Scientific consensus: Global Warming is a fact
As the implications of this reality begin to affect the consciousness of
main-stream America, organizations, both private and governmental have begun
to make public statements concerning how they intend to deal with this
issue. Wal-Mart, representing corporate America, and the GSA, representing
governmental America, have both recently announced Carbon Neutral buildings
as their goal for 2030.
Any survey of recent energy legislation indicates
that our perceived need to limit energy consumption has begun to impact and
impinge upon the design process. To what extent is it wise to have codes
dictate design? More to the point, why has the design community seemingly
abdicated its leadership role and subjugated itself to codes? Finally,
should anything be done about this situation?
This presentation will look at the
inter-relationship of design and codes, comment on the role of design, and
make recommendations about a more holistic approach that combines the best
of design and research to create environments that exceed code requirements
while also providing high quality for the inhabitants.