Built Environment Plus

Carbon and Energy Roundtable
2023-11-16 15:00 - 16:00, 2023-12-21 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Carbon and Energy Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to carbon and energy in buildings.
Reach out to carbonenergy@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

*Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
**New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Health and Wellness Roundtable
2023-11-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Health and Wellness Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to healthy buildings.
Reach out to wellness@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

*Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
**New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Energy Codes and Trends
2023-11-28 15:00 - 17:00 | Virtual Event
This course will cover many rapidly evolving elements of sustainable design with particular attention to energy codes and trends applicable in Massachusetts. Topics will include the new Stretch Energy Code, local regulatory requirements such as BERDO and Zero Carbon Zoning, and trends in Net Zero design.
This course is taught by Michelle Fennell, BR+A and Ari Greenberg, BR+A.

Learning Objectives
1. Identify major changes to the latest version of the energy code as their impacts on architectural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems.
2. Compare energy codes across the country for both new buildings and renovations.
3. Summarize building energy trends, both those found in codes and those pushing the envelope on sustainable design.
4. Predict how the energy code changes and new energy efficiency strategies will impact a new project not yet designed.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 7th, 2023
The express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID# 1131197

Background photo by NASA on Unsplash.

Certified Passive House Consultant CPHC® Training (Phius)
2023-12-04 | Virtual Event
Phase I: Complete prior to December 4th

Self-guided content (allot 2-3 months, 50-60 hours)

Phase II: December 4th to December 15th

(8) 3-Hour Live Online Sessions

About the ClassThis training is intended for Architects and Engineers. CPHCs learn to design to the Phius Certification climate-specific building standard. Projects earning Phius certifications (Phius CORE, Phius ZERO and Phius REVIVE) follow RESNET QA/QC protocols and achieve excellent HERS scores, US Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home status, and adhere to EPA indoor airPLUS requirements.
PART 2 REGISTRATION IS LIMITED: It is strongly recommended that you register 2-3 months prior to the Phase II start date you desire to be assured a spot.
Express Grant EligibilityEmployers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. In order to be eligible for Express Program grant reimbursement, an Express Program grant application must be submitted no fewer than 21 days before the live-session start date, and you must register for the course through BE+, not Phius. The cost of the certification exam is not covered by the Express Grant Program, and must be paid for out-of-pocket by the company.

About Phius
Phius (Passive House Institute US) trains and certifies professionals, maintains the Phius climate-specific passive building standard, certifies and quality assures passive buildings, certifies high-performance building products and conducts research to advance high-performance building. Phius established the CPHC program in 2008 to distinguish accomplished passive building professionals in the marketplace. CPHC ® is a registered certification mark of Phius used with permission.

Learning Objectives
1. Learn the principles of passive building design: heat transfer, air-tightness, thermal bridge free detailing, super-insulation, high-efficiency ventilation, moisture control.
2. Perform passive house verification using WUFI® Passive, the next-generation dynamic modeling tool developed in partnership with Fraunhofer IBP and Owens Corning.
3. Perform energy modeling by completing an entire project including energy balancing (static and dynamic).
4. Implement high performance building science principles and passive house techniques in residential, commercial, and retrofit scenarios across all North American climate zones.
5. Study built examples—including mechanical systems—for each North American climate zone.
6. Learn about suitable materials and components available in local U.S. and Canadian markets, and details for passive house applications according to climate.
7. Learn the best air tightness strategies, thermal bridge free detailing, and how to evaluate your design in THERM.
8. Learn how to assure quality and performance for your client from the design process through construction using Phius Certification and QA/QC.

Course Enrollment Structure: Phase I and Phase II
Phase I Enrollment
Upon registration and payment, BE+ will send you a link to set up a PHIUS account and start the course on the PHIUS website. If you previously completed training through the Phius Training site, sign into the Training site using your existing username and password
You will have access to the Phase I self-guided training materials for 12 months from your time of registration. This includes access to the Phase I Online Exam as well, 1 of the 2 required exams for CPHC® certification. The online exam can be taken at a time of your choosing, but must be completed within the 12 month window, and must be completed in one sitting. Additional information about the exam can be found on the Phius training site.
Phase I of the CPHC training comprises a series of pre-recorded online virtual sessions taught by expert instructors, collected readings, recommended resources, and quizzes; altogether comprising about 50-60 hours of learning material. Enrollees have access to Phase I materials for 12 months.
Phase II Enrollment
The second phase of CPHC training focuses on design exercises, and WUFI Passive and THERM software training. Both Phase I and II are required to successfully complete the course and to be eligible to take the final exam. Phase II also includes group projects, homework assignments and online tutorials.
All Phase II sessions will be held live online unless otherwise noted. Phase II consists of eight 3-hour instructor-led training sessions across 2 weeks followed by a design exam. See Training Schedule below.
ExamYou will be enrolled in the Phase II Design Exam that opens at the end of your Phase II session. The exam is due 4 weeks after it opens, and typically takes 20-25 hours to complete.

