Summary:

In this episode, we explore innovative approaches to green building design, code compliance, and energy efficiency with industry expert Sachin Anand, Principal at dbHMS. Sachin shares insights from the Academy for Global Citizenship (AGC) project, Chicago’s first Living Building Challenge certified school, highlighting the integration of building systems into the curriculum.

He emphasizes the importance of viewing energy codes as minimum standards rather than as a ceiling and discusses the role of commissioning in optimizing building performance. The conversation also covers practical steps for building owners to prepare for emerging energy code requirements and the transformative potential of new energy codes in accelerating decarbonization efforts.

Key Takeaways:

• Building sustainability breakthroughs require early, integrated design collaboration.

• Treat energy codes as foundational rather than a ceiling, unlocking deeper innovation.

• Commissioning is one of the lowest-cost high-yield strategy for resilient, efficient buildings.

• Embedding education into building systems fosters future innovation and engagement among occupants.

• Scaling holistic verification processes across large portfolios is simpler than expected when employing a modular, repeatable approach.

• The next horizon in sustainability is industry-wide transformation driven by new energy codes and technological innovation.

Episode Links:

• Building Green Communities Episode 2: Academy for Global Citizenship: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9Z0P3w70jE