| From start to finish, Convention 2011 will be packed with opportunities to learn about advanced building and energy codes. These sessions will enhance architects' ability to advocate for these codes in their states and local jurisdictions, as well as gain a greater understanding of how high-performance codes, such as the International Green Construction Code (IGCC), will impact day-to-day practice and the standard of care. The IGCC will certainly be center stage in New Orleans, which is particularly fortuitous, given that development hearings on the new code will occur in Dallas the week following Convention (May 16-22). Four AIA member architects have been appointed to the IGCC development committees and, between them, are slated to review, discuss, and vote "yea" or "nay" on approximately 1,500 code change proposals on the second public version of the IGCC. (Click here to view the proposed code changes [search for "American Institute of Architects" to view the Institute's comments] and to offer your thoughts on the comments to be discussed next month.) If you are registered for Convention, or plan to register soon, here is a snapshot of notable code-related sessions: Wednesday, May 11 (pre-convention) • WE112 -- International Green Construction Code Fundamentals for Designers (focuses on the technical aspects of the IGCC) Thursday, May 12 • EV226 -- Green Codes Q&A: Bring Your IGCC Questions (informal discussions and networking regarding CALGreen, the IGCC, etc., between colleagues and AIA National codes and sustainability staff) • TH223 -- What Is the International Green Construction Code? (centers on theory, intent, and background behind the IGCC, with a brief technical overview) • TH233 -- Outcome-Based Commercial Building Energy Standards: Facilitating Broad Acceptance of Regional Design? (how mandating the establishment of outcomes for building performance is likely to affect the design and construction of buildings; how regional programs have addressed unique challenges and climate responsiveness; and creating new business opportunities for architects) Friday, May 13 • EV316 -- Codes and Standards Networking Lunch (discuss anything and everything codes-related and get a great meal as well) [RSVP by clicking here by tomorrow {Friday, April 29}; limited to 40 attendees] • FR332 -- Green Building Codes, Standards & Rating Systems - A Comparison (changing the paradigms of practice when advanced codes and standards come to a permit office near you) Saturday, May 14 • SA433 -- Should Green Building Be Mandatory or Voluntary? (benefits and pitfalls of high-performance codes versus voluntary programs) |