Building and Buying Green a Practical Guide for California Tribes

8/13/2019 Building and Buying Green a Practical Guide for California Tribes

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Building and Buying Green

in Indian CountryA PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR CALIFORNIA TRIBES

PREPARED FORThe California Integrated Waste Management Board

BYThe Center for Indian Community Development,

The Center for Environmental Economic Developmentand Boisson & Associates

MAY, 2004 Zero WasteYou Make It Happen!


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STATE OF CALIFORNIA

Arnold SchwarzeneggerGovernor

Terry Tamminen

Secretary, California Environmental Protection Agency

INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT BOARD

Mark LearyExecutive Director

For additional copies of this publication, contact: Integrated Waste Management BoardPublic Affairs Office, Publications Clearinghouse (MS-6)

1001 I Street, P.O. Box 4025Sacramento, CA 95812-4025

www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Publications/1-800-CA-WASTE (California only) or (916) 341-6306

Publication #430-04-004

Printed on recycled paper containing a minimum of 30 percent postconsumer fiber.

Copyright (c) 2004 by the California Integrated Waste Management Board. All rights reserved.This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.

The statements and conclusions of this report are those of the contractor and not necessarily those of theCalifornia Integrated Waste Management Board, its employees, or the State of California.

The State makes no warranty, expressed or implied, and assumes no liability for the informationcontained in the succeeding text. Any mention of commercial products or processes shall not be

construed as an endorsement of such products or processes.

The California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) does not discriminate on the basis ofdisability in access to its programs. CIWMB publications are available in accessible formats upon requestby calling the Public Affairs Office at (916) 341-6300. Persons with hearing impairments can reach the

CIWMB through the California Relay Service, 1-800-735-2929.

The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduceenergy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs,

Flex Your Power and visit www.fypower.com/.

Linda Moulton-PattersonBoard Chair

Michael PaparianBoard Member

Rosario MarinBoard Member

Cheryl PeaceBoard Member

Rosalie MulBoard Member

Carl WashingtonBoard Member


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Building and Buying Green

in Indian Country

PREPAREDFORThe California Integrated Waste Management Board

BYThe Center for Indian Community Development,

The Center for Environmental Economic Developmentand Boisson & Associates

MAY,2004

Zero WasteYou Make It Happen!

BUILDING AND BUYING GREEN IN INDIAN COUNTRYii

Background Illustrations:These represent differentbioregions found throughout California.California Indians traditional lands and ancestralterritories encompass a variety of environments,spanning diverse geographic areasdesert,mountains, coastal regions, valleysas well asurban and rural communities.

Top left photo:Cahuilla House in the Desert,The North American Indian; vol. 15; EdwardCurtis; McCormick Libraryof Special Collections,Northwestern University

Library, Evanston, IL.Historically, CaliforniaIndian architecture utilizedthe materials and naturalenvironment of each community.Redwood plank houses, cedarbark houses, and grass houseswere among the many types oftraditional constructions foundin California Indian Country.

Bottom left photo: TheSacramento Municipal Utility

Districts Customer ServiceBuilding at 6301 S Street featuresextensive use of daylighting, an under floor airdistribution system, and radiant heating to createan optimal indoor environment for occupants andvisions. Significant steps were taken to preserve anexisting grove of redwoods on site and incorporaterenewable energy systems, such as photovoltaicpanels, making this an excellent example ofsustainable building in the Sacramento area.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSBuilding and Buying Green in Indian Country:

A Practical Guide for California Tribeswas envisionedand funded by the California Integrated WasteManagement Board (CIWMB). Jos Medina,CIWMB Vice-Chair, initiated the project, andBill Orr, CIWMB Manager of the RecyclingTechnologies Branch and Jerry Hart, Supervisor

Buy Recycled Section, oversaw its productionalong with CIWMB project manager Mary Farr.

The Guide was developed and co-authored bythe Center for Indian Community Development(CICD), the Center for Environmental andEconomic Development (CEED), and Boissonand Associates. CEED staff included Ed Boisson,Ruthanne Cecil, J.D., and Daniel M. Ihara, Ph.D.CEED project interns involved were Solana Foo,

Molly Jacobs, Matthew Marshall, and CharlesLessman. Technical reviews were conducted byDr. Ihara and Michael Manetas, professor emeritus,environmental engineering, Humboldt StateUniversity. The graphic design and layout wasproduced by Annie Reid.

The CIWMB, CICD, and CEED project

researchers and authors are grateful for the time,advice, and suggestions of the many tribal staffthroughout California Indian Country who tookthe time to review and critique this document as itwas developed.

We hope this Guide will lead to a moresustainably built environment, a lighter humanimpact, and a lighter tread upon the earth.

ABOUT THE COVER

Top right photo: Camp Arroyo EnvironmentalEducation Center and Summer Youth Campwas designed and built and is maintained andoperated sustainably. This facility is located inthe hills near the city of Livermore, California,in southern Alameda County. The $10 milliondollar project includes many different types ofstructures including a dining hall/multi-purposeroom, living quarters, bathhouses, and swimming

pool. Phase two will nearly double theexisting capacity from the current 144to 225 guests.

The principles of sustainability areomnipresent in the project. Sustainablefeatures have been maximized toinclude energy and water conservation,indoor air quality, recycled-content andenvironmentally preferable productsand materials use, native landscapingand organics management, wastereduction and recycling practices, andon-site power generation. This facilityis truly the picture of sustainabilityand a prime example of what can

be accomplished by integrating theprinciples presented in this guide.

Bottom Right: Potawot Health Village, ArcataCalifornia. Design is a key factor for achievingthe vision of the Potawot Health Village, a healingcenter that addresses the contemporary needs oflocal tribal communities. Potawot Health Villagewas envisioned, designed, and is operated by theUnited Indian Health Services. It is a sustainablybuilt building that reflects the traditional NorthCoast architecture.


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A Note to the ReaderBuilding and Buying Green in Indian Country:

A Practical Guide for California Tribeswas developedto provide basic information about sustainablebuilding practices, considerations, and planning forbuilding projects in Indian Country. It is intended to:

1. Give Tribal project decision makers andplanners an overview of sustainable and

green building practices and options.2. Serve as a tool to support those decision

makers and planners in evaluating andchoosing sustainable options as theydevelop projects with architects, contractors,suppliers, or other building professionals.

In order to develop a tool that could really beeffective in projects in Indian Country, all of theTribes in California were surveyed and were ableto review the document as it was developed. Thesurvey results showed that 54 Tribes reported

building projects valued at more than $250,000are underway or planned, including residentialbuildings. Of these, 46 were commercial buildings,43 were tribal buildings, and 34 were residentialand prefabricated buildings.1Nationwide, morethan 200 Tribes are reaping revenue of more than$10 billion and are reinvesting huge sums in theircommunities.2

The Guide was envisioned and funded by theCalifornia Integrated Waste Management Board,which encourages the use of sustainable buildingpractices and materials because they lessen environ-

mental impacts. Sustainable building practices canbe appealing, healthy, high quality, and affordable.The Board believes that incorporating sustainablepractices and elements in building projects in IndianCountry will not only be compatible with, but willenhance the abilities of Tribes to achieve their visionfor the future of their communities.1Center for IndianCommunity Development.Survey in July, 2003.

