An Introduction to the RELi Standard Part 2

As Bradenton contractor lawyers we know that legal disputes can ensue because of unforeseeable weather events. Since the construction industry is susceptible to extreme weather events, there is a need for building methods that allow construction activities to continually progress with minimal effects on the projects themselves. When extreme weather events occur, building with resilience in mind means that buildings and communities will better resist the shock of natural disasters and have a stronger capacity to anticipate, plan, and adapt to unexpected catastrophes.

In part one of our article, we explained what resilient design is and why it is important. In this second part, we will talk about its origins and the current construction projects that are using resilient design.

How Was RELi Developed?

In 2017, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) adopted resilient construction standard RELi. The Institute for Market Transformation to Sustainability, Perkins+Will, and others industry experts partnered to develop RELi. The RELi standard gives projects points in resiliency categories such as “access to emergency supplies, communications and first aid; adaptive design for extreme weather and associated hazards; social equity; resilient and urban food production; and employment.” The RELi standard includes some of USGBC’s LEED practice criteria in its points system; however, it was created as a stand-alone rating system. Although it overlaps with LEED it has not yet been integrated with LEED. It is unclear whether it will be or if it will become its own standard.

Resilient Projects on the Rise for 2018

Natural disasters will intensify with the advance of climate change. Resilient design is vital for building design and construction and to ensure that communities will be sustainable. Currently, resilient projects are on the horizon in areas such as:

  • Miami: To address climate change and rising sea levels, the city is rebuilding major thoroughfares and installing new storm sewers and pumps.
  • Seattle: To resist earthquakes, an 850-foot-tall, rebar-free skyscraper, known as Rainier Square Tower, featuring the first rebar-free concrete core is under construction for a safer, faster, and more cost-effective high-rise construction

For the construction professional, more property owners will likely demand resilient site and structure features. Follow USGBC’s developments for buildings and communities to stay abreast of resiliency criteria and design methods for next-generation communities, buildings, homes, and infrastructures.

If you would like to speak with a Bradenton construction lawyer, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.