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Image credit: Markus Spiske
The American Institute of Architects has issued a statement opposing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and repeal related greenhouse gas vehicle standards. The statement by AIA President Illya Azaroff warned that the move could affect the built environment and construction sector.
“For fifteen years, the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector has operated with a clear, science-based mandate to protect public health, safety, and welfare by investing in high-performance buildings, advanced materials innovation, and emissions-reducing technologies,” the statement said. “This is because architects understand the role the built environment plays in air quality, carbon emissions, and ecological health.”
Related on Archinect: AIA rejects EPA’s new ‘anti-science’ position on greenhouse gas deregulation. Image credit: Pixabay
The statement noted that buildings account for roughly 42% of global carbon dioxide emissions and argued that building efficiency is closely linked to transportation systems and energy infrastructure. Removing the standards could introduce uncertainty into the $1.6 trillion U.S. construction industry and affect federal collaboration on climate and infrastructure policy, the statement added.
“Architects are committed to practical, science-driven solutions that strengthen public safety, economic resilience, and environmental performance,” the statement concludes. “AIA calls on federal leaders to uphold policies grounded in credible science and long-term risk management. Architects will continue to lead through design, but we urge federal partners to join us in recognizing the critical interdependence of transportation, energy, and the places Americans live and work.”