Making homes more energy efficient

In September, state building code officials from across the country approved the largest improvement in building codes in recent history. The move will increase the energy efficiency of new homes by as much as 20 percent.

Environment New Mexico and our national federation, Environment America, called for making building codes 30 percent more efficient—a goal that our research showed was feasible with current technology.

To make the case, Environment New Mexico released a white paper in July titled, “Building an Energy-Efficient America.” Later that month, our sister organization Environment Maryland’s Brad Heavner testified before a key congressional committee, urging the federal government to support efforts to improve building efficiency.

“Much work needs to be done to move America toward a future of super-efficient and, better yet, zero-energy buildings,” said Rob Sargent, our federal chief energy advocate. “But this step signifies progress, and we’re happy to see it.”

Saving 1.86 trillion gallons of water

From the crashing roar of white water in the Rockies to the tranquil flow of the Rio Grande, the rivers of the American Southwest are a vital part of the region’s ecology and natural heritage. Unfortunately, these waterways are being drained by out-of-control sprawl, wasteful irrigation methods, and coal-plants that need millions of gallons for cooling.

How much water could be saved if industries moved away from these water-squandering practices? Our September report, “Using Water Wisely”, demonstrates that switching to efficient methods could save up to 1.86 trillion gallons of water per year in six Southwestern states alone. While the report is based on the potential for Southwestern states to cut water use, the potential water-savings can be implemented in states across the country that are grappling with drought.