November Prompt: The Ethics of Green Washing

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November Prompt: The Ethics of Green Washing

Modern Ethics

Created by the BSA Ethics Committee

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As part of a recent AIA Unbuilt Projects Award submission, a local project claimed that it was projected to achieve multiple sustainability certifications –Living Building Challenge, AIA 2030 Challenge, LEED, WELL, etc. One of the jurors was incredulous of these claims – in particular, the assertion that the project would achieve the Living Building Challenge Water Petal. Having just completed a Living Building Challenge (LBC) project, he understood how difficult it is to achieve LBC’s Net Positive Water mandates in this state in particular, where the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority has very strict regulations governing greywater harvesting, blackwater treatment and mandatory municipal water system connectivity.

What does the AIA Code of Ethics have to say about greenwashing? As the jury considers this award submission, which principles from the AIA’s 2020 Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct might guide their response?

A. Rule 3.301: Members shall not intentionally or recklessly mislead existing or prospective clients about the results that can be achieved through the use of the Member’ services, nor shall the Members state that they can achieve results by means that violate applicable law or this Code.

B. Rule 4.101: Members having substantial information which leads to a reasonable belief that another Member has committed a violation of this Code which raises a serious question as to that Member’s honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a Member, shall file a complaint with the National Ethics Council.

C. E.S. 6.1 Energy conservation: Members should set ambitious performance goals for greenhouse gas emission reduction with their clients for each project.

D. E.S. 6.2 Water Use: Members should optimize water conservation in each project to reduce water use and protect water supply, water quality, and watershed resources.

Please elaborate on why you selected this AIA Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct *

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