Municipal Efforts
TOWN HALL NATIVE FLOWER BEDS
THE NEW STRETCH BUILDING CODES
Buildings and the construction industry produce 40% of all carbon emissions. On January 1st, 2023, the 10th Edition of the stretch building codes came into effect. These codes will produce healthier buildings that are more energy efficient and ensures that buildings will allow for future electrification and renewable energy generation.
As of July 2024 the HERS rating for new construction is HERS 45 for all electric homes and HERS 42 for homes that use fossil fuel. Note that the lower the HERS score the more efficient the home.
Major alterations and any addition to a home over 1000ft2 must also comply with the new stretch code. Historic buildings have different code requirements.
Check with the Building Commissioner before considering doing work to your home to get advice on the zoning and building code permitting that is required prior to undertaking work on your home.
Here are videos that discuss the new code:
Residential Code
Commercial Code
GREEN COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITY CHOICE AGGREGATION
Members of the committee are part of the Community Choice Aggregation Contracts Administration team that negotiate with suppliers. The ESC promotes the adoption of renewable energy as the default and advocates for upgrading to the 100% Mass Renewable option.
GAS LEAKS IN CARLISLE
There are more than 26 un-repaired gas leaks in Carlisle that emit the equivalent of 700 metric tons of C02 into the atmosphere (Source: HEET). Such gas leaks can also be harmful to trees and vegetation.
National Grid is not required to fix small gas leaks, but these leaks still emit methane gas. You can check where gas leaks have been reported on the HEET maps. If you smell gas indoors, exit the building immediately and and call 1-800-233-5325 or 911 .
GREENOUGH BARN DECONSTRUCTION
The ESC was instrumental in having the warrant article for the removal of the Greenough Barn altered from demolition to deconstruction, so that as many materials as possible would be salvaged.
However the ESC recognizes that it is best practice to find a use for existing buildings rather than removing them due to the embodied carbon within the building materials.
HANSCOM AIRPORT EXTENSION
Hanscom Airport Extension is not within the ESC purview; however, the Committee recognizes the significant environmental impact and increase in carbon emissions of 81 new private jet storage spaces.