Category: News

Melanie Jacobson is sworn in as Secretary for the Northern California Chapter

MENLO PARK, CA. January 26, 2022  — ID360, a green consulting firm, announces their Founder and Principal has been named Secretary of the International Code Council’s Peninsula chapter. The International Code Council is the world’s leading source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. The ICC Peninsula Chapter provides members an opportunity to keep up to date on the activities of the ICC as well as a forum to discuss code changes, interpretations, and updates. 

“I am honored to serve as Secretary of the ICC’s Peninsula chapter,” said Melanie Jacobson, Founder and Principal, ID360. “I have been involved with ICC for nearly a decade. I have built my career in sustainability and energy efficiency. After spending 15 years working in green building and energy policy, plan check, and inspection, taking a board position with the ICC is a natural next step.”

The ICC Peninsula Chapter provides unique networking opportunities and access to the latest updates and changes relative to the area. The chapter has a packed calendar for 2022 including collaborations with several other ICC Chapters in Northern California.  

To learn more about the ICC Peninsula Chapter visit www.iccpeninsula.org. To learn more about ID360 visit www.ID360.green. 

We take a look back at 2021 and offer predictions for what will be key themes in 2022.

2021 proved to be a big year for our industry and for ID360. Major climate gatherings such as COP 26 took place. As well as localized convenings like Verge21 and Greenbuild. Sustainability leaders and experts made climate action planning mainstream conversation. Most recently we also welcomed historic legislation with the passing of the Infrastructure bill.

Here at ID360, 2021 brought the launch of our ID360 Academy. This online, on-demand resource is now available for those working in green building, design, and implementation. We also played a significant role in many projects including Climate Action Plan implementation for the City of Foster City, California.

Looking to 2022, four key themes emerge: resilience, decarbonization, infrastructure and education.

Resilience

Extreme weather events have shown that resilience is an essential piece of any climate action plan. In 2021 extreme weather was commonplace here in California. The ability to prepare for, recover from, and adapt to impacts from extreme weather will be a central theme in 2022. Particularly fueled by the Infrastructure bill, local municipalities, states, and regions will be better equipped to develop plans that support resilience.

Decarbonization

The world is transforming its energy system from one dominated by fossil fuels to one with net-zero emissions. This transition is critical to mitigating climate change. In 2022, we will continue to see cities create and adopt aggressive Climate Action plans that center on a net-zero goal. Cities are positioned to lead on this. Those who can focus on plan implementation will be successful.

Infrastructure

2021 might have been the year of the passing of the historic Infrastructure bill, but 2022 will mark the beginning of many years of implementation. 2022 will see big investments in clean energy, technology to fight extreme weather, and green jobs. Cities will buckle down on their Climate Action Plans, EV infrastructure requirements, Electrification requirements and revaluate how they advance progress to net zero.

Education

The green building and sustainability industry is constantly changing. Codes change, policies change, technology changes. In 2022, continuing education will be particularly critical for architects, construction professionals, and city officials. Anyone who wants to stay current will benefit from continued education. In California, AB 1010 was signed in September of 2021 by Governor Newsome. The regulation will require California architects to complete 5 hours of continuing education (CE) in net-zero carbon design every 2 years. This will be in effect for the 2023 renewal cycle.

LEED certification, and other green rating systems, powered by the Infrastructure bill, will be of particular interest in 2022. LEED will serve as a key measure for sustainability moving forward. We developed ID360 Academy for those working professionals who want to take their career to the next level and be able to speak with confidence about these complex issues. Courses are available on LEED certification as well as other elements of green building and design that will be critical in 2022.

What it Means for Green Building and Design

In November, President Biden signed into a law a historic investment in our nation’s infrastructure. The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act or “Infrastructure bill” is a game-changer for the green building, electrification and sustainability. Much has been packed into this legislation, with sustainability and climate provisions woven throughout. We take a closer look at three of these areas: Clean Energy, Extreme Weather, and Jobs.

Clean Energy

The Infrastructure bill commits to upgrading our power infrastructure to “deliver clean, reliable energy across the country and deploy cutting-edge energy technology to achieve a zero-emissions future.” This includes a commitment to upgrade our nation’s power infrastructure by building thousands of miles of new, resilient transmission lines facilitation the expansion of renewables and clean energy all while lowering costs. The bill will also support the development and implementation of clean energy technologies to accelerate transition to a zero-emission economy. 

Additional clean energy highlights:

Extreme Weather

This year was one of the worst on record for California with crippling wildfires plaguing our state. The Infrastructure bill commits significant resources to support communities plagued by extreme weather as well as and Jobs Act commits $8.3B for water and drought resilience.

