Green Building Policy Case Studies: Washington, DC—Building a Green Code

The District of Columbia’s 2013 DC Green Construction Code builds on a long history of green building leadership that has spurred private investment, market supply and community benefits on virtually unparalleled scales. The code opens a new chapter for DC government and for the community, where green is now mainstream.
With a collaborative approach to consideration, development and adoption, and strong commitment to implementation, the District and its new green code are well poised for success. While every community’s context and priorities will be different, DC’s effort can serve as a model for others. As new regulatory tools emerge, jurisdictions that have taken the important steps to integrate green building into the way they do business will come out ahead in this generation’s march towards truly sustainable communities.