Measurable proposals
I would like to start by recommending a book, Drawdown, the most comprehensive plan ever proposed to reverse global warming. It is the print report on Project Drawdown, a huge initiative that over the past few years has analyzed 80 actions that humanity can take to mitigate the negative effects of human caused climate change. The actions are in the sectors of Buildings and Cities, Energy, Food, Land Use, Materials, Transport and Women and Girls.
The analysis involves total atmospheric CO2 reduction, net cost as well as net savings in billions of dollars on top of an eloquent written analysis for each action. Furthermore, the actions are ranked based on their CO2 reduction potential.
While this may sound heady, it is an easily readable book, and I really enjoyed it. It also provides a positive view of the future by proposing measurable solutions. Consider this my recommendation for holiday reading!
On other news, I was very excited to hear the announcement of a 425,000SF new speculative office building in Long Island City pursuing Passivehouse certification. I am not sure whether this is a response to Local Law 97, sensitivities to COVID, or other environmental reasons, but for sure it will be a building with, among others, a higher standard of indoor air quality.
The North American Passivehouse Network, recently published a very educational one-hour introduction to Passivehouse as well as the second Owners’ roundtable e-book from this summer’s conference with some great insights on why owners choose to pursue the standard.
What I’m reading:
What a Biden Win Means for Sustainable Design, Architect Magazine
AIA Adopts Materials Pledge: Spec, and You Shall Receive, Building Green
LIC will soon house the nation’s largest passive house office, The Real Deal
3XN to add carbon-negative extension to Hotel GSH on Bornholm island, Dezeen
