AIA Outlines Initial Plan to Drive Climate Action

Washington, D.C. (Sept. 16, 2019)—On the heels of announcing a landmark initiative to drive climate action, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is outlining an initial path forward for the organization and profession this morning in a new declaration, “Where We Stand: Climate Action.”

“Climate change requires a holistic approach, addressing the interdependencies among people, buildings, infrastructure and the environment,” said AIA 2019 President William Bates, FAIA. “Our training allows us to look for solutions and ways to mitigate climate change comprehensively and creatively, which we do every day.”

Expanding on AIA’s climate change values statement made in 2017, the AIA is calling on architects around the world to support humanity’s collective call to climate action through an unrelenting commitment to sustainable and resilient design. 

Additionally, the statement provides actionable steps to prioritize and support exponentially decelerating the production of greenhouse gasses and to make progress towards achieving net-zero emissions in the building sector by 2050.

Buildings in the United States contribute to nearly 40% of greenhouse gasses. As a result, designing and constructing buildings that can combat the greenhouse effect will improve humanities chances of repairing the planet while creating a healthy, resilient and regenerative future. 

For more information, visit aia.org/resources/77561-sustainability