Climate Action
AIA supports polices that aim to reduce energy use in buildings and eliminate carbon emissions by 2040.
Key Policies
Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) establish state or local requirements to ensure that existing buildings reach minimum levels of energy efficiency or decarbonization. BEPS exist in partnership with energy codes for new construction. AIA is committed to the promotion of efficient, healthy, and safe environments through green building policies.
The development and use of building materials with low-embodied carbon supports healthy environments, promotes public safety, and strengthens community resilience. These policies may include material requirements in public contracts, tax incentives for the use of certain materials, grants, or technical assistance. AIA supports efforts to reduce embodied carbon and encourage the widespread use of healthy, safe building materials.
Adopting the current International Code Council (ICC) Energy Conservation Code, including optional net zero provisions, will put states and municipalities on a path to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, and drive cost-effective innovations in building materials and systems. These policies may include stretch codes or reach codes, local flexibility to adopt more stringent codes or other policies. AIA supports adoption of the current, unamend IECC at state and local levels.
Community-based programs provide technical or financial assistance to low- and moderate-income individuals or businesses in historically marginalized neighborhoods to encourage renovation and rehabilitation of existing buildings to lower energy costs, replace gas appliances for heating and cooking, and improve air and water quality. These policies often create grants or revolving loans, provide direct assistance, or offer other incentives to participants. AIA supports efforts to provide access to healthy and safe buildings for all.
Other Policies
AIA is committed to providing resources and assistance to components and members to advocate climate action at the state and local levels. Select the link below to access additional resources and learn about other climate policies related to the built environment.