The sustainable building movement has gained momentum over the past several years. Rating systems such as LEED and Green Globes have helped to drive this movement. Masonry materials can contribute significantly toward rating system compliance. (See Figure 1.)
Now we must consider the implications of new green building codes that are being developed. ASHRAE/USGBC Standard 189.1 has been published as has the International Green Construction Code (IGCC). At times there have been unintentional consequences of using the rating systems. Most notably, in their misapplication in the form of requirements rather than providing guidance. Codes and standards on the other hand are legal documents with mandatory provisions that can be directly adopted by a city or state government.