2Montana AssociatedTechnology Roundtables(MATR) News, March 30,2003.

Anyone involved withconstruction in IndianCountry could use thisGuide regardless of

their level of knowledge of sustainablebuilding practices. Ideally, during thebeginning stages of any building project,project planners will refer to this Guide

in order to green the project (that is,use sustainable practices, methods, ormaterials). The Guide can help Tribalproject decision-makers and plannersdecide whether or not to make acommitment to sustainable building innew projects, or assist in finding andworking with architects, contractors, andother building professionals.

The Guide is comprehensiveand provides a range of ideasto consider for any type of

building project, in any typeof climate. It consists of 10 stand-alonemodules. Modules One through Threeprovide an overview of sustainabledevelopment and offer suggestions toCalifornia Tribes on how to effectivelypromote and fund sustainable buildingprojects. Modules Four through Tenprovide overviews of primary elementsof green building and design strategiesto consider. Each strategy moduleincludes a list of resources and tools

such as fact sheets, policy models, andproduct specifications. The Guide is notoverly technical, but sources of detailedand more technical information to bereferenced are provided throughout.

Who shoulduse theGuide?

Whatsin the

Guide?


7/157MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO SUSTAINABLE BUILDING IN INDIAN COUNTRY

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Traditionally, all tribes lived within the rhythmsand cycles of the natural world, ingeniouslydiscovering how to prosper using what natureprovided. As contemporary Tribes work to achievehealthy and prosperous communities, they arepresented with the challenge of reconciling theircurrent needs with more traditional practices,particularly those that show respect for nature.The sustainable or green construction practicespresented in the guideincluding the need to

balance many competing considerationsprovidean excellent opportunity and framework formeeting this challenge.

Design is a key factor forachieving the vision of thePotawot Health Village inArcata, California, a healingcenter that addresses thecontemporary needs oflocal Tribal communities.The United IndianHealth Services (UIHS)facility looks much like a

traditional north coast village, the nucleus of localIndian identity. Connection to important culturalfeatures is maintained inside with the central focusof a spring in the Wellness Garden and displays oftraditional and contemporary original artwork.It is also a modern health care facility. By making astatement about the importance of traditional ways,Potawot imparts a sense of wellness and createsa place and pathway for healthy local AmericanIndian communities. Traditional elements arepresent in the structure itself and in the use of

water and natural settings as a central focus.The form and orientation of traditional

American Indian structures indigenous to thenorth coast area is the basis for the design. Potawotappears to be constructed with redwood planks,but the walls are pre-cast concrete, molded andstained to simulate old redwood. The buildingsare rectangular and the two or three-pitched roofsare typical of local indigenous architecture. Theseroofs are reminiscent of adjustable smoke holes

and wind guards used in traditional buildings.The entryway interior is made of old redwoodrecycled from a demolished sawmill. The designof the facility is circular connecting hallways and acentral outdoor Wellness Garden. In this garden isa spring and all the doors are orientated towardsthis focal point. The building itself is designedto be a natural part of the wetland, prairie, andforest lands that are being restored around it.The outdoor Wellness Garden, its spring, and all

the wetlands around the building speak to thelocal people, who are a water-oriented people.Historically, the ocean, rivers, bays, marshes, andwetlands formed the most abundant resources inthe region.

The UIHS Design Committee worked withMulvanny/G2 Architecture in Seattle, Washington,a firm that specializes in health care facilities.Mulvanny/G2 Architecture started the designprocess by gaining a better understanding of whatwas important to local Indian people. In additionto a setting with enough space for increased client

capacity, UIHS wanted a place where peoplewould have a sense of community that drawsthem together. By placing culture first and thenintegrating the clinical requirements, the design ofPotawot makes a visual and emotional connectionbetween two worlds.

In addition to the holistic design approach, thisshowcase development incorporates many aspectsof green design and construction as well as themesthat honor traditions of local tribes. The facility iscarefully sited to enhance the natural environmentfor Potawots purpose as a healing center, both

in terms of its central focal point garden andthe surrounding restored native landscape. Thebuilding design flows, and it makes maximumuse of natural light and ventilation with energy-efficient windows. The construction incorporatedgreen materials such as recycled native redwoodand cost-efficient pre-cast concrete.

An Example ofVision, Tradition,Planning andSustainability inContemporaryBuilding: Potawot

Health Village

MODULE 1

Introduction To Sustainable BuildingIn Indian Country



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Conventional building practicesoften overlook the interrelationshipsbetween a building, its components,its surroundings, and its occupants.Typical buildings consume moreof our resources than necessary,

negatively impact the environment, and generatea large amount of waste. Often, these buildingsare costly to operate in terms of energy and water

consumption. And they can result in poor indoorair quality, which can lead to health problems.

Sustainable or green building practicesoffer an opportunity to create environmentallysound and resource-efficient building by using anintegrated approach to design. Green buildingspromote resource conservation, includingenergy efficiency, renewable energy, and waterconservation features. Green buildings considerenvironmental impacts and waste minimization,create a healthy and comfortable environment,reduce operation and maintenance costs, and

address issues such as historical preservation,access to public transportation, and othercommunity infrastructure systems. The entirelife cycle of the building and its componentsis considered, as well as the economic andenvironmental impact and performance.

Sustainable building designs, options, andstrategies are ultimately about resource efficiencyand can be incorporated in every buildingproject within Tribal jurisdiction. The scope ofthis sustainable incorporation is determined byeach projects budget and use. Tribal residential,

institutional, and commercial building projectscan incorporate sustainable building options,strategies, and designs throughout. Or, sustainablebuilding options can influence only one or twocomponents of a project. A building such as acasino might be limited in its use of day lightingand may not be able to use windows as a naturalventilation system. But sustainable furnishings,flooring, and paint products can still be used.

SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGIS PRACTICAL

The buildings in which we live,work, and play protect us fromNatures extremes: cold, heat,

wind, rain, and snow. But these structuresaffect and shape our environment too.Constructing and operating buildings requiresenormous amounts of energy, water, andmaterials and creates large amounts of waste.Where and how they are built affects theecosystems around us in countless ways. Andthe buildings themselves create new indoorenvironments that present new environmentalproblems and challenges.

As the environmental impact of buildingsbecomes more apparent, a new field called

Green Building is arising to reduce that impactat the source. Green or sustainable buildingis the practice of creating healthier and moreresource-efficient models of construction,renovation, operation, maintenance, anddemolition. The many elements of greenbuilding include:

Energy:Designing and operating buildingsto use energy efficiently and to use renewablesources of energy, including solar, wind, andbiomass.

Water: Designing and operating buildings touse water efficiently.

