THE PATH FORWARD

The built environment is responsible for 40% of carbon emissions. Architects must be part of the solution.

The path forward

The time for climate discussion has passed. America’s architects are taking action.

Building on decades of focused commitment, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is committing the majority of its effort and resources toward leading a landmark initiative to take climate action. Expanding on current projects, some of which have been in existence since 1990—including the Framework for Design Excellence, which provides 10 measures to guide architects and designers to view their projects through a more holistic, sustainability lens; and the 2030 Commitment, which prioritizes energy performance and carbon reductions toward carbon neutral buildings—the initiative strengthens and accelerates AIA’s efforts to support the design of sustainable and resilient communities.

AIA’s member architects are mobilizing to match the urgency of the challenge. This initiative is designed to champion the cause, establish actionable steps, and provide the tools and resources for architects to achieve them. From advocating for public policy, to supporting renewable energy use in buildings, from reducing carbon emissions through building design and informed product selection, to spurring energy efficient renovations and designing for natural hazard risk – America’s architects have a leading role to play in humanity’s collective call to climate action.

Climate change is real, it is urgent, and architects have the ability to make an immense difference in mitigating and adapting to its impacts.

5 tips for sustainable practice

Integrating Resiliency

Architects have the unique ability to address our rapidly changing climate through design. It starts with how you practice. Through case studies and best practices for hazard mitigation, climate adaptation, and community resilience, the AIA Resilience and Adaptation online education series empowers architects to understand, communicate, and design for the shocks and stresses that prevent our communities—and our clients—from thriving.

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Framework for Design Excellence

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