New 2030 District report shows Pittsburgh nearing voluntary sustainability goals

According to the Green Building Alliance's new report, Pittsburgh 2030 District is still focusing on its sustainability goals.

The report for 2022 shows that the Pittsburgh 2030 District has more than 550 structures and 87.1 millions square feet. This district includes the greater downtown, Oakland, and other areas. It also represents a wide range of building types including office towers and hotels.

The GBA reports that the partners involved in the 2030 district mission have reduced carbon emission by 44.8% under baseline. This puts it within range of reaching the target goal of 50% to 65% of carbon emissions reduction before 2030 and working towards zero carbon emissions in 2040.

This goal is set to coincide with the climate science targets set out by the Paris Agreement of 2014, where countries are required to reduce C02 emissions from the built environment between 50% and 65% by 2030.

Chris Cieslak is the chief operating officer of the Green Building Alliance and vice president for programs. In a prepared press release, he called Pittsburgh's progress, which was achieved almost entirely on a voluntary basis, "truly incredible." He also called on the state legislators to help "boost this progress," saying that Pennsylvania lags behind other states.

He praised initiatives such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and a Clean Energy Standard. He also emphasized the strengthening of Act 129 energy-efficiency programs, and the funding for the Whole Homes Repair Act.

This new report highlights the financial savings that can be made by such efforts.