January 20 The first statewide green building code in the U.S., California's CALGreen, took effect on January 1, reports greenbiz.com.
The code contains both mandatory and voluntary provisions intended to make new buildings in California more environmentally responsible. The code requires buildings to be more energy efficient, to use less water and to emit fewer pollutants, greenbiz states.
The rules are the latest version of the California building code provisions that were originated in 2009 as wholly voluntary measures. The code included a timetable to convert baseline standards to mandatory measures. Voluntary portions of the code provide parameters for higher standards of green building, says greenbiz.
Provisions of the code include
A minimum 20% reduction in indoor water use, with higher voluntary standards.
Separate meters for indoor and outdoor water use at non-residential buildings.
At least 50% reduction of construction waste sent to landfills, with higher voluntary standards.
Mandates for inspections of energy systems, including heating, air conditioning and mechanical equipment in non-residential buildings bigger than 10,000 sq. ft.