Washington Council Reviews Carbon Reduction Proposals for Building Codes

The Building Code Council's recent meeting on July 25, 2025, highlighted significant discussions surrounding a proposal aimed at reducing embodied carbon in construction. The proposal, which offers three compliance pathways, aims to provide flexibility for project teams while addressing industry concerns about material sourcing and compliance.

Key speaker Ariel Jensen emphasized the collaborative effort behind the proposal, stating, "We believe it is broadly agreeable and viable and enforceable." The proposal allows jurisdictions to set their own reduction targets without imposing absolute requirements, which was a response to feedback from various stakeholders, including architects and engineers.

Aurora Jensen from the Carbon Leadership Forum expressed support for the proposal, noting its flexibility and the importance of a holistic approach to carbon evaluation. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive method that rewards reuse and sustainable procurement decisions.

However, some council members raised concerns about the potential costs associated with the new regulations. Tim Atterbury, representing the Associated General Contractors of Washington, pointed out that additional requirements could deter developers from pursuing projects in Washington, which is already seen as an expensive place to build.

Despite these concerns, several council members advocated for moving forward with the proposal to allow public comment. Representative Brown noted that the optional nature of the proposal could lead to local governments incentivizing its adoption through density bonuses and other measures.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of public input, with many council members agreeing that further discussion and refinement of the proposal are necessary before finalizing any regulations. The council aims to strike a balance between environmental goals and the practical realities of construction costs, ensuring that Washington can lead in sustainable building practices without stifling development.