The Built Environment’s Carbon Challenge
AIAU25-DECARB1
Included in subscription
2
LU|HSW
Course expires on: 01/22/2028
Included in subscription
2
LU|HSW
Description
Learn actionable strategies to reduce carbon emissions and address climate change through sustainable design and construction practices in the AEC industry. Gain a comprehensive understanding of carbon’s impact on the environment, explore the critical role of the built environment in global emissions, and learn practical methods to reduce both operational and embodied carbon in design and construction.
Key topics include the principles of embodied, operational and avoided carbon, energy-efficient and passive design strategies, and sustainable material selection. The course also covers critical U.S. policies and frameworks such as LEED certifications, federal and local regulations, and AIA 2030 Commitment—equipping professionals with the knowledge to navigate evolving sustainability standards while leading decarbonization efforts.
Learning Objectives
Explain carbon’s role in the environment, its impact on global climate change, and the challenges and opportunities of architects to lead decarbonization efforts.
Distinguish between embodied, operational, and avoided carbon and the need to focus on total carbon emissions in the built environment.
Describe strategies to reduce operational emissions in building design, focusing on energy efficiency, passive design, and high-performance systems.
Identify strategies to reduce embodied carbon through sustainable material selection, procurement, and design processes.
Acknowledgments
We're grateful to the guest speakers and expert reviewers who shapped this course with thier insight, experience, and thoughtful feedback.
Special thanks to:
- Kjell Anderson, FAIA | LMN Architects
- Cory Duggin, PE, LEED AP BD+C, BEMP | PEAK Institute
- Myer Harrell, AIA, Assoc. DBIA, LFA, LEED AP BD+C | Perkins&Will
- Erin McDade, Assoc. AIA | Architecture 2030
- Jacob Werner, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, LFA, CPHC | Ellenzweig
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