Biggert Introduces High-Performance Building Resolution Measure Supports Greener, More Efficient Buildings

Washington, DC – June 4, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) — U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) joined U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-MO-3rd) in introducing a resolution recognizing the value of high-performance buildings.  The measure, H.Res.492, “Supporting the goals and ideals of High-Performance Building Week,” was introduced late Tuesday.  High-Performance Building Week will be June 15 through June 19, 2009.

“High-performance buildings should be part of the solution as Congress seeks to address other important issues,” said Biggert, who co-founded and co-chairs the Congressional High-Performance Buildings Caucus with Rep. Carnahan.  “For example, as we move to address climate change, high-performance buildings can help reduce our carbon emissions.  Currently, buildings are responsible for 39% of annual US CO₂ emissions.”

The purpose of the High-Performance Buildings Caucus is to heighten awareness among the public and policymakers about the impact of buildings on health, safety, and welfare, as well as the ways in which high-performance buildings can address these issues.  High-performance buildings integrate energy conservation with environmental, expense, safety, durability, accessibility, sustainability, functionality and operational considerations, producing tangible benefits for operators and occupants.

“High-performance buildings can be less expensive to operate and greener than other buildings,” said Biggert, a senior member of the House Science and Technology Committee.  “These are important considerations when you consider that 60% of raw materials used in the United States go to constructing buildings and infrastructure, as well as the fact that buildings consume 70% of electricity and 12% of potable water.  In addition, constructing or renovating high-performance buildings creates jobs right here in America in these tough economic times.”

The resolution recognizes the role played by the Department of Energy in the research and development of new efficiency technologies as well as the role of the National Institute of Standards and Technology in developing means of measuring increased efficiency.

“It’s important that we encourage innovations that will make buildings safer, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly,” said Biggert.  “Congress did this by including a definition of high-performance buildings in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 and this resolution demonstrates our continued support for these sorts of improvements.”

Contact: Gill Stevens (630) 655-2052