Several Marin County jurisdictions and agencies are addressing the global climate emergency by modifying green building codes, and a free online public event Wednesday, June 22, will provide answers to all sorts of questions.

The videoconference, set for 6 p.m., is a chance to learn, discuss, and help shape Marin’s Proposed 2022 Green Building Model Code and Ordinance. Residents are invited along with representatives from community-based organizations, businesses, special districts, and local governments.

The event will be hosted by the County of Marin, the City of San Rafael, the Town of San Anselmo, and the Marin-based not-for-profit provider of sustainably produced electricity, MCE. Registration is open through June 21.

The event organizers are among those shaping Marin’s ambitious green building efforts to exceed State of California minimum standards, otherwise known as a “reach code.” The countywide effort to update green building codes began September 2021 and ideally will culminate in the County Board of Supervisors and local town and city councils to adopt an ordinance by October 2022. The amended building code would go into effect January 1, 2023, to correspond with the state’s new standards.

At the June 22 online event, featured speakers and experts plan to go over the building policies and technology that will help Marin County realize its commitment to climate action and carbon emission reductions. Participants will be provided ample time to ask questions of the invited experts, and all feedback will be documented and considered toward the development of a draft ordinance that all local governments in Marin can leverage to meet climate action goals.

The County’s Sustainability Team, a division of the Community Development Agency, works to support healthy, safe, and sustainable communities while preserving Marin’s environmental heritage. The team has developed programs to promote renewable energy, address climate change, encourage green building, recognize green businesses, and implement energy efficiency projects in County schools, special districts and cities and towns. The policies and programs help ensure that life in Marin is healthy, vibrant, and sustainable.

Stay connected with the Sustainability Team via on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, the event webpage for workshops and community events and the quarterly newsletter. Contact the office via email with questions on our programs or to request more information.