Climate Friendly Codes

Local leaders across Washington have a powerful — and often ignored — tool for taking climate action: energy codes! Commercial and residential buildings are responsible for over 10% of our state's greenhouse gas emissions, because so many of our homes and workplaces burn fossil fuels for space and water heating. The good news is that it's possible to switch to cleaner electric heating sources — AND local governments have the authority to make it happen. Seattle, Shoreline, and Bellingham have all passed recent updates to their Commercial Energy Codes, which regulate the construction of new commercial buildings and 4+ story multifamily buildings. The updates eliminate most fossil fuel use for space and water heating in these buildings and require many other improvements in energy efficiency. The code language below provides a jumping board to launch decisive climate action in your community.