Training Schedule
Phase I: Self-Guided ContentStart 6-8 weeks prior to Phase II start date
Phase II: Live-Online ContentDecember 4th – 15th
Session 1: Monday, December 4th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 2: Tuesday, December 5th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 3: Thursday, December 7th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 4: Friday, December 8th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 5: Monday, December 11th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 6: Tuesday, December 12th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 7: Thursday, December 14th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 7: Friday, December 15th | 12:00-3:00pm
Exam: You will be enrolled in the Phase II Design Exam that opens at the end of your Phase II session.

Education Credits
Phius is an AIA National, International, and Distance CES Provider.Phase I: Earn 40 LU/HSW unitsPhase II: Earn 40 LU/HSW units
Phius CPHC Training is approved by GBCIEarn 32 CEU
Continuing education credits are available from the Building Performance InstituteEarn 37.13 CE credits

Technology and Course Requirements
Phase II focuses on energy modeling using WUFI Passive Software. WUFI Passive requires Windows OS. If you use a Mac, you must have a working copy of Windows installed. Mac users need to purchase and install VMWare Fusion, Bootcamp, or Parallels, along with a Windows operating system. VMWare Fusion is recommended.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 13th, 2023
Grant deadline: November 13th
Employers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. Please note that you must submit an Express Grant application minimum of 21 days out from the live training start date. Complete an Express Grant application here.
$1,950.00 is eligible for grant funding. (The total course cost is $2,100. $150 is the cost of the exam and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company).
The Express Grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
Course ID#: 1134101Course provider: Built Environment PlusCourse cost: $1,950.00Cost type: Tuition

Phius Certified Builder (CPHB) Training
2023-12-04 | Virtual Event
(8) 3-Hour Sessions from December 4th to 15th

About the Class
The Phius Certified Builder Certification is for tradespeople and construction professionals with field experience in construction and/or high performance building. This training prepares construction professionals to understand passive building techniques — airtight enclosures, high-performance window installation, passive design strategies, field quality assurance, and site management. For a project pursuing Phius Certification, these professionals ensure the building is built and operating to the plans and specifications. They are responsible for executing air-sealing and thermal bridge mitigation. This training is delivered live, online over 8 days.
The cost of the certification exam is not covered by the Express Grant Program, and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company.
Registration closes on November 20th.

About Phius
Phius (Passive House Institute US) trains and certifies professionals, maintains the Phius climate-specific passive building standard, certifies and quality assures passive buildings, certifies high-performance building products and conducts research to advance high-performance building.

Training Schedule
Session 1: Monday, December 4th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 2: Tuesday, December 5th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 3: Thursday, December 7th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 4: Friday, December 8th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 5: Monday, December 11th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 6: Tuesday, December 12th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 7: Thursday, December 14th – 12:00-3:00pmSession 8: Friday, December 15th – 12:00-3:00pm

Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 13th, 2023
Grant deadline: November 13th
Please note that you must submit an Express Grant application minimum of 21 days out from the live training start date. Complete an Express Grant application here.
$1,400.00 is eligible for grant funding. (The total course cost is $1,550. $150 is the cost of the exam and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company).
The Express Grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
Course ID#: 1146564

Phius Certified Rater Training (3 Part Course)
2023-12-04 | Virtual Event
Three 3-Hour Sessions on December 4th, 6th, & 8th.
Phius Certified Raters focus on single-family residential projects. The course is geared toward experienced RESNET and BPI professionals, and provides grounding in passive building principles as well as a guide to onsite quality assurance for the Phius Certification program. This training is delivered live, online over three days. Each session is three hours. Approximately 8 hours of self-guided material is provided before the first session for review. Training is open to all. Knowledge of HERs rating practices, and experience with Energy Star Homes, Indoor airPLUS and DOE ZERH Programs is helpful. Those who wish to pursue certification after training must meet the certification exam prerequisites, apply for the certification exam, and be approved to complete the exam.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will gain the knowledge needed to:
Identify Phius design strategies
Identify Phius mechanical/ventilation systems
Perform on-site QA and integration of prerequisite programs; Energy Star Homes, Indoor airPLUS and DOE ZERH
Perform site inspection and testing protocols and Phius Certification deliverables
Submit a Phius project for certification

Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 13th, 2023
The express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID# 1143064

Background photo by Luke Chesser on Unsplash.

Women in Green
2023-12-06 09:00 - 12:00 | Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
Leveraging our intergenerational community of womenfor continuous learning and collective progress
OUR BIGGEST WOMEN IN GREEN EVENT OF THE YEAR!

