Introduction

2023 was a big year for sustainable design and carbon reduction in the construction industry. As leaders in sustainability, we wanted to take a look at some of the sustainable initiatives that are helping reshape the industry’s approach to environmental consciousness and responsible design.

NetZero Redefined: Insights from the White House

2023 witnessed a groundbreaking redefinition of NetZero, spearheaded by the Biden Administration. While the definition is not legally binding, it will help provide real estate developers with guidance and clarity on green building practices. This recalibration holds immense implications for the industry, aligning closely with ID360’s core mission of sustainability and innovation. The shift opens doors to reimagine sustainable practices.

Carbon Reduction Focus: California Cities Taking the Lead & ID360’s Contributions

The Golden State shone brightly in its commitment to carbon reduction. Through specific projects and initiatives aligned with industry evolution, ID360 played a pivotal role in this change. 

From rolling out the City of Newark’ Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Fee Deposit Recycling Program, supporting the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) in collaboration with GGA Architects, and being selected by the City of Agoura Hills to support its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) Assessment, ID360 is taking large strides to further greener practices across the built environment. 

Company Wins

ID360 experienced significant milestones in 2023, reaffirming its dedication to company growth and environmental sustainability. In 2023, Leila Silver was promoted to Sustainable Policy and Programs Manager to further support ID360’s position as a leader in sustainable policy and programs. We were also proud to announce our support for the Women Leaders in Code Enforcement and our Founder and Principal, Melanie Jacobson, served as the Vice President of the ICC Peninsula chapter. ID360 also won the project for the City of San Jose Building Electrification and Reach Code Analysis.

Reflecting on Industry-Wide Developments & Wins

The industry’s focus on carbon reduction resonated deeply throughout 2023, inviting opportunities to expand capabilities. We observed agencies leading the charge in transformative policies for the built environment, amplifying the momentum for change. Notable events like National Building Safety Month, President Biden’s Heat Alert, and more than 800 leaders rallying with resolve to stand with COP28 President and all parties in bringing us together behind a 1.5 C° plan. 

Conclusion

Sustainable initiatives in 2023 stand as a testament to the strides taken in sustainable design and carbon reduction. ID360 is proud to have contributed to this transformative journey, aligning our values with industry milestones and leveraging our expertise for positive change. As we bid farewell to this transformative year, we look ahead with optimism and a commitment to driving sustainable innovation.

In a significant move to address the climate crisis, the Biden administration is taking a proactive approach to define “zero-emission” buildings. This newly established national standard aims to tackle one of the most substantial contributors to climate change in the United States: buildings. Though it’s not legally binding, this definition has the potential to help real estate developers navigate the complex web of state and local regulations designed to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. 

Defining “Zero-Emission” Buildings

The new national standard for zero-emission buildings will be based on three pillars: buildings must be energy-efficient, they should produce no on-site emissions, and finally, they must rely on 100 percent renewable energy sources. The Biden administration believes this triple-pronged approach will set a clear and comprehensive standard for environmentally responsible construction and operation.

From a climate perspective, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Environmental Protection Agency has calculated that commercial and residential buildings are responsible for nearly one-third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions when factoring in their electricity consumption. In lieu of a federal definition, states have been setting their own standards. California leads the pack with requirements for new residential buildings to be net zero by 2020 and commercial buildings to be net zero by 2030. At ID360 we help local government officials demonstrate leadership in the community by developing policies that advance those set out by the state legislature. 

In addition to the zero-emission building standard, the Biden administration is taking steps to bolster the nation’s resilience against extreme weather events and climate-related disasters. This move comes following costly disasters, including wildfires in Maui and Hurricane Idalia in Florida. These extreme events have become more frequent and severe due to climate change, resulting in substantial economic losses. To address this, the administration is unveiling a national resilience strategy, aiming to embed the importance of climate adaptation and mitigation into all federal planning and management decisions.

The Biden administration’s move to define “zero-emission” buildings is a crucial step towards combating climate change. Establishing a national standard provides clarity, consistency, and a benchmark for the construction industry and those of us working to advance more sustainable practices. With these initiatives, the United States moves closer to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

The construction industry plays a pivotal role in decarbonization and building sustainable green buildings. This industry is responsible for erecting amazing structures, but also, unfortunately, responsible for generating a significant amount of waste. In this blog, we take a closer look at the construction waste management industry and efforts to implement greener practices. 

Importance of Construction Waste Management and Green Practices

Construction waste generation is a staggering global issue. To put this into perspective, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the United States generated 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris in 2018 alone. Aside from the amount of debris generated during construction and demolition, there is also the issue of improper disposal. 

