AIA Policy Update:
A Step Forward in Environmental Responsibility
By AIA Committee on the Environment Leadership Group
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has recently made significant updates to its policy statements, underscoring the evolving role of architects in addressing climate change and environmental justice. These updates, approved by the AIA Board of Directors, emphasize the association's commitment to making a positive impact on our planet through responsible design practices.
Background of the Update
The AIA's policy statements serve as a public declaration of the values and beliefs held by the association. These statements are not just internal guidelines but are intended to influence public opinion, including policymakers, the construction industry, and other Architectural, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECO) groups. They reflect the AIA's stance on various public-policy issues affecting its members and the broader profession of architecture.
For the latest revisions, the AIA tapped the expertise of its Committee on the Environment (COTE) Leadership Group. This group is known for initiatives like the COTE Top Ten awards and the Framework for Design Excellence. The revision process involved extensive feedback from various AIA board-level committees and knowledge communities, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to policy formulation.
Key Changes in Policy
The updated policy statements mark a distinct shift in focus towards more granular environmental issues. Notably, the broad category of "energy and carbon" has been expanded into three distinct areas: energy efficiency, existing buildings, and embodied carbon. Additionally, new categories focusing on ecosystems, water, and environmental justice have been introduced, highlighting the AIA’s recognition of the interconnectedness of these issues with architectural practice.
AIA’s Commitment
The AIA's revised and expanded policy statements reflect the urgency of addressing climate change while recognizing architecture's broad impact and potential for community benefit and climate mitigation. These new categories acknowledge the interconnectedness of the climate crisis while building upon AIA's legacy of environmental responsibility that empowers architects to make a significant difference.
The updated policies are now publicly available and binding on all AIA components, ensuring a unified approach to promoting responsible architectural practices. The AIA urges both members and the public to actively engage with these guidelines by providing feedback and participating in future discussions and revisions. Together, we can build a more sustainable and just future.
The complete and updated AIA Position Statements can be viewed here, offering insight into how the profession continues to evolve in its understanding and responsibility towards sustainable and equitable architectural practices.
Acknowledgments
The policy revision was a collaborative effort involving AIA’s in-house legal counsel Anne Law, and Sr. Director of Climate Action and Design Excellence, Lisa Ferretto, AIA, alongside COTE Leadership Group members Kjell Anderson, FAIA; Dan Stine, AIA; Michelle Amt, AIA; Lori Ferriss, AIA; and Arathi Gowda, AIA. The process included multiple draft reviews and feedback sessions with AIA state components, ensuring that the final policies not only reflect the values of the AIA but also resonate with broader architectural practices.