Visit the Women in Green 2023 Webpage

Decarbonize Existing Buildings Alliance
2023-12-06 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Decarbonize Existing Buildings Alliance hosted monthly roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to decarbonizing existing buildings.
Reach out to communications@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.
Existing buildings are major contributors to climate change. In 2015, existing residential and commercial buildings generated 1,913.3 MMtCO2e, or 29 percent of total U.S. emissions. To help address this sector, Built Environment Plus (BE+) with Rethinking Power Management LLC (RPM) are spearheading a coalition of organizations with expertise in GHG reduction and who are committed to supporting decarbonization in existing buildings.
This reoccurring monthly gathering is a roundtable which serves as a platform where practitioners and reporting entities can come together to discuss best practices, technologies, challenges, hear information related to the ordinance and its implementation, etc.
The Alliance’s objectives include:
– Increase awareness of energy disclosure ordinances including BERDO and BEUDO and enhance understanding of requirements.
– Provide information and resources to reporting organizations that answer “how do we comply” questions through general and building-sector specific webinars.
– Engage disadvantaged/underserved communities.
– Share best practices and lessons learned.
– Provide resources to building owners to help understand decarbonization pathways and create carbon reduction roadmaps.
– Work with non-profit partners to provide information about/introductions to established practitioners.

*Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
**New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Living Future Roundtable
2023-12-07 09:00 - 10:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Living Future Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss topics and issues related to International Living Future Institute (ILFI) programs.
Reach out to livingfuture@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

*Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
**New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Intro to Designing a Net Zero Building
2023-12-12 15:00 - 17:00 | Virtual Event
Participants will learn the components of net zero. It may seem out of reach, but firms are turning these hurdles into opportunities. Join us as we examine case studies, detailing integrated systems and creative solutions that make NZE a reality. This course is intended for building industry professionals. It can be held virtually or in-person and is a combination of presentation and discussion.
This course is taught by Ari Greenberg and Michael Swenson, BR+A.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by November 21st, 2023
The express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID# 1131177

Background photo above is of the John J. Sbrega Health and Science Building via BR+A taken by ©Edward Caruso

Lead Carpenter Training (4 Part Course)
2024-01-09 15:00 - 16:30 | Virtual Event
Four 1-1/2 Hour Sessions on January 9th, 16th, 23rd, & 30th.
About the Class
Lead Carpenter Training is for current and aspiring leads who are looking to build their management and leadership skills. In four 1-1/2 Hour Sessions on January 9th, 16th, 23rd, & 30th, we will explore what it means to be a lead carpenter- the job description, how to set a project up for success, and how to lead a team. We’ll also provide a portfolio of sample documents to support your process. This training is geared towards current and aspiring lead carpenters, site leads, and site supervisors in the construction trades. Our focus is on residential custom construction, although the concepts apply to many types of construction.
Registration closes on December 19th.

About HELM
HELM offers innovative business consulting, coaching, project management, and training services. Our experienced team members work with owners, designers, and builders to create high-performance buildings and businesses throughout North America. Our purpose is to revolutionize the construction industry, centering the triple bottom line principles of planet, people, and prosperity to become a catalyst for climate justice.

Learning Objectives
1. Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Lead Carpenter
2. Review strategies for team leadership
3. Develop methods for successfully performing recurring tasks
4. Develop methods for managing schedules, resources, and communication

4 Sessions
Session #1 (1/9) – Project Set-Up (aka Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance)
Session #2 (1/16) – Project Execution (aka Eyes on the Prize(s))
Session #3 (1/23) – Project Closeout (aka It’s Not Over Until…)
Session #4 (1/30) – Open Discussion, Question, and Answer
Sessions will be offered via Zoom on four consecutive Tuesdays from 3:00-4:30pm. Registration is limited to keep the group small and allow for lots of discussion and small group breakouts. Attending all sessions in real-time is strongly encouraged, however, we will be recording the sessions.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by December 19th, 2023
Funding Grants Available: Submit by December 19th, 2023
The express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID# 1135459

Health and Wellness Roundtable
2024-01-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Health and Wellness Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to healthy buildings.
Reach out to wellness@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

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Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Certified Passive House Designer (PHI) Training
2024-01-18 | Virtual Event
About the Class
This course provides tools, techniques and tips for how to build via passive house principles for all building types, diving into Passive House building concepts and building a foundation of knowledge and skills to integrate PHI building design standards into building projects. This course is specifically designed to teach the international Passive House Standard (PHI) to design and construction professionals in the U.S. and is required prior to taking the CPHD/C professional certification exam. It can be held online or in person, and is a combination of presentation and discussion.
This 8 week training includes live online training and Q&A sessions and followed by 4 to 5 weeks of exam prep. Trainees who successfully complete the training are eligible to take the certification exam the final week of the course. Additional course materials including access to the on-demand Using PHPP in Passive House Design and Certification course, Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) software individual license, and supplemental exam preparation materials are also provided.
The total cost for the course is $2,295. $1400 is covered by the Express Grant, and an additional $895 fee for on-demand course materials and the certification exam is not covered by the Express Grant and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company.
Background photo above is by Steve Pancrate on Unsplash.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Outline the basic building science principles of the Passive House Standard.
Determine strategies for implementing the principles in both design and construction phases.
Describe the role of the Passive House energy model and its relationship to component selection, detailing and execution.
Explain basic energy calculations based on typical building assemblies.