Materials: Using building materials thathave a reduced effect on the environmentthroughout their life cycle compared tocompeting brands (for example, recycledcontent, low toxicity, energy efficiency,biodegradability, and/or durability).

Waste:Reducing the waste fromconstruction, remodeling, and demolition.

Indoor Environment:Designing andoperating buildings that are healthy for theiroccupants.

(U.S. EPA)www.epa.gov/opptintr/greenbuilding/.

What issustainableor greenbuilding?

GreenBuildings

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNITED INDIAN HEALTH SERVICES



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Sustainable building materialsand practices meet or exceedall of the health, safety, andengineering requirements ofconventional approaches. Butunlike conventional building,sustainable building emphasizeshigh performance strategies thatreduce environmental impacts

while also enhancing the beauty and function of aspace. For example, ample natural light, insulation,and views of natural landscapes can make buildingsmore comfortable to be in. In the case of work andeducational spaces, these features have been shownto boost worker productivity by up to 16 percent1and student performance by up to 20 percent.2

Sustainable design involves a systematic effortto create a useful space that takes maximumadvantage of the local climatic and geographicbenefits while also efficiently compensating forits less beneficial aspects. For example, orienting

a building to the south and east to gain the mostheat and light from the sun is a good idea inthe mountains or on the coast. But for buildingsin desert areas or central California, a differentorientation and some form of shade (a porch roofor overhanging entry way) would be optimum.Designers can enhance any building project byincorporating even a few of the elements presentedin this guide.

Sustainable building (or greenbuilding) integrates concernsover the environment, health,

and comfort into the design,construction, and operation ofbuildings.

Buildings account for about36 percent of the nations total energy use, 65percent of electricity consumption, 30 percentof total raw material use, 12 percent of potablewater consumption, 35 percent of carbon dioxideemissions, and 49 percent of sulfur dioxideemissions.3In California, more than 4 milliontons of construction and demolition waste aredisposed annually, about 12 percent of the totalwaste stream.4Some building products includeharmful chemicals like formaldehyde or othervolatile organic compounds. In contrast, sustain-able buildings may use more than 40 percent lessenergy5and 30 percent less water. Green buildingpractices can eliminate the use of potentiallyharmful chemicals. These practices may reduceconstruction waste by up to 90 percent and canreduce the need for logging or mining resources byusing reused or recycled materials.

Sustainable building costsand benefits vary and must beevaluated for each situationbased on the needs, climate,budget, and priorities. Somesustainable building optionscan reduce the up-front costsfor a particular building projectSome sustainable building

options may increase up-front costs, but they willsave money after operating and other costs areconsidered. The projects use, location, and budgetwill determine the appropriate options. A money-saving sustainable building option appropriate inone situation, may be too costly and inappropriatein another. However, even if a project budgetcannot tolerate an entirely sustainable buildingplan, some aspect of sustainable and greenbuilding strategies can usually be incorporated.Module Three provides a more detailed discussion

Sustainablebuildingemphasizeshigh qualityand high

performance.

It is early December, and an Indian artsand crafts festival is underway in a largeentry area, full of shoppers and crafts people.The room is open, spacious, and inviting.The walls are recycled old-growth redwood,warm, dark, and beautiful. There is acorridor to each side of the large room, withmore artists tables set up. The corridorsinterior sides are glass walls facing a largecircular courtyard, with a natural stream,

large rocks, a bridge, young trees and oldsnags, and native plants. The wide corridoris lit by daylight, naturally and comfortably,with additional lighting for the clinic areas.The corridor is a circle, leading back to thelarge gathering room and along corridorshousing the various medical, dental,pharmacy, vision, counseling and publichealth clinics in separate buildings, eachradiating inward to form a central corridor.The many comfortable seats and tables near

the glass walls provide a place to wait foran appointment and a welcoming place tosit and visit other community members.The clinic walls are lined with beautiful artby local native artists. The overall lookis natural, beautiful, and comfortable.This community facility is Potawot HealthVillage, a place of healing and an inspiringplace to be.

Sustainablebuilding is

important forthe naturalenvironment.

Sustainablebuilding doesnot have toadd to projectcosts, and maysave money.



4

of the costs of various sustainable buildingapproaches; additional cost information isprovided in the remaining modules.

Sustainable buildingencourages the use of localresources such as localnatural rock aggregate,locally grown and harvestedwood, and especially naturalplants as landscaping.The beauty of a well-designedsustainable building, withample day lighting, invites

the showcasing of tribal art and views of thelocal environment.

The varied climateswithin CaliforniaIndian Country arenot a problem insustainable building.Sustainable buildingdesigns, options, andstrategies are applicable

in any environment because they take climate intoaccount and work efficiently within any givenclimate.

Sustainable buildingdesigns, plans,and strategies arebased on lesseningenvironmental andenergy impacts

while producingquality, attractive, useful, comfortable projects.These are goals that may be highly compatiblewith Tribal values. In light of the opportunitiesTribes have as governments, developers, andconsumers, California Tribes have an opportunityto demonstrate how sustainable buildingpolicies can succeed in simultaneously achievingenvironmental and community development goals.Tribes can promote this philosophy by adoptingTribal sustainable building planning, design andconstruction frameworks, and codes or policies.

An impressive array of resources isavailable to help Tribes learn about,develop, and create sustainable

building projects. For example, the California Inte-grated Waste Management Boards Web site (www.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/) is one of the bestresources on sustainable building practices and hasan impressive number of links to other organiza-tions. This Guide is one avenue to find and use theinformation. Module Two, Tribal Planning, Policy,and Implementation will help you get started.

RESOURCESRecommended starting points for detailed andtechnical information on sustainable building:

California Integrated Waste Management Boardwww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/1001 I St., P.O. Box 4025Sacramento, CA 95812-4025

(916) 341-6000U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyRegion 9(San Francisco)75 Hawthorne Street (WST-7)San Francisco, CA 94105-3901www.epa.gov/region09/Contact: Kelly [email protected](415) 972-3383

U.S. Green Building Councilwww.usgbc.org/

U.S. Green Building Council Leadership inEnergy & Environmental Design (LEED) Programwww.usgbc.org/LEED/leed_main.asp1015 18th St. NW, Suite 805Washington, D.C. 20036(202) 82-USGBCFax (202) 828-5110

Overviews of Sustainable Building

Doing Well by Doing Good: The Benefits ofGreen Development, Rocky Mountain Institute,www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid221.php

The Benefits of Green Building, Chapter Six,New Home Construction: Green BuildingGuidelines, www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/recycle/gbg/GrnBldg-NewConstruction-Chap6.pdf.U.S. Green Building Council, Why Build Green?www.usgbc.org/AboutUs/whybuildgreen.asp.

NOTES1 Doing Well by Doing Good: The Benefits of GreenDevelopment, Rocky Mountain Institute,www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid221.php.

