International Code Council Supports Green

The International Code Council (ICC) board of directors recently issued a policy position on green building/sustainable communities to emphasize its commitment to social responsibility and expand the boundaries of public safety.

“Building safety professionals and others in the construction industry have long had a positive impact on the environment,” said ICC Board President Wally Bailey. “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.”

The policy outlines several initiatives to support green building, including educating its members on programs available for achieving environmentally responsible buildings. The ICC will advocate for green building in the legislative, regulatory and codes arenas. It will promote environmental features of the I-Codes and how the International Codes support green building, according to the policy.

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

Historically, the Council supports green building and the use of environmentally friendly alternative building materials. In fact, the organization recently moved its headquarters to a USGBC LEED-certified building in Washington, D.C. Among the green features in the new world headquarters are energy efficiency, rainwater collection, high-efficiency HVAC and lighting systems, water-efficient fixtures and waterless urinals, excellent day-lighting and views, and use of recycled content materials.

“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 & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council.

In a report issued to the ICC Industry Advisory Committee by the Task Group on Green Buildings, it concluded that there were very few, if any, serious barriers in the I-Codes that would inhibit green building techniques and methods.

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