Training Schedule
Week 1 & 2: Modules 1 & 2January 18th, 2024 | 12 – 1 PM ET Kickoff
Week 3: Module 3 – 5February 1st, 2024 | 12 – 1 PM ET Q&A Session
Week 4: Modules 6February 8th, 2024 | 12 – 3 PM ET Webinar
Week 5: Modules 7 – 9February 15th, 2024 | 12 – 1 PM ET Q&A Session
Week 6: Module 10 – 12February 22nd, 2024 | 12 – 1 PM ET Q&A Session
Week 7: Module 13February 29th, 2024 | 12 – 3 PM ET Webinar
Week 8: Module 14Week of March 4th, 2024
Weeks 9: Module 15Week of March 11th, 2024
Week 10: Access Exam Prep ModulesWeek of March 18th, 2024
Week 11: Exam ReviewMarch 28th, 2024 | 12 – 2PM ET
Week 12: Tech SetupApril 3rd, 2024 | 10 AM – 11 AM ET
Week 13: PHI CPHD/C Live-Online ExamApril 10th, 2024 | 10 AM – 1 PM ET

Technology and Course Requirements
Live-Online courses require a personal computer or laptop with a good internet connection, speed, and audio listening capabilities. A web-camera is preferred for Live-Online sessions. Preferred web browsers are Firefox, Chrome, or Chromium-based browsers.
A Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) software individual license is provided.
For PHN On-Demand courses all lessons, topics, and quizzes must be marked complete; any required webinars must be attended; and the post-training survey must be completed. For In-Person & Live-Online multi-day courses, no more than 2 hours can be missed to receive a course completion certificate. This course will prepare you for PHI’s Certified Passive House Designer / Consultant exam.

Education Credits
35 AIA LU/HSW credits & certificate of completion. AIA credits for Live-Online and In-Person Sessions will be reported to AIA by Passive House Network (PHN) if a participant provides their AIA number during registration. All other participants can use the certificate of completion to report continuing education credits either to AIA, or other agencies that recognize the AIA CE credits.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by December 28th, 2023
The express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
The total cost for the course is $2,295. $1400 is covered by the Express Grant, and an additional $895 fee for on-demand course materials and the certification exam is not covered by the Express Grant and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID# 1135246

Carbon & Energy Roundtable
2024-01-18 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Carbon and Energy Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to carbon and energy in buildings.
Reach out to carbonenergy@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Emerging Professionals 2024 Kickoff
2024-01-18 17:30 - 19:30 | Hub Pub, 18 Province Street, Boston, MA, 02108, United States
Join the Emerging Professionals Community for our 2024 kickoff event!
Come to our first in-person event of the year to network, meet community members, and hear about what we have planned for 2024. It’s a great time to get involved! This event is FREE, so attendees will be responsible for their food + beverage orders. Please share with your networks and bring friends!
Reach out to ryan@builtenvironmentplus.org with any questions.
Location:Hub Pub – 18 Province Street, Boston, MA 02108
This event is free for Emerging Professionals.
This event was planned and is hosted, by the BE+ Emerging Professionals Community

BE+ Embodied Carbon Challenge Office Hours
2024-01-24 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
Reps from Built Environment Plus, MassCEC, and Brightworks Sustainability will be online and available to answer questions about the Embodied Carbon Challenge. Bring your questions about Resources and Tools (Having trouble accessing your LCA software? Unsure where to find LCA tips and tricks?), Education and Training (What are the requirements? What does my team lead need to complete?), project submission requirements (WBLCA, project GSF minimum…), and general questions about the ECC (what’s this all about?!).
This is a great opportunity to learn more and best position your project team for success in the Embodied Carbon Challenge.

Background photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash.

2024 Annual General Meeting
2024-01-25 17:00 - 20:00 | Fort Point Room, Atlantic Wharf, 290 Congress St, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
Date: January 25th, 2024 | Time: 5:00pm – 8:00pm | Location: Atlantic Wharf | Fort Point Room
It’s that time of the year again when we all come together to celebrate the members, volunteers, and successes that make our BE+ community amazing! We’re ringing in the new year with board elections and an award ceremony for our members.

Visit the 2023 Annual General Meeting Webpage

“Easy” Wins for Embodied Carbon Reduction
2024-01-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
There are many opportunities to reduce the embodied carbon of your building’s design, but it can be hard to know where to start. Questions such as “What tools do I use?” “What if I’ve already started design?” “How much will this all cost?” can easily stand in the way of taking action. In this presentation, we will present a variety of proven strategies to reduce embodied carbon that can be implemented into your next – or even your current – project without requiring extensive LCA modeling. If you are looking to start implementing low carbon solutions into your building and are looking for some strategies to get started, this is the presentation for you. Opportunities in the design process, in material selection, and in project specifications will all be addressed, as well as your questions. Join us and start reducing your project’s embodied carbon footprint today!

Background photo by Tiard Schulz on Unsplash.