2 Collaborative for High Performance Schools,Best Practices Manual, Volume I.

3 U.S. Green Building Council,www.usgbc.org/AboutUs/whybuildgreen.asp.

4 Statistics are from the U.S. Green Building Council andthe California Integrated Waste Management Board.

5 Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Energy by Design CD.

Sustainablebuilding

practices canshowcase Tribal

traditionsand the localenvironment.

Tribes can playa leadership rolein promotingsustainable building

throughout the State.

Informationis available

Sustainable buildingprinciples can workfor any Tribal

building projects inany climate.


11/157MODULE 2: TRIBAL PLANNING, POLICY AND IMPLEMENTATION

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SOVEREIGNTY CREATES OPPORTUNITYAs distinct, independentpolitical communitiesretaining power derivedfrom the originalrecognition of Tribes assovereign nations, thestatus of Tribes is uniqueAlthough the United

States Congress has the authority to limit or even

abolish tribal powers, absent Congressional action,a tribe retains its inherent right of self-governmentover its members and over its territories. Theselands are called Indian Country as that term isdefined in federal law.

California currently has 107 federally recognizedtribes and nearly half a million acres of IndianCountry. This includes reservation areas rangingfrom a few acres to larger areas, such as the 12-milesquare Hoopa Valley Reservation in northernCalifornia. As Tribes prosper and are empoweredto invest in economic development opportunities

both within and outside of their territories, manyunique opportunities present themselves.

The sovereign status of California Indian nationspresents exciting decision-making opportunitiesfor tribal members, councils, planners, andstaff when it comes to developing or adoptingbuilding codes and construction guidelines.Within Indian Country, Tribes constitute thegoverning body or regulatory authority, and likethe federal or State government, may legislate toencourage sustainable development. Tribes areoften the owner of much of the land area within

a reservation. As both the governing authorityand property owner, Tribes may be in a positionto implement a comprehensive, long-rangevision for a sustainable community. Outside ofIndian Country, to the extent sustainable buildingprinciples are incorporated into tribal goals,tribes may find sustainable building principlesand programs useful tools in achieving buildingdevelopment objectives.

Sovereignty And Responsibility

Tribes are sovereign nations:sovereignty carries with it aresponsibility to take care ofones actions with integrityregarding life, family, com-

munity, fellow human beings,and the planet as a whole.Sovereignty plays an ultimate

goal as Tribes develop theircommunities. Development ofenergy resources presents manydifficult questions, such asimpacts on Tribal communities,the environment, spiritual, and

cultural. Exercising sovereigntyin a responsible manner requiresTribes to consider their ownoperations, including environ-mental regulations, permitting

processes, economic develop-ment strategies, and Tribalenterprises as well.

Roger Fragua, CERT

Deputy Director, Pastand Present Tribal ActionsTowards EnergySelf-Sufficiency,Indian Energy Solutions2002, Denver, CO,October 23, 2002, page 12.

Tribes possessunique opportunitiesto successfullyachieve sustainabledevelopment.

Tribal Planning,Policy and Implementation

MODULE 2



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As owner-operator of the built environmentand land base, the tribe may:

Initiate the design and building process. Define needs and establish building criteria. Create a design vision reflecting the

community as a whole. Exercise leadership to determine the best

building approaches.

As developer and builder, the tribe may: Determine the scope of work, timelines, andcontractual objectives.

Select contractors and architects that reflectgreen building objectives consistent withthe Tribes philosophies and vision.

Take actions, such as making purchasingdecisions, that reflect new green buildingpolicy directions.

Revise work plans for current buildingprojects that reflect new green buildingpolicies.

As client and community, the tribe may: Express community needs and desires. Participate in the planning and design

process. Provide feedback on building use and

comfort, and suggest new approaches.

By creating new plans andlaws, tribes can greatlyinfluence the transition

to more sustainablebuilding in unique ways,compared to non-Indianjurisdictions. However, in

addition to acting as regulatory authority, theymay simultaneously act as regulatory authority,owner-operator, developer-builder, or client-community. Of course, options on non-tribal landsmay be more limited in the regulatory arena. Awide range of opportunities exists in each of theseroles, especially on tribal lands. Some of thoseopportunities and options are listed below, butcreative leadership may envision many more.

As the sovereign authority and lead regulator,Tribes may:

Adopt a communitywide approachcovering residential, commercial, andinstitutional buildings, and both indoor andoutdoor built environments.

Incorporate green building methods intogeneral plans, building codes, remodelingpermits, contractor specifications, orcontract and bid language.

Fully revise procurement policies to reflect

green building criteria. Require green building principles to be

incorporated in Tribal planning documents. Provide green building educational

materials and/or revise and amend currentbuilding plans and acquisition goals.

Subsidize renewable energy systems ontribal lands.

Encourage tribal staff to seek specialsources of green building funds (seeModule 3).

Sustainable building can be promoted in anybuilding project within Tribal jurisdiction throughthe regular process of development and adoptionof Tribal government codes and policies. However,at this time, not every California Tribe has buildingcodes or policies. Some Tribes informally abideby or have formally adopted the county, State,or federal government codes. A very few Tribeshave formally developed and adopted their

own building codes. Tribes that wish to promoteand foster the philosophy of considering theimpact of a project on the environment, climate,and geography could lead the way by adoptingguidelines for building projects within theirjurisdiction that require sustainable or greenpractices.

Multiple rolesavailable to

Tribes to achievesustainabledevelopment.



7

The most effective approachto sustainable building isto adopt a whole-buildingsustainable design vision

from the very beginning(as described below). How-ever, in practice thismay not always bepossible. Regardlessof circumstances,consider, at a mini-mum, incorporatinga few select elements.This list provides

20 examples of cost-effective ways to green anaffordable housing project.A similar but more specificlist could be assembledfor any type of buildingproject, large or small.

Sustainable Building Strategies for Indian Tribes

At a minimum, begin by using a few select green elements.

Find and work with qualified sustainable building professionals.

Evaluate options for your building project and establish achievable goals.

Develop a whole building sustainable design vision.

Seek green building certification to showcase your efforts.

Institutionalize sustainable building by: Adopting sustainable building policies. Incorporating sustainable building principles

in standard contract documents.

Establishing a long-term sustainable building plan.

Top 20 Cost-Effective Ways to Greenan Affordable Housing Project

1. Design water-efficient landscapes.2. Install water-efficient toilets and fixtures.3. Use concrete composed of 15 percent or more fly ash.4. Use paint with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOC).

5. Seal all exposed particleboard to eliminate off-gassing offormaldehyde.6. Install carbon monoxide detectors.7. Vent the range hood to the outside.8. Maximize natural day lighting.9. Provide overhangs or screens on south-facing windows.10. Incorporate natural cooling and ventilation.11. Select light-colored roofing.12. Use recycled fiberglass or cellulose insulation in walls

and ceilings.13. Install high R-Value insulation.

