What is the main goal of the CALGreen building code?

The primary goal of the CALGreen building code is to establish minimum standards for new constructions in California with the aim of reducing carbon output and promoting sustainable building practices. This initiative reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility by mandating practices that can help decrease greenhouse gas emissions. CALGreen encompasses various strategies, including water efficiency, energy efficiency, and materials conservation, which are all essential components in minimizing the environmental impact of buildings.

While promoting sustainable energy sources is important and connected to the broader objectives of CALGreen, the focus is more specifically on creating standards that builders and developers must meet. Aesthetic qualities, while relevant in landscape architecture and building design, are not the main emphasis of CALGreen, nor is the initiative primarily aimed at increasing property values through regulation. Instead, the legislation's central purpose centers around sustainability and environmental impact, making it crucial for addressing the challenges posed by climate change in the built environment.