Additional extreme weather provisions include:

Jobs

Analysts predict the Infrastructure bill will add on average 1.5 million jobs per year for the next 10 years. Many of these will be “green” jobs. Those working in the fields of construction and design are predicted to find themselves in higher demand as certifications such as LEED will play a more prominent role. Here at ID360 we are working to stay ahead of demand by offering our ID360 Academy coursework entirely online and on-demand. Our courses cover the most recent statewide code changes as well as prepare individuals for LEED. Connect with us about our coursework, the changes we foresee coming with the Infrastructure bill, or any of your climate action planning needs.

World leaders gathered last week in Glasgow, Scotland for the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference. Conversations included country negotiations and commitments for a better planet. The data, statistics and country testimonial can be overwhelming. At ID360 we work with city governments to develop, implement and manage their climate action plans so we took a closer look at the information coming out of Cop 26 to ask: What role do cities play?

Transition from Fossil Fuels

In order to limit global warming to 1.5°C by 2030, the world needs to cut the rate of greenhouse gas emissions by almost 27 billion metric tons a year.

Cities have a real opportunity to lead in this area. City governments are more nimble than state or national governments. They can set time-bound aggressive targets to transition to sustainable policies and implement local reach codes. Cities also have a direct line to community stakeholders. Community support is critical to the success of any climate action plan.

California cities are at the forefront with 35 cities banning the use of fossil fuels in new residential buildings.

Financing change

Much of the conversation coming out of Scotland was related to the cost of transitioning to renewable energy. The good news is we have seen a deceleration of costs for clean technologies as more businesses have entered the space and more technologies are now available. According to a recent Market Watch Report, wind has gotten 45% cheaper, with the cost of solar down 85% and batteries, such as for electric vehicles and solar storage, down 89%.

Additionally, with the introduction of the Infrastructure and Investment and Jobs Act there will be federal subsidies available for much of the work at the city and state level.

Cities account for 55% of the global population, but contribute 75% of carbon dioxide emissions. They can do better. They are positioned to lead. And we are here to support.

Top takeaways from Verge 21

Verge 21 is an annual climate tech event with more than 10,000 leaders online from all sectors working to advance solutions to address the climate crisis. We heard from many great speakers and participated in thought-provoking working sessions. Here at ID360, the event raised the question: What is the future of sustainable business?

With our 360 degree approach, we have the unique ability to tackle this question from every angle. At ID360 we see the future of sustainable business centering on three key areas: Decarbonization, Education and Climate Action Planning.

Decarbonization

According to a recent McKinsey report, “23 states have plans to decarbonize either their power sectors or their entire economies by at least 80 percent by 2050.”

Decarbonization is one of the best ways for businesses to demonstrate leadership in the community. We work with those in the public and private sectors to decarbonize built environments leading to healthier buildings for all.

Education

Education plays a key role in the future of sustainable business. Educating future green professionals, educating the current workforce to enforce reach codes, and educating those designing built environments to support use of the best materials and design for healthy, sustainable buildings.

That is why here at ID360 we launched our ID360 Academy earlier this year. Catering to working professionals, all of our courses are online and on-demand. Our students work at their pace to complete courses and earn CEUs in areas such as LEED, fundamentals of sustainable design and construction, and CALGreen.

Climate Action Planning

Climate Action Planning is an intricate and often complicated process. The future of sustainable business demands vested community stakeholders who take a 360 approach to planning, management and implementation of their climate action plans.

Our team works with these communities balancing goals with practical solutions. And where we shine is implementation and management.

In conclusion, the future of sustainable business is ever-changing. We are here to support. Contact us to learn more!

WELL Building Standard a healthier built environment

The WELL Building Standard has been applied to more than 30,000 projects across 98 countries. WELL is seen as a tool for advancing health and well-being in buildings globally. At its core, WELL is a green building standard that puts health first.

SDE4, located within the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) School of Design and Environment, WELL Gold certified.

What does WELL measure?

The requirements for WELL look at how buildings impact humans’ health and well-being through water, air, light, comfort, nourishment, mind, and fitness. The basis of WELL is extensive and in-depth medical research that establishes that there is a direct relationship between the health and wellness of building occupants to their environment. These built environments lead to things like better sleep and mental health. Sounds like a no-brainer right?

Why aren’t all built environments WELL certified?

WELL is more than a certification. The health of building occupants is at its core. The tools that WELL offers measure 108 features and 10 concepts so it can be very difficult to navigate. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), a public benefit corporation, manages and administers WELL. The Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI), which also administers the LEED professional credentialing and certification programs, provides certification for the WELL Building Standard. As a result, it is a long and rigorous process requiring knowledge of both design and construction.

How We Help

At ID360, we work with you to identify, integrate, and execute viable building design strategies into your new or existing structures. Plus, we find synergies between other rating systems to apply to your project and the various phases of verification. Our experts support you from idea to construction through to building occupancy. We also help prepare and organize documents to submit for WELL certification. To have a healthy built environment is well worth it!

