Sustainability Guidelines For New and Renovated Facilities
Prepared by BNIM | January 2024 in collaboration with the Facilities Management Department of Johnson County, Kansas
Copyright (C) 2024 BNIM Project 23024.00 BNIM Contributers: Jeremy Knoll Ryan Evans Carleigh Pope James Baker Hans Nettleblad Johnson County Contributers: Stacy Seibert Tony Barron Brian Alferman Will Sramek Lydia Travis Kyle Heltne Chris Butler Kurt Remmenga
text acknowledgements: USGBC, WELL, International Living Futures Institute, ARC Skoru 2
Table of Contents 1.0 0
I N T R O D U C T I O N & E X E C U T I V E S U M M A RY
2 .0 0
P R AC T I C E & I M P L E M E N TAT I O N
3 .0 0
K E Y S T R AT E G I E S & T E C H N O LO G I E S
4 .0 0
APPENDIX
PEOPLE
PLANET
PROSPERITY
The triple bottom line (TBL) approach is an effective framework for Johnson County to set and evaluate performance standards. By balancing economic viability, environmental sustainability, and social equity, the TBL ensures projects and policies are beneficial economically, socially, and environmentally. This holistic approach promotes sustainable, inclusive growth and aligns with the county’s long-term goals.
4
Better buildings. Together. For All. We understand that our facilities have great impact on our community and sit at the intersection of human well-being and financial stewardship. What we are seeking to do is improve occupant health and decrease the life-cycle cost of these buildings, while also making them more accessible. By considering all factors in building operations, design, and construction, we can arrive at buildings that are truly a delight to County staff and visitors who will use these buildings, while also lessening the burden to County taxpayers. For this, we need a framework that helps organize and standardize the way we design, construct, and operate buildings. In late 2023, County staff began a revisioning process with our consultants. County participants involved multiple stakeholders and building users outside of Facilities staff who could help us understand what the buildings needed to do to fulfill their charge. Our purpose was to update our existing standard to be the best design and construction that we can offer our citizens -- guidelines that both improve occupant well-being and decrease the buildings’ long-term costs. We call these standards, “Sustainable Design Guidelines” and we intend to use them to inform everything we do together, from daily tasks to large-scale planning exercises. The precursor to this effort was done in 2003 and only applied to new buildings being constructed. It was very successful in improving well-being and cost-effectiveness. To date, this effort has saved taxpayers more than $4,200,000 in utility costs alone, making these buildings less expensive than a standard-built counterpart. They also improved staff productivity, which has an even bigger impact to the County’s bottom line. But this new exercise strives to build on the success of this endeavor, not only impacting new construction, but all buildings in the County purview. This will improve our impact by 10-fold or more and give access to better buildings for ALL county citizens, staff, and stakeholders. - Tony Barron, Director of Facilities
1.0
Introduction & Executive Summary 1 .01 A B O U T T H E R E P O R T 1 .02 R E CO M M E N D E D G OA L S A N D AC T I O N S
6
Overview Johnson County’s Facilities Management Department provides a wide range of services, including the charge to maintain, operate, and improve building and site performance across the nearly 3 million square feet of County operated space. Responsible management and goal setting since the publication of the 2004 Sustainable Guidelines Report has yielded an estimated energy savings of well over 4 million dollars just in avoided costs in new construction completed between 2004 and 2024. This report renews and enhances the County Facilities Department’s commitment to creating and sustaining safe, innovative environments, and it also aligns the activities of new construction and operational improvements with the larger commitments of the County to meet the Kansas City Regional Climate Action Plan goal of “net zero carbon by 2050”, as well as continuing to make progress across the County using the measures provided by LEED for Communities. The recommendations within this report provide clear metrics, evolved methods, and references for County staff to utilize as an active and ongoing resource, enhancing the professional expertise and capabilities provided.
1.01
About the Report
REPORT GOALS The goal of this report is to update the 2004 “Johnson County New and Renovated Facilities Guide to Sustainability”, helping the County to “meet the moment” 20 years after the publication of the initial guide. BNIM developed the updated report through a series of engagements with department leaders and staff between October 2023 and January 2024, and aims to provide: 1. A clear framework for action, aligned with the goal to achieve zero carbon by 2050 across the County’s portfolio of properties and buildings. 2. Distinct goals organized around both new construction and existing building performance. 3. Guidance on building certification and data collection strategies to simplify ongoing improvements. 4. Definitions and references to existing and emerging standards. 5. A list and examples of emerging trends and technologies to watch over the 10-year life of this document. 6. Templates to aid analysis and prioritization. 8
LEED CERTIFICATION IMPACT The primary recommendation of the 2004 Guidelines was to adopt LEED certification as a standard for all new construction. In 2019, the USGBC awarded Johnson County a resource assistance grant to aid in the process of collecting and reporting Countywide data for LEED for Cities and Communities certification. These two efforts operated at two important scales to guide staff in analyzing and making decisions around holistic thinking regarding County operations’ impacts. Approaching planning and design from this intersectional and inclusive mindset resulted in projects that save money, improve occupant health, and provide transparent, third party verified data, which has enhances the ability to analyze and improve. Moving forward, however, simply using less by setting energy and water goals improving on building code requirements will not go far enough to achieve the County’s goals.
NEW CONSTRUCTION + RENOVATIONS New buildings and major renovations must not add any new demand to the County’s overall energy requirements, and should accomplish net-zero performance. While this can be accomplished immediately by purchasing renewable power through the electrical utility provider, the most responsible approach is to reduce the demand of the building. The first step is to reduce through efficiency measures followed by installation of renewable energy and energy storage systems sized to meet the anticipated demand of each building. The installation of these systems can occur at a later date, but the County should incorporate structure and electrical system sizing, conduit runs, and other preparatory considerations to make this transition as simple as possible.
OPERATIONS + MAINTENANCE The County current operates just under 3 million square feet of built space, and thousands of acres of sites and grounds. Critical is consistently tracking the performance of all this space in a holistic way. This strategy will allow for portfolio performance analysis and strategic investment to improve performance, comfort, and efficient use of County spaces. Similar to new construction, a utility-based renewable energy purchase is an immediate option to balance the demand, but the County should prioritize reduction of demand as a responsible use of tax dollars as well as amplification of the overall impact the County has on the region’s ability to accomplish the net-zero carbon by 2050 goal.
1.02
Recommended Goals + Actions ZERO EMISSIONS BY 2050 According to the results of the 2022 community survey, 84% of Johnson County residents believe environmental stewardship and sustainability are somewhat or very important, and ranked improving environmental sustainability in the top five of the County’s most critical roles over the next 20 years. To align with the Board of County Commissioners endorsed KC Regional Climate Action Plan target of a net zero KC region by 2050, the most fundamental goal will be to achieve net zero carbon performance across all County buildings before 2050. In addition to this “North Star” goal, the County shall make consistent and measurable improvements to energy, water, health and wellness, resources and materials, ecology and land use, and equitable and fair treatment of all community members.
10
FEDERAL DEFINITION OF NET ZERO The US Department of Energy (DOE) announced a National definition of a Zero Emissions Building in June 2024, “a building that is highly energy efficient, does not emit greenhouse gases directly from energy use, and is powered solely by clean energy.” Part 1 of the Definition sets criteria for a building with zero emissions from energy used for building operations. It applies to existing buildings and new construction and covers commercial and residential buildings not owned by the U.S. federal government. At a minimum, a building that achieves zero operational emissions from energy use must be: • • •
Energy efficient. Free of on-site emissions from energy use. Powered solely from clean energy.
Future parts of this Definition may address emissions from producing, transporting, installing, and disposing of building materials; minimizing the impacts of refrigerants; and additional considerations. Other definitions and policies apply to greenhouse gas emissions from federally owned buildings.
Recommended Goals + Actions ENERGY + CARBON New construction and major renovation shall not add to the net utility costs of the County, and will prioritize energy reduction and efficiency measures before renewable production. Existing County buildings will decarbonize through phasing out on-site fossil fuels and strategic improvements to properties with an aim to reduce utility costs and improve resiliency. GOAL: Net Zero operational carbon in every project at time of construction GOAL: Net Zero embodied carbon in every project at time of construction • 45% reduction 2024-2029 • 65% reduction 2030-2039 • 100% reduction 2040 WATER Johnson County projects shall treat water as a precious resource by reducing overall building potable water demand, storing and treating rainwater, and restoring natural site hydrology. GOAL: Zero sewer conveyance GOAL: 50% potable water use reduction GOAL: 100% stormwater capture on site
12
WELLNESS Johnson County will prioritize human health on its projects, providing accessible, beautiful, and inspiring spaces that actively protect occupant health. GOAL: 15% productivity improvement for all full time employees GOAL: Eliminate use of Red-List chemicals in building materials, cleaning chemicals, and pest control. RESOURCES + MATERIALS The County shall sustainably and responsibly source construction materials, prioritizing material transparency, occupant health protection, and positive impacts on the regional economy. The County shall sustainably and responsibly source operational purchasing and materials, prioritizing material transparency, occupant health protection, and positive impacts on the regional economy. GOAL: 100% Sustainably and responsible sourced materials ECOLOGY County projects shall celebrate nature through restoration, responsible management, and improvement of public access to native ecologies. GOAL: Restore habitat and pre-development biome EQUITY: Johnson County respects the rights of all citizens, and provides fair, welcoming, and equitable spaces to work, live, and visit. GOAL: 100% accessible and inclusive space for all full time employees and visitors
Recommended Goals + Actions ZERO CODE As of April of 2024, the White House and Department of Energy have released the following draft definition of a zero emissions building. This definition will be updated as new information becomes available. Additional reference to the International Building Code’s IECC 2021 Zero Code Appendix can be used to understand how this definition can be applied to existing and new construction homes and commercial buildings. National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building: Part 1 Operating Emissions DOE has developed part 1 of a draft definition for zero emissions buildings, applicable to existing buildings and new construction of non-federally owned buildings. (This definition is not intended for federally owned buildings, which are governed as a portfolio through statutory and executive guidance.) The minimum criteria included to define a zero operating emissions building is a building that is: • • •
14
Highly energy efficient, Free of on-site emissions from energy use, and Powered solely from clean energy.
