Full building decarbonization requires eliminating embodied carbon in addition to achieving net-zero carbon operations. This Stanford BDLA webinar uses the AIA National Headquarters Renovation in Washington, D.C. as a case study for one of the first fully decarbonized major renovations in the US. The team pursued operational carbon through energy efficiency, full electrification, and renewable energy, then tackled embodied carbon by prioritizing building renewal over new construction, rigorous materials analysis, and life-cycle assessment. Remaining embodied emissions are offset through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity, supplying solar panels to 50 homes in Virginia and neutralizing over 8.5 million pounds of CO2. This discussion with EHDD, the project design architect, and Point Energy Innovations, the building systems design engineer, will share lessons learned and practical pathways for AEC teams pursuing full decarbonization on future projects.

Rami Moussa

Rami Moussa is a Managing Principal and co-owner of Point Energy Innovations, where he leads high-performance building engineering with a focus on decarbonization and energy efficiency. As one of the only engineering firms exclusively focused on integrating building decarbonization leadership into the early stages of design-build projects, he continues to push the boundary of cost-effective, low-carbon and forward-thinking solutions. Rami was awarded the top 40 under 40 in the engineering industry this past year and he intends to continue innovating for the crucial decades ahead.

Rebecca Sharkey

Principal at EHDD and an architect for over 25 years, Rebecca is both optimistic and passionate about the power of design to enhance people’s lives and the natural environment for the better. Rebecca prioritizes climate action in her work, with a focus on reimagining existing buildings; strengthening our cultural, financial, and ecological resilience by bringing new life to existing structures, a key tenet of EHDD’s Climate Positive practice. With projects including the renovation of KQED’s Headquarters in the San Francisco and the AIA Headquarters Renewal in Washington DC, Rebecca is dedicated to the possibilities of transforming existing buildings into welcoming, daylit spaces that help people thrive. She has additional expertise in community, cultural, and higher education facilities with an eye to creating sustainable places and spaces that inspire and engage.