OVERVIEW
Standards and rating systems have been at the heart of the green building movement at least since U.S. energy standards for buildings (like ASHRAE 90.1) started ratcheting up following the 1970s energy crisis.
If you care about health and sustainability, you can now rely on dozens of ratings and standards for buildings as well as things in and around them, including:
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Lab protocols for chemical emissions from finishes and furniture
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Testing methods for durability of paints, textiles, and many other products
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Standards for energy use, ventilation, thermal comfort, and more
- Rating systems for schools, healthcare facilities, parking garages, landscapes, and healthy spaces
IN-DEPTH
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'The Bar Has Been Raised'-AIA-COTE Announces 2011 Top Ten
April 14, 2011News Analysis
AIA Top Ten projects for 2011 reflect renewed attention to social and behavioral issues in addition to water efficiency, energy savings, and other typical green measures.
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Schooled in Sustainability: STARS Grades First Campuses
March 30, 2011News Brief
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STAR Green Community Rating System Launching This Year
February 28, 2011News Brief
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Infrastructure Rating System Coming from Engineering Group
February 28, 2011News Brief
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Cascadia GBC and Natural Step to Join Forces
January 13, 2011News Brief
By merging, the organizations hope to streamline resources while widening the scope of their work.
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New Homes Can Now Earn a WaterSense Label
December 30, 2010News Brief
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Glazing Industry Fights Tightened Energy Standards
November 9, 2010News Analysis
Several glazing industry associations successfully appealed changes to ASHRAE Standard 90.1 that would have reduced the amount of glass allowed in commercial building envelopes.
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Non-Green Office Buildings Sacrifice 8% in Rent Revenues
November 9, 2010News Analysis
The most comprehensive statistical analysis to date shows that LEED and Energy Star buildings charge 3% higher rent, have greater occupancy rates, and sell for 13% more than comparable properties.
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Standards for Standards: ISO and ANSI
October 29, 2010Primer
ISO is an international standard-setting body that offers accreditation to certifying organizations and approves standards that meet certain criteria.
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New Standard for Green Roof Membranes
September 29, 2010News Brief
