Architects vow to cut emissions

According to certain scientific calculations, buildings and the embedded energy within their interiors account for an estimated 48 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions, far more than the 27 percent for transportation and 25 percent for industry. Additionally, 76 percent of all electricity generated by power plants goes toward operating buildings. If current trends continue, it is anticipated that annual energy consumption in the United States will increase by 37 percent and greenhouse gas emissions by 36 percent in the next 20 years.

The AIA (American Institute of Architects) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors seek to reverse this trend by setting a goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. The plan will reduce the use of fossil fuels in buildings by 60 percent in 2010, 70 percent in 2015, 80 percent in 2020, 90 percent in 2025, and full carbon neutrality by 2030.

At NWA - Landscape Architecture & Construction (www.NWAlandscape.com), we are committed to less emmisions and healing the environment. NWA is a petroleum-free firm with all employees using 100% biodiesel, in our relentless pursuit of always doing better.