participants are equipped with valuable resources and tools to develop comprehensive safety plans tailored to their homes and communities, fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience.

  • Week 3: Learning from the Pros

Week three shines a spotlight on building safety professionals, whom ID360 has the pleasure of working so we can collectively provide valuable insights into industry standards, regulations, and best practices while encouraging aspiring professionals to explore career opportunities in the field.

  • Week 4: Engaging Your Community

The fourth week emphasizes the importance of community engagement in promoting building safety, offering practical guidance on mobilizing community members, advocating for safety policies, and collaborating with local government officials.

  • Week 5: Celebrating Success in Building Safety

The final week celebrates successes and achievements in building safety, inspiring continued commitment to safety initiatives and fostering a culture of recognition for those dedicated to creating safer built environments.

The Need for Building Codes

Building codes play a crucial role in safeguarding citizens from natural disasters like fires, floods, and storms. Code officials work to ensure that buildings meet safety standards, preventing potential catastrophes. By adhering to building codes, communities can mitigate risks and protect lives.

The adoption of modern building codes is essential to addressing industry challenges such as climate change. At ID360 we work with municipalities to design and implement building codes that create more sustainable buildings and communities. 

Sustainable Design and Building Safety

Sustainable design goes hand in hand with building safety, benefitting both occupants and the environment. Integrating sustainability principles into building codes enhances resilience and reduces negative environmental impact. Through energy-efficient design, water conservation measures, and the using renewable materials, buildings can become more resilient to disasters and contribute to the health of our communities and our planet.

By prioritizing sustainable design practices, communities can create buildings that withstand the test of time and promote the well-being of their inhabitants. Incorporating sustainable building designs can help cut emissions, lower human exposure to toxins, and conserve energy. 

Building Safety Month reminds us of the importance of prioritizing building safety in our communities. Together, we can create resilient communities and ensure a safer future for all. At ID360 our team of experts collaborates with both public and private sectors to implement sustainable design practices and enhance building safety. From green building codes and rating systems to training programs and community outreach initiatives, we are committed to creating safer, more resilient communities through sustainable design. Together we can promote awareness and adherence to building codes laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and secure environment for ourselves and future generations. 

We answer your top questions

The regulations in the 2022 CALGreen Code Supplement become effective July 1. For many, this is a frightening reality check. We are just months away from major changes to the way municipalities, architects, and construction managers approach the built environment in California. At ID360 we are committed to navigating these changes for and with our clients. This FAQ answers our clients’ top questions regarding the CALGreen Code implementation and its impact.

1. What are the requirements for Embodied Carbon Reduction?

Nonresidential commercial building projects over 100,000 square feet and school building projects over 50,000 square feet will be required to comply with one of three pathways:

    • Building Reuse: Reuse at least 45% of an existing structure and exterior. When reuse is combined with new construction, the total addition area using this pathway is limited to double the area of the existing structure. Section 5.105.2
    • Performance: Complete a whole building lifecycle assessment (WBLCA) demonstrating 10% lower embodied carbon emission than a baseline project design Section 5.409.2
    • Prescriptive: Document environmental product declarations (EPDs) for listed materials (steel, glass, mineral wool, concrete) that are on average lower than a specified threshold of global warming potential. Section 5.409.3*

    To note, on January 1, 2026, the square footage threshold will drop to 50,000 square feet and this measures also apply to school projects over 50,000 sf that fall under the purview of the Division of the State Architect (DSA).

    2. Does CALGreen ban certain materials?

    Although CALGreen makes significant headway in reducing Embodied Carbon, there are no banned materials. 

    3. Where can I find the new code language?

    All the changes are currently on the California Building Standard Commission online here: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Rulemaking/2022-Intervening-Cycle

    Amid California’s evolving building codes, ID360 stand as a beacon of expertise and guidance. Navigating the complexities of the upcoming CALGreen update requires a partner with a deep understanding of sustainable practices and a commitment to staying ahead of the curve. Connect with us for specific questions and concerns. 

    Menlo Park, CA April 02, 2024. ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today support for the Solar App Plus program for the City of El Cerrito. 

