WASHINGTON - The International Code Council’s (ICC’s) board of directors issued a policy position on green building and sustainable communities, emphasizing its commitment to social responsibility and the expansion of public safety boundaries.

"Building safety professionals and others in the construction industry have long had a positive impact on the environment," said Wally Bailey, ICC board president. "Strong, durable buildings that are safe and affordable have a smaller impact on the world's limited resources.”

The policy outlines several initiatives to support green building, including educating its members on programs available for achieving environmentally responsible buildings. “ICC is committed to educating our members on green building and participating in activities with other organizations that will ensure green building practices are sustainable and safe,” noted Bailey.

According to the policy, ICC will promote environmental features of the I-Codes and how the International Codes support green building, and will continue to be an advocate for green building in the legislative, regulatory, and codes arenas.

"Our organization is already a champion for green building," said Rick Weiland, ICC CEO. "This policy reinforces our commitment to the environment and ensures that our members play an important role on matters related to green building."

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) continues to reference the International Energy Conservation Code as the benchmark for conserving resources used in construction and daily living. In a report issued to the ICC Industry Advisory Committee by the Task Group on Green Buildings, it concluded that there were few, if any, serious barriers in the I-Codes that would inhibit green building techniques and methods.

"The International Code Council's commitment to green building reflects its vision to protect the health and well-being of people and the environment," said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO, and founding chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "The council's leadership sets a wonderful example for its members, its employees, and other organizations around the world, and will lead to safer, healthier communities for us all."

Publication date: 02/05/2007