Sustainable Design

Position Statements

The Council supports the principles of Sustainable Design as a means to sustain and improve the environment, and the role of the architect in preserving and protecting our planet from environmental damage, and promoting the long term economic benefits of sustainable design or of comparable standards.

Breakthroughs in building science, technology and operations are available to architects, builders and owners who want to maximize both economic and environmental performance. Sustainable Design has numerous benefits:

Environmental benefits of Sustainable Design:

Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
Improve air and water quality
Reduce solid waste
Conserve natural resources

Economic benefits of Sustainable Design:

Reduce operating costs
Enhance asset value and profits
Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
Optimize life-cycle economic performance

Health and community benefits of Sustainable Design:

Improve air, thermal and acoustic environments
Enhance occupant comfort and health
Minimize strain on local infrastructure
Contribute to overall quality of life

The Council recognizes the dynamic nature of Sustainable Design and encourages expansion of this knowledge through research and dissemination of this knowledge through education and training programs.

The Council supports legislation that provides incentives for Sustainable Design and energy conservation modernization for buildings or facilities.

The Council supports increased A/E fees for documenting designs that are intended to meet the US Green Building Council’s LEED Standards.