Contact us about our WELL Building Services.

ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today they have been chosen by the city of Foster City, California to design the management system and support implementation for the city’s Climate Action plan. Foster City adopted their Climate Action Plan in 2015 including targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Foster City was one of the first cities to “opt-up” all municipal buildings to 100% renewable energy. They have received multiple Beacon Awards from the Institute for Local Government for its Environmental Sustainability Programs. 

Similarly, ID360 has been on the forefront of climate action leadership policy design and implementation for many years. Most recently, ID360 has supported clean energy choice programs in San Luis Obispo, energy reach code design in the City of South San Francisco, solar power mandates in the City of San Mateo, green building development in Menlo Park, and electric vehicle charging in the City of Palo Alto.

“We are excited to support Foster City’s climate action plans. Implementation is where we shine. We make it turnkey for City Managers and their staff.” 

Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder, ID360

With rapidly changing economics and policies related to climate action and implementation, the environmental stewardship responsibilities of city officials have increased. To begin the Foster City project, ID360 will conduct a comprehensive audit. This will include existing programs, metrics, ordinances, and interdepartmental coordination efforts as well as anything related to the fulfillment and implementation of the city’s sustainability goals. The assessment will lead to a management system designed to respond to new state legislation, changing priorities, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction policies. Implementation and ongoing monitoring will follow.

To learn more about ID360 and their Climate Action Leadership services please visit www.ID360.green.

The California Energy Commission recently adopted the 2022 Energy Code. This latest iteration of codes is the strongest California has seen to date. At ID360 we have a 10 year history of supporting jurisdictions building on these statewide codes with energy reach codes. First, with reach code policy design. Then implementation. And finally, through measurement. Successful climate action planning and implementation requires a 360 degree approach! However, we understand the process can be confusing. Allow us to break down the 2022 California Energy Code for you into the basics of who, what, when, where and why.

Who:

The energy codes are developed by the California Energy Commission. They work with many key stakeholders, including the public. They also rely on data, robust industry research and cost-effectiveness.

What:

The energy codes are a set of standards specifying how buildings must be constructed or perform to save energy cost effectively and reduce emissions throughout the state.

The 2022 set of codes specifically address:

  • Expanding solar and battery storage standards;
  • Adopting electric-ready requirements for single-family homes;
  • Encourage electric heat pump technology for space and water heating.

When:

The codes update every three years. The 2022 Energy Codes will take effect January 1, 2023.

Where:

The codes apply to any structures within the state of California. Many local jurisdictions will create their own set of standards that go above and beyond the state’s standards. These are called “energy reach codes”. At ID360 we have worked with many cities to develop and implement energy reach codes.

Why:

Sustainability and a better, healthier planet! California has set a goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. Climate action planning requires many strategies and building electrification is at the top of that priority list. To learn more about local energy code design, implementation or measurement contact us today.

At ID360 we work with clients in all phases and stages of sustainable design, construction and policy management. Electrification is a HUGE part of what we do. In buildings, electric alternatives exist for all major energy end uses. It is obviously good for our planet, but electrification also benefits the community. Here are our top three reasons why.

Solar panels, electrification
Solar panels in the city
  1. Electrification creates jobs! Good paying, high demand jobs.
  2. Electrification promotes equity within communities. Benefits include cleaner air, healthier homes, and greater access to affordable clean energy. This all leads to greater energy efficiency to reduce monthly bills. Win win win!
  3. Electrification helps California meet climate goals! DYK California has a goal of a net-zero carbon economy and 100% clean electricity by 2035?

What are your top reasons why electrification is good for the community? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Need more? Join us at ID360 Academy to see our suite of courses in green building design and sustainability planning.

It’s no secret California has been dealing with serious energy and air quality issues for a long time. California actually started regulating emissions before the EPA! One major way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is through electrification. Let’s talk about what exactly electrification is and how local energy and EV reach codes get us closer to a clean energy future.

electrification

What is Electrification?

Electrification is the process of converting fossil fuel-operated appliances like oil furnaces, gas water heaters, and wood stoves to electricity. In California, Title 24 of the Code of Regulations sets the building code standards for all authorities.

DYK heating and cooling of buildings accounts for about 13 percent of US emissions?

These standards regulate building energy efficiency, including:

  • Lighting
  • Cooling and heating systems
  • Building insulation

The current California standards apply to projects with permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2020. At the time of the writing of this article, we are about halfway through the current code cycle with the upcoming standards set to be effective on January 1, 2023.

What are Reach Codes?

The Building Energy Efficiency Standards regulate building energy efficiency throughout the state of California, however, local jurisdictions can adopt more strict requirements known as “energy reach codes”. Through the development and implementation of these codes, local governments can impose stricter energy efficiency requirements.