Improper disposal leads to landfills overflowing with construction waste. This not only depletes valuable landfill space but also poses serious environmental risks. Construction waste often contains hazardous materials, such as asbestos and lead, which can leach into the soil and groundwater, causing long-term pollution and posing a health risk to nearby residential areas.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R) Principles

The 3R principles, “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” provide a roadmap for sustainable construction waste management. Here is an example of how to implement these principles. 

Reducing Waste at the Source: This involves careful planning and design to minimize waste generation during the construction process. Strategies may include using prefabricated components, adopting lean construction practices, and optimizing material use.

Reusing Materials and Components: Instead of discarding materials, construction professionals can salvage and repurpose them. For example, reclaimed wood and metal can find new life in other projects, reducing the demand for virgin resources.

Recycling Materials or Materials Made with Recycled Components: Recycling construction materials, such as concrete, asphalt, and metal, not only diverts waste from landfills but also conserves resources. 

City of Newark- Greener Construction in Practice

ID360 worked with the City of Newark to support the adoption of an updated construction and demolition waste ordinance. The city wanted to establish a Construction and Demolition Fee Deposit to increase local compliance for permitted building projects. ID360 provided technical expertise as well as guidelines and implementation support. Through careful planning and implementation, the City was able to realize an ordinance that aligns with the State of California CALGreen requirements. 

Future Trends in Construction Waste Management and Green Practices

The construction industry is constantly evolving, and so are its sustainability efforts. Emerging technologies and materials are playing a significant role in shaping the future of construction waste management and green practices. For instance, 3D printing of building components can reduce material waste by up to 60%, while the use of advanced sensors and data analytics enhances construction efficiency.

Additionally, there is a growing demand for sustainable construction. As environmental awareness increases and regulations become stricter, clients are increasingly seeking eco-friendly construction solutions. This trend is driving the adoption of green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM, which incentivize sustainable practices and waste reduction.

A Greener Construction Future

Construction waste management and green practices are not just buzzwords but fundamental pillars of a sustainable future. The construction industry’s immense waste generation cannot be ignored, given its far-reaching environmental and social consequences. By adhering to the 3R principles, adopting innovative technologies, and responding to the rising demand for sustainability, the construction sector can minimize its negative impact and contribute to a greener, cleaner future.

In the years ahead, as construction practices continue to evolve, we can anticipate more eco-friendly innovations and increased commitment to sustainable construction. This progress represents a significant step toward a world where the built environment harmonizes with nature rather than depleting its resources.

October 24, 2023 – ID360 is proud to announce its contract with the City of Newark to roll-out the City’s Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Fee Deposit Recycling Program. The City of Newark has recently adopted an updated Construction and Demolition Waste Ordinance to align with the State of California CALGreen requirements. ID360 was contracted to support the City’s sustainability goals and take a step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Newark’s construction industry. The City of Newark’s C&D Recycling Program with ID360 is set to increase compliance with the C&D waste requirements.

“We are excited to launch this compliance program in partnership with the City of Newark,” said Melanie Jacobson, Founder and Principal of ID360. “By working together, we can drive positive change within the construction industry and make significant strides towards a more sustainable and resilient Newark.”

To learn more about ID360 sustainable policy and programs and other green building services please visit www.ID360.green

Imagine schools not only as centers of learning but as beacons of sustainability, fostering healthier and greener environments for our children. This is the vision behind Collaborative for High-Performance Schools (CHPS), an organization with revolutionary programs that aims to transform K-12 schools into eco-friendly havens of education.

The Role of CHPS in K-12 Schools

At its core, the CHPS criteria encompasses various aspects of sustainability within educational spaces. This multifaceted strategy within the criteria addresses energy, water, and material efficiency. In addition, the criteria ensure schools are well-lit, thermally comfortable, acoustically sound, safe, healthy, and easy to operate. 

The benefits of adopting CHPS in K-12 schools are vast. Energy-efficient buildings result in reduced operational costs, allowing schools to allocate resources to impactful programs. Many of the improvements outlined in CHPS criteria are designed to improve the health and productivity of students and staff. CHPS helps school districts reach their sustainability goals while creating positive ripple effects throughout the community.

ID360’s Impactful CHPS Consulting

ID360 is an industry leader when it comes to sustainability and the built environment. This is why we provide technical design support for those looking to implement the CHPS standards. We have consulted on numerous CHPS projects working directly with the school districts as well as the lead architects. 

ID360 worked with Barker Vilar Architects in the remodeling of Richmond High School in the West Contra Costa Unified School District. The Richmond High School renovation project included a new 22,000-square-foot gymnasium and a new 30,000-square-foot classroom building. The project has been designed using the CHPS New Construction and Major Modernization Criteria.

