Thought Leadership
Welcome from our 2024 Board Chair
2023 was a landmark year for Illinois Green Alliance and net zero buildings. In 2024, it is critical we seize the next opportunity to grow our impact! Last year with your help, Illinois Green Alliance’s events and programs reached over 4,000 people. We redoubled our efforts to advocate for building decarbonization policy – including pitching…
Read MoreHow One Illinois Foundation Catalyzed Net Zero Building Growth
By: Sam Stevens, Communications Intern The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF)’s net zero energy building grant has played a significant role in driving the growth of net zero energy buildings in the state of Illinois in the last decade. However, with the grant’s resources ending, it is essential to explore and create alternative funding…
Read MoreLessons from a Net Zero Building Operator: Management requires continuous monitoring and dedicated staff
By: Sam Stevens, 2023 Communications Intern Completing a net zero building project is an incredible achievement, benefiting not only the owner and designer but also the community. However, the journey doesn’t end there. Managing a net zero building involves continuous system monitoring, an informed and dedicated staff, and adaptability when troubleshooting new technologies. We…
Read MoreWomen in Green Building Recommend…
We asked attendees of our Women in Green Building Leadership Luncheon to share their favorite songs, books, and podcasts that inspire and empower. See what they recommended with our Women in Green playlist and favorites lists below! Books All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis – Edited by Ayana Elizabeth…
Read MoreWelcome from our 2023 Board Chair
Illinois Green has always been about people — the passionate building professionals effecting change in the built environment. Our members represent every perspective in the building industry — from designers to electrical engineers, developers, building operators, and many others committed to sustainability. We’re united by a shared belief in better buildings for everyone, and each…
Read MoreThe Proposed Chicago Energy Transformation Code, Explained
Illinois Green congratulates Mayor Lightfoot & the Chicago Department of Buildings on the introduction of the 2022 Chicago Energy Transformation Code. The proposed code goes beyond the 2021 IECC baseline by adding key advancements that would make meaningful steps towards advancing building electrification. The Chicago Department of Buildings sought feedback from Illinois Green’s Building Professionals…
Read More20 Visions of Our Green Building Future this Earth Day
To celebrate Earth Day this year – the year Illinois Green turns 20 years old – we wanted to share 20 visions and goals for the next 20 years from a few of the Illinois Green Alliance members who have helped get us to where we are today. We hope that you take today to…
Read MoreWelcome from our 2022 Board Chair
In 2021, we launched a new strategic plan that will lay the foundation for net zero buildings across Illinois. We’ve made immense strides in educating building professionals, advancing critical climate policy, and bringing tools and technologies to existing buildings across the state. This year, I’m looking forward to accelerating growth in green building and engaging…
Read MoreWhat the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act Means for Green Buildings
by Brian Imus, Executive Director On September 15, the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act was signed into law by Governor Pritzker. This nation-leading law delivers on the goal of a carbon-free power sector by 2045, increases the Illinois Solar for All program 5-fold, and extends electric efficiency programs beyond 2030. This victory is the result…
Read MoreQ&A with Illinois Green Schools Project Mentors — Uplift Community High School + FGM Architects
by Brian Meade, Nadia Lohse, and Kelly McCaffrey, Green Schools Mentors from FGM Architects The Illinois Green Schools Project, launched last summer, connects educators and students with professional mentors in the green building community. In our pilot cohort, 25 professional mentors were matched with 14 participating schools across the state. As we reach the halfway…
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