The full draft definition with its supporting criteria is outlined in “National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building: Part 1 Operating Emissions (Version 1.00), Draft Criteria.” While Part 1 focuses on operational emissions, which have well-established measurement protocols, reducing the whole life cycle emissions of a building also requires minimizing the embodied carbon of the building as well as minimizing the impacts of refrigerants. Such emissions may be addressed in parts of the definition that will be released at a later date.
2.0
Practice & Implementation 2 .01 M E T R I C S FO R S U CC E S S 2 .02 B U I L D I N G O N S U CC E S S 2 .03 I M PAC T O F P R E V I O U S WO R K 2 .0 4 P R OJ E C T WO R K F LOW 2 .0 5 P E R FO R M A N C E P R I N C I P L E S 2 .0 6 N E W CO N S T R U C T I O N + M A J O R R E N OVAT I O N E N E R GY + C A R B O N WAT E R WELLNESS RESOURCE + RESILIENCE E CO LO GY EQUITY 2 .07 E X I S T I N G B U I L D I N G O P E R AT I O N S E N E R GY + C A R B O N WAT E R WELLNESS RESOURCE + RESILIENCE 16
Overview The previous sections outlined a framework, the current County status, and the process of creating this document. Practice and Implementation of the various strategies represents the next and most important step in achieving the county’s sustainability goals. Questions answered in this section include: • • •
What are metrics for success? How do we improve new construction and major renovation projects as well as operations and maintenance? How can we organize these strategies into easier to understand categories?
The following information demonstrates how to achieve improved sustainabiility, energy, and wellness goals through a variety of strategies and targeted metric goals.
UPDATED PRINCIPLES / STANDARDS
JOCO STANDARD LEED BD+C (current
ENERGY + CARBON GOALS: Net Zero
NEW CONSTRUCTION:
version) SILVER or higher:
Operational Energy, 45% embodied
Achieve Living Building Challenge CORE
*Optional Certification
energy reduction in new construction
certification, plus one or more additional
through 2029. 65% embodied energy
certification based on the building use type
County performance
reduction after 2030.
and priority goals.
targets include:
•
• • •
by 2030, 70% by 2040, 100% by 2050
One or more of the following:
•
No new fossil-fuel energy
•
systems
•
Water use reduction
Restore biodiversity
•
Renewable energy + storage
Zero storm sewer conveyance
•
40% better than ASHRAE 90.1
•
Commissioning & monitoring guidelines
•
5%+ renewable energy
•
Regional material selection
•
Waste management
•
Occupant health & safety
•
Portfolio net GHG Reduction of 30%
Site respects all living
(vitality)
Embodied energy considerations
•
Furniture
•
Healthy indoor
WATER GOALS: Zero Sewer Conveyance, 50% potable water demand reduction by 2050 •
Water efficient interior fixtures
•
Cooling tower blow-down optimization
•
Biome-restorative, native, droughtresistant plants + soils
WELLNESS GOALS: 15% Productivity Improvement for all FTE •
Access to daylight + views
•
Improved and monitored indoor air quality
•
Improved thermal comfort
•
Annual FTE comfort surveys
•
Eliminate use of Red-List chemicals in building materials, cleaning chemicals,
environments
+ pest control.
Ventilation strategies:
LEED BD+C (Platinum) - holistic measures, aligned with LBC Core measure documentation.
•
WELL - human health focus
•
SITES - landscape and grounds focus
•
LEED Zero / LBC Zero • Energy • Carbon • Waste • Water
•
Living Building Challenge Petal Certification Full Certification
EXISTING BUILDING OPERATIONS: Arc Skoru annual documentation, plus prioritization for certification among existing building portfolio. 2025 Goal: Measure full County portfolio of existing buildings using performance rubric A.03.1.
Daylighting
RESOURCES GOALS: 100% Sustainably
Must include full Energy and Human
Non-toxic materials
and Responsibly Sourced Materials
Comfort (survey) data for all buildings.
•
Regional purchasing (buy local)
•
Eliminate use of Red-List chemicals
2030 Goal:
•
Prioritize materials with HPD, EPD,
LEEDv5 Operations + Maintenance pilot
Declare and similar disclosures.
project(s) completed.
Slavery-free supply chain purchasing
Expand County portfolio documentation
•
ECOLOGY GOALS: Restore Habitat to Pre-development Conditions •
Pollinator Habitat
•
Bird-safe glazing
•
No greenfield development
•
Water capture and treatment with waterborne ecologies
•
100% stormwater retention
EQUITY GOALS: 100% Access & Inclusion •
Accessibility for physical, mental, and other spectrums of ability.
•
Gender inclusive restrooms
•
JUST labeled contractors + WMVBE participation thresholds
18
RECOMMENDED STANDARDS
in ARC to include Water, Waste, and Transportation categories. 2035 Goal: Complete 10 or more LEEDv5 O+M projects based on measured data and development of aligned policies across portfolio. Complete pilot LEEDv6 O+M project Rubric for EUI/Savings Calc
2.01
Metrics for Success The guidelines must begin with a clear picture of the current building portfolio and overall performance. Recent energy studies, comfort surveys, certifications, and other efforts have developed a point to build on. The next step is to gather and centralize the data, using a consistent set of methods and tools over time, to allow for individual and portfolio level prioritization.
and updating buildings to reduce annual utility costs saves County money and improves the health and equity performance. Resulting in a happier and healthier workforce (employee attraction and retention) and improves the accessibility and inclusive design of public-facing County buildings to yield a better-served citizenry.
With over 50 existing buildings (2024), and new construction and major renovation anticipated over the next decade, it is important to establish goals for each project type. This determines the ability to meet the county’s overarching goal of net-zero carbon by 2050.
To accomplish the Regional Climate Action Plan commitment, improve on LEED for Communities, and provide a clear direction for the County’s Facilities Department, all new construction and major renovations (as defined by LEED) should use Living Building CORE certification to establish a baseline set of goals and requirements. Then, use a second certification to “tune” the building based on the specific use-type, messaging, or enhanced impact opportunity.
Clear goals must be established early in the process and maintained through counstruction and operations. Consistent communication of the intent to improve building utility use, relationship to the land/ surrounding community, and contribution to the local economy will reduce confusion, cost, and conflict. Beyond individual building investment, consistent goals across the portfolio is key for cumulative demand reductions and performance improvements Constructing
For the county’s existing buildings, collecting monthly utility data and comfort surveys into the USGBC’s ARC Skoru program will help centralize data, and provide the ability to compare and contrast properties in multiple ways in order to establish priorities for renovations and targeted improvement.
2.02
Building on Success County Development and Operations
BUILDING ON SUCCESS When the 2004 Johnson County
ENERGY REDUCTION WITH LEED Since 2003, the County has constructed
Facilities Sustainability Guidelines was published, the County was operating just under 1.6 million square feet of buildings, built between 1950-2003. By 2024, the County has added an additional 1.17 million square feet of new construction, on track to double the existing square footage in half the time it took to build the first buildings.
approximately 736,000 gsf of LEED Certified space (around 63% of all new construction). This commitment has generated spaces that are healthier, more efficient, safer, and less costly to operate. LEED buildings prioritize energy reduction from the building code rewarding improvements with points up to a reduction of 50%. The energy cost savings realized to date are well over $4 million dollars, not including the performance improvement from healthier and happier workers in these spaces. Steady improvement of energy efficiency has also yielded a significant amount of avoided C02e emissions.
New County buildings, additions, and major renovations are planned for the coming decade to meet the needs of the growing population. Expanding square footage while reducing overall energy use, costs, and carbon emissions will be a challenging task, but one that is already underway thanks to the adoption of LEED certification as a standard for new construction. Now, the opportunity is to take the next step and begin rapidly drawing down existing emissions while avoiding any new emission sources as the County grows (These strategies are diagrammed on the following page).
20
STABILIZE ENERGY USE To accomplish the County’s commitment to being net-zero by 2050, any new buildings added to the portfolio must be net-zero energy or even net-positive. While this concept seemed far-fetched only a decade ago, major developments all around Kansas City are now regularly accomplishing this goal through
the use of onsite renewable energy as well as offsite renewable installations developed through agreements with the regional electric providers. The building design priorities to accomplish net-zero performance are as follows: 1. Building less (reuse buildings if possible) and refining the shape and orientation of what needs to be built to optimize passive efficiencies offered by access to daylight and protection from extreme temperatures. 2. Focus on envelope improvements to glazing, insulation, and air tightness. 3. Right-size HVAC and water heating equipment. 4. Address the remaining energy demand with onsite (tier 1) or regionally added (tier 2) renewable energy, and provide additional grid, resiliency with energy storage onsite. DECARBONIZATION APPROACH With all new buildings accomplishing netzero or net-positive energy performance, it remains to address the nearly 225,000,000 kBTU annual demand of the existing 2.7 million square feet of existing County building space. To accomplish this rapidly, regional developers and municipalities have entered into agreements with the electrical utility providers to add new regional renewable energy capacity equivalent to measured energy use through programs such as Renewables Direct.