We have also worked with Quattroccki Quok Architects on the renovation of Fremont High School in Oakland, California providing the support needed to integrate innovation and sustainable features. This project included a new gym and modular classroom building.

In our work with Franklin Elementary School & Huntington Park High School, both in the Los Angeles Unified School District, we collaborated with the district and GGA Architects to develop a sustainable design plan that incorporated energy-efficient systems and green building materials. We prepared a strategic implementation of all the CHPS criteria for both schools and supported GGA with the CHPS submittal process. 

Paving the Way for Greener, Healthier Learning Environments

In a world where environmental challenges are becoming increasingly urgent, the importance of environmentally friendly learning environments cannot be overstated. CHPS has emerged as an innovative solution that seamlessly merges education and sustainability.

District sustainability managers and architects have the power to shape the future of education with the help of green building practices. By collaborating with ID360 and embracing CHPS guidelines, you can pave the way for greener, healthier learning environments. Seize the current funding cycle as an opportunity to bring about lasting change. Together, we can build a brighter future—one school district at a time.

If you are ready to embark on a journey toward a green school, explore our portfolio of transformative projects and discover the potential of CHPS. Learn more about how CHPS can revolutionize education and create sustainable school environments for the next generation. Visit our CHPS Consulting Page to get started today.

ID360, a leading sustainability and decarbonization consulting firm, is proud to announce support to the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) in collaboration with GGA Architects to meet the Collaborative for High-Performance Schools (CHPS) Verification Standards for Huntington Park High School and Franklin Elementary School. This innovative initiative will set new benchmarks in sustainable and energy-efficient school infrastructure. ID360 is supporting the Prime Vendor GGA to meet these goals

Huntington Park High School and Franklin Elementary School have long been pillars of the educational system in Los Angeles, nurturing generations of students. With a commitment to excellence and sustainability, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has targeted the CHPS Verification Standards to ensure that these facilities continue to provide the highest quality education while minimizing their environmental impact.

The CHPS Verification focus on achieving the highest standards in energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall sustainability. By optimizing building designs, daylighting design, and incorporating cutting-edge technology, these schools will become great examples of environmentally responsible educational facilities.

Melanie Jacobson, Founder and Principal of ID360, stated, “We are proud to bring our environmental expertise to this endeavor. Through our partnership with GGA, we aim to set new benchmarks for sustainable school infrastructure in Los Angeles.”

Throughout the development and implementation process, The ID360 team lead the strategic implementation of all the CHPS criteria for both Franklin Elementary School and Huntington Park High School and is supporting GGA with the CHPS submittal process.

To learn more about ID360 sustainable building services and other certification support please visit https://www.ID360.green/building-services/

Between wildfires in Hawaii and missing sea ice in the Arctic, industry standards are changing and we are committed to keeping the community updated. Last month the Biden administration issued a Heat Alert action plan to combat workplace hazards caused by extreme heat and California just became the first state to adopt mandatory measures to reduce embodied carbon. Climate change has given way to record-breaking high temperatures across the globe, but President Biden, OSHA, the California Building Standards Commission, and the Department of Labor are working to develop standards and best practices we will all benefit from. 

Under President Biden’s Heat Alert, employees will have guaranteed heat-related protections under federal law. The Department of Labor will put systems in place to inform employees of their legal protections and increase enforcement of current standards with more frequent inspections in high-risk industries. OSHA is also taking steps to develop new standard heat safety rules for the workplace. These rules will reinforce workers’ rights to a safe work environment. 

Another win in the interest of climate change is the $7 million investment that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is making to improve the accuracy of our nation’s weather forecasts. This investment may help save thousands of lives as accurate weather forecasts are crucial for mitigating the damage that results from natural disasters and extreme weather events. This investment will help maximize the potential of the NOAA’s existing global observing system by pooling resources from universities and other institutions to create a new Data Assimilation Consortium. The investment towards this initiative is made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. 

The Department of the Interior will also be making a sizable investment to improve water storage in California, Colorado, and Washington. Their $152 million investment will increase water storage in the states previously mentioned. Through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, carefully organized investments will be made toward critical water infrastructure that will make way for water recycling and desalination facilities for communities that have suffered from having contaminated water. 

The California Building Standards Commission voted unanimously for two building code changes that will limit embodied carbon emissions in the built environment. The code additions are amendments to the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) and in making these changes California becomes the first state in the nation to set code standards that require the reduction of embodied carbon in the design and building process for both commercial buildings and schools.  ID30 celebrates the efforts made by communities and our government to maintain the health of our planet. At ID360, we believe that sustainability is the way forward. If you are looking to implement innovative sustainable design policy and green project management, contact us and we’ll help you get started.

