The Green New Deal advocates want to regulate and reward energy efficient building owner. The ultimate purpose is to reduce the use of fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions.
Todays’ Green Building Programs are guidance documents—not U.S. Federal mandates. Also while providing choices for energy efficiency, the Programs focus on post-construction air quality.
LEED Program
In 1998, the U.S. Green Building Council developed technical criteria for certifying Green Building construction and renovation projects. The intent is to save energy costs, to increase resale value, and to conserve resources. Furthermore, they seek to optimize the indoor air quality. Lastly, the program is voluntary!
Omega Environmental focuses on the LEED Indoor Air Quality Parameters which include fresh air intake, thermal comfort, daylight, quality views, and an indoor air quality assessment. Our team assesses the indoor air quality after construction and building flush-out. See LEEDv4 Contaminants and Maximum Concentration Levels.
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 189.1
ANSI/ASHRAE published a guidance Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green Buildings. Its purpose was to provide minimum energy efficiency standards for high-rise buildings.
The Standard requires a “pre-occupancy” building flush-out followed by air quality testing. Omega Environmental collects one set of samples per HVAC service area. Our team also recommends outdoor samples in non-attainment areas. See ANSI/ASHRAE Maximum Concentration Limits.
