ASHRAE Insights

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Opportunities to limit greenhouse gases via energy efficient buildings were highlighted in a Congressional staff briefing hosted by ASHRAE. The briefing took place March 26 in the Rayburn House Office Building. Representative Judy Biggert, R-Ill., a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, spoke at the event.

“Great potential exists to further reduce energy use,” said ASHRAE president Terry Townsend, P.E. “With a modest level of investment, energy efficient building designs and equipment can provide a short payback period through reduced energy bills. Other positive outcomes attributable to the reduction in energy use include a more competitive economy, cleaner air and lower greenhouse gas emissions.”

Speakers at the briefing included:
• Christine McEntee, executive vice president, American Institute of Architects, who focused on contributions of the built environment to greenhouse gas emissions;
• Jeff Haberl, professor of architecture, Texas A&M University, who discussed achieving quantifiable emissions reductions in the built environment; and
• Jared Blum, Policy Committee chair, Sustainable Buildings Industry Council, and president, Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, who addressed energy efficiency and sustainable buildings.