We are stewards of the built realm and of the profession. As stewards, we have a responsibility to do good while we do well. Being an architect today requires technical acumen; emotional intelligence and empathy; professional integrity; the ability to envision and realize meaningful, positive change; and an overarching instinct and focus to bring it all together holistically.
Society and the profession benefit from civically engaged architects. When the public, policymakers, legislators, and strategic partners understand our full value in achieving the change society seeks and needs, we will thrive as a profession and our society will be better for our efforts and expertise. Our participation on big issues matters. Climate change is one of those big issues—a global one.
Most recently, AIA released a statement on the West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court stating that we believe this decision is a setback in the climate crisis fight and urging Congress to give EPA the tools needed to allow the agency, and all of the federal government, to meaningfully and holistically reduce and eventually eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.
From energy use to the materials specified, the architectural community has countless opportunities to make a significant impact on reducing carbon across the industry. You have the power to ingrain carbon neutrality into your firm and practice.
We invite you to explore AIA’s resources for a zero-carbon future. Consider signing up for AIAU’s “Embodied Carbon 101” series. Use ROI on High Performance talking points to spark conversations on the direct and indirect economic benefits of these products and practices with potential clients, civic leaders, vendors, contractors, and other architects. Join the 2030 Commitment to publicly show your dedication and track progress toward a carbon-neutral future. Find inspiration in the COTE Top Ten Award winners.
Read the practice guide on strategies for designing for adaptability, deconstruction, and reuse. Retrofitting, renovating, adapting, and remodeling existing buildings now accounts for almost half of U.S. architecture billings.
Look outside your practice or firm. The Biden-Harris administration launched the National Building Performance Standards Coalition during the January meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. This partnership between 33 state and local governments is dedicated to delivering cleaner, healthier, and more affordable buildings. I urge you to find out if your component or local jurisdictions are participating and get involved.
Last month, CEO Lakisha Woods took to the main stage to address the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting, urging mayors to look to architects and AIA as their partners for progress. I moderated a panel discussion at that meeting on local efforts to improve building energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. When panelist Mayor Andrew Ginther of Columbus, Ohio, pointed out how helpful AIA Columbus had been for him in navigating some of the city’s long-term challenges related to zoning and climate, I was quick to remind the room of mayors and civic leaders that there is an AIA chapter conveniently located near them. Be ready and eager to accept that call! Even better, initiate the call. Civic leaders are hungry for practical advice.
AIA advocated for the passage of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which includes grant funding for projects that tackle climate crisis and advance environmental justice. Architects can and should shape these projects and partner with city leaders to deliver transformational change. AIA can help you identify grant funding opportunities for your projects so you can rebuild cities in ways that are climate-friendly and equitable.
These opportunities and connections will help us enhance our stewardship so we can collectively shape the built realm in ways that eliminate barriers and create a brighter, fairer, and more sustainable future for everyone.