14. Install fluorescent lights with electronic ballasts.15. Install compact fluorescent light bulbs.16. Install lighting controls (for example, occupant sensors

or timers).17. Install Energy Star refrigerators and other appliances.18. Use engineered wood for headers, joints, and sheathing.19. Install ceiling fans.20. Select double-paned, spectrally selective windows.Source: Adapted from Global Green USA.www.globalgreen.org/programs/20ways.html

HOW TRIBES CAN IMPLEMENT SUSTAINBLE BUILDING PRACTICESThis module provides some practical suggestions on how to start implementing

sustainable building practices.

At aminimum,begin by

using a fewselect greenelements.



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Sustainable building is aproven approach that works,as this guide illustrates. Oneof the most effective waysto implement sustainablepractices is to hire professionalswho are already highlymotivated, experienced,

and knowledgeable about sustainable and

green building. (See examples at the end of thismodule.) The number of building professionalsknowledgeable and experienced in green buildingis growing, especially in California. Regardless ofthe expertise of selected professionals, the Tribeshould strive to hire and work with the projectarchitects, contractors, and suppliers from thebeginning of any given project to evaluate andselect the best sustainable building approaches forthe particular situation.

Some building professionals may be skepticalor lack motivation to find affordable, innovative

solutions. Requiring that the project buildingprofessionals adhere to sustainable buildingprinciples isreasonable,although thismay requireincreased activityon the Tribespart. Adherenceto green buildingprinciples can bepart of any Tribal

bid and contractdocumentsfor architects,contractors, and/or suppliers.

This guideand its resourcesuggestionscan help projectplanners,architects, orcontractors learn

more about specific sustainable building strategies.Directories of green building professionalsavailable online include the U.S. Green BuildingCouncils list of professionals accredited throughtheir Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design(LEED) program and their Sustainable SourceDirectory of Sustainable Building Professionals.(See Web site listings at the end of this module.)

Since every building projectis unique and has its ownfinancial, geographic, andfunction parameters towork with, there are manyvaried ways to incorporatesustainable aspects intobuilding projects. First

and foremost, green building involves use of an

integrated approach to design that does its best,under the particular circumstances, to createenvironmentally sound and resource-efficientbuildings. Given this, the best place to start isto work with the building team to evaluate theoptions and establish clear, achievable goals. Everyprojects goals will vary, but any set of project goalsshould consider and reflect the project priorities,building type, location, and budget. There really isno one approach.

Using a three-bedroom home as an example,the chart on the following page illustrates three

scenarios (among many possible approaches) forincorporating green building strategies.

Option one includes many sustainabledevelopment approaches and addsslightly more than $1,500 to the $150,000conventional home price. But, includingreduced energy costs, this investment yieldsa $46 per year net savings to the occupants.

Option two combines these approacheswith select indoor air quality measures,adding $523 in up-front costs for a total

of slightly more than $2,000 in addedsustainable building costs. Including energysavings, the combined option one andoption two investments pay for themselvesover time.

Option three adds a range of high endsustainable building measures, perhapsenough to qualify the building forcertification under a yet-to-be releasedLEED certification process for homes.This premier approach adds considerablyto the homes cost by more than $10,000,

with a net annual cost increase of $856.While this is but one example, it illustratesthe many tradeoffs and options availableto sustainable building designers. Themost important skills may be creativity,innovation, and patience in evaluatingdifferent options against your particularneeds and budget.

Find and workwith qualifiedsustainablebuilding

professionals.

Evaluate optionsfor your building

project andestablishachievable goals.



9

At its root, design is a processof balancing many competingfactors and, from an infiniterange of options, creating aparticular path that meetsthe building users needs andbudget. To achieve its fullpromise, sustainable building

should ideally be rooted in an integrated, whole-

building design approach from the very beginningof project planning. Integrated means that theproject team works closely together, includingdevelopers, building users, architects, contractors,and engineers. Whole building means that eachcomponent of the building is considered as partof a system. This approach allows the team toconsider the many tradeoffs involved in the greendesign process.

The design vision should seek to create a spaceperfectly designed for its users, incorporatingunique, creative elements that enhance the overall

experience of living, working, or otherwise usingthe building. For example, a Tribe might chooseto emphasize traditional building themes orincorporate native plants into an inner courtyardto showcase its traditions. Design objectives mayinclude:

Strictly adhering to a predetermined budget(that may or may not account for futuresavings in operations costs).

Maximizing positive environmental impactswhile minimizing negative impacts. Minimizing resource use (and associated

environmental impacts). Integrating the building into the local

ecosystem and community. Taking full advantage of positive climatic

factors (for example, cool evening air)while minimizing negative climatic factors(for example, hot afternoon sun).

Minimizing health and safety concernswhile contributing to occupants wellness.

Adopt anIntegrated,

Whole BuildingSustainableDesign Vision.

SCENARIO

OPTION 1 Some Basic Sustainable Building Measures

Enhanced ceiling insulation ($230); Additional spray celluloseinsulation ($150); Redesign windows to face south ($0); High-efficiency water heater ($275); Auto setback thermostat ($75);Low-E windows ($185); Ceiling fans ($300); Recycled contentdecking ($163); Recycled content carpet ($0); Xeriscaping ($0);Recycled content siding ($0); Engineered lumber ($200).

OPTION 2 Add Indoor Air Quality MeasuresLow-toxic adhesives ($23); Sealing particleboard cabinetsand counter top ($250); VOC-free paint ($100); Water-basedfinishes on floors and wood ($150).

OPTION 3 Add High Performance Measures

High efficiency furnace ($1,000); Passive solar features($1,350); Above-code insulation ($1,000); High-efficiencyappliances ($500); Compact fluorescent lighting ($200);Cement-based roofing ($250); Recycled-content ceramictile ($375); Formaldehyde-free sub-floors ($600);Formaldehyde-free cabinets and counters ($600); Heatrecovery ventilation ($1,000)

Assumptions:Based on a 1,540 square-foot, two-story home with three bedrooms, two baths and anattached two-car garage.Note:The actual economics of any particular sustainable building measure are highly site specific,especially the potential payback period associated with energy cost savings.

Source:Building Green in a Black and White World, Chapter 3. David Ritchey Johnston.Available online at www.housingzone.com/topics/nahb/green/nhb00ca029.asp.

NET ANNUAL COSTOR BENEFIT

INCLUDING REDUCEDOPERATING EXPENSES

$46 Per YearSavings

$0(All costs are

covered by savings)

$856

TOTALADDITIONAL

UP-FRONT COST

$1,578

$523

$10,725

An Example of Sustainable Home Building Costs



10

Sustainable design principles apply equallyto the outdoor landscape. The Collaborative forHigh Performance Schools (CHPS) suggests fourprinciples to consider with landscape design:

Resource conservationdo not degradethe landscape.

Diversitypromote a range of habitatswith species and genetic diversity.

Connectivitymaintain networks of

interconnecting habitats. Environmental responsibilityprotect,

restore, and manage resources to maintaina healthy ecosystem in perpetuity.

