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VICTORIA
– Updates to the B.C. Building Code
that will reduce the impact of buildings on the environment are now available
online for public input, Minister responsible for Housing Rich Coleman
announced today.
The
Province committed to developing a unified green building code in the 2007
throne speech. Greening the B.C Building Code will fulfil this commitment by
improving the energy and water efficiency of homes and other buildings, and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It will also result in lower energy bills
for British Columbians.
Changes
proposed in the first stage of greening the B.C. Building Code focus on
improving sustainability through increased energy and water efficiency. The
proposals would set the following requirements for new construction or
additions to existing buildings, effective in spring 2008:
·
Houses, low-rise
residential buildings and small commercial and industrial buildings would be
required to install increased insulation or, in the case of housing, meet an
increased EnerGuide rating.
·
High rise residential
buildings and larger commercial buildings must meet the American Society of
Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers 90.1(2004) standard.
ASHRAE is an internationally recognized standard for energy efficiency in
buildings.
·
Use of ultra low-flow
toilets and other water saving plumbing fixtures in all new buildings and
additions to existing buildings.
These
proposals represent the first step in developing unified green provisions for
the construction of new buildings in B.C. Future steps will explore reusing
existing buildings; adopting smart metering for energy use; disposing of
construction materials in a more environmentally friendly manner; and,
improving indoor air quality. Additional public consultations will be held as
these initiatives are further developed.
Representatives
from industry and local government helped guide development of the proposed
changes. The public can review and comment on the proposals online at www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building
by clicking on the Greening of the B.C. Building Code button. The deadline for
comments on the proposed changes is Dec. 21, 2007.
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contact: |
Public Affairs Officer 250 356-7325 |
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