The next mid-code cycle update for the California Building Standards Code, or CalGreen, is scheduled for January 2024 with an effective date of July 2024.  As we wait for the changes to be released, we can review what issues arose during the 15-Day Public Comment period. The 15-Day period is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to provide recommendations for the upcoming code cycle. Organizations like the American Institute of Architects and the California Association of Building Officials, who have a pulse on the codes and their projected impacts will typically submit recommendations and questions. The review period is open to the general public. The public comment period closed in June and the comments submitted are available on the CA.gov website. In this blog, we will cover some of the areas in question.  

Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment 

The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is one of the best ways for architects and building professionals to understand the environmental impact and energy use associated with all phases of a building’s life cycle including procurement, construction, operation, and deallocation. 

Comments/Suggestions offered regarding LCA:

• Consideration for when building products and systems are selected for building use with the intention of lowering impacts, the energy consumed, and emissions produced during the actual building occupation. 
• Encourage consideration for use phase impacts when making LCA product and building decisions. 

• Cradle-to-Grave vs. Cradle-to-Gate: designers and building owners do not know who will be renting space and for what purpose. This is also a different definition than in state law.
• How can we be more intentional and accurate when certifying that building material information is accurate? How do we know foreign entities are accurate in reporting carbon impact and how does a building official know if the information provided is accurate?

How will field verification work?

Field verification is an integral part of the building code process. Several questions/concerns were raised about the process.

• Is there a consideration to include a field verification attestation to verify that the Responsible Designer visited the construction site and verified the material? 
• Will this responsibility fall on the building inspector?

Other

• Structural safety implications of new technology in the built environment
• Questions regarding a more measured approach for embodied carbon 

The ID360 Team is following these changes closely. These are just a few of the many comments submitted during the public comment period. To read these documents in detail click here. Follow ID360 for the latest in code changes or check out our Intro to the 2002 California Green Building Code course on ID360 Academy. 

ID360 is proud to announce its partnership with the City of Rohnert Park. ID360 was contracted by the City of Rohnert Park to support the City’s sustainability goals including managing climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing and promoting electrification and efficiency programs. This collaboration signifies the City’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and a greener, more resilient future.

Recognizing the urgent need to curb carbon emissions and reduce the environmental impact of construction projects, the City of Rohnert Park is undertaking the development of a cutting-edge Energy Reach Code. This code will set ambitious standards for energy performance, encouraging builders and developers to adopt eco-friendly and energy-efficient practices in their projects. By leveraging ID360’s expertise in the energy sector and extensive experience in developing similar codes for forward-thinking communities, Rohnert Park aims to establish a comprehensive Energy Reach Code that will serve as a model for neighboring regions.

“We are thrilled to join forces with the City of Rohnert Park to create an innovative Energy Reach Code,” said Melanie Jacobson, Founder and Principal of ID360. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with the city’s vision to promote sustainability and resilience, ensuring a brighter future for the City of Rohnert Park residents.”

Throughout the policy development process, ID360 will conduct thorough research and analysis, engage in community outreach, and provide a state-wide cost-effectiveness study to ensure the Energy Reach Code’s practicality and efficiency. This inclusive approach will enable the code to address the unique needs and priorities of the community.

To learn more about ID360’s work and other decarbonization and green code services please visit www.ID360.green

ID360 is proud to announce its partnership with the City of Culver City to develop a groundbreaking local Green Building Standard Ordinance, also known as a “REACH Code.” This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

Culver City is dedicated to fostering environmentally responsible practices and mitigating the impact of climate change. With the increasing need for sustainable building practices, the city has recognized the urgency to establish a comprehensive Green Building Standard Ordinance. Developed in conjunction with ID360’s expertise, this code will provide essential guidelines and incentives for developers and builders to create eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and environmentally-conscious structures. The joint efforts of Culver City and ID360 aim to foster innovation, create a greener building industry, and set new benchmarks for sustainable practices.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the City of Culver City to create a pioneering Green Building Standard Ordinance,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder of ID360. “This partnership represents a crucial step forward in the ongoing efforts of the City to protect the environment and promote responsible development.”

ID360’s reputation as a leading consulting firm in the green building sector made them an ideal partner for this endeavor. Their extensive experience developing similar codes for progressive municipalities aligns perfectly with Culver City’s vision for a sustainable future. To learn more about ID360’s work and other decarbonization and green code services please visit www.ID360.green

20th, July 2023 – ID360 is proud to announce its partnership with the Town of Los Altos Hills to support the launch of its Building Electrification Solar App Plus Program. Designed to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and promote sustainability, this innovative initiative is set to revolutionize the way residents harness solar power for their homes.

