In 1991, Austin Energy Green Building® (AEGB) developed the first rating system in the U.S. for evaluating the sustainability of buildings. Since its inception, AEGB has rated more than 20 million square feet of commercial buildings, as well as more than 10,000 single family and 12,500multifamily dwelling units. AEGB regularly updates its ratings to maintain an effective, Austin-specific tool, and to encourage sustainability in Central Texas. AEGB promotes an integrated team approach to design in order to achieve higher-performing buildings. The program recognizes that great buildings are created by teams that set ambitious goals and collaborate to achieve them. An integrated approach, that establishes sustainability as a priority early in the design process, results in buildings that are energy and water efficient; healthier and more comfortable to work in; well-constructed; economical to operate; easier to maintain; and help create a better community. Incorporating the services offered by AEGB as early as possible helps ensure that you will take advantage of valuable resources available to your project.Our unique program incorporates proven green building strategies while building upon Austin’s code standards and local building regulations. It encourages innovative and sustainable building practices and creates market demand for green buildings. It guides development into preferred growth corridors, and addresses environmental, community, health, and economic issues specific to the Central Texas region.
Base points depend on the LEED building design score.
Energy scores are generated based on comparisons with other buildings of similar occupancy, function, and square footage; scores automatically tracked by linking your EnergyStar Portfolio to ARC.
Water scores are likewise benchmarked against buildings of similar occupancy, function, and square footage; scores automatically tracked by linking your EnergyStar Portfolio to ARC.
Input a one-time annual audit of landfill and recycling waste by weight.
Administer at least one annual survey concerning mode of transportation.
Monitor indoor air quality readings, and administer at least one occupant survey for ARC to generate a score.
INTEGRATED DESIGN: 2 Possible Points
SITE: 21 Possible Points
ENERGY: 29 Possible Points
WATER: 13 Possible Points
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY: 15 Possible Points
MATERIALS & RESOURCES: 12 Possible Points
EDUCATION & EQUITY: 3 Possible Points
INNOVATION: 5 Possible Points
TOTAL: 100 Possible Points
While ARC's waste score factors in both amount of waste generated and the percentage of waste diverted, the score is weighted more heavily towards reduction of generated waste with the hope of encouraging users to consider reducing the overall impact of waste on the planet.
Water conservation is imperative to the decreasing potable water source on the planet. Only 1% of the world's drinking water is potable and accessible. Using Arc, leaks can be found, preventing wastefulness of water.
While ARC's waste score factors in both amount of waste generated and the percentage of waste diverted, the score is weighted more heavily towards reduction of generated waste with the hope of encouraging users to consider reducing the overall impact of waste on the planet.
Single Occupancy Vehicles are the dominant mode of transportation by Austin commuters. While convenient, SOVs exacerbate traffic congestion, takes up valuable parking space, and contributes to the increased carbon emissions in the city. A single person carpooling, using a bike, or taking public transportation method greatly cuts down the carbon impact and creates a healthier Austin.
Occupant Satisfaction, VOCs (Voltaile Organic Compounds) and carbon dioxide testing contribute to this category. VOCs are harmful gases emitted by nearly all man-made consumer products. High indoor concentrations of Carbon dioxide or VOCs can cause a feeling of 'stuffiness', headaches, fatigue, drowsiness, and lack of attentiveness.
