Pathways to climate resilience: the central role of building codes in climate adaptation and mitigation

Building codes and the activities that support their effective use are central to the realization of a climate resilient future. The International Code Council (Code Council or ICC) calls on all governments to adopt and enforce building codes aligned with domestic and international goals for reduced GHG emissions and enhanced resilience. As countries race against time to future-proof our communities, it is imperative to recognize the vital role that the adoption and enforcement of modern building codes play in not only addressing energy efficiency but also other critical issues like climate mitigation and adaptation.

While best known for ensuring the safety of our buildings and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of building occupants, building codes and standards form an ecosystem of building policies aimed at realizing local, national, and international goals targets for economic growth, enhanced resilience, and energy and GHG emission reductions. Building codes and the activities that support their effective use are central to the realization of a climate resilient future. The International Code Council (Code Council or ICC) calls on all governments to adopt and enforce building codes aligned with domestic and international goals for reduced GHG emissions and enhanced resilience.