A PDF download is available for the information below. Also, please view a presentation to AIA Components. Sustainable design learning units must address the definition of sustainability and focus on at least one of the qualifying topics listed below.

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Sustainability and Sustainable Design Defined

Sustainability is the concept of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Sustainable design is achieved through an integrated design and delivery process that enhances the natural and built environment by using energy sensibly with a goal toward carbon neutrality, improves air and water quality, protects and preserves water and other resources, and creates environments, communities and buildings that are livable, comfortable, productive, diverse, safe and beautiful to stir our imagination.

Sustainable Design
Qualifying Topics

The following content areas will meet the AIA’s Sustainable Design continuing education. Keep in mind that each content area must be supported by appropriate learning objectives that relate the content to a learning activity. The basis for program’s content qualifying for sustainable design learning units is found in the AIA COTE Top Ten and the Sustainability Discussion Group’s (SDiG), 50 to 50. Please click on the bulleted categories below for more detailed information:

• Sustainable Design Intent and Innovation
• Regional /Community Design and Connectivity
• Land Use and Site Ecology
• Bioclimatic Design
• Light and Air
• Water Cycle
• Energy Flows and Energy Futures
• Materials and Construction
• Long Life/Loose Fit
• Collective Wisdom and Feedback Loops

Sustainable Design Program Qualification

Each program must meet the requirement of having at least 75 percent of the content and instructional time designed to cover sustainable design content areas. You will be asked to certify that on the Form A when submitting the course for approval. Some topics such as environmental education and staff training will normally not qualify for HSW. If your course or program is in these or related areas, it must clearly articulate the content, educational basis and rationale for requesting sustainable design program designation.

Sustainable Design and Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW)

It is the intent of these guidelines to ensure that knowledge that qualifies as sustainable design learning units focuses on the direct application of techniques and strategies which advance the concept of sustainable design as defined above. These topics all deal with or affect the health, safety and welfare of the public and our communities and as a result all learning units qualified as “sustainable design learning” shall simultaneously be approved as HSW learning.

Each program must meet the criterion that at least 75 percent of the session is spent on sustainable design topics, as defined.

Programs Offered Prior to January 1, 2009

Any program offered before January 1, 2009, that may meet the content and administrative requirements for sustainable design programs must be resubmitted using a Form A to qualify for the sustainable design program designation. Existing programs resubmitted for sustainable design program designation will carry that designation effective January 1, 2009. Note that all registered courses must be renewed every three years. 



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