Inefficient air conditioning is a key contributor to global warming

Air conditioning systems are significant contributors to global warming, and replacing them with more efficient systems could have a big impact, according to a new UN report.

An estimated 3.6 billion cooling appliances are in use globally today, and that number is growing by up to 10 devices every second, the report says. To make matters worse, most air conditioning units use hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases.

Without policy intervention, emissions from air conditioning and refrigeration are projected to rise 90% above 2017 levels by 2050. Among the possible solutions are measures to encourage implementation of cooling retrofits and passive technologies.

Rebates and incentives to promote cooling efficiency in the built environment could also have a significant impact as would financial support to develop new cooling technologies.

Effective January 1, 2022, New York City requires garage owners to retain a specially designated professional engineer to conduct an assessment and file a report at least once every six years. Hoffmann Architects + Engineers offers tips and best practices on how to comply with NYC Local Law 126 parking garage inspection rules.

Mixed-Use | Oct 20, 2022

ROI on resilient multifamily construction can be as high as 72%

A new study that measured the economic value of using FORTIFIED Multifamily, a voluntary beyond-code construction and re-roofing method developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), found the return can be as high as 72%.

Building Team | Oct 18, 2022

Brasfield & Gorrie chairman’s home vandalized by anti-development activists

Activists vandalized the home and vehicles of Miller Gorrie, chairman of Birmingham-based Brasfield & Gorrie, in protest of a planned $90 million, 85-acre police, fire and public safety training center in Atlanta.

Codes and Standards | Oct 17, 2022

Ambitious state EV adoption goals put pressure on multifamily owners to provide chargers

California’s recently announced ban on the sale of new gas-powered vehicles starting in 2035—and New York’s recent decision to follow suit—are putting pressure on multifamily property owners to install charging stations for tenants.

| Oct 13, 2022

Boston’s proposed net-zero emissions code has developers concerned

Developers have raised serious concerns over a proposed new energy code by the City of Boston that would require newly constructed buildings over 20,000 sf to immediately hit net-zero emissions goals.