Scientists Develop Carbon-Negative Decking Material that Helps Combat Climate Change
A team of researchers has designed a new composite decking material that actually stores more carbon dioxide (CO2) than is required to manufacture it, making it a “carbon-negative” option that could help reduce the environmental impact of building construction. The new decking, which meets building codes and is less expensive than standard composite decking, could be available at building supply retailers as early as next summer.
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HUD Signs Onto International Climate Declaration in France
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) signed onto an international climate declaration during the United Nations Buildings and Climate Forum in Paris last week, described as “a foundational document for international cooperation that will enable progress towards a rapid, fair, and effective transition of the building sector to zero emissions,” according to a HUD announcement.
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International Green Building Rating Systems to Form Sustainable Finance Alliance
Each of the major green building rating systems for the UK, Australia, and the USA have announced a first-of-its-kind alliance aiming to unlock sustainable finance for the built environment. The UK-based Building Research Establishment (BRE), Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) will demonstrate the critical role that verification and certification schemes play in supporting ESG reporting.
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To Define Zero Emissions for Buildings, Biden Administration Seeks Input
As the Biden administration drafts a national definition for zero-emissions buildings, industry stakeholders have until Feb. 5 to provide information for Part 1, which addresses operational emissions, according to a Jan. 3rd news release from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office (BTO).
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DOE Study Stresses the Life-Saving Benefits of Energy Efficiency
An increased frequency of extreme weather events costing the U.S. more than $1 billion over two decades prompted the Department of Energy (DOE) to commission research that assessed how increased energy efficiency can impact building resilience under extreme temperatures. The study, Enhancing Resilience in Buildings Through Energy Efficiency, was published in July and was prompted by DOE’s Building Technologies Office.
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Government Program Eyes Thin Triples and Aerogel for ‘Energy Earthshot’ Investments
Two up-and-coming window glass technologies could see further advancement in the coming years after the Biden administration announced an initiative that aims to “slash” the costs for energy efficient upgrades in affordable housing. The Affordable Home Energy Shot program aims to cut the costs for energy-related upgrades in half within a decade.
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