Green Building Report
Part 1: California Adopts Green Codes
Part 2: BOMA Releases Green Lease Guide
Part 3: DOE Launches Net Zero Program
Part 4: Princeton Review Ranks Green Colleges
Part 5: ASHRAE Releases Commissioning Guidelines
Part 6: AIA Reports on Green Building Incentives
California Adopts Green Codes
October 2008
California is the first state to adopt a statewide green building code. The California Green Building Standards Code, which contains standards for health facilities, commercial buildings and single-family homes, will bring a significant improvement in water efficiency. The code targets a 50 percent reduction in landscape water use and calls for dual plumbing fixtures for recyclable and potable water. The code also pushes for a 15 percent reduction in energy use compared with current standards, encourages the use of recycled materials in carpets and building materials, and identifies site improvements, like parking for hybrid vehicles and better stormwater management.
All the measures are comparable with the Silver level of certification under LEED. The California Green Building Standards Code is comprised of optional standards that become mandatory in 2010. 