Simply replacing the current energy demand with regionally produced renewable energy should be combined with steady demand reduction in order to reduce the ongoing operating utility costs for the County. Strategic and steady investment into efficiency of the portfolio of existing buildings is critical, and should include: •
•
•
• •
Building electrification - the phaseout of all onsite fossil fuel powered equipment, including generators and fleet vehicles. Improving the existing building envelope (glazing, insulation, air tightness). Using reduced volumes of refrigerants and/or refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP). Improving HVAC and water heating efficiency when equipment is replaced. Expanding utilization of onsite renewable energy.
The County should consider offsite renewables as a stop-gap. Onsite renewable energy is cheaper and greener than most offsite renewable options. It will draw down carbon quicker and cheaper, so we recommend implementation of the County’s own renewable energy plants as soon as possible.
2.03
Impact of Previous Work
Total Portfolio Energy Use & Savings
22
OWNER / CxA
24 DESIGN TEAM
BUDGET & PROJECT DEV.
ly ng
Te a
ni
PHASE:
DESIGN
PRE DESIGN SCHEMATIC DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION TEAM
OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS DESIGN DEVELOPMENT CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
PRE-CONSTRUCTION / ESTIMATION
DESIGN REVIEW
GMP PERMITTING
PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION PREP
Bu
Hi
ild
m es ig n re Te Co am m Ki m ck iss of io fC ni ng ha Re Ag re gi tt st en e/ er t Pr Se Ea oj tE rly ec ne tf En rg or er SD ya gy LB Le nd C M ve od Co W l eli at re Co Li er ng fe /D st -C Be a E e nd yc st t nc e le im rm W hm Cr Co at at i ea n ar es eA st er te ks A C d M ss al d Cx at i cu es tio Es er A la sm na ta ia De tio en lR lS bl sig ns ish t a p s Iss tin ec n O ue Re ifi g PR ca Sy vie fo tio s r w t P Iss em n e s rm ue /E Ad it fo PD op rB tio +H id n PD Es ta bl ish Pr ice Su bm itt al Pu Re rc vie ha w se Su M at bm er itt ia ls al Re vie w
n
an
Pl
sig
De
Ea r fo r
nd
P
RF
et a
re D
Hi
ue
dg
Iss
Bu
2.04
Project Workflow NEW CONSTRUCTION
1-3 YEARS
CONSTRUCTION
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRAT
CONSTRUCTION
PRE-FUNCTIONAL CHECKOUTS
N EXECUTION
CLOSEOUT
FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE TESTING
ACCEPTANCE / WARRANTY
GREEN POLICY ADOPTION
n
Gr ee
Sk or u
n
g
t in
pe
O
n
io
CONTINUOUS MEASUREMENT + MONITORING BASED COMMISSIONING (ALSO RetroCx)
ng
oi
ng
O
n
bo
Ca r
(E
uc
rg y) Re d
ne
ns
tio
ts
ck ou
he
lC
na
ra tio ns Bu Co Po ild nt lic in in ies g ou f or sM LE on ED ito EB rin g O an +M d v5 M ea su re m en t Do cu m en ta tio n an d St or yt ell in g er
ist
Re g
io
iss
m
ot s
C
AR
ub
ng
ni
lT es
io
ct
Fu n
Pr e-
iss
m
ub
ct
du
na
io
ct
Tr ai
Fu n
Ad p
in
er
wn
O
p
Se tu
Co n
Co re S
Co re S
ng
ni
ct
C
LB du
C
LB
Tr ai
Co n
n
gi
Be
s
ist
hl
nc
Pu
AND MAJOR RENOVATION EXISTING BUILDING STOCK ONLY
30-100 YEARS
EXISTING BUILDING OPERATIONS
TION
WARRANTY
EUI + CARBON REDUCTIONS
2.05
Performance Principles Master Framework
COMMUNITY
IMPACT CATEGORIES
NEW CONSTRUCTION + M
PLANNING
EDUCATION
LEADERSHIP
LOCAL ECOLOGY
Decarbonization + Efficiency
Messaging
Demonstration projects
Natural Habitat for Carbon Sink
HUMAN CENTRIC LIVING
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE
Nature Views for Biophilia + Carbon Sink
Potable Water Embodied Carbon
GHG REDUCTIONS
HEALTHY INDOORS
RES M
Grid Harmonization
ENERGY + CARBON
Nature Views for Biophilia + Carbon Sink
Offsets
Embodied Carbon Accounting
Loc
Loc Bus
Efficiency
Sequestration
Low Ca
Sequestration Metering
REF. PAGE Decarbonization + Efficiency
Messaging
Demonstration Projects
Water Conservation
No brominated fire retardants
WATER
Water Treatment / Filtration
Erosion+ Sediment Ctrl.
Metering
Potable Water Use Reduction
No Legionella
Protection of Waterborne Ecologies
RH Targets between 30-60%
Low Wa Tran
REF. PAGE Biophilic Design
Messaging
Demonstration Projects
Hypoallergenic Plant Material
WELLNESS
Reduced Ground Level Pollution
No Red List Chemicals
Hypoallergenic Building Material Quality Electrical Lighting
No Ch
Low Inte
Daylighting Quality Views
High CRI
REF. PAGE
Improved IAQ Low Emitting Interiors
Blue Light Spectrum
Messaging
Demonstration Projects
RESOURCES + RESILIENCE
No Red List Chemicals No brominated fire retardants
No Slavery
Low Embodied Carbon
Low Emitting Materials
Cos resp solu
Carbon Sinks
Bringing the Outdoors In
Env Frie
No brominated fire retardants
REF. PAGE Habitat Restoration
Land Use Messaging
Demonstration Projects
Reduce Light Pollution
Transit
Protection of Water borne Ecologies
ECOLOGY
REF. PAGE
Protection of Waterborne Ecologies
Open Spaces
Greenspaces + Public Spaces
Plan take met
Reduce Heat Island
Messaging
Land Use
Constructed Wetlands
Watershed Concern
Project Siting
Technical Resources
Access to Nature for All
Biophilic Design
Water Quality for All
Lowering risk to most vulnerable populations
Healthy Environments for All
Sou dis bus
EQUITY Greenspaces + Public Spaces
REF. PAGE
HIGH IMPACT
MODERATELY-LO
REQUIREMENTS:
Provides stories for COMMUNITY and sets zero impact for EB considered in a vacuum. NC come online only every few years. G other buildings to fo
PRIME TOOLS FOR TRACKING:
PRIME TOOLS FOR T
LEED for Communities
26
REQUIREMEN
Stories to tell. Education and Leadership for public and business communities. Need example projects from NC or EB to showcase.
LBC CORE +
MAJOR RENOVATION
SPONSIBLE MATERIALS
UNIVERSAL ACCESS
cally Sourced
w Emitting eriors
AESTHETICS + BIOPHILIA
Public Access to Clean Water at County Facilities
Water Features that Treat Water Features that Humidify
Medical Care Access
INSPIRATION + EDUCATION
Public Access to Real-time Monitoring
Locally sourced Renewables
w Embodied arbon
o Red List hemicals
INCLUSION
Disadvantaged Business Set Asides
cally Based siness
w Process ater in nsformation
EXISTING BUILDING OPERATIONS
Quality Views
Personal Fitness Access
RESOLUTIONS TRACKING + COMMISSION(POLICIES) MEASUREMENT ING
Embodied Carbon for Interiors
st-effective, ponsible utions
Locally-sourced Plant Materials Locally-sourced Building Materials
vironmentally endly Materials
Handicap Accessibility
nt material to e up heavy tals and toxins
Public Access to Parklets Created
urced from sadvantaged sinesses
Amenity Access for All
Beautification via plants
Use JUST Label Organizations
OW IMPACT
NTS:
Access to Nature for All Access to Art for All
Electrification
Analytics
Refrigerant Impact
RetroCx
Renewables
Ongoing / Continuous
Grid Harmonization
Signage / Storytelling
Energy & Carbon Management
Water Management
Metering; Water Use
Monitoring Based
Electrification
Public Access to Real-time Monitoring
Analytics
Refrigerant Impact
Audits; Water Use
RetroCx
Renewables
Ongoing / Continuous
Grid Harmonization
Signage / Storytelling
Public Access to Real-time Monitoring
Purchasing
Human Productivity; Turnover, Absenteeism, KPI’s Audits; Air Quality, Water Quality, Comfort Surveys
Signage / Storytelling
Locally-based Business
Monitoring Based
Audits; Energy, Waste, Transport + Commuting, Refrigeration Charges
Refrigeration Management
Nutritional Foods
Mental Health Care
Metering; Energy
Best Practices Creation (Books for each Project)
Site Management
Signage / Storytelling
Green Cleaning
Signage / Storytelling
Green Cleaning
Tours for Public
DEIB Policies
IMPACT GOALS
ZERO CARBON + ENERGY
Zero Sewer Conveyance
15% Increase in Productivity
100% Sustainably + Responsibly Sourced Materials
Pest Management
Restore Habitat to pre-development conditions
Full (100%) Access + Inclusion
Signage / Storytelling
Elegant Design
MODERATE IMPACT REQUIREMENTS:
Operations, but won't move the needle much when Greatest impact comes from creating a showcase for ollow suit.
Provides stories for COMMUNITY but also reduces impact for dozens of large county buildings.
TRACKING:
PRIME TOOLS FOR TRACKING:
+
ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTIONS
ARC ==> LEED EB O+M v5
2.06
New Construction + Major Renovation Performance Principles
28
Energy+Carbon New Construction + Major Renovation
New Construction and Major Renovations shall not add to the net utility costs of the County, and will prioritize energy reduction and efficiency measures before on site renewable production.