In addition to meeting the baseline statewide standards, a reach code must meet the following requirements:

  • Reach codes must be cost-effective. The funds saved from reduced energy costs should be able to cover initial cost increases.
  • The California Energy Commission must approve all reach codes.
  • The codes must be re-approved and reviewed every three years. The next code cycle change will go into into effect on January 1, 2023.

How do reach codes further electrification?

Electrification begins with local goals – what is the community trying to achieve and by when? At ID360 we work with local government teams to understand their sustainability goals and help develop bold policies around green building, climate change, and energy efficiency. We work side-by-side with city staff to implement the goals of the city council and community members. Check out our recent project with the City of South San Francisco. We are working with the city on their unique characteristics surrounding their reach codes in support of building electrification and electric vehicle charging infrastructure goals. 

All California cities that have adopted an Energy Reach Code during the current 2019 code cycle will be required to update or archive their local code by next year. ID360 has provided advisory, policy development, and program design and implementation services to many other local jurisdictions. Read our other case studies or contact us to talk about your policy design needs.

Online certificate program prepares individuals for the ICC CALGreen Inspector Plans Examiner Test and LEED Green Associate Exam

San Mateo, CA May 27, 2021– Today, the San Mateo County Community College District’s Community, Continuing and Corporate Education (CCCE) division and ID360 announced the launch of the Green Building Certificate Program. The not-for-credit certificate program is open to the public for registration at www.id360academy.com/CCCE and designed to help individuals prepare and pass the ICC CALGreen Inspector/Plans Examiner Test and LEED Green Associate Exam. The certificate will offer continuing education units (CEUs) to the International Code Council (ICC), the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

The eight week on-demand bootcamp-style program will provide technical training for individuals involved in building permits related to single-family, multi-family, and commercial buildings. The certificate was designed with building inspectors, plan checkers and special inspectors in mind, but it will benefit other architectural, engineering, and construction professionals by providing in-depth technical training on current and planned green building policies both locally and statewide. 

“We have heard from the community that there is a shortage of qualified individuals to assess and verify the sustainability attributes of green buildings,” said Michael Claire, Chancellor of the San Mateo County Community College District. “The Green Building Certificate program will help solve this problem by providing our community with another innovative and relevant continuing education opportunity that will lead to good jobs in an in-demand field.”

The program features an accelerated learning model organized with four intensive weekend days spread over an eight-week period using the ID360 Academy portal. Participants will complete the certificate using a primarily on-demand model with access to technical trainers for questions and support. The Green Building Certificate Program was designed in partnership with ID360, a local women-owned sustainable design and green building compliance company, and is being offered in partnership with SMCCCD’s CCCE division, with collaborative support from the College of San Mateo.

“We have developed a unique offering that best serves the needs of building officials providing compliance enforcement and design professionals looking to demonstrate compliance of their buildings to these complex codes,” said Melanie Jacobson, ID360 Founder and Principal. “We are excited to deploy our years of experience in this area to co-create the Green Building Certificate with SMCCCD’s Community, Continuing and Corporate Education. The program aligns with our company’s commitment to sustainability, electrification, and carbon reduction.”

Registration for the Green Building Certificate is open and summer session will begin June 16. Students benefit from a rolling admissions cycle although early registration is encouraged with each course capped at 200 students. For more information about the Green Building Certificate, or to register, visit www.id360academy.com/CCCE.

Sustainability Firm Unveils New Name, New Training Academy, and Expansion of Services

Menlo Park, CA., May 24, 2021 – ID360, a leading sustainability and green building consulting company, announced today a rebrand to its visual identity and name that reflects the company’s progression and continuing commitment to sustainability. Coinciding with the unveiling of the new brand, ID360 launched an updated website (www.ID360.green) that reflects the new visual identity and highlights the company’s expansion of services.
“This rename and rebrand represents a significant step in the company’s evolution,” said Melanie Jacobson,

Founder and Principal, ID360. “10 years ago, we started as a design-based business helping architects, engineers and contractors with green building strategies and rating systems. As the industry changed, we have expanded into supporting local governments with innovative policies and programs.”

Sustainability and climate change is at the heart of ID360’s mission and values. ID360 is a woman-owned, boutique firm. The rebrand was informed by the company’s core values of innovation, leadership, collaboration, balance, and mission of global transformation of the built environment.

Coinciding with the rebrand, ID360 also launched a new training division called ID360 Academy. The academy will offer on-demand innovative courses for industry professionals. The courses will fulfill continuing education requirements for the International Code Council (ICC), the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The continuing education program will prepare those in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries for post-pandemic careers in sustainability, green building, energy efficiency, decarbonization, and electrification.

“Our core values inform everything we do and our history of ‘boots on the ground’ best positions us to be innovative leaders in climate change and sustainability,” said Jacobson. “By expanding our services to also include on-demand education, we are able to scale our impact on sustainability, electrification, and carbon reduction.”