Sustainable Building Standards for Sunnyvale!

Good news! After three public comments in favor and no public comment opposing, the Sunnyvale City Council adopted comprehensive, citywide green building requirements last Tuesday, August 26. The standards encompass new construction, additions to and remodels of  municipal, commercial, and residential buildings.

 
Council removed some incentives, such as reduced setback requirements for residential buildings that exceed green requirements in order to avoid overbuilding neighborhoods. In exchange for leaving other incentives in, Council requires anyone taking advantage of the incentives to actually get certified, and rather than check items off the list.  And Council directed staff to apply green building standards to single-family residential remodels that exceed half of the home's square footage.
 
Councilmember Moylan, who proposed the study issue back in 2006 and spoke strongly in favor, was  thrilled.  Staff is now directed to come back with ordinance to enact this proposal.

Since buildings emit 39% if US greenhouse gas emissions; requiring that Sunnyvale's new construction, additions and remodels be built with sustainability in mind is a big win for our environment. Green buildings use less energy and, therefore, create less global warming pollution.  Green buildings also use fewer resources, generate less waste, and use less water. And they are healthier for the occupants, too!

Thank you Council and Staff for this comprehensive policy which will benefit residents and businesses for decades to come!

 
Barb