The IgCC Paper:
Topic: Mixed-use building sustainability study
For this paper, Mixed-Use is: Includes commercial, apartments/condos, retail, office,
parking, etc. (Think Brickell as an example of a city/community with a ton of mixed-use
buildings)
Project Big Picture:
Building codes vary significantly across states and climates, shaping construction practices to address local needs. In our project, we’re examining the International Green Construction Codes (IgCC) to understand their impact on building sustainability and performance in different climate regions. By analyzing changes in construction methods, materials, and design considerations, we will assess how the IgCC enhances sustainability, resilience, and energy efficiency (if at all!) for future building projects.
The IgCC takes a comprehensive approach, integrating measures for better indoor environments, reduced resource depletion, and improved neighborhood connectivity. It incorporates the ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES 189.1-2020 Standard, aligning with prevailing codes like IECC® or ASHRAE Standard 90.1 to streamline adoption across jurisdictions. This cohesive framework ensures tangible improvements in environmental impact and long-term building performance.
Reflecting on Florida’s building code evolution, exemplified by the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in the 1990s, underscores the importance of consistent regulatory reform. Inconsistencies in code enforcement led to costly consequences, prompting the state to prioritize uniformity and accountability to safeguard lives, economies, and properties from future threats.
The lessons from Florida’s building code evolution emphasize the importance of demonstrating tangible improvements in the built environment against climate and weather events. Just as Florida’s reforms aimed to safeguard lives and economies, the adoption of codes like the IgCC can save lives in extreme weather and lower long-term costs. Prioritizing sustainability and resilience, these codes might offer crucial protection against climate change impacts. Let’s examine how well they do that.
Project Prompt:
In this exercise, we’ll be comparing the International Green Construction Codes with the existing building codes and standards in your assigned climate region, focusing on key IgCC areas: site sustainability, water efficiency, energy efficiency, and materials and resources. Our goal is to assess how buildings constructed under the IgCC guidelines in these specific focus areas would perform compared to those built under current codes and standards. Factors such as sustainability practices, water and energy usage, and materials selection, will help us understand the potential benefits and implications of adopting IgCC in each climate region. Through this comparison, we’ll learn more about the practical impacts of implementing green building codes in retrofitting buildings or on future construction projects.
link: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IGCC2021P1/chapter-9-materials-and-resources#IGCC2021P1_ChPanel_Sec901.3.1.3
focus ONLY on the subtopic 9.3.1.3 which is construction and demolition waste management plan in ASHRAE zones 7 and 8
Comments from Customer
Discipline: Sustainable construction