Click Here to Take the Quiz

Living Future Roundtable
2024-02-01 09:00 - 10:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Living Future Roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss topics and issues related to International Living Future Institute (ILFI) programs.
Reach out to livingfuture@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

We often talk about the indelible link between climate change and social justice, but usually we’re speaking in abstract terms – such as how planetary warming will impact the global south. In this month’s conversation, we’ll bring the focus home by discussing the connection between combustion-sourced heating systems, the respiratory health of our neighbors in Roxbury, and how community engagement shaped BERDO 2.0.
We’ll be joined by Sofia Owen and Dwaign Tyndal, who are the Staff Attorney and Executive Director of Alternatives for Community and Environment (ACE). As the BERDO regulations solidify, Sofia is continuing to engage the community and advocate for the most equitable version of the final regulation language. If you’re eager to dive into this topic, we’re sharing a skit created by our fellow advocates at One Square World. This video series follows the journey of a renter as she learns about the dangers of building emissions and how taking action to shape policies like BERDO 2.0 can make a difference

Watch the Video Here

Speakers
Sofía Owens is ACE’s Senior Attorney and the Director of the Environmental Justice Legal Services Program. She has a J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law, a Masters in Environmental law and Policy from Vermont Law School, and a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania. When not at work, Sofia organizes with the Deeper Than Water coalition and volunteers with the Boston chapter of Black & Pink. She enjoys practicing yoga and watching soccer, particularly the US Women’s National Team and the Uruguayan national teams.

Dwaign Tyndal has over twenty-five years of professional experience in economic development, community and neighborhood development, youth development and workforce development. Throughout his professional experience, Dwaign has effectively led capable and diverse teams and has also been able to communicate complex public policies to various stakeholders to show how community-based partnerships can build stronger communities and empower residents and businesses to take active roles in their neighborhoods.

Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Construction Business Basics
2024-02-06 | Virtual Event
Twelve 2 Hour Sessions from February 6th to April 23rd.
About the Class
This multi-session course covers all the essentials of running your own construction business with a focus on the Triple Bottom Line (People, Planet, and Prosperity). Assess where your company is today, create a vision for the future, and take action to make your business more efficient, productive, and profitable. This training is designed for small business owners and members of your management team who are looking for a solid grounding in the basics of running a successful construction business. Each session is a combination of presentation, small group discussion, and Q&A. Each session is intended to help you apply what you are learning to your own business and develop a vision and action plan.
Registration closes on January 23rd.

About HELM
HELM offers innovative business consulting, coaching, project management, and training services. Our experienced team members work with owners, designers, and builders to create high-performance buildings and businesses throughout North America. Our purpose is to revolutionize the construction industry, centering the triple bottom line principles of planet, people, and prosperity to become a catalyst for climate justice.

What to Expect
Sessions will be held weekly via Zoom, every Tuesday from February 6th through April 23rd from 3:00-5:00 pm. We ask that all participants plan to join the Zoom session 5 minutes before the scheduled start time so we can begin promptly.
Each session will be 2 hours long, with a combination of presentation, small group discussion, and Q&A. Each weekly Zoom session is paired with a homework assignment to help you apply what you are learning to your own business and develop your vision and action plan. Each homework assignment will take roughly one and a half hours to complete.
At the end of the 12-week Basics series you will have:
• A 5-year vision for your business, with goals and actions to get you started
• A 2024 operating budget template to calculate the target gross profit margin for your business
• Access to the HELM Resource Library, with articles specifically curated for construction business owners and templates to help you manage your business activities and improve your performance
• Recordings and presentation materials from the Basics sessions for future reference
• A personalized one-on-one session with one of HELM’s business consultants

12 Sessions
Session #1 (2/6) – Your Business Vision, Mission, Principles
Session #2 (2/13) – Your Leadership Style & Your Vision
Session #3 (2/20) – Financial Planning & Reporting
Session #4 (2/27) – Sales & Pre-Construction
Session #5 (3/5) – Pre-Construction Phases
Session #6 (3/12) – Project Management Responsibilities & Strategies
Session #7 (3/19) – Estimating
Session #8 (3/26) – Job Cost Accounting
Session #9 (4/2) – Building Your Team – Hiring & Onboarding
Session #10 (4/9) – Operating Budget
Session #11 (4/16) – Communicating Your Vision
Session #12 (4/23) – Small Group Presentations

Funding Grants Available: Submit by January 16th, 2024
Funding Grants Available: Submit by January 16th, 2024
The Express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID#1135317

Decarbonize Existing Buildings Alliance
2024-02-07 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual Event
Join the BE+ Decarbonize Existing Buildings Alliance hosted monthly roundtable, a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to discuss issues related to decarbonizing existing buildings.
Reach out to communications@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members.
New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Embodied Carbon in Concrete and Wood
2024-02-08 15:00 - 17:00 | Virtual Event
This course looks at the carbon and environmental impacts of concrete and wood building materials, how they have improved over the years, and where they still fall short. We’ll focus on concrete’s carbon emissions problem and solutions, cement and concrete alternatives (including supplementary cementitious materials), and building code changes. We’ll also look at wood building materials, including mass timber and other engineered products. Forestry’s carbon accounting and environmental impacts are complicated and in flux, so we’ll dig in to some of those challenges, the state of forestry certifications, and life-cycle data/environmental product declarations. Discussion is encouraged.
The course is taught by Brent Ehrlich, Product & Materials Specialist, and Paula Melton, Editorial Director, at BuildingGreen.

