The Word Is Out People are talking about the Living Building Challenge . SM
Hundreds of features in leading publications and websites have documented the uptake and the program’s impact on communities, projects and practices worldwide. To access a repository of select articles and audio features, visit our website.
“It’s about knowing where we really want to go, and realizing we’re closer than we thought.” —Mechanical Engineer in Denver, CO “It is currently the best hope for making and creating a built world that we can be proud of, that can save the human future.” —Green Building Consultant in Detroit, MI
“It is a holistic approach that will set the way and standards for the future. It inspires me to be better!” —Manufacturer Representative in Pittsburgh, PA
“Living Building Challenge offers hope that through creative, informed design we can effect positive change faster than is commonly assumed.” —Electrical Engineer in Ketchum, ID
“It pushes the envelope to challenge current held build environment beliefs in order to cause real change, not just a marketing gimmick.”
Living Building Challenge is “the most ambitious, stimulating, and well-received recent development in green building in the United States.” —Owner of project-inprocess in Seattle, WA
TAKING ROOT LIVING BUILDING CHALLENGE
certifi ed
‘LIVING’
© 2009 farshid assassi, courtesy of bnim architects SM
Since its public launch in November 2006, Living Building Challenge has inspired thousands of people throughout the world to action. Teams are innovating solutions to create net zero energy, water independent, non-toxic, and culturally rich projects. Individuals are advocating for transformative change in the industry, such as the elimination of worst-in-class chemicals from building products. Regulatory officials are realigning codes to apply a deeper definition for protecting the health, safety and welfare of the people. Together, we are forging a visionary path to a restorative future.
certifi ed
‘LIVING’
© 2009 Joe Angeles-WUSTL Photographer
Six projects have achieved certification through the Living Building Challenge, and one-dozen others have entered the twelve-month operational phase that is required prior to audit.
certifi ed
‘LIVING’
To learn more about the certified projects, visit: livingbuildingchallenge.org/lbc/casestudies © 2010 Matthew Millman Photography courtesy of Flansburgh Architects
(from top right) Omega Center for Sustainable Living Rhinebeck, New York
“It addresses environmental restoration in a direct, scientific and open way that inspires innovation in building design.” —Architect, Vancouver, BC
certifi ed
‘PETAL’
energy, heal th site, water
Tyson Living Learning Center Eureka, Missouri Hawai’I Preparatory Academy Energy Lab Kamuela, Hawai’i EcoSense Victoria, British Columbia
© 2009 Eco-Sense
Painters Hall Salem, Oregon
certifi ed
‘PETAL’
energy, equ ity, beauty
IDeAs Z2 Design Facility San Jose, California
—Natural Gas Utility Manager in San Diego, CA © 2010 Pringle Creek Community
Living Building Challenge is a philosophy, advocacy tool, and certification program that covers development at all scales. It is comprised of seven performance areas: Site, Water, Energy, Health, Materials, Equity, and Beauty. SM
At the International Living Future Institute, we believe that a compelling vision for the future is a fundamental requirement for reconciling humanity’s relationship with the natural world.
w livingbuildingchallenge.org/action
certifi ed
‘NET ZERO ENERGY ’
facebook.com/livingbuildingchallenge twitter.com/livingbuilding flickr.com/photos/livingbuildingchallenge youtube.com/user/LivingFutureInst © 2007 Integrated Design Associates
Seattle, WA: Stone34 © 2012 Courtesy of Skanska
bend, or: Desert Rain (Private Residence) © Tozer Design
1 registered project 2 registered projects 3 registered projects 6 registered projects 7 registered projects 8 registered projects 9 registered projects Organizational interest
Minneapolis, Minnesota: South Quarter Phase IV © 2011 Courtesy of Mithun
Presence of Ambassador Network trained volunteer presenter and/or Collaborative facilitator Updated April 20, 2012
Brisbane, Australia: Global Change Institute, University of Quennsland © 2012 Courtesy of HASSELL
Ambassador network
Examples of Regulatory Reform
We are cultivating a global community of individuals to implement restorative principles in the built environment. The Network presents these volunteer Ambassadors a full spectrum of opportunities for personal involvement as well as ways to interact with others locally through organized groups called Living Building Challenge Collaboratives.
Bainbridge Island, WA: Ordinance 2009–06: offers flexible development + density incentives for housing projects
STATE OF OREGON: House Bill 2080: legalizes graywater and rainwater use in residential and commercial buildings
Seattle, WA: Living Building Pilot: additional flexibility + gives special assistance for Living Building Challenge projects
International partnerships
Green Q: provides expedited appointments + individual assistance for permit review, public recognition for efforts
Portland, OR: Green Building Policy (proposed): rebates up to $17.30/ft 2 for projects pursuing Living Building Challenge
With projects emerging around the globe, the Living Building Challenge adapts easily to cultures and expectations outside North America. Currently there are active programs in both Canada and the United States, with discussions occurring in Ireland, Mexico, Australia and other countries for future national launches.
Clark County, WA: Sustainable Communities Pilot Program: departs from code requirements that may discourage or prevent Living Building Challenge Imperatives
Eugene, OR: Guide 2 Green: grants prioritized plan reviews and inspections, one-day permits and reduced system development charges
www.livingbuildingchallenge.org whately, ma: Smith College Bechtel Environmental Classroom © coldham & hartman architects