The influence of commitments such as AIA 2030 and MEP 2040, along with code changes and jurisdictional mandates such as the DC Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) program, has brought sustainable design to the forefront of every conversation.
With more than a dozen sustainable certifications and strategies, designers must discover what aligns best with owner’s project budget and goals. While the certifications and strategies range in focus, from the prioritization of occupant health and well-being with Fitwel, to an emphasis on carbon emissions reduction with Zero Carbon, the role of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems in sustainable design remains paramount.
With the shifting mindset towards Net Zero, owners and occupants are aware of the impact of waste, energy, and carbon on their environments. In this session, Director of Sustainable Programs Meghan McAvoy will explore how to achieve net zero design and share the impact of sustainable design strategies on the future of our built environment.
Learning Objective 1
Identify the market forces and jurisdictional code changes driving more buildings to pursue sustainable achievements like Net Zero, LEED, and WELL.
Learning Objective 2
Understand how a building’s envelope, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems, and on-site energy generation strategies can achieve Net Zero Energy.
Learning Objective 3
Differentiate between Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Carbon, and Net Zero Waste approaches in buildings.
Learning Objective 4
Understand the difference between embodied carbon and operational carbon, and the importance of tracking both early in design.