Ongoing utility costs are among the County Facilities highest costs. Accomplishing the County goal (aligned with the Regional Action Plan) of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, any new facility or major renovation should not add additional net energy cost at a portfolio level. To accomplish this, LBC CORE Imperatives should be met: Project must achieve a reduction in total net annual energy consumption (after accounting for on-site renewable power), as compared to a typical existing building with comparable climate, size, use, and occupancy as follows (for new construction): •
30
• •
70% energy use reduction from equivalent building baseline No combustion on site Renewables must be on site (or connected campus) to count towards efficiency
• •
Meter energy used by the project 20% minimum reduction in the
•
embodied carbon of primary materials compared to an equivalent baseline (especially structure and envelope) Interior materials with lower than industry average carbon footprint
Additionally: • Appropriately size roof structure, electrical service, and conduit to allow for on-site renewable energy production and storage equal to the modeled electrical demand (NZE Ready) • Prioritize daylighting access and glare protection in all regularly occupied spaces over artificial lighting. • Design new buildings using the most current IECC as the minimum performance baseline, allowing staff to learn the new system through implementation and creating regional examples for municipalities considering energy code updates.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure BE-3:
Achieve regional energy savings by investing in high-performance public, nonprofit and commercial buildings and schools
•
Measure BE-4:
Deplot renewable energy solutions to reduce grid and cost burden
NET ZERO ENERGY BY 2030 NET ZERO CARBON BY 2050
•
Measure T-5:
Transition public transit and municipal fleets to zero and low-emissions technology
•
Measure UG-2:
Sequester carbon through the conservation and restoration of riparian and natural areas and through green stormwater infrastructure
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEED BD+C/ CI WELL
ENERGY AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • • • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit:
Power Access, Reliability and Resiliency Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Management Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy Low Carbon Economy Grid Harmonization
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• Natural Habitat for Carbon Sink
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING
• Nature Views for Biophilia + Carbon Sink
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE
• Potable Water Embodied Carbon
GHG REDUCTIONS
• Embodied Carbon Accounting • Offsets • Sequestration • Grid Harmonization • Efficiency • Metering
HEALTHY INDOORS
• Nature Views for Biophilia + Carbon Sink
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
• Locally Sourced • Locally Based Business • Low Embodied Carbon
UNIVERSAL ACCESS INCLUSION
• Disadvantaged Business Set Asides • Locally Sourced Renewables
BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
• Nature Views for Biophilia + Carbon Sink
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Public Access to Real-time Monitoring • Signage / Storytelling
Water New Construction + Major Renovation
Johnson County projects shall treat water as a precious resource by reducing overall building potable water demand, storing and treating rainwater, and restoring natural site hydrology.
Water treatment and pumping represent a significant portion of Johnson County’s overall energy use, expenses, and ongoing emissions. The cost of potable water has been rapidly climbing across the region. Responsible future buildings will treat potable water demand as a key opportunity for operational cost reduction through efficiency and reuse. To accomplish this, all new buildings and major renovations shall use LBC CORE Standards: • •
•
•
No potable water for irrigation Use 50% (new construction) or 30% (renovation) less water for the project’s other needs than a baseline regional building of the same type Treat all stormwater on site, through natural or mechanical means and without chemicals Manage all stormwater based on both pre-development hydrology and current ecological conditions, as determined by a qualified professional
32
•
Projects on a combined sewer (CS) system, or in a floodplain (based on an exemption) must incorporate stormwater detention and avoid sheet flow off the site.
Additionally: • Cooling towers included in future building HVAC systems or retrofits will incorporate regular water quality and treatment testing to optimize blowdown requirements. • All site vegetation will incorporate a minimum of 75% native and adapted species. • Existing soils on non-developed portions of site shall be protected from compaction during construction
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure UG-3:
Adopt stormwater standards and related policies to enhance land stewardship and sequester carbon
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments ENERGY AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit: Credit:
Integrated Water Management Water Access and Quality
COUNTY GOALS: ZERO SEWER CONVEYANCE
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEED BD+C/ CI WELL
Stormwater Management Wastewater Management Smart Water Systems
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• Water Conservation • No Brominated Fire Retardants • Erosion + Sediment Control
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING
• Water Treatment / Filtration
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE
• Metering • Protection of Water-borne Ecologies
GHG REDUCTIONS
• Potable Water Use Reduction
HEALTHY INDOORS
• No Legionella • RH Targets between 30-60%
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
• Low Process Water in Transformation
UNIVERSAL ACCESS
• Public Access to Clean Water at Facilities
INCLUSION BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
• Water Features that Treat • Water Features that Humidify
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Public Access to Real-time Monitoring • Signage / Storytelling
Wellness New Construction + Major Renovation
Human health will be prioritized on Johnson County projects, providing accessible, beautiful, and inspiring spaces that actively protect occupant health.
County staff are a critical asset that represents the highest of all ongoing County costs. Small improvements to the working environment will have direct and indirect impacts on worker health and wellbeing, which in turn effect worker productivity. To accomplish this measurable improvement, the following LBC CORE Measures are required for all new buildings and major renovations: • •
•
Comply with the current version of ASHRAE 62 Prohibit smoking within any buildings or enclosed spaces, and within 25’ of any building opening, including air supply vents. Develop healthy indoor environment plan specific to the project’s building type and location. Plan must address: • Green cleaning protocols • Prevention of particulates and toxins through an entry approach and implementation of at least one strategy to improve air quality
34
•
•
Provide views outside and daylight for 75% of regularly occupied spaces Provide direct exhaust for kitchens, bathrooms, and janitorial areas - with negative pressure and full-partition separation from regularly occupied spaces.
Additionally: • Incorporation of active air quality monitoring sensors is strongly recommended. • Consideration for access to healthy food and nutrition. • Elimination of Red-List chemicals in all building construction materials and finishes.species. • Existing soils on non-developed portions of site shall be protected from compaction during construction
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure T-4:
Reduce emissions by expanding the network of publiclyavailable electric vehicle charging infrastructure to fill network gaps and provide access to undeserved communities
•
Measure UG-1:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments INTEGRATIVE PROCESS •
Prereq:
Integrative Planning and Design Process
COUNTY GOALS: 15% INCREASE IN PRODUCTIVITY
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • •
Credit: Credit:
Walkability and Bikeability High Priority Sites
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • • •
Prereq: Credit: Credit:
Social Infrastructure Public Health Emergency Management and Response
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• Hypoallergenic Plant Material
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING
• Biophilic Design • No Red List Chemicals • Hypoallergenic Building Material • Quality Electrical Lighting • High CRI • Blue Light Spectrum
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE GHG REDUCTIONS
• Reduced Ground Level Pollution
HEALTHY INDOORS
• Improved IAQ • Low Emitting Interiors • Daylighting • Quality Views
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
• Low Emitting Interiors • No Red List Chemicals
UNIVERSAL ACCESS
• Medical Care Access • Personal Fitness Access • Nutritional Foods • Mental Health Care
INCLUSION BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
• Quality Views
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Public Access to Real-time Monitoring • Signage / Storytelling
Resources + Resilience New Construction + Major Renovation
Construction materials shall be sustainably and responsibly sourced, prioritizing material transparency, occupant health protection, and positive impacts on the regional economy.
Construction material businesses in Kansas are uniquely positioned to be prioritized for construction nationally based on environmental performance per the rapidly increasing percentage of renewable energy on the regional electrical grid. To benefit the local economy, and positively impact the building products market in the region surrounding (and including) Johnson County, KS, the following materials selection criteria from LBC CORE are recommended: •
•
Must contain one Declare label product per 2,250 gsf, up to 20 distinct products from 5 manufacturers. All product manufacturers not currently in Declare must, at minimum, receive a letter requesting their ingredients and identify and Red list content. Must incorporate one product certified under the Living Product Challenge
36
•
•
50% of wood products must be FSC, salvaged, or harvested on site. The remainder must be from low risk sources 20% or more of the materials construction budget must come from within 300 miles of construction site
Additionally: • Divert 80% of the construction waste material from the landfill and provide dedicated infrastructure for the collection of recyclables and compostable food scraps during occupancy. • Prioritize embodied carbon reductions in concrete and steel (structure, foundations, site), and glass, insulation, and aluminum (envelope). • Zero PVC used in building finishes.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure BE-1:
•
Measure BE-3:
100% SUSTAINBLY + RESPONSIBLY SOURCED
•
Measure T-1:
Connect resilient nieghborhoods and activity centers with green corridors and active transportation
•
Measure T-2:
Connect resilient neighborhoods by expanding and linking trails and separated bikeways
•
Measure FA-4:
Reduce food waste at schools, food services, grocery, distribution, and commercial facilities
Build resilience in LIDAC communities by investing in resilience hubs Achieve regional energy savings by investing in high-performance public, nonprofit and commercial
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE, LEEDv5, WELL
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments MATERIALS AND RESOURCES • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit:
Construction and Demolition Waste Management
• • •
Credit: Credit: Credit:
Recycling Infrastructure
Solid Waste Management Organic Waste Treatment Responsible Sourcing for Infrastructure Smart Waste Management Systems
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• No Red List Chemicals • No Brominated Fire Retardants
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING
• No Slavery • No Brominated Fire Retardants
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE GHG REDUCTIONS
• Low Embodied Carbon
HEALTHY INDOORS
• Low Emitting Materials
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
• Cost-effective, responsible solutions
UNIVERSAL ACCESS INCLUSION
• Locally-based Business
BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
• Locally-sourced Building Materials • Locally-sourced Plant Materials
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Best Practices Books for each Project • Signage / Storytelling
Ecology New Construction + Major Renovation
County projects shall celebrate nature through restoration, responsible management, and improvement of public access to native ecologies.