The Building Electrification Solar App Plus Program aims to empower Los Altos Hills residents by providing a user-friendly platform that streamlines the process of transitioning to solar energy. Through this program, homeowners can access comprehensive resources, expert guidance, and financial incentives to support the installation of solar panels on their properties.

Key features of the Building Electrification Solar App Plus Program include:

• Seamless Application Process: The program offers an intuitive online application system, allowing residents to easily navigate through the process of applying for solar panel installation permits, incentive programs, and interconnection agreements. The streamlined process ensures efficiency and reduces administrative burdens for homeowners.
• Personalized Solar Assessments: The program provides personalized solar assessments, utilizing advanced technology to analyze a property’s solar potential. Homeowners will receive detailed reports outlining the estimated energy production, cost savings, and environmental benefits associated with installing solar panels on their homes.
• Expert Guidance: Residents can benefit from the expertise of certified solar contractors and energy consultants who will provide professional guidance throughout the entire process, from initial assessment to system installation. This ensures that homeowners have access to accurate information and can make informed decisions about their solar energy investments.
• Financial Incentives: To encourage the widespread adoption of solar energy, the Building Electrification Solar App Plus Program offers attractive financial incentives such as rebates and tax credits. These incentives help reduce the upfront costs associated with solar panel installation, making renewable energy more accessible and affordable for all residents.
• Community Impact: By participating in the program, Los Altos Hills residents contribute to the city’s sustainability goals and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The increased adoption of solar energy will not only create a cleaner environment but also enhance the overall resilience and energy independence of the community.

ID360, Founder and Principal, Melanie Jacobson expressed her enthusiasm for the Building Electrification Solar App Plus Program, stating, “We are proud to introduce this pioneering program. By leveraging solar energy, we can reduce our carbon footprint, lower energy costs, and create a more sustainable future. We encourage all Los Altos Hills homeowners to take advantage of this initiative and join us as we support the Town of Los Altos Hills commitment to a greener, cleaner community.”

ID360 was contracted by the town to support its sustainability goals and support the town adopting a local energy reach code ordinance in accordance with the requirements of the California Energy Commission (CEC) for existing building remodel and new building constructions. The ID360 team will collaborate with city staff and stakeholder groups in the creation of new green building and energy policies and guidelines that advance the town’s vision to be a leader in sustainable development.

To learn more about ID360’s work and other decarbonization and green code services please visit www.ID360.green

19th of July, 2023, ID360 has been selected to support the City of San Jose’s Building Electrification and Reach Code Analysis. This marks a critical step in the city’s relentless pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2030.

As one of the largest cities in California, San Jose recognizes the urgent need to address climate change and reduce its environmental footprint. By embarking on the Building Electrification and Reach Code Analysis, the city is taking proactive measures to transition away from fossil fuel-dependent infrastructure and embrace cleaner, more sustainable alternatives.  This comprehensive analysis aims to assess and implement sustainable strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings.

“This analysis marks a significant milestone for the City of San Jose towards carbon neutrality, said Melanie Jacobson, Founder and Principal of ID360. “The City is committed to harnessing the power of sustainable solutions to combat climate change and protect the well-being of its residents and future generations. Our team is excited to collaborate with the city staff and support the City’s sustainability goals.”

Together with the ID360 team, the City of San Jose will focus on exploring innovative building electrification techniques and reach codes that encourage the use of renewable energy sources. By incentivizing energy-efficient practices, the City of San Jose aims to drastically reduce carbon emissions associated with new and existing buildings. By collaborating with industry experts, environmental organizations, and community stakeholders, the City of San Jose intends to develop effective policies and incentives that encourage sustainable building practices while ensuring affordability and equitable access for all residents.

This ambitious initiative aligns with the City’s Climate Smart San Jose plan, which sets forth a comprehensive roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Through coordinated efforts and continued engagement with the community, the City of San Jose is poised to lead the charge in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and livable city.

ID360 has a long history of supporting California communities with climate action planning and implementation. ID360’s Climate Action Leadership program conducts a comprehensive audit of existing programs, metrics, ordinances, and interdepartmental coordination efforts related to the fulfillment and implementation of sustainability goals. Through this assessment, ID360 can evaluate the city’s current plans and strategize opportunities for improvement. The review concludes with recommendations for a CAP organizational strategy, and a management system designed to respond to new State legislation, changing priorities, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction policies using an interdepartmental collaboration model.

To learn more about ID360’s work and other decarbonization and green code services please visit www.ID360.green