Learning Objectives
• Participants will learn the carbon impacts of cement and the importance of low-carbon concrete.• Participants will learn about low-carbon concrete alternatives and how code changes can allow for their use.• Participants will learn about engineered wood products and their benefits and limitations.• Participants will learn about the current state of forest certifications and how our understanding of these is impacting wood’s embodied carbon.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by January 18th, 2024
The Express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID#1148973

Background photo by Bri Tucker on Unsplash

Emerging Professionals Roundtable
2024-02-08 17:30 - 19:00 | enviEnergy, 100 Summer Street, Boston, MA, United States
Emerging Professionals Roundtable
Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm | Location: enviENERGY Studio, 100 Summer Street, Suite 1600, Boston, MA
Join the BE+ Emerging Professionals Community for our monthly Roundtable. We will discuss upcoming Emerging Professionals events, and network over pizza and drinks. Registration is free for BE+ Members and Emerging Professionals.

Emerging Professionals Media Club
2024-02-15 16:30 - 17:30 | Virtual Event
Emerging Professionals Media Club
This event is for anyone interested in podcasts, economics, and climate solutions!
The BE+ spin on a bookclub! The Emerging Professionals Media Club will host recurring, multimodal discussions around sustainability topics. Please review the media below prior to the event and come ready to discuss!
February Topic: Tiny Homes + Sustainable Home Ownership
Topic description: A lot of us rent at the moment and as emerging professionals soon we may be in the housing market so this introduces some ideas for what a home could look like in a sustainable future and how they’re built.What is an Earthship? (Article)This Earthship is the Ultimate Self-Sufficient Urban Home! (Video)

This event was planned, and hosted, by the Emerging Professionals Planning Committee.Background photo by Dillion Shook on Unsplash.

Women in Green Roundtable
2024-02-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
The BE+ Women in Green Roundtable is a venue for architects, designers, construction managers, and sustainability professionals to collaborate as Women in the industry.
Reach out to womeningreen@builtenvironmentplus.org with any inquiries, questions, or concerns.

Roundtables are FREE for Built Environment Plus Members
New to the Roundtables? Join as a Newcomer, and come visit up to 3 times for FREE. After that, consider becoming a BE+ Member, or purchase general admission to return as you like.

Intro to Living Building Challenge
2024-02-29 09:00 - 11:00 | Virtual Event
About the Class
This training course will provide an overview of the Living Building Challenge – a philosophy, advocacy tool and certification program that addresses development at all scales. Students will understand the basic philosophy of the Living Building Challenge and key components of the program. They will be able to discuss the rationale for restorative design principles and identify and locate the resources provided by ILFI for deeper engagement. This primarily lecture-based course can be either in person or virtual. Building Practitioners and Owners wanting to engage in a regenerative future would benefit from this course.
This course is taught by Jim Newman, Principal at Linnean Solutions.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by February 8th, 2024
Funding Grants Available: Submit by February 8th, 2024
The Express grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
You could take this training for FREE. Complete an Express Grant Application.
Course ID#1131180

Background photo by Bernard Hermant on Unsplash

Certified Passive House Consultant CPHC® Training (Phius)
2024-03-04 | Virtual Event
Phase I: Complete prior to March 4th

Self-guided content (allot 2-3 months, 50-60 hours)

Phase II: March 4th to March 15th

(8) 3-Hour Live Online Sessions

About the ClassThis training is intended for Architects and Engineers. CPHCs learn to design to the Phius Certification climate-specific building standard. Projects earning Phius certifications (Phius CORE, Phius ZERO and Phius REVIVE) follow RESNET QA/QC protocols and achieve excellent HERS scores, US Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home status, and adhere to EPA indoor airPLUS requirements.
Express Grant EligibilityEmployers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. In order to be eligible for Express Program grant reimbursement, an Express Program grant application must be submitted no fewer than 21 days before the live-session start date, and you must register for the course through BE+, not Phius. The cost of the certification exam is not covered by the Express Grant Program, and must be paid for out-of-pocket by the company.

About Phius
Phius (Passive House Institute US) trains and certifies professionals, maintains the Phius climate-specific passive building standard, certifies and quality assures passive buildings, certifies high-performance building products and conducts research to advance high-performance building. Phius established the CPHC program in 2008 to distinguish accomplished passive building professionals in the marketplace. CPHC ® is a registered certification mark of Phius used with permission.

Learning Objectives
1. Learn the principles of passive building design: heat transfer, air-tightness, thermal bridge free detailing, super-insulation, high-efficiency ventilation, moisture control.
2. Perform passive house verification using WUFI® Passive, the next-generation dynamic modeling tool developed in partnership with Fraunhofer IBP and Owens Corning.
3. Perform energy modeling by completing an entire project including energy balancing (static and dynamic).
4. Implement high performance building science principles and passive house techniques in residential, commercial, and retrofit scenarios across all North American climate zones.
5. Study built examples—including mechanical systems—for each North American climate zone.
6. Learn about suitable materials and components available in local U.S. and Canadian markets, and details for passive house applications according to climate.
7. Learn the best air tightness strategies, thermal bridge free detailing, and how to evaluate your design in THERM.
8. Learn how to assure quality and performance for your client from the design process through construction using Phius Certification and QA/QC.