Johnson County is known for beautiful open spaces, trails, parks, and access to nature. To maintain and enhance this positive reputation, the following LBC CORE imperatives should be met: •
• •
•
•
• 38
Avoid building on pristine greenfield, wilderness, prime farmland or in a floodplain. Preserve thriving vibrant ecological environments and habitats Document site and community conditions prior to start of work, including identification of reference habitat. Demonstrate that they contribute positively to the ecology of their place and restore or enhance the ecological performance of the site towards a healthy ecological baseline. On-site landscape must be designed to mature and evolve, and emulate the functionality of the reference habitat (per ref. Transect) Assess cultural and social equity
•
factors and needs in the community, and consider those identified needs to inform design and process decisions. No petrochemical fertilizers or pesticides can be used for the operation and maintenance of the on-site landscape, including urban agriculture.
Additionally: • Project team must engage in a minimum of one all-day exploration of the biophilic design potential for the project, which must result in a biophilic framework and plan for the project. • Incorporate avian protection per the American Bird Conservancy Guidelines. • Use only DarkSky compliant lighting fixtures • Do not block access to, nor diminish the quality of, fresh air, sunlight, and natural waterways for any member of society or adjacent developments.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure UG-1:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health
RESTORE HABITAT TO PRE-DEVELOPMENT
•
Measure UG-2:
Sequester carbon through the conservation and restoration of riparian and natural areas and through green stormwater infrastructure
•
Measure UG-3:
Adopt stormwater standards and related policies to enhance land stewardship and sequester carbon
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments NATURAL SYSTEMS AND ECOLOGY • • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit:
•
Credit:
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
Ecosystem Assessment Construction Activity Pollution Prevention Green Spaces Natural Resources Conservation and Restoration Light Pollution Reduction Resilience Planning
WATER EFFICIENCY • •
Prereq: Credit:
Integrated Water Management Stormwater Management
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• Habitat Restoration • Watershed concerns • Light Pollution Reduction • Protection of Water-borne Ecologies • Open Spaces • Heat Island Reduction
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING RESPONSIBLE WATER USE
• Protection of Water-borne Ecologies • Constructed Wetlands
GHG REDUCTIONS
• Carbon Sinks
HEALTHY INDOORS
• Bringing the Outdoors In
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
UNIVERSAL ACCESS
• Environmentally Friendly Materials • Plant material to take up heavy metals and toxins
• Public Access to Parklets Created • Handicap Accessibility
INCLUSION BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
• Beautification via plants
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Signage / Storytelling
Equity New Construction + Major Renovation For Complete List, Refer to LBC CORE Guidelines
Johnson County respects the rights of all citizens, and provides fair, welcoming, and equitable spaces to work, live, and visit.
The County’s reputation as a fair and equitable place to work/do business can be reinforced through design and construction policies. Establish clear MBE/WBE/VBE goals, along with participation rates. Additionally, follow the LBC CORE Imperatives: • JUST label for at least two project team organizations with integral roles in design and construction decisions, PLUS five organizations must complete a self-assessment. • Projects must include diverse stakeholders from vulnerable or disadvantaged populations in the design, construction and operations and maintenance phases: • 20% of design and/or construction contracts and 10% of maintenance contracts must be with JUST organizations that meet required levels for Diversity category, or registered MWDBE organizations. • Workforce development/training/ community benefits agreements, and registered apprentice programs are employed for 10% of the 40
General Contractors project/project maintenance contracts. Additionally: • One or more gender inclusive restrooms included in all new facilities. • Safeguard access for those with physical disabilities, meeting the Principals of Universal design (USAB), or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Guidelines.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure BE-1:
Build resilience in LIDAC communities by investing in resilience hubs
•
Measure T-4:
Reduce emissions by expanding the network of publiclyavailable electric vehicle charging infrastructure to fill network gaps and provide access to undeserved communities
•
Measure UG-1:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments
COUNTY GOALS: FULL (100%) ACCESS + INCLUSION
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
INTEGRATIVE PROCESS •
Prereq:
Integrative Planning and Design Process
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • • • •
Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit:
Compact, Mixed Use and Transit Oriented Development Walkability and Bikeability Access to Quality Transit High Priority Sites
QUALITY OF LIFE • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit:
Demographic Assessment Social Infrastructure Public Health
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION LOCAL ECOLOGY
• Access to nature for all
HUMAN-CENTRIC LIVING
• Biophilic Design
RESPONSIBLE WATER USE
• Water Quality for all
GHG REDUCTIONS
• Lowering risk to most vulnerable populations
HEALTHY INDOORS
• Healthy Environments for all
RESPONSIBLE MATERIALS
• Sourced from disadvantaged businesses
UNIVERSAL ACCESS
• Amenity access for all
INCLUSION
• Use JUST labeled Organizations
BIOPHILIA+AESTHETICS
INSPIRATION+EDUCATION
• Access to nature for all • Access to art for all • Elegant Design • Tours for Public • Signage / Storytelling
CORE
International Living Future Institute
www.https://living-future.org/ For more information about LBC and ILFI, refer to Appendix
CORE CERTIFICATION The Core Green Building Certification is a simple framework that outlines the 10 best practice achievements that a building must obtain to be considered green or sustainable. It puts connection to nature, equity, and the need for a building to be loved on even footing with water, energy, and materials concerns. CORE seeks to rapidly diminish the gap between the high levels of established green building certification programs and the aspirations of the Living Building Challenge. Regardless of size or location of the project, CORE simplifies the complexity of how we define green buildings. Projects that achieve the CORE Certification are role models for redefining the future of the built environment in their communities. Whether the project is Zero Energy, Zero Carbon, Core, Living Building Challenge Petal, or Living Certified, it has a home in the construct of ILFI building certifications. 42
The Core Green Building Certification is simple and easy to use: There are 10 simple imperatives that must be met for any type of project, at any scale, in any location around the world. Core is decidedly not a checklist — the requirements are performance-based and position-demonstrated best practice as an indicator of success. The Core Green Building Certificaiton is versatile and applies to different project scopes, or typologies. There are three typologies, and teams must identify the one that aligns with the project’s scope to determine which requirements apply. New Building: This typology is for any project that encompasses the construction of a new building. Existing Building: This typology is for any project that alters either the envelope or the major systems of a building. Interior: This typology is for any project that does not alter either the envelope or the major systems of a building.
2.07
Existing Building Operations Performance Principles
44
Energy+Carbon Existing Building Operations
Existing County buildings will decarbonize through phasing out on-site fossil-fuels and strategic improvements to properties with an aim to reduce utility costs and improve building resiliency.
Ongoing utility costs are among the County Facilities highest ongoing costs. Accomplishing the County goal (aligned with the Regional Action Plan) of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, energy efficiency won’t just be important for new construction, but for the 50+ existing County buildings as well. A path to zero for existing structures will include building-by-building analysis and strategies, but should include the following actions to begin decarbonizing the existing building stock immediately: •
•
• 46
Report monthly energy and gas usage to a central database using Energy Star Portfolio Manager or equivalent. Automate utility data entry to this portal if possible. Align reported utility data to ARC Skoru database for comprehensive portfolio and individual building performance analysis, with the option to publicly share the resulting data. For each property, identify sources
•
•
of on-site combustion and develop a list of equipment age, location, and status. Include all backup generators and fleet vehicles relying on fossil fuels. For each property, identify the HVAC and large freezer/refrigerator refrigerants used on site. When possible, include volume data for each refrigerant. Incorporate a transportation survey aligned with current ARC reporting templates for each County property. The primary surveyed audience should be FTE staff, but for public properties, include visitor transportation data through an annual (min) survey to all visitors.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure BE-3:
Achieve regional energy savings by investing in high-performance public, nonprofit and commercial buildings and schools
•
Measure BE-4:
Deplot renewable energy solutions to reduce grid and cost
NET ZERO ENERGY BY 2030 NET ZERO CARBON BY 2050
•
Measure T-5:
Transition public transit and municipal fleets to zero and lowemissions technology
•
Measure UG-2:
Sequester carbon through the conservation and restoration of riparian and natural areas and through green stormwater infrastructure
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEED BD+C/ CI WELL
ENERGY AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • • • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit:
Power Access, Reliability and Resiliency Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Management Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy Low Carbon Economy Grid Harmonization
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY)
• Embodied Carbon for Interiors • Energy & Carbon Management • Refrigeration Management
TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
• Metering • Energy • Audits • Waste • Energy • Transportation + Commuting • Refrigeration Charges
COMMISSIONING
• Monitoring Based • RetroCx • Analytics • Ongoing / Continuous
ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• Electrification • Renewables • Refrigerant Impact • Grid Harmonization
Water Existing Building Operations
Johnson County projects shall treat water as a precious resource by reducing overall building potable water demand, storing and treating rainwater, and restoring natural site hydrology.
