Eight Design and Engineering Firms Join the Commitment to Sustainable Practices

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA, June 20, 2011 (Press-News.org) With a dedication to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects has endorsed the AIA 2030 Commitment and is pleased to announce eight San Luis Obispo-based firms adopting the Commitment.

"We are thrilled to see so many local firms making the commitment to sustainable design," said Heidi Gibson, AIA Central Coast Chapter President-Elect. "Along with our colleagues in the engineering and construction industries, it is our responsibility to act as environmental leaders; and participation in the AIA 2030 Commitment represents a dedication to positively changing the course of the planet's future."

Focused on bringing that change to fruition, the eight local firms taking part in the AIA 2030 Commitment include Garcia Architecture + Design, mode associates, In Balance Green Consulting, Fraser Seiple Architects, Dettmer Architecture, Studio 2G, Habitat Studio Architecture and Taylor & Syfan Consulting Engineers.

The AIA 2030 Commitment espouses the ideals of the 2030 Challenge, a program that aims to lower building energy consumption to net zero by the year 2030 (a net-zero building uses no more energy to operate than what can be generated by onsite and offsite renewable energy). The AIA 2030 Commitment focuses on environmentally friendly design, but also asks those who join the Commitment to utilize sustainable methods in their firm's day-to-day operations. Those that have made the Commitment are asked to serve as leaders by implementing operational action items, developing a sustainability action plan and reporting annual progress.

"It's not just about earth conscious design but also demonstrating a commitment to the process with the way a firm's businesses is conducted," said Gibson. "We understand that constructing and operating buildings is the single largest contributor of greenhouse gases. Having that knowledge has inspired those leading our industry to commit to sustainable options that will bring about change."

The California Central Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIACCC) is the leading professional membership association for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners on the Central Coast. Through education, legislative and regulatory development, professional education, and research, the AIA and its members demonstrate their commitment to excellence in design and livability in the community.