Course Enrollment Structure: Phase I and Phase II
Phase I Enrollment
Upon registration and payment, BE+ will send you a link to set up a PHIUS account and start the course on the PHIUS website. If you previously completed training through the Phius Training site, sign into the Training site using your existing username and password
You will have access to the Phase I self-guided training materials for 12 months from your time of registration. This includes access to the Phase I Online Exam as well, 1 of the 2 required exams for CPHC® certification. The online exam can be taken at a time of your choosing, but must be completed within the 12 month window, and must be completed in one sitting. Additional information about the exam can be found on the Phius training site.
Phase I of the CPHC training comprises a series of pre-recorded online virtual sessions taught by expert instructors, collected readings, recommended resources, and quizzes; altogether comprising about 50-60 hours of learning material. Enrollees have access to Phase I materials for 12 months.
Phase II Enrollment
The second phase of CPHC training focuses on design exercises, and WUFI Passive and THERM software training. Both Phase I and II are required to successfully complete the course and to be eligible to take the final exam. Phase II also includes group projects, homework assignments and online tutorials.
All Phase II sessions will be held live online unless otherwise noted. Phase II consists of eight 3-hour instructor-led training sessions across 2 weeks followed by a design exam. See Training Schedule below.
ExamYou will be enrolled in the Phase II Design Exam that opens at the end of your Phase II session. The exam is due 4 weeks after it opens, and typically takes 20-25 hours to complete.

Training Schedule
Phase I: Self-Guided ContentStart 6-8 weeks prior to Phase II start date
Phase II: Live-Online ContentMarch 4th – 15th
Session 1: Monday, March 4th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 2: Tuesday, ,March 5th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 3: Thursday, March 7th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 4: Friday, March 8th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 5: Monday, March 11th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 6: Tuesday, March 12th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 7: Thursday, March 14th | 12:00-3:00pmSession 7: Friday, March 15th | 12:00-3:00pm
Exam: You will be enrolled in the Phase II Design Exam that opens at the end of your Phase II session.

Education Credits
Phius is an AIA National, International, and Distance CES Provider.Phase I: Earn 50 LU/HSW unitsPhase II: Earn 24 LU/HSW units
Phius CPHC Training is approved by GBCIEarn 32 CEU
Continuing education credits are available from the Building Performance InstituteEarn 37.13 CE credits

Technology and Course Requirements
Phase II focuses on energy modeling using WUFI Passive Software. WUFI Passive requires Windows OS. If you use a Mac, you must have a working copy of Windows installed. Mac users need to purchase and install VMWare Fusion, Bootcamp, or Parallels, along with a Windows operating system. VMWare Fusion is recommended.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by February 12th, 2024
Grant deadline: February 12th
Employers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. Please note that you must submit an Express Grant application minimum of 21 days out from the live training start date. Complete an Express Grant application here.
$1,950.00 is eligible for grant funding. (The total course cost is $2,100. $150 is the cost of the exam and must be paid out-of-pocket by the company).
The Express Grant is designed to help businesses of all sizes respond quickly to emerging needs and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, the Express program is the Workforce Training Fund’s fastest path to funding.
Course ID#: C-2881Course provider: Built Environment PlusCourse cost: $1,950.00Cost type: Tuition

Building with Purpose: Selecting Green Materials (Lunchtime Series)
2024-03-07 | Virtual Event
(6) 1-hour lunchtime sessionsMarch 7th to April 18th, Thursdays
About the Class
$200 off New COURSE DISCOUNT!Use the promo code: EduNew200off
This multi-session series highlights concepts and trends in green material selection and reviews tools available to find healthier, lower-carbon products that are better for the environment and better for building occupants. Attendees will learn how to find greener products among the numerous material options, databases, certifications and rating systems. The series covers healthy materials concepts, chemicals of concern, and industry commitments; materials databases and documentation; embodied carbon; using materials selection to fulfill ESG commitments; and practical product selection for common products. This course will be held virtually and is a combination of presentation and discussion.
The course is taught by Brent Ehrlich, LEED AP, Product & Materials Specialist at BuildingGreen. Jill Maltby-Abbott, AIA, WELL AP, LFA, Director of Consulting, Paula Melton, Editorial Director, and Candace Pearson, Director of Integration, from BuildingGreen will also be joining Brent on some sessions as co-instructors.