Water treatment and pumping represent a significant portion of Johnson County’s overall energy use, expenses, and ongoing emissions. The cost of potable water has been rapidly climbing across the region. Responsible future buildings will treat potable water demand as a key opportunity for operational cost reduction through efficiency and reuse. Though each existing property will have different water demands and opportunities, the following actions will be important to making steady progress towards reducing County demand: •
•
Report monthly water usage to a central database using Energy Star Portfolio Manager or equivalent. Automate utility data entry to this portal if possible. Align reported water utility data to ARC Skoru database for comprehensive portfolio and individual building performance analysis, with the option to publicly
48
•
•
•
share the resulting data. For each property, identify fuel source used for water heating. Catalogue any fossil-fuel heating sources in the list noted under “Energy and Carbon” Install water meters on existing buildings with high water demand, including meters for exterior, process, and interior water use. Review each property’s flood response and readiness. Review against the 100 and 500 year flood zones. For properties located adjacent to neighborhoods, identify existing and potential on-site rainwater storage to reduce sheet-flow off of the site and flooding during heavy rains.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure UG-3:
Adopt stormwater standards and related policies to enhance land stewardship and sequester carbon
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments ENERGY AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit:
•
Credit:
Integrated Water Management Water Access and Quality Stormwater Management Wastewater Management
COUNTY GOALS: ZERO SEWER CONVEYANCE
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEED BD+C/ CI WELL
Smart Water Systems
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY)
• Water Management
TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
• Metering • Energy • Audits • Water Use • Energy
COMMISSIONING
ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• Monitoring Based • RetroCx • Analytics • Ongoing / Continuous
• Electrification • Renewables • Refrigerant Impact • Grid Harmonization
Wellness Existing Building Operations
Human health will be prioritized on Johnson County projects, providing accessible, beautiful, and inspiring spaces that actively protect occupant health.
County staff are a critical asset that represents the highest of all ongoing County costs. Small improvements to the working environment will have direct and indirect impacts on worker health and wellbeing, which in turn effect worker productivity. To accomplish improvement across a large portfolio, the following actions are recommended: •
50
Incorporate existing comfort survey data into ARC Skoru reporting database for each property. Align future occupant comfort surveys with ARC Skoru standards and survey occupants annually (min). Recommend combining this survey with occupant transportation survey.
•
Incorporate active air quality sensors into existing buildings, prioritized through survey and analysis. Sensors should actively gather information including at least the following data points: • temperature • humidity • TVOCs • PM2.5 • C02
•
For each property, collect appropriate HR information regarding average staff turnover, sick days, and other performance criteria deemed to be a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) of staff productivity.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure T-4:
Reduce emissions by expanding the network of publiclyavailable electric vehicle charging infrastructure to fill network gaps and provide access to undeserved communities
15% INCREASE IN PRODUCTIVITY
•
Measure UG-1:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments INTEGRATIVE PROCESS •
Prereq:
Integrative Planning and Design Process
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • •
Credit: Credit:
Walkability and Bikeability High Priority Sites
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • • •
Prereq: Credit: Credit:
Social Infrastructure Public Health Emergency Management and Response
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY) TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
COMMISSIONING ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• Purchasing
• Human Productivity • Turnover • Absenteeism • KPI’s • Audits • Air Quality • Water Quality • Comfort Surveys
Resources + Resilience Existing Building Operations
Operational purchasing and materials shall be sustainably and responsibly sourced, prioritizing material transparency, occupant health protection, and positive impacts on the regional economy.
Manufacturing businesses in Kansas are uniquely positioned to be prioritized for environmental performance per the rapidly increasing percentage of renewable energy on the regional electrical grid. To benefit the local economy, and positively impact the building products market in the region surrounding (and including) Johnson County, KS, the following ongoing resource and material strategies are recommended: •
• •
Conduct an annual waste audit with data provided for waste streams for each facility. Report waste audit results to ARC Skoru database Develop, refine, and standardize a green purchasing policy, prioritizing products that contribute to the regional economy, utilize high recycled content, disclose Red List chemicals, and support MBE/WBE/VBE organizations.
52
•
•
Develop, refine, and standardize a green cleaning standard across all facilities with an aim to eliminate Red List chemical use, reduce the total number of products used, and simplify janitorial practices. Develop, refine, and standardize a green pest management standard which eliminates use of Red List chemicals on all County properties.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure BE-1:
Build resilience in LIDAC communities by investing in resilience hubs
•
Measure BE-3:
Achieve regional energy savings by investing in high-performance public, nonprofit and commercial
•
Measure T-1:
•
Measure T-2:
•
Measure FA-4:
Connect resilient nieghborhoods and activity centers with green corridors and active transportation Connect resilient neighborhoods by expanding and linking trails and separated bikeways Reduce food waste at schools, food services, grocery, distribution, and commercial facilities
COUNTY GOALS: 100% SUSTAINBLY + RESPONSIBLY SOURCED MATERIALS
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE, LEEDv5, WELL
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments MATERIALS AND RESOURCES • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit:
• • •
Credit: Credit: Credit:
Construction and Demolition Waste Management Solid Waste Management Organic Waste Treatment Recycling Infrastructure Responsible Sourcing for Infrastructure Smart Waste Management Systems
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY)
TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
COMMISSIONING ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• Site Management • Pest Management • Green Cleaning
Ecology Existing Building Operations
County projects shall celebrate nature through restoration, responsible management, and improvement of public access to native ecologies.
Johnson County is known for beautiful open spaces, trails, parks, and access to nature. Existing buildings across the County’s portfolio each have very different grounds, with specific requirements, maintenance schedules, and processes in place. To gradually improve the ecology of place and quality of outdoor and natural spaces viewed and accessed by occupants and visitors, the following policies and improvements are recommended: • Develop, refine, and standardize a petro-chemical free grounds maintenance program, including fertilizers, equipment power, and weed control. • Develop, refine, and standardize a safe and ecologically minimized impact approach to snow and ice removal on County property. • Analyze each property for total area of greenspace, and identify the percentage of the existing outdoor
54
•
•
greenspace (including rooftops) that consists of native and adapted planting. Recommend prioritizing properties with the highest outdoor water use. • For properties with less than 50% native planting coverage, develop a phase-in plan for increasing the native area while reducing the irrigated portions of land. Buildings kill birds at a staggering rate - just below housecats (the #1 killer). Develop, refine, and standardize a method for improving bird safety at County buildings by identifying bird-strike hot-spots, and incorporating recommendations of the American Bird Conservancy. Use only dark-sky compliant exterior lighting fixtures in all retrofits, including shutoff timers wherever possible.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment
COUNTY GOALS:
•
Measure UG-1:
RESTORE HABITAT TO PRE-
•
Measure UG-2:
•
Measure UG-3:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health Sequester carbon through the conservation and restorationof riparian and natural areas and through green stormwater infrastructure Adopt stormwater standards and related policies to enhance land stewardship and sequester carbon
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments NATURAL SYSTEMS AND ECOLOGY • • • • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Prereq: Credit: Credit: Credit:
DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
Ecosystem Assessment Construction Activity Pollution Prevention Green Spaces Natural Resources Conservation and Restoration Light Pollution Reduction Resilience Planning
WATER EFFICIENCY • •
Prereq: Credit:
Integrated Water Management Stormwater Management
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY) TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
COMMISSIONING ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• Green Cleaning
Equity Existing Building Operations
Johnson County respects the rights of all citizens, and provides fair, welcoming, and equitable spaces to work, live, and visit.
The County’s reputation as a fair and equitable place to work and do business can be reinforced through building design and construction policies. Establishing clear MBE/WBE/VBE goals early in the development of a project, along with participation rates, represents a typical approach in the region.
•
To encourage additional progress and access, the following strategies are recommended:
•
•
•
Use ARC Skoru’s comfort and transportation surveys to collect location based information about occupant access and concerns. The Survey should be adjusted to include 2 questions from the JUST Label survey regarding belonging and engagement. Conduct a JUST label self-assessment for the Facilities Department to help identify areas for improvement around staff equity metrics.
56
Identify existing buildings that are the most highly used by the public, and identify the WalkScore for each building, including walking, biking, and bus access scores for each property. Collect this information to help identify opportunities for improving access beyond single-passenger vehicles to these locations. Develop, refine, and standardize a green purchasing policy, prioritizing products that contribute to the regional economy, utilize high recycled content, disclose Red List chemicals, and support MBE/WBE/VBE organizations.
2024 Regional Climate Action Priority Plan Alignment •
Measure BE-1:
Build resilience in LIDAC communities by investing in resilience hubs
•
Measure
•
Measure UG-1:
Reduce emissions by expanding the network of publiclyavailable electric vehicle charging infrastructure to fill network gaps and provide access to undeserved communities
T-4:
Increase and maintain tree canopy along green corridors and within neighborhoods to address urban heat islands, conserve energy and protect public health
LEED for Cities and Communities (v4.1) alignments
COUNTY GOALS: FULL (100%) ACCESS + INCLUSION
ALIGNED CERTIFICATIONS: LBC - CORE LEEDv5 WELL
INTEGRATIVE PROCESS •
Prereq:
Integrative Planning and Design Process
TRANSPORTATION AND LAND USE • • • •
Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit:
Compact, Mixed Use and Transit Oriented Development Walkability and Bikeability Access to Quality Transit High Priority Sites
QUALITY OF LIFE • • •
Prereq: Prereq: Credit:
Demographic Assessment Social Infrastructure Public Health
Implementation / Certification
STRATEGY AND CERTIFICATION RESOLUTIONS (POLICY) TRACKING + MEASUREMENT
COMMISSIONING ENERGY + CARBON REDUCTION
• DEIB Policies
LEED
Existing Building Operations + Maintenance, ARC Skoru For more information about LBC and ILFI, refer to Appendix
EXISTING BUILDINGS OPERATIONS + MAINTENANCE The latest version of the LEED green building certification program, LEED v5, is an important milestone in the effort to align the built environment with the Paris Climate Accord’s 2030 and 2050 targets. The rating system addresses crucial issues such as equity, health, ecosystems, and resilience. LEED v5 is built around a restructured LEED rating system framework, at the top of which are the system goals: climate action, quality of life, and ecological conservation and restoration. These are the overarching areas of focus that will guide the next several versions of the rating system and will also serve as the mechanism for prioritizing the way project teams are rewarded for pursuing various strategies.
