Jun 25 2010
Tackling major building industry challenges will be the focus of a newly revised Consultative Council organized under the National Institute of Building Sciences. Since the early 1990’s, there has been no industry forum to identify and discuss the top-level issues impacting the entire building community. The Consultative Council brings together leading organizations from diverse building sectors to address concerns that are affecting the industry as a whole.
The Council has determined six initial topics to address this year, including:
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Defining High-Performance/Common Metrics—facilitated by the American Institute of Architects (AIA),
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Energy and Water Efficiency, including Delivery Systems—facilitated by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO),
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Education and Training—facilitated by the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry (UA),
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Codes and Standards Adoption and Enforcement—facilitated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),
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Sustainability—facilitated by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and
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Existing Buildings—facilitated by Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA).
The Institute’s enabling legislation called for establishment of a Consultative Council to serve as a direct line of communication between building industry representatives and the Institute. The revised Council will provide a means to address industry-wide issues and a mechanism for bringing these over-arching concerns (along with recommendations for action) to the President of the United States and the U.S. Congress. The Consultative Council’s findings and recommendations will be incorporated into the Institute’s Annual Report, which is submitted to the President and Congress each year.
During its initial meeting held in May, in addition to identifying its areas of focus for the year, the Consultative Council approved a charter and consensus procedures. Council participants will serve as facilitators of topical committees, in which interested parties may participate. Descriptions and schedules of activities for each of the topical committees will be posted on the Council webpage.
To learn more about the Consultative Council or become involved in a topical committee, visit http://www.nibs.org/index.php/cc/Activities/. Associations with an interest in becoming a Council member may contact Ryan Colker, Director of the Consultative Council, via email at rcolker@nibs.org or by phone (202) 289-7800, ext. 133.
