Worldwide concern for the global climate has emerged with the recognition of increasing concentrations of atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs) and increased average global temperatures.

The intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (Third Assessment Report, 2001) noted that a signal of human-induced change is emerging from the noise of variability.

CIBSE and ASHRAE provide building design, operation, and energy efficiency standards used globally. Since energy production often contributes GHGs to the atmosphere, these standards potentially reduce emissions. Energy-related impacts are addressed by reducing the equipment system and building energy consumption, and by modifying user behaviour, thereby reducing GHG emissions including CO2.

The public has indicated its concern about global warming and climate change. This must be supported by sound business practices, and government incentives where appropriate.

CIBSE and ASHRAE specifically support:

• The goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

• Government and industry leadership in technology and atmospheric research

• Development of low-or zero-emission energy technologies and practices

• Long-term reductions in emissions based on life cycle environmental design, economics and operation

• Design and operating guidelines leading to reduced energy consumption

• Responsible refrigerant use, including emissions reduction technologies

• Building and systems design, and their operation and maintenance, to minimise total GHG emissions

• Membership education and actions based on environmental responsibility and ASHRAE/CIBSE standards and publications

• Maintaining economic growth without compromising the needs of future generations

• CIBSE and ASHRAE are implementing the following:

• Coordinated approaches to environmental issues at all stages of building and component life cycles from conception, design, construction, and through operation, maintenance and refurbishment

• Adoption and development of designs, materials, components, systems and processes that minimise environmental impacts, including climate change

• Promotion of practices that encourage energy efficiency by building users

• Encouragement of renewable energy supply into buildings and building engineering systems when economically feasible

• Education of building owners, operators and engineers on the importance of energy efficiency and climate change

• Providing advice, information and assistance related to energy efficiency and climate change to governments and other influential bodies CIBSE and ASHRAE reaffirm their joint commitment to developing and adopting energy efficient practices and resources, and call upon their members, governments, and colleagues in the buildings and related industries to likewise respond.

Source

Building Sustainable Design