Learning Units & Objectives

AIA CES: 6.0 LU|HSW Approved
5 Zero Net Carbon Design Mandatory Continuing Education (MCE) hours for California licensees

Participants will review how, with buildings representing 40% of human GHG emissions, split between materials and building energy use, a fit generation of local architects and designers is developing regionally-relevant climate-responsive solutions, leveraging low-carbon materials (old and new) and carbon-driven innovation in the reuse and reprocessing of building materials that are currently landfilled. They will discuss upcycling and reuse of traditional building materials (Timber/Steel/Glass), the use of 3D printed concrete, and applications for Mycelium bricks, panels and blocks.

Participants will discover how to utilize interactive eco-charrette techniques to engage clients in sustainable goal setting; effectively communicate net-zero strategies; and navigate resistance to sustainable design, ultimately leading to the successful implementation of carbon-neutral building projects.

Participants will be able to identify California Recognized Universal Waste Items, such as batteries, e-waste, CRTs and CRT Glass (Old TV’s & Monitors), lamps (fluorescent, halogen, etc.), mercury containing devices, non-empty aerosol cans, and solar panels. Participants will understand steps for properly handling hazardous materials: identifying and quantifying universal waste; cataloging and safe removal of Universal Waste items to a California-licensed Hazardous Waste recycler; and submitting a recycled materials list with all closeout construction documents matching the initial list for proper handling.

Participants will become familiar with the principles of symbiosis and how it integrates sustainability, biophilic design, evidence-based design, neuroarchitecture, and biology. They will be able to identify key strategies for incorporating biophilic design elements into architectural projects to enhance occupant well-being; and to apply evidence-based design principles to create safe, accessible, and inclusive environments.

Participants will evaluate the environmental impact of design choices and implement sustainable practices to achieve zero-carbon goals; and be equipped to develop a holistic design approach that fosters a deeper connection between people and their built environment, promoting overall health and resilience.

Participants will review examples of successful mass timber projects, and be able to advocate for ways that mass timber design can contribute to sustainability and resilience by reducing carbon emissions, encouraging healthy forest management, speeding construction, and improving fire resistance and earthquake performance.

Participants will be able to describe the integrated design process for achieving a low-carbon, healthy, and resilient building, including structural LCA studies, HVAC and hot water system comparisons, and low-carbon concrete testing, while balancing innovation with project constraints on a dense, urban infill site along a multimodal transit corridor.

Participants will be able to outline how architects and other stakeholders can lead the way in promoting climate action and sustainability, by reshaping basic building codes in support of climate action. Participants will discuss recent significant changes in California’s building codes, including the country’s first mandatory code requirements for embodied carbon, as well as greatly expanded regulations for the reuse and retrofit of existing buildings.

Participants will analyze why the climate crisis requires a unique approach to change management; learn what change management entails, focusing on both human and procedural aspects; discover effective strategies for leadership, communication, stakeholder engagement, and utilizing change management models; and take part in an interactive activity to illustrate how individual actions can create a ripple effect.