FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SURVEYS

AIA survey shows misconceptions about causes of greenhouse gas emissions

September 14, 2007—Although buildings produce nearly half of all greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming, a survey released by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) shows that 40 percent of voters believe cars and trucks are the highest contributors, compared to just seven percent who accurately identified buildings as the top cause of emissions.

Studies show that buildings produce 48 percent of dangerous greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change, and that they consume 71 percent of electricity produced at US power plants, says AIA.

Despite these statistics, only aerosol cans finished behind commercial buildings (1 percent) as being identified as the top source for greenhouse gas emissions. Power plants (19 percent) and natural causes (15 percent) were thought to be top contributors, while 10 percent of respondents were not sure what the top cause was and 8 percent responded "other."

This survey was conducted among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 voters in the United States. The survey was developed for the American Institute of Architects by The Tarrance Group and Lake Research Partners. The margin of error for the sample overall is +/-3.1%.

The survey emerges as Congress reconvenes to produce a final energy bill. Energy bills from both the House and the Senate include the AIA's Federal Building policy position, which requires that all new and significantly-renovated buildings owned or leased by the federal government be carbon-neutral by 2030.

For more information, see the AIA Web site.

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