What is Green Building?

Green building is the practice of increasing the efficiency of new buildings, and reducing their impact on human health and the environment through better site location, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal.

Visit the local chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council to learn more >>

The 2030 Challenge

Mayor Chávez is a strong supporter of the standards set by the 2030 Challenge.

Are you ready for 2030? Developed right here in New Mexico, the 2030 Challenge is an aggressive call for change in the construction industry.

What's the challenge? The challenge is for the construction industry to be carbon-neutral by 2030.

Learn more >>

What is LEED?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and it's a holistic approach to green building.

The LEED Green Building Rating System^® was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to promote and standardize sustainable buildings.

The LEED system is about more than just reducing carbon emissions, it's about a holistic approach to green building.

Visit the LEED website to learn more >>

Take Action

• Hire architects and contractors that support LEED.
• Use the Build Green NM guide to find a green builder for your next home.
• Are you a contractor or developer? Consider going green and sign up with Build Green NM.

More ideas >>

The City of Albuquerque is Building a Green Future

In 2005, Mayor Chávez set a new standard for building and renovating that requires all city buildings adhere to standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Read the Mayor's mandate >>

Even more recently, Mayor Chávez issued Executive Instruction No. 20 which called for Adopting Energy Efficient Green Building Performance “2030 Challenge” Targets for New Municipal Projects.

The Albuquerque Energy Conservation Code

In 2007, the City adopted a revised Energy Conservation Code, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by requiring new buildings, and existing buildings undergoing alterations, to be more energy efficient.

The code applies to commercial buildings, multi-family residential buildings like apartments, and single-family dwellings. It requires:

• Commercial and multi-family residential buildings to be 30% more energy efficient than in the past.
• Single-family dwellings to use substantially more insulation, which reduces energy waste by making the most of heating and cooling.
• Single-family dwellings to use more efficient heating, cooling, ventilating, water heating, and lighting systems.
• Commercial, multi-family, and single-family buildings to pass Thermal Bypass Inspections, which are designed to inspect insulation installation and ensure "tighter" buildings with less air leakage.

Interested in learning more about the new Energy Conservation Code? Read more:

• Energy Conservation Code, Volume I
• Energy Conservation Code, Volume II

Building Green Makes Sense for Local Businesses Too

Local companies are leading the way in developing green buildings that meet or exceed LEED standards. Whether it's using innovative materials or dramatically reducing construction waste, businesses have found that it's smart to go green.

Learn about notable projects in Albuquerque >>

Green Path Program -- The Fast Track for Building Green

Mayor Chávez issued an Executive Order etablishing high performance green building standards for City projects. This was the first step in creating a “Green Path Program”.

In implementing the “Green Path Program” the Planning Department:

• Has begun collaborating with developers and builders to amend the local building administrative codes to foster and facilitate the development of high performance green buildings. The goal is to amend the codes by 2008.
• Has dedicated a professional position to operate as a Green Building Facilitator. This position will be responsible for actively promoting green building, providing technical assistance, training and community outreach.

The Build Green NM Program -- Building Green Homes

The Green Building Initiative has launched Build Green NM, a program to encourage residential builders and home buyers to consider their green building options. Building using green standards may cost a bit more, but it buys you:

• Energy savings
• Cleaner indoor air
• The reassurance of knowing that you are helping the environment with your home

To learn more about this program, visit the Build Green NM guide.