Exemplary buildingsincorporating many sustainablebuilding elements may qualify forcertification. Two opportunitiesare the LEED Program, operatedby the U.S. Green BuildingCouncil, and the Collaborative

for High Performance SchoolsProgram, sponsored by several California Stateagencies and utilities. (See Web sites at the end ofthis module.) The LEED program is fast becomingthe standard for green building efforts. Althoughits certification program currently only applies tocommercial projects, a new set of standards forresidential projects is expected soon.

The CHPS programapplies specifically toschools and is probablythe best program to use for

school projects. The mainbenefits of certificationinclude: public recognitionas a leader in green building;increased positive attentionto your building over time;possible qualification forspecial funding sources;and a systematic frameworkfor evaluating sustainablebuilding options. Buildingproject managers seeking

certification should beginvery early in the design process, since satisfying allrequirements will become difficult as constructionprogresses. The LEED and CHPS programs areboth very flexible, but certification does involvesome degree of paperwork and adherence to anestablished system. The project budget shouldallow for a qualified person to coordinate theprocess of working with the entire project team andthe certifying organization.

In addition to using sustainablebuilding design principles incurrent building projects, Tribescan institutionalize sustainablebuilding in all projects over

the long term. These steps can include adoptingsustainable building policies for energy and waterefficiency standards, use of recycled-contentproducts, pricing to encourage conservation,

recycling space requirements, use of nontoxicmaterials, and others.

Many Tribes have adopted the State UniversalBuilding Code and/or building codes fromneighboring cities and counties. Tribes canplay a leadership role in encouraging changesin these codes as well by taking deliberate,measured steps to improve upon them. Tribescan also promote sustainable building practicesby including sustainable building principlesinto standard contract documents, including bidsheets, specifications, requests for proposals, and

agreements for services with architects, contractors,and product suppliers. Finally, by establishinga long-term sustainable building plan includingregular monitoring and updates, the Tribe canextend the benefits of a particular building projectto the plans for the Tribes growth and progress.

Some non-Tribal policy models that could beadapted to Indian Country include:

Greening Federal Facilities,a comprehensiveguide for planners, designers, and builders,with practical advice on saving energy,water, and money.

Building Better Buildings: A Blueprint forSustainable State Facilities,a comprehensivepolicy approach adopted by the state ofCalifornia.

City and county policies; for example, thoseadopted by Santa Monica (note especiallytheir Checklist for Affordable Housing),San Jose (note their excellent educationalmaterials), Seattle, Wash., Portland, Ore.,and Austin, Tex.

State of California policies such as theCalifornia Uniform Building Code; Title

24 Energy Efficiency Standards; Tier 1 andTier 2 Energy Efficiency and SustainableBuilding Measure Checklists; and Code01350 specifications for indoor air quality.

Model local ordinances prepared byCalifornia on construction and demolitiondebris recycling, general plans, andcontracting specifications.

Seek greenbuildingcertification

to showcaseyour efforts.

Institutionalizesustainablebuilding.



11

Additional models and suggestions are available from Indian-focused organizations such as theCouncil of Energy Resource Tribes (CERT), the Native American Renewable Energy Education Project(NAREEP), and from non-Tribal organizations such as the California Integrated Waste ManagementBoard (CIWMB) and the U.S. Green Building Council.

RESOURCESGeneral Reference Sources on Sustainable Building

California Integrated Waste Management Boardww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/1001 I St., P.O. Box 4025Sacramento, CA 95812-4025(916) 341-6000

CIWMB, Designing with Vision: A Technical Manual for Material Choices in Building Construction(A comprehensive resource including product descriptions, sample bid documents and ordinances.)www.ciwmb.ca.gov/ConDemo/Pubs.htm

Collaborative for High Performance SchoolsBest Practices Manualwww.chps.net/

Environmental Building Newswww.buildinggreen.com/index.cfm122 Binge St., Suite 30Battleboro, VT 05301(802) 257-7300Fax (802) 257-7304

United States Department of Energywww.sustainable.doe.gov/buildings/gbintro.shtml

U.S. Green Building Council, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Programwww.usgbc.org/LEED/LEED_main.asp1015 18th St. N.W., Suite 805Washington, D.C. 20036

(202) 828-7422Fax (202) 828-5110

Whole Building Design Guidewww.wbdg.org/design/do-print.php?cn=2.2

Sample Specifications

CIWMBSection 01350, Green Building Materials Performance Standardswww.ciwmb.ca.gov/greenbuilding/Specs/Section01350/default.htm#Latest

CIWMBSpecifications Pagewww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/Specs/

CIWMBGuidelines, Rating Systems, and Specificationswww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/Design/Guidelines.htm

California Energy CommissionReference Specifications for Energy and Resource Efficient Buildingwww.eley.com/specs/index.htm

Collaborative for High Performance SchoolsGreen building specificationswww.chps.net/manual/documents/Sec_01350.doc



12

Construction Specifications Institutewww.csinet.org/99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 300Alexandria, VA 223141-800-689-2900Fax (703) 684-8436E-mail [email protected]

Eley Associates

Green Building Specificationswww.eley.com/142 Minna St.San Francisco, CA 94105(415) 957-1977Fax (415) 957-1381

OikosA commercial source of sustainable building information.www.oikos.com/index.lasso

Sustainable SourcesProduct Specifications and Sourceswww.greenbuilder.com/general/BuildingSources.html

Environmental Resources for Indian Tribes

U.S. EPATribal Environmental and Natural Resource Assistance Handbookwww.epa.gov/indian/tribhand.htm

U.S EPAAmerican Indian Environmental Officewww.epa.gov/indian/new.htm

Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionalswww4.nau.edu/itep/intro.html

National Tribal Environmental Councilwww.ntec.org/2501 Rio Grande Blvd., N.W., Suite A

Albuquerque, NM 87104Tribal Environmental Resource Centerwww4.nau.edu/itep/ntec_employment.html

Directories of Sustainable Building Professionals

The American Indian Council of Architects and Engineers2310 S.W. 89th Street, Suite FOklahoma City, OK 73159www.aicae.org/

Building Industry Professionals for Environmental Responsibility

www.biperusa.biz/LEED Directory of Green Building Accredited Professionalswww.usgbc.org/LEED/Accredited_Pros/accredited_pros_search.asp

Sustainable Sources Directory, Directory of Sustainable Building Professionalshttp://directory.greenbuilder.com/search.gbpro


19/157MODULE 3: FUNDING SUS TAINABLE BUILDING PROJECTS

13

As the Tribe and its contractors gain experience,many cost-effective sustainable buildingstrategies could be easily identified and built intoconventional building project budgets. No matterwhat size a project budget is, sustainable buildingstrategies and options can be part of most designs,do not have to add up-front costs, and can reducecosts through deferred savings over the long run.

To assist in going beyond the lowest budgetoptions, some special funding and financingoptions are available, including a few tailored

specifically to Tribes. But the best way to maximizesustainable building on a limited budget is tosystematically consider alternative strategiesduring a whole building design process. Includingthe Tribes architect and general contractor inplanning meetings from the earliest momentpossible is ideal. This module describes six fundingstrategies:

The four categories ofsustainable building optionsas described in the chart onpage 14 will probably standout as options within anyproject budget. The key isto work with the projectbuilding team from the verybeginning of a project to

develop a thoughtful, informed design. The keys tosustainable building on a tight budget are:

1) Identify as many strategies as possible inCategories One and Two.

