Perpetual Sustainability
Practice-related aspects of sustainability, addressing potential risks and the approaches firms are taking to develop sustainable designs.
Letter from the editor
By Sara R. Boyer, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
You might be thinking, "Another series on Sustainability? Again?" Yes. Because, sustainability is a perpetual topic. And this quarter's PMKC Digest comes on the heels of the September revisions to the AIA National Code of Ethics—which added new rules and ethical standards addressing sustainability—as well as Greenbuild 2018. The time is right. And the time is right now.
This quarter's issue focuses on three practice-focused aspects of sustainability: risk, net zero, and the AIA's 2030 Commitment. The AIA Trust provides an easy-to-follow article "Designing for Sustainability" to guide you through the potential risk associated with a quantified high-performing building. Through a case study, "Designing Net Zero Ready Buildings on a Budget" will encourage you to have the mindset and approach to design such a building. And "The Race to 2030" explains how one firm is undertaking the Commitment.
Under additional resources, we have also assembled many other great references for individuals and firms looking to learn more about these topics.
I hope you enjoy this quarter's edition of Practice Management Digest, and please consider the environment before you print.
Features
Designing for sustainability
By Kevin Collins, RPLU, Associate AIA
Architects are in a prime position to advise and provide solutions that are sustainable and focus on environmental needs. Find out the best way to approach drafting the contract for professional services and the provisions that should be included. Employing strong risk management practices will drive the future success of these projects.
Designing net zero ready buildings on a budget
By Chad Edwards, RA, LEED AP BD+C and Terry Liette, PE, LEED AP
The term net zero conjures up images of big budgets and expensive building systems; however, this conception couldn't be further from the truth. As architects and engineers, we have everything we need to design net zero ready buildings for the same cost as buildings that meet basic code. All it takes is the right mindset and the right approach.
The race to 2030
By Lindsey Freel and Allen Schaffer, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, LBC AMBASSADOR
One firm explores how the 2030 Challenge, improved energy code, and energized clients are combatting the effects of climate change. Reporting to DDX and early energy analysis allows them to adjust their strategy and improve their outcomes.
Further reading and resources
Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming by Paul Hawken
AIA Adopts New Rules and Ethical Standards for Members – September 11, 2018 AIA press release
Designing for Sustainability by Kevin Collins – PDF of the article from this issue
Committee on the Environment – an AIA National community that serves as the community and voice of AIA members regarding sustainable design.
The 2030 Challenge as presented by Architecture 2030
Contribute to the Digest
The future issues of the Practice Management Digest are currently planned to cover topics such as firm management, talent management, and architectural writing. If you have topics related to practice management that you'd like explored or articles you would like us to consider, please contact Sara Boyer, AIA, at sboyer@moodynolan.com.