Boston Planning & Development Agency has proposed that all larger new buildings in the city would be required to achieve ’net zero’ greenhouse emissions under city regulations as soon as they open.

They are calling this their Zero Net Carbon Building Initiative. Existing buildings have to hit net zero by 2050, with tough milestones between now and then, but new builds over 20,000 sqft or with at least 15 residential units must be built to minimise emissions ’to the maximum extent feasible’, with performance targets varying depending on building type.

If they fall short of net zero they could produce renewable energy on site through solar panels or other means, as well as buy renewable electricity, enter into a power purchase agreement or take similar steps to reduce emissions.

If they still don’t get to net zero they face hefty fines.

Developers are also being called on to minimise emissions from construction materials and activities. All electric buildings will not be considered Net Zero unless their landlords buy only electricity generated without fossil fuels.

Bold stuff; FOOTPRINT+ will report more as the picture unfolds.

Image by Jacob Licht