Tempe is considering adding a voluntary construction code to help developers build in a more sustainable manner.

Based on the International Green Construction Code, Tempe's proposal is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in an effort to cool the local environment, city officials said in a release.

Two public meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 15, one at noon for those who would like to participate via Zoom and the other at 6 p.m. at the Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road

The goal of IgCC is to help developers make their buildings "sustainable, resilient and high performing,” according to a release.

It is an alternative to a conventional construction code and makes nature and climate a priority, guiding developers along the way, officials said.

The proposed codes initially will be voluntary for private development, according to the city, allowing Tempe to test and solicit ideas before exploring the possibility of implementing mandatory codes in the future.

"The proposed code is aligned with the Tempe City Council’s priority to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve community carbon neutrality by 2050,” the release stated.

The Tempe City Council will review changes at an October council meeting. If adopted, the green codes could go into effect in early 2024.

For more: https://www.tempe.gov/government/sustainability-and-resilience/green-codes-and-standards/green-building-code.