Sessions
These lunchtime sessions are reduced versions of offerings in the BE+ Public Course Catalog. If you are interested in learning more, reach out to us to attend the full session of each topic.
Introduction to Healthy MaterialsMarch 7th, 2024 | 12 – 1pmThis session will introduce leading concerns across the building materials market and materials selection concepts and trends in optimizing product selection.
Better Materials Part 1March 14th, 2024 | 12 – 1pmThis session will introduce materials selection concepts and trends including how material transparency concerns align with the A&D Material Pledge (adopted by the AIA). Part 1 looks generally at concerns (e.g. chemical hazards, emissions, and carbon) and how vetting is applied across design phases, green building rating systems, and even reporting frameworks for ESG.
Better Materials Part 2March 21st, 2024 | 12 – 1pmThis session will introduce materials selection concepts and trends including how material transparency concerns align with the A&D Material Pledge (adopted by the AIA). Part 2 addresses the landscape of how teams validate optimized material claims, including the landscape of certifications today, disclosure documents, other tools leveraged across industry pledges and commitments, and reporting frameworks supporting ESG.
Embodied Carbon in Concrete and Wood IntroductionApril 4th, 2024 | 12 – 1pm (Rescheduled from March 28th)This course looks at the carbon and environmental impacts of concrete and wood building materials, how they have improved over the years, and where they still fall short. The course will focus on concrete’s carbon emissions problem and solutions, cement and concrete alternatives, building code changes, and wood building materials (including mass timber and other engineered products). Forestry’s carbon accounting and environmental impacts are complicated and in flux – the training will also dig into some of those challenges, the state of forestry certifications, and life-cycle data/EPDs.
Practical Product Selection: Choosing Green Materials for Common ProductsApril 11th, 2024 | 12 – 1pmHow do you find healthier, lower-carbon products among the numerous material options, rating systems, databases, and certifications? This course provides an overview of material choices in a couple of key product areas—insulation and resilient flooring in particular. Participants will learn the material health concerns of the product areas and will learn the basics of how to find better options. Built roughly around AIA’s Architecture and Design Materials Pledge framework, the course is a first step towards learning about product selection. The methodologies learned can then be applied to other product areas.
Healthy Materials: Lab 1 DemonstrationApril 18th, 2024 | 12 – 1pmIn this one-hour workshop, attendees learn how information gleaned from healthy materials, carbon, and ESG workshops can be used to select better products in real-world applications. Product choices often require tradeoffs. This course helps attendees wade through the challenges of first cost, value engineering, few “like products,” and more.

Education Credits
Earn 6 AIA LU/HSW unitsContinuing education credits are available from BE+, reported for each 1-hour session attended.

Learning Objectives
1. Participants will be able to contextualize material health concerns and claims through understanding key areas of analysis like human health, environmental health and carbon, ecosystem health and sourcing, circularity, and social health and equity (which represent the vetting buckets of the Architecture & Design Materials Pledge with the AIA) and the certifications that verify achievement in each key area.
2. Participants will learn how to find optimized products among the numerous material options, databases, and rating systems leveraging certifications, ingredient disclosures, and reporting.
3. Participants will understand basic applicability of material vetting to ESG as project-specific materials vetting rolls up to portfolio level reporting.
4. Participants will learn about ways to integrate material achievement across design and construction phases.

Funding Grants Available: Submit by February 15th, 2024
Funding Grants Available: Submit by February 15th, 2024
Employers with 100 or fewer Massachusetts employees are eligible to receive Express Program grants. Please note that you must submit an Express Grant application minimum of 21 days out from the live training start date. Complete an Express Grant application here.
Express Grant Funding is only available for the full series.
Course ID#: C-7661Course provider: Built Environment PlusCourse cost: $525.00Cost type: Per trainee

A Just Celebration
2024-03-07 17:30 - 19:30 | Humanscale Showroom, 34 Farnsworth, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
Come Celebrate!
We invite you to join us for the 2024 Living Future New England Just Celebration to acknowledge organizations in our community who have taken the next step towards transparency in becoming a socially equitable and diverse business. This is an exciting opportunity to connect and celebrate with those raising the bar of social justice at an in-person gathering.
Celebrate the accomplishments of some hard-working organizations, hear what it takes for organizations to achieve the Just Label, understand the value of going through the Just process, and what companies are learning in the process.

What is Just?
The Just program is a voluntary disclosure tool for organizations by the International Living Future Institute. Just is not a certification program, it is a transparency platform for organizations to disclose their operations, including how they treat their employees and where they make financial and community investments. Learn More

Event Sponsors

Our Hosts

DiAnn Tufts
Host / Co-Facilitator
DiAnn is a Senior Associate and the Director of Sustainability at PCA, and co-facilitator of the BE+ hosted Living Future New England.

Jim Newman
Host / Co-Facilitator
Jim is founder and Principal at Linnean Solutions, and co-facilitator of the BE+ hosted Living Future New England.

Living Future New England promotes the transformation of communities throughout Boston and New England that are socially just, culturally rich, and ecologically restorative.

Join the Conversation

The Location
Humanscale’s new Boston office suite and showroom is located in the Seaport District. To align with Humanscale’s corporate mission to provide environmentally-friendly product offerings, the space incorporates sustainable design strategies throughout the project, such as low-flow plumbing fixtures, daylighting, and energy efficient lighting fixtures.
We are excited to be hosted by a Just and Living Product Challenge certified organization!

Registration

Scholarships

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