58
LEED strategies (prerequisites and credits) sit at the intersection of the system goals. The credit categories that have defined the rating system will continue to serve as the structure for credits and prerequisites in LEED v5.
Caption for Image
ARC SKORU Arc helps any space or building manage performance across five areas: energy, water, waste, transportation, and human experience. LEED projects deliver real world performance. The Arc Impact dashboard provides daily updates based on thousands of projects around the world. Arc measures and scores the real world performance of spaces, buildings, and places around the world. While certification is not required, many Arc projects pursue LEED certification and provide data on operational performance. Arc provides robust and scalable tools to manage, measure, analyze, score, and communicate real-world performance data and is a critical component of the building information ecosystem. It analyzes data from many sources — including energy, emissions, water, waste, transportation, and human experience — to provide insights.
This platform provides opportunities for everyone to engage. New users can start with a single issue — greenhouse gas emissions, energy, waste, waste, human experience, or transportation — and work toward higher levels of sustainability over time. Experienced users can streamline their green building activities and manage large numbers of spaces, buildings, places, and even entire portfolios.
3.0
Key Strategies and Technology 3 .01 S T R AT E G I E S T U N E D TO LO C AT I O N 3 .02 F L E E T A N D V E H I C L E 3 .03 E M E R G I N G T E C H N O LO GY EMBODIED CARBON REDUCTION T R E N D S I N E N E R GY WAT E R T R E AT M E N T 3 .0 4 E VO LV I N G C E R T I F I C AT I O N S
60
Overview In recent years, the construction and architecture sectors have witnessed a significant transformation, spurred by the urgent need to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainability. This section delves into emerging technologies and strategies that are pivotal in shaping sustainable practices within the industry. We explore the concepts of embodied carbon reduction, the use of heavy timber, the importance of environmental product declarations, and the modeling of carbon sequestration in landscapes.
3.01
Strategies Tuned to Location Johnson County, Kansas 2030 Palette www.2030palette.org/
Side Daylighting Controls
Building Facade
Direct Gain: Glazing
Direct Gain: Heat Storage
Earth Sheltering
Form for Heating
Green Roof
Indirect Gain: Sunspace
Side Daylighting
Solar Greenhouse
Stack Ventilation
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/side-daylighting-controls/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/direct-gain-glazing/ trols/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/form-for-heating/
62
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/side-daylighting/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/direct-gain-heatstorage/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/green-roof/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/solar-greenhouse/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/building-facades/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/earth-sheltering/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/indirect-gain-sunspace/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/stack-ventilation/
Cool Roof
Cross Ventilation
Daylight from Multiple Sides
East/ West Shading
Form for Cooling
Form for Daylighting
Intermediate Light Shelves
Night Vent Cooling
Shading Devices
Thermal Storage Wall
Top Daylighting
Top Daylighting Controls
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/building-facades/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/eastwest-shading/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/intermedi-
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/thermal-storage-wall/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/cross-ventilation/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/form-for-cooling/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/night-vent-cooling/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/top-daylighting/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/daylighting-from-multiple-sides/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/form-for-daylighting/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/shading-devices/
Image Credits https://2030palette.org/top-daylighting-controls/
3.02
Fleet and Vehicle Johnson County’s commitment to sustainability can be significantly advanced by transitioning its fleet vehicles to electric. This shift not only aligns with global environmental goals but also sets a benchmark for regional leadership in sustainable practices. By adopting electric vehicles (EVs), the county can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality in communities served by county vehicles, decrease reliance on fossil fuels, and promote environmental stewardship. STRATEGIC ELECTRIFICATION PLAN 1. Assessment of Current Fleet: Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the existing fleet to identify vehicles that are suitable candidates for immediate replacement with EVs. This includes vehicles that are near the end of their operational life or those used in applications suitable for electric alternatives. 2. Infrastructure Development: Parallel to fleet assessment, review existing building electric capacity and strategically develop the necessary charging infrastructure. This involves placement of charging stations to cover the entire county, ensuring that vehicles can be charged conveniently. Focus on installing fast-charging stations at critical locations such as municipal buildings, public works facilities, and areas with high vehicle turnover 3. Pilot Programs: Parallel to fleet assessment, review existing building electric capacity and strategically develop the necessary charging infrastructure. This involves placement of charging stations to cover the entire county, ensuring that vehicles can be charged conveniently. Focus on installing fast-charging stations at critical locations such as municipal buildings, public works facilitiWes, and areas with high vehicle turnover 64
FINANCIAL STRATEGIES 1. Budget Allocation and Funding: Secure funding for the initial capital outlay required for purchasing EVs and setting up charging stations. Explore potential grants and subsidies from both state and federal programs dedicated to environmental sustainability. Additionally, include a phased budget allocation over several years to manage costs effectively. 2. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Perform a detailed cost-benefit analysis comparing the long-term savings from reduced fuel and maintenance costs of EVs against the initial higher purchase price. This analysis should also consider the potential resale value of electric vehicles and savings from environmental compliance. POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION 1. Sustainable Procurement Policies: Establish procurement policies that mandate the consideration of electric options for all new vehicle purchases. These policies should also encourage the use of renewable energy sources to power the charging stations, further enhancing the sustainability of the fleet. 2. Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster partnerships with local businesses, other governmental entities, and utility companies to leverage shared knowledge and resources. Collaborative initiatives can lead to cost savings and more effective implementation of the electrification plan. 3. Public Engagement and Transparency: Maintain transparency with the public about the goals and progress of the electrification initiative. Public engagement can include educational campaigns about the benefits of electric vehicles and the county’s environmental goals.
3.02
Fleet and Vehicle MONITORING, REPORTING, AND IMPROVEMENT 1. Regular Reporting: Set up a system for regular monitoring and reporting of the performance of the electric fleet. This should include tracking metrics such as vehicle uptime, maintenance costs, and emissions reduced. 2. Continuous Improvement: Use the data collected to continuously improve the fleet electrification program. Adjust policies and operations based on the outcomes and challenges identified during the initial phases of the implementation.
Electrification of Johnson County’s fleet vehicles is a strategic move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. By carefully planning and implementing these recommendations, the county can ensure the successful transition of its fleet to electric vehicles, setting a model for responsible environmental leadership.
66
FINANCIAL STRATEGIES 1. Budget Allocation and Funding: Secure funding for the initial capital outlay required for purchasing EVs and setting up charging stations. Explore potential grants and subsidies from both state and federal programs dedicated to environmental sustainability. Additionally, include a phased budget allocation over several years to manage costs effectively. 2. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Perform a detailed cost-benefit analysis comparing the long-term savings from reduced fuel and maintenance costs of EVs against the initial higher purchase price. This analysis should also consider the potential resale value of electric vehicles and savings from environmental compliance. POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION 1. Sustainable Procurement Policies: Establish procurement policies that mandate the consideration of electric options for all new vehicle purchases. These policies should also encourage the use of renewable energy sources to power the charging stations, further enhancing the sustainability of the fleet. 2. Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster partnerships with local businesses, other governmental entities, and utility companies to leverage shared knowledge and resources. Collaborative initiatives can lead to cost savings and more effective implementation of the electrification plan. 3. Public Engagement and Transparency: Maintain transparency with the public about the goals and progress of the electrification initiative. Public engagement can include educational campaigns about the benefits of electric vehicles and the county’s environmental goals.
3.03
Emerging Technology Embodied Carbon Reduction
CONCRETE Embodied carbon refers to the carbon dioxide emitted during the manufacture, transport, and construction of building materials, together with end-of-life emissions. Reducing embodied carbon is crucial for lessening overall environmental impacts of construction projects. Advanced strategies for reducing embodied carbon include the utilization of low-carbon materials, optimizing existing building usage, retrofitting older buildings instead of constructing new ones, and employing modular construction techniques that minimize waste. Innovative materials such as bio-based materials, recycled materials, and geopolymers are increasingly used due to their lower carbon footprints compared to traditional construction materials like concrete and steel. Additionally, construction processes are being streamlined and modernized to further reduce emissions associated with site work. This involves careful planning and the use of technology to ensure efficient material use and minimize waste. HEAVY TIMBER Heavy timber construction, also known as mass timber, is a building method that is garnering attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional steel and concrete structures. It involves the use of large wooden panels, beams, and columns constructed from engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glued laminated timber (glulam). Wood, as a naturally renewable material, acts as a carbon sink, sequestering carbon dioxide for the lifespan of the building. The environmental benefits of heavy timber include not only the carbonsequestration capability of wood but also reduced greenhouse gas emissions during production compared to those associated with the manufacture of steel and concrete. Furthermore, mass timber buildings can be aesthetically pleasing and have been shown to offer excellent thermal performance and energy efficiency, further enhancing their sustainability credentials. 68
ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATIONS ( EPDS) Environmental Product Declarations are standardized documents that provide detailed information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products. These declarations are critical for architects, builders, and clients aiming to make informed choices about materials and products based on their environmental performance. EPDs help in assessing a product’s impact on global warming, ozone depletion, water pollution, and other environmental issues. They are particularly important in the construction industry as they enable the comparison of products and materials, fostering a more transparent and sustainable supply chain. Encouraging the adoption of products with favorable EPDs can significantly contribute to the overall sustainability of construction projects.
