OVERVIEW
Multifamily buildings are inherently green, thanks to the way they support denser, transit-friendly communities. But they have a legacy to overcome. Uninsulated masonry buildings; antiquated heating systems; inefficient, ad hoc cooling—many aspects of typical multifamily construction and operation evolved in an era when energy was cheap. What's more, lower-quality products often appear in lower-income and affordable multifamily housing, contributing to poor indoor quality and potentially exposing our most vulnerable populations to toxic chemicals in building materials.
Seizing the opportunity, many designers and policymakers are working to better address mid-rise multifamily buildings. Good design, public policy, market incentives, developers who see the big picture, and new technologies all have a place in making our multifamily buildings greener.
IN-DEPTH
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Sustainable Development through Open-Source, Participatory Design
May 30, 2017News Brief
Alejandro Aravena wins Gothenburg Award for offering revolutionary strategies for social housing.
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Measuring (and Understanding) Humidity
February 17, 2017Blog Post
Humidity sensor recommendations for building professionals and homeowners
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Top-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Come in from Turkey
February 7, 2017Product Review
Blomberg and Beko ventless heat-pump dryers lead the pack in energy performance and also may cause less wear-and-tear on clothing.
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Zero-Energy Laws Spur Growth in Passive House Certification
January 4, 2017News Brief
Passive House-certified projects surged in North America last year, particularly in Vancouver.
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Green Multifamily Cabinetry: Three Top Options
July 6, 2016Product Review
Need multifamily millwork that’s attractive, high-quality, domestically manufactured, low-emitting, and sustainably sourced? You’re not alone.
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Air Pollution Near Kids’ Homes Linked to Lower Grades at School
August 31, 2015News Analysis
Academic performance of minority students shows disproportionate effects from air pollution, according to a study in El Paso.
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Fannie Mae Offers Lower Interest Rates to Green Multifamily
February 20, 2015News Brief
Multifamily building developers and owners now have a greater financial incentive to pursue green certifications: they’ll be rewarded by Fannie Mae
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First Existing Multifamily Buildings Earn Energy Star Certification
November 22, 2014News Analysis
Tenants are saving more than $500 a year in one of the first existing apartment buildings to be certified.
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USGBC Opens Multifamily Design Competition
May 18, 2011News Brief
USGBC is seeking entries for a Multifamily Midrise Design Competition, renovating and adding to a historic New Orleans building.
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Canadian Multifamily Project Earns LEED Platinum
January 1, 2008News Brief
