While the building code provides the minimum standard for building construction, the opportunity exists to go above and beyond, further increasing the energy efficiency and sustainability of our built environment. To aid this process, there is an assortment of codes, standards, ratings, and practices available to builders and jurisdictions. These advanced and green energy codes direct the design and construction of more sustainable buildings that go beyond the minimum accepted standards of practice. Green and advanced codes are therefore an important means of achieving climate goals set by many states and municipalities, as well as addressing the rising cost of energy.

• Beyond Code Regulations

  A nationwide compilation showing where states and jurisdictions have surpassed minimum code requirements.

• City Profiles

  A selection of major cities across the United States that have taken exceptional steps towards increasing the energy efficiency of their buildings.

• Connecting Energy Codes to Sustainable Land Use Practices

  Energy codes are an effective tool for reducing building energy use. Yet they are insufficient for solving other crucial energy and environmental concerns related to buildings, such as transportation and the distribution of scarce land resources.

• International Green Construction Code

  An overview of the first model code to include sustainability measures encompassing an entire project and its site.

• Net Zero Energy Buildings

  High-performance buildings that use integrated energy-saving technologies and renewable sources to achieve very low energy use and carbon emissions.