ATLANTA - Recognized by the Sustainable Buildings Industry Council (SBIC), the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) received a Best Sustainable Practice Award in the Educational Initiatives category. The award centered on the presidential challenge, made by Terry Townsend, of ASHRAE’s promise for a sustainable future.

Realizing that sustainability cannot be accomplished without measurable goals, ASHRAE put in place approximately 35 specific challenges ranging from a proposed water conservation standard, development of building performance metrics, research and design guidance resulting in net zero energy use buildings, and greening of ASHRAE meetings.

“The Best Sustainable Practice category recognizes the excellent innovations and unique contributions SBIC members are making toward building a sustainable future in America,” said Douglas Schroeder, associate director of SBIC. “This year’s competition was exceptionally competitive, but for the second consecutive year, the SBIC jury recognized the valuable contributions ASHRAE is making to the buildings industry.”

To increase member awareness, ASHRAE created a three-part DVD. The DVD is part of a total communications package from ASHRAE to motivate members and the industry about the challenges and opportunities related to sustainability.

“The sustainability initiative is stimulating conversation inside ASHRAE about what it means to be sustainable and the importance of protecting today’s natural resources for future generations,” said Townsend. “We are pleased to be recognized by the Sustainable Buildings Industry Council for our efforts.”

For more information, visit www.ashrae.org/building.

Publication date: 01/08/2007