The city of Boise has adopted a new voluntary “green building code,” and says all city-owned construction projects will follow it, starting with a new library branch in Bown Crossing and two new fire stations that voters approved last November. “Buildings are responsible for more than 40 percent of global energy use and one third of global greenhouse gas emissions,” said Boise Mayor David Bieter. “As a city government, we want to lead by example and we hope this new voluntary code will foster more sustainable development practices, without putting onerous requirements on new growth.”

Private builders who follow the new code will receive special recognition and assistance from the city, including expedited permit processing and a monument plaque to be installed on the exterior of the building after completion. The new code goes beyond current legal requirements for site development and land use, water conservation, energy conservation, indoor environmental quality and more. You can read the city’s full announcement here.