LANDSCAPE CARBON SEQUESTRATION MODELING Landscape carbon sequestration is an emerging field that involves the capture and storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide in vegetation and soils. It is particularly relevant in urban planning and landscape architecture as a natural method to mitigate climate change. Effective sequestration modeling helps in understanding how different landscaping strategies can contribute to carbon capture, aiding in the planning of green spaces such as parks, gardens, and forested areas. Technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS) and simulation models are used to predict and maximize the carbon sequestration potential of landscapes. These models can inform decision-making in urban development, helping cities to plan greener spaces that not only enhance biodiversity and provide recreational spaces but also play a crucial role in urban carbon management.
3.03
Emerging Technology Energy
BATTERIES Trends •
•
•
Current electrochemical battery solutions have a carrying capacity limit that we are rapidly approaching Other electrochemical batteries are in development for a widespread scaling of availability Flywheels and other storage technologies are seeing increased use
Electric power storage continues as an obstacle to grids powered 100% by clean energy solutions. Today’s mix of about 40% renewables serves as an artificial cap. Above this, some form of storage is needed to save energy from a time of abundance production to a time of need. Conventionally, batteries are thought of as electrochemical and are dominated in today’s market by Lithium technologies. Although Lithium is not a rare earth element, it does need rare earths to form a complete, functioning technology. The issue with rare earths is that they are scarce, and are usually found in such small amounts to not be economical, which limits the scaling of this branch of electrochemical batteries. 70
In the coming years, we are expecting to see Sodium Ion technologies used at first in parallel with and then in place of Lithium Ion. But the sodium technologies, as of the writing of this document, are not in widespread use. Battery technology can be used not only for full building power backup, but for adapting building and property time-ofuse demands to stabilize the utility costs to the county, improve grid resilience, and maintain a consistent use of renewable energy throughout the year. In the longterm, battery systems will be capable of full backup power, but a partial loadbased sizing will be the recommended place to begin.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES Trends •
•
•
Mass adoption of electric vehicles and electric-hybrid vehicles creates an opportunity to solve, in part, the storage problem Infrastructure is desperately needed across the US, particularly at our places of work Bi-directional charging provides a way to create microgrids at building scale
Hybrid vehicles began production in the late 1990s and widespread use began by the late 2000s. Since then, we are now also seeing broad use of all-electric zeroemission vehicles. Hybrids are a bridging technology until the time that enough infrastructure has been put into service to handle the growing hybrid/all-electric market as we are trending away from fossil fuel energy sources for our fleets and personal vehicles. Using bi-directional charging, our vehicles represent a huge opportunity to shift energy supply to times of demand, which currently lags peak clean energy supply by several hours. Simply, vehicles act as large
batteries that can soak up clean energy in a time of abundance and inject that power back into the building (or a grid) when there is a need. Nevertheless, the infrastructure isn’t in place to make this happen yet. The need for level 2 and level 3 bi-directional chargers near places of business is the greatest need. Vehicles can store extra capacity while parked at times of an abundance of power (e.g., high noon for solar) and shift that power to later in the day when the buildings peak (typically between 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. for an office building).
3.03
Emerging Technology Circular Water Capture, Treatment and Use
ONSITE WATER TREATMENT Trends •
•
• •
Use of onsite technologies to take effluent (a public health concern) and treat it to tertiary, secondary, or even primary (domestic water) levels. These technologies use a combination of mechanical and natural systems to treat effluent Treated effluent can then be infiltrated or reused onsite. Uses vary depending on level of treatment from irrigation to toilet flushing to domestic water supply
Roughly 12% of the nation’s energy demand is used for pumping and treating our water supply. Therefore, how the County addresses its water use and treatment is paramount to future decarbonation strategies. Technologies exist today and are continually evolving that will make onsite treatment more attractive in the future. These technologies vary from constructed wetlands to algae biomass systems.
72
Planning to scale the system at the building-level is ideal. The county can easily start by treatment to tertiary or secondary levels without dramatic cost and in the process create a water supply that can be used for a variety of means (e.g., toilet flushing and irrigation). But these systems also may create amenities, such as constructed wetlands that bring in a variety of plant material and wildlife onsite which provide a biophilic relationship to building occupants. It is recommended that the county review water capture, treatment, and indoor reuse permitting policy to give clear guidance to county buildings and private developers regarding the required practices and inspection process for establishing water reclamation systems in Johnson County.
JC Sunset Drive Rainwater Cistern and Indoor Creek Display
3.03
Emerging Technology Bird Protection by Design
BIRD SAFETY IN ARCHITECTURE: STRATEGIES AND REGULATIONS Bird safety has become an essential aspect of sustainable architecture, recognizing the significant impact that building designs can have on bird populations. Annually, hundreds of millions of birds perish due to collisions with glass structures, a problem that is increasingly addressed through innovative architectural designs and materials. The American Bird Conservancy (ABC) has been at the forefront of advocating for bird-friendly building practices and has influenced new regulations and standards across the United States. BirdSafe KC is an emerging local organization which can provide additional resources to local businesses and municipalities wishing to incorporate design strategies for reducing bird-strikes on buildings. In response to this ecological concern, the U.S. has seen the implementation of various local and federal regulations aimed at reducing bird fatalities. For instance, cities like San Francisco and New York have adopted standards that mandate the use of bird-safe glass in new building constructions. This glass is typically treated or designed to make it more visible to birds, using patterns that birds can perceive, thereby preventing collisions. The ABC’s guidelines are instrumental in these regulatory efforts. They recommend the use of glass with special markings visible to birds, covering at least 90% of all glass surfaces, especially those near green spaces or in high-risk collision paths. Furthermore, these guidelines advise on the appropriate spacing of visual markers on glass surfaces to optimize bird safety without compromising aesthetic values or light access.
74
Architects are also encouraged to incorporate landscape design that deters birds from flying into risky areas. Strategic placement of plants and trees can create a visual barrier that helps birds recognize and avoid buildings. Moreover, lighting design plays a crucial role; by reducing light pollution, especially during migration periods, buildings become less disorienting to nocturnal migrants, further decreasing the risk of collisions. As these bird-safe practices become more standardized, they not only contribute to the conservation of bird populations but also highlight the role of sustainable architecture in preserving biodiversity. The integration of these practices into new and existing buildings is a testament to the industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship and animal welfare.and wildlife onsite which provide a biophilic relationship to building occupants.
3.04
Evolving Certifications EVOLUTION OF GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS As Johnson County continues to enhance its commitment to sustainability, it is crucial to integrate evolving green building certification standards into its construction and renovation projects. This involves understanding and adapting to the changes in major certification systems such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the Living Building Challenge, and the WELL Building Standard. To stay aligned with the best practices in sustainable construction, the county will need to review updates to these rating systems every five years, starting in 2025. Here is how this process can be structured: UNDERSTANDING THE CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS Described in more detail within the Appendix of this document, the following are brief descriptions of the primary green building certification programs: 1. LEED: Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is one of the most widely used green building certification systems worldwide. It provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is recognized globally as a symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership. 2. Living Building Challenge This certification goes beyond LEED by focusing on seven performance areas: place, water, energy, health & happiness, materials, equity, and beauty. The Living Building Challenge is regarded as the world’s most rigorous proven performance standard for buildings. Projects that achieve this certification must meet a series of ambitious performance requirements over a minimum of 12 months of
76
3. WELL Building Standard: Focused on enhancing people’s health and wellness through the built environment, the WELL Building Standard looks at seven core concepts of health and well-being: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. WELL is grounded in evidencebased research that demonstrates the impact of the environment on human health. REVIEW AND INTEGRATION PROCESS 1. Regular Review Schedule: Starting in 2025, Johnson County will establish a routine schedule to review updates to these certification systems every five years. This timing aligns with the typical cycle of updates for major certification systems, ensuring the county remains at the forefront of sustainable building practices. 2. Comparison with County Standards: Each review will include a detailed comparison of the latest standards with the county’s current building design standards and project management processes. This will identify areas where the county’s practices can be aligned with the latest in sustainable building. 3. Adaptation and Implementation: Based on the review, Johnson County will adapt its design standards and project management processes to incorporate relevant updates from the certification systems. This might include adopting new technologies, materials, and methods that enhance sustainability. 4. Training and Education: Ensure that key stakeholders, including architects, project managers, and contractors, are trained on the latest standards. This education will empower them to effectively implement the updated guidelines in upcoming projects.that enhance sustainability. 5. Stakeholder Engagement: Engage a broad range of stakeholders in the review process, including community members, industry experts, and local businesses. Their input will be invaluable in ensuring the adopted standards meet both sustainability goals and community needs. By systematically reviewing and integrating the latest developments in green building certification systems, Johnson County can ensure its facilities are constructed and managed to the highest standards of sustainability. This proactive approach not only reinforces the county’s environmental commitment but also supports the health and wellbeing of its residents. Regular updates and stakeholder engagement are key to adapting county practices to meet evolving standards effectively.
4.0
Appendix
Johnson County Sustainability Guidelines
A .01 I N T R O D U C T I O N O U R P R O C E S S , B U I L D I N G S U CC E S S E TC . A .02 CO N T E X T U N I T E D N AT I O N S , F E D E R A L C L I M AT E AC T I O N S + I N C E N T I V E S E TC . A .03 K E Y S TA R T E G I E S A N D T E C H N O LO GY P R I O R I T I Z AT I O N R U B R I C , CO D E B E N C H M A R K E TC . A .0 4 J O H N S O N CO U N T Y R E S O U R C E S ( BY B N I M ) P R OJ E C T WO R K F LOW, P R OJ E C T C H E C K L I S TS E TC .
78
Sustainability Guidelines Appendix 2024
For document references, checklists, charts, and other information, see separate Appendix here: Link to Appendix Book Here