Published by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), in conjunction with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), Standard 189.1, is the first code-intended commercial green building standard in the United States.

From site location to energy use to recycling, this standard will set the foundation for green buildings through its adoption into local codes. It covers key topic areas such as site sustainability, water use efficiency, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality and the building’s impact on the atmosphere, materials and resources.

“The far-reaching influence of the built environment necessitates action to reduce its impact,” Gordon Holness, ASHRAE president, said. “Ultimately, the aim is not just energy efficiency but a balance of environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, occupant comfort and well being and community sensitivity, all while supporting the goal of sustainable development.”

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