2) Seek project life-cycle financing to coverCategory Three strategies that will pay forthemselves over time.

3) Investigate grants and other specialfunding sources to cover at least someCategory Four strategies.

Identify sustainable building options thatfit within the existing project budget (nomatter how small it is).

Use traditional grant sources like HUD.

Use project life-cycle financingmechanisms.

Use the Savings by Design Program.

Use government or foundation grants

to fund certain sustainable buildingstrategies.

Assist Tribal members and businesses tosecure financing for sustainable buildingefforts.

Using funding options available to Tribalgovernments, such as bond financing.

Sustainable Building Funding Strategies

ENERGY STAR FRONT LOADING WASHER

Identifysustainablebuilding options

that fit withinthe existingproject budget.

Funding Sustainable Building Projects

MODULE 3



14

CATEGORY

CATEGORY 1. SustainableBuilding Options that mayreduce up-front costsfor the

building being planned andsave on construction costs.

CATEGORY 2. SustainableBuilding Options that may addlittle or no up-front costs for

the building being planned;inaddition, either lower operatingcosts or other benefits can makethese options cost-effective.

CATEGORY 3. Sustainable

Building Options that add toup-front costs for the buildingbeing planned, but may pay forthemselves over time.(These options save moneywhen operating costs areconsidered along with up-frontcosts.)

CATEGORY 4. SustainableBuilding Options that add toup-front costs for the building

being planned and may notpay for themselves over time.(Note these options may becost-effective when all benefitsare considered, including socialand environmental benefitsdifficult to measure in dollars.)

* Important Note:The examples are illustrative only. Each strategys category could change dependingon the overall building design and other project-specific factors.

EXAMPLES

Use standardized dimensions for framing to avoid job site waste.

Preserve existing native vegetation rather than install newlandscaping.

Rehabilitate existing structures. Finish concrete floor slabs with non-carpet coverings.

Design an open layout to reduce material and add light.

Use salvaged materials.

Consider patios rather than wood decks.

Address sustainable siting issues.

Orient the building on an east-west axis.

Emphasize task lighting over general lighting.

Landscape with native drought-resistant plants.

Landscape to provide shade. Design to facilitate recycling and reuse.

Implement a construction recycling plan.

Use a rainwater catchment system for outdoor uses.

Use high-efficiency irrigation systems.

Use recycled-content building products.

Use low-emitting building products.

Manage stormwater through natural infiltration.

Develop an energy management plan.

Consider on-demand water heaters. Install water-efficient plumbing fixtures.

Use a gray water recovery system.

Use natural day lighting.

Use high performance lighting, thermal insulation, and appliances.

Install small-scale energy production systems like solar or wind.

The Four Cost Categories of Sustainable Building Approaches

Purchase open space as part of the project.

Use certified wood and rapidly renewable resources.

Building commissioning.

Automated energy efficiency controls. The highest efficiency appliances.



15

The U.S. Departmentof Housing and UrbanDevelopment (HUD) isa major funder of Tribal

building projects, especially residential projectsthrough the Native American Housing Assistanceand Self Determination Act (NAHASDA). Thisact consolidated many HUD grant programsspecifically geared to Tribes and made it more

difficult for Tribes to access some conventionalHUD programs. Funding from this program isprovided to Tribes on a non-competitive basis. In2002, allotments to California Tribes for detacheddwellings (one four-family dwelling) includingall development costs, ranged from about$147,000 to $253,000. HUD also administers theIndian Community Development Block GrantProgram (ICDBG), a competitive program thatprovides funding for housing as well as economicdevelopment projects.

Through a memorandum of understanding

with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency(U.S. EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy(DOE), HUD grant package language nowpromotes energy efficiency. According to the 2003solicitation for the ICDBG program, Applicantsconstructing, rehabilitating or maintaining housingor community facilities are encouraged to promoteenergy efficiency in design and operations. Theyare urged especially to purchase and use EnergyStar labeled products.1 Exactly how much weightis given to this factor in the proposal scoring isunclear. While HUD provides no strong monetary

incentives for sustainable building, Tribes arecertainly free to work within their allottedmaximum budget to implement select strategies.

The Savings-by-Design programmay be able to assist Tribes inincluding Category Three strategiesthat require additional up-front costsbut that will pay for themselves overtime. It is a statewide program for

commercial, industrial, and agricultural projectsencouraging energy-efficient building designand construction. The program, administered by

Californias four investor-owned utilities underthe auspices of the California Public UtilitiesCommission, rewards building projects that exceedCalifornias minimum required energy efficiencystandards by offering the following to buildingowners and their design teams:

Design assistance, analysis, and resources toaid building owners and design teams withenergy-efficient facility design.

Owner incentives of up to $150,000 perproject to compensate building owners forinvesting in energy-efficient design.

Design team incentives of up to $50,000per project to reward designers who meetambitious energy-efficiency goals.

Projects must be located within the serviceterritories of the Pacific Gas and ElectricCompany, San Diego Gas and Electric,Southern California Edison or SouthernCalifornia Gas Company. (See Resources).

Use theSavingsby Design

program.

Use traditionalfunding sourceslike HUD.

NEZ PERCE HELP INNOVATE GREENMANUFACTURED BUILDINGS

Manufactured buildings (also calledprefabricated,modular,or relocatablebuildings) are a low-cost option forhomes and some other applications like schools and offices.Nearly one out of every three new homes nationwideis manufactured, making it the fastest growing housingmarket.2And, discussions with California Tribes indicatethis percentage may be somewhat higher on Tribal land.

Manufactured buildings have some inherentadvantages. In addition to reducing costs compared tocustom designed and built projects, those sold in California

must automatically satisfy Title 24 energy efficiencyrequirements. There is no need to manage constructionwaste (which presumably has already been efficientlymanaged at the manufacturers facility). And the designprocess is greatly simplified since so many elements havealready been determined. But manufactured buildingsalso have their problems. They contain a large amountof embodied energy (that is, the energy needed tomanufacture the aluminum and steel used), they historicallyhave had little or no insulation or water conservingplumbing fixtures, and they eliminate some sustainablebuilding options.

But many sustainable building strategies still apply tomanufactured building projects. For example, all strategiesinvolving outdoors systems (for example, water-efficientlandscaping), indoor air quality (for example, carpet typesand ventilation) and siting issues (for example, orientingthe building on an east-west axis). Another emergingoption is to look for green manufactured buildings. Througha partnership with the Bonneville Power Administration,Washington State University, and several product vendors,the Nez Perce Zero Energy Manufactured Home Projecthas demonstrated an approach to producing a greenmanufactured home.3The home, which serves as Tribalhousing for operations staff at the Nez Perce Hatchery at

Cherry Lane, includes such sustainable building elementsas high performance insulation, a 6 kw photovoltaic systemconnected to the grid with net metering, a solar hot waterheating system, energy star windows, energy star heatingand cooling equipment, a heat pump, and other passivesolar design features. (More Information is available atwww.bpa.gov/Energy/N/energy_tips/zemh/index.shtml.)

