Seattle has recently implemented a groundbreaking law that mandates the reduction of fossil fuels and other greenhouse gas emissions in large commercial and residential buildings. This new regulation, signed into effect by Mayor Bruce Harrell, applies to approximately 4,100 buildings with an area of 20,000 square feet or more. These structures make up only 3% of all buildings in the city but contribute over one-third of total building emissions – second only to transportation.
According to reports from the Seattle Times , this legislation assigns a “greenhouse gas intensity” metric for each building based on its total emissions and square footage. The targeted structures include urban skyscrapers, retail stores, community centers, research facilities offices,and some low-rise apartments.
Under this law,building owners and managers are required to develop a decarbonization plan before 2031. Failure to comply with these regulations or provide accurate reporting may result in penalties.The implementation is projectedto reduce overall building emissions by27% across Seattle by2050 comparedto current levels.
This landmark legislation marks an important step towards reducing greenhouse gasesin Seattle’s built environmentand was spearheadedby Mayor Bruce Harrell’s administration.This development will be closely monitored as it setsa precedentfor future sustainability efforts withinthe city.