    The goal of this work is to provide technical support to the City of El Cerrito’s Solar App Plus program implementation. The top priority is to ensure the program will achieve long-term goals and ultimately result in new construction and existing building development achieving energy efficiency

    “Solar App Plus is an innovative and forward-thinking program for cities,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder of ID360. “El Cerrito is committed to environmental stewardship and its effort to reduce its carbon footprint. Our work with the city will promote renewable energy adoption and sustainability within the local community of El Cerrito.”

    Solar App Plus is a web-based platform that automates solar permitting for local governments and other authorities having jurisdiction. The Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office funded the initial development and commercialization of the tool in 2019.  Solar App Plus makes rooftop solar adoption easier for local governments to quickly and safely approve standardized rooftop projects.

    For the City of El Cerrito, the adoption of the Solar App Plus Program is a testament to its dedication to fostering a clean and sustainable future for its residents. ID360 will assist city staff in developing and implementing this program to meet the City’s sustainability goals. 

    For more information about Solar App Plus or ID360’s work visit www.id360.green.

    San Jose, CA, January 23, 2024. ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today that their Principal and Founder, Melanie Jacobson, has been appointed President of the International Code Council’s (ICC) Peninsula Chapter. 

    The International Code Council is a non-governmental organization that develops model-building codes and standards through an open, consensus process. Membership in the ICC Peninsula Chapter provides key opportunities to keep up to date on the activities of the ICC and code adoption status. The group regularly hosts forums to discuss code changes, interpretations, and updates.  

    “This is such an exciting time for our industry and I am honored for the opportunity to serve as President of the ICC Peninsula Chapter,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder of ID360. “We have aggressive growth goals and an exciting lineup of opportunities for our members to promote green solutions throughout the peninsula region.” 

    ICC Peninsula Chapter meets monthly and hosts events and educational opportunities throughout the year. Previously, Jacobson served as Vice President of the volunteer-run organization. Jacobson was sworn in during a ceremony on January 19. She will serve a one-year term. 

    For more information or to become a member of the ICC Peninsula Chapter visit www.iccpeninsula.org.  To learn more about ID360 visit www.id360.green.

    2023 was a momentous year for decarbonization and sustainable design from the release of the White House’s definition of NetZero to monumental commitments at COP28. What will 2024 bring? We dive into our predictions and top industry trends to watch. 

    What Follows A National Definition of Net Zero?

    When the Biden Administration announced a forthcoming national definition of zero-emissions buildings for non-federally owned properties many were excited and concerned. In 2024, in anticipation of that definition, green building practices, and the ability to speak with confidence about green building practices, will become more commonplace within the construction and real estate industry. There will be increased awareness and transparency surrounding improved efficiencies and the ability of practices to lower carbon emissions. 

    There will also be an increased interest in low-carbon buildings that exceed the baseline code. For more than a decade, ID360 has played a critical role in helping municipalities design codes as well as support architects and builders who are responsible for implementing concepts that meet or exceed these standards. These collaborations will be critical to ensure everyone is successful.

    COP28 Success. Now what?

    In a historic move, all nations formally agreed to transition away from fossil fuels during COP28. Now that negotiators have returned home, how do countries translate this global consensus into domestic policy and implementation?  

    To achieve global net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 there must be substantive change in how the U.S. utilizes energy. We anticipate this leading to a greater focus on the built environment in 2024. The construction and design industries will be called upon to advance these objectives.  

    Electrifying Progress: A Look Ahead at EV

    EV had a big year in 2023 and we anticipate that to continue into 2024 as much infrastructure is under construction or still needs to be built. Effective January 1, here in California, the Air Resources Board’s Advance Clean Fleet Rule will also impact commercial EV charging sites. Although we don’t anticipate an influx of EV-related federal funding like in previous years, municipalities will be working to build the necessary infrastructure for compliance.

    Education Remains Paramount

    Like in previous years, the green building and decarbonization industries continue to change and evolve. Staying current can be challenging, especially in the state of California as codes and policies vary from city to city. Whether you work in construction, design, or local government, knowledge of policies and codes is vital to your day-to-day. ID360 remains committed to providing resources and tools to support our colleagues. From online, on-demand coursework through our ID360 Academy to quarterly newsletters highlighting policies we are watching, we strive to keep our industry informed.

    The outlook for 2024 is bright. On every level (global, national, and local), individuals and organizations are working to implement policies and changes that will contribute to a better, more sustainable built environment. We are excited to be a part of this journey and leverage our expertise to support innovative change.