Architect Edward Mazria’s Architecture 2030 seeks to convert the building sector from the worst offender of greenhouse gas emissions to an active supporter of global-warming solutions. In an effort to achieve this goal, the non-profit, research organization recently released “Meeting the 2030 Challenge Through Building Codes,” a guide for local governments, states, and industry leaders to significantly reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

The paper shows how buildings can decrease consumption in the swiftest and most efficient way. An ambitious plan for all new buildings, developments and major renovations, the 2030 Challenge plans to decrease consumption by 50 percent by the designated deadline of 2010 and become carbon neutral by 2030. Many different organizations have adopted the Challenge including the US Conference of Mayors, the American Institute of Architects, and the US Green Building Council. Supporters say that the Challenge is aggressive enough to meet the demanding need for change, while still remaining possible—both financially and technically.