In a separate project, Champion Enterprises (Silverton,Ore.) produced a manufactured home made entirely fromenergy-efficient foam core panels.4



16

Another option for fundingCategory Three options(those that add up-front costbut also pay for themselvesover time) is to use life-

cycle financing mechanisms. Life-cycle financingconsiders the total anticipated costs over thelifetime of the building, or the financing paybackperiod. (Life-cycle costs are explained in the box

below.) Life-cycle financing programs can helpincrease the amount of up-front financing availableto cover costs that will reduce the net operatingexpenses. One example is HUDs Energy EfficientMortgage Insurance Program, which can finance

energy efficiency measures at up to $8,000 per newhome. The program can also fund rehabilitationprojects. Another example is Fannie Maes Housingand Environment Initiative that offers increasedfinancing to individual homebuyers installingenergy efficiency measures. Another type of life-cycle financing is the location-efficient mortgage,which recognizes that home occupants in urbanlocations have lower transportation costs and

therefore may qualify for higher financing amounts(that can be applied to sustainable buildingstrategies). One example is Fannie Maes LocationEfficient Mortgage Program.

Use project life-cycle financingmechanisms.

The Importance of Life-Cycle Costing

and the Payback PeriodTribes often need to work within a fixed budget in their building projects. For example, residentialprojects funded with HUD grants will have a very tight fixed budget per unit. However, whenthe tribe does have an option increasing the up-front costs to cover certain sustainable buildingapproaches, it can result in substantial savings down the road.

Life-cycle costs refer to all costs related to a building (or other product) over a specified periodof time. Life-cycle costs include not only the up-front costs, but also the following:

Operating costs, such as building energy costs for electricity or heating, or water costs.

Maintenance and repair costs, such as the cost to repair appliances and other buildingsystems when they break. Some devices can be simple and inexpensive to repair; others mayrequire specialized, high-cost service or parts.

Replacement costs vary directly with the expected life of a product, such as a washingmachine. The longer a product lasts, the lower the overall replacement costs.

Disposal costs, such as the cost to gather and send waste to a landfill.

Externalized environmental and social costs, though hard to quantify, include the impactsassociated with producing and using products (for example, loss of scarce natural resources,loss of habitat, and air and water pollution).

For example, increasing a 10,000 square-foot commercial buildings insulation rating from R-19 toR-38 may increase up-front costs by about 35 cents per square foot, or $3,500. However, a contractorcan easily calculate the estimated annual energy cost savings of the added insulation for theparticular location and building type. The annual savings could be in the neighborhood of $250 peryear, or $5,000 over a 20-year planning period. In this example, there would likely be no significant

differences in maintenance, repair, or disposal costs for the two different types of insulation. Byusing less energy, the building would reduce the amount of energy resources required for itsoperation, and the associated air pollution involved in producing electricity for heating.

Any option that adds up-front costs while decreasing lifecycle costs will have a payback period,the time required for the annual savings to equal the original up-front cost. In the above example,the additional cost of the R-38 insulation was $3,500. At an annual energy savings of $257, theinsulation would pay for itself in about 14 years. In other words it would have a payback periodof about 14 years.



17

State and federal agenciesoffer a variety of ever-changing grant programsthat may be used to fundelements of Tribal sustainablebuilding projects. Fortunately,the agencies offer Web pageswith up-to-date information.(See list at the end of this

Module.) Examples include the U.S. Departmentof Energy Indian Resource Development Program,the California Integrated Waste ManagementBoard Sustainable Building Grant Program, theCalifornia Department of Parks and RecreationHabitat Restoration Program, the California WaterResources Control Board Water Recycling FundingProgram, and the U.S. EPA Tribal Clean Air ActCooperative Agreements Program.

Use governmentgrants tofund certainsustainablebuildingstrategies.

THE INDIAN ENERGY

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

PROGRAM

Several renewable energyprojects have received financialassistance from the Departmentof Energy pursuant to the IndianEnergy Resource DevelopmentProgram authorized by Title XXVIof the Energy Policy Act of 1992.Since 1994 more than 56 projectshave been funded at a level ofmore than $31 million. In 2002, the

program funded $2.5 million inprojects. These include a photo-voltaic water pumping system onthe Ute Mountain Reservationin Colorado, utility-scale windturbines on the BlackfeetReservation in Montana, andhydroelectric projects sponsoredby the Agdaagux Tribe and

Native Village of Chignik Lagoonin Alaska. In addition, this DOEprogram aided some feasibilitystudies and resource assessments,including biomass cogenerationsponsored by the White MountainApache Tribe in Arizona and theKeweenaw Bay Indian Communityin Michigan.

Source: DOE and RenewableEnergy in Indian Country,David Suagee.

http://solstice.crest.org/repp_pubs/articles/issuebr10/issuebr10.html



18

In addition to the mortgageassistance programsdescribed above, a numberof loans, incentives, rebates,and tax credits are availableto any California citizen.Tribes may choose to offereducation and informationabout these programs to

Tribal members and theirbusinesses to increase individual access to them.The Resources section at the end of this modulelists many of these programs. Following is a shortlist of some programs that may be particularlyuseful (other rebates may also be available fromlocal governments and utilities near Tribes).

PG&Es Self-Generation IncentiveProgramfor utility customers who installrenewable and clean on-site distributedgeneration (such as photovoltaics, windturbines and some engines and turbines

running on renewable fuel). The California Energy Commission (CEC)

Small Wind Rebate Programoffers partialcash rebates for qualified purchases of smallwind systems.

CEC Rebates on Renewable EnergySystemsoffers rebates of up to 50 percenton photovoltaics, solar thermal electricsystems, fuel cells, and small wind turbines.

CEC Solar and Wind Energy SystemCreditoffers a 15 percent State income tax

credit on purchase and installation costs ofphotovoltaic and wind generating systems.

SAFE-BIDCO Low Interest EnergyEfficiency Loans. The State AssistanceFund for Enterprise, Business andIndustrial Development Corporation.Small businesses, some landlords, andnonprofit organizations may receive low-interest loans for projects that conserveenergy or manage loadprograms suchas weatherization, cogeneration, alternateenergy systems, and lighting changes.

The Cool Savings with Cool RoofsProgramoffers cash rebates to localgovernments, businesses, schools, and otherentities that replace or resurface their oldhot roofs with new, light-colored, energy-conserving cool roofs.

The status of Tribes is unique.An Indian tribe is a distinct,independent political community,retaining power derived fromits original status as a sovereignnation. There are 107 federallyrecognized tribes in Californiagoverning nearly half a million

areas of Indian County. As sovereