June 2, 2009

May 5, 2009

Interface Consulting Insight

The Greening of the Building Codes by Philip D. Barnard

"In recent years, there has been much discussion about 'green' building codes. So, what are 'green codes?' Technically, there is no such thing. There are building codes, fire codes, energy codes, mechanical (HVAC) codes, gas codes, electrical codes, accessibility codes, plumbing codes. There are no green codes."

"What has prevented most municipalities from adopting 'green' standards is the fact that building codes generally specify minimum standards to protect public health, safety, and general welfare from fire and other hazards attributed to the building environment. Changing these minimum standards to provide for 'green' alternatives is difficult to do."

"What has been occurring for almost 30 years is an uncoordinated and localized process of introducing innovative and alternative approaches to build more sustainable or 'green' building and development projects...."

"Fortunately, the process of changing local building codes for alternative designs, materials, and methods of construction to make buildings more sustainable and 'green' is becoming easier...."

See the full article here

This Month's Spotlight

Modern Modulars: New Prefab Homes Aim for Affordability and Sustainability

Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Macau - Casino developers are 'all in' with some casinos under construction despite the economic recession. Even with projects delayed, scaled back, in litigation, or halted, many developers have too much on the table not to keep playing the hand they have been dealt. Both developers and lenders have no choice but to stay in the game to avoid folding and accepting a loss. Read on to learn more about the array of casino projects under construction across the globe and the high stakes each face.