AIA Maine firm, Kaplan Thompson Architects was one of only 16 firms across the country to meet the 2018 target for the AIA 2030 Commitment
The recently released AIA report, 2030 by the Numbers: The 2018 Summary of the AIA 2030 Commitment emphasizes the need for climate action and clearly demonstrates that the profession must double down on efforts to meet 2030 targets.
The report amalgamates predicted energy use data in buildings from the 252 firms participating in the 2030 Commitment. Data from the latest report shows participating architects, engineers and owners are making progress to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings but are falling short of program targets.
In 2018, firms were targeting a 70 percent reduction in predicted energy use from the original baseline. Data from the new report shows that only a 46 percent reduction has been achieved. In fact, only 16 of the 252 reporting firms met the 70% reduction target, including Maine firm, Kaplan Thompson Architects.
To reach a zero net carbon future, the report provides four strategies for accelerating progress.
Energy modeling. Not only does modeling allow firms to advise clients about annual expected energy use, it is the only way to quantify the impact of design decisions on energy use and costs.
Integrate renewable energy. Bridging the gap to zero net carbon will require architects to become well-versed in both on-site and off-site renewable energy options— enabling them to incorporate on-site renewables into projects and advise clients on off-site renewable procurement options.
Understand the power of codes. The potential of an energy code to influence building performance and combat climate change is immense. Architecture 2030 and the AIA support the ZERO Code . The ZERO Code not only raises the bar by requiring the energy efficiency requirements of the latest national model code, but also requires all new buildings to generate or procure renewable energy to reach zero net carbon goals.
Share data and knowledge. For firms that have not yet joined the 2030 Commitment—or those that have joined but are not yet reporting project data—there are a host of reasons to take the next step. Joining the commitment signals to employees, clients, collaborators, and peers that your firm understands the power of sustainable design in combatting climate change. Reporting project data is the only way to show accountability and progress toward the 2030 goals. The robust, easy-to-use, online DDx integrates with Autodesk, Sefaira, and other energy simulation programs to make reporting streamlined, simple, and accessible for firms of all sizes, especially small firms.
Architects, engineers, and owners all have critical roles to play in fighting climate change and the opportunity to become leaders in the movement. Every single one of us can—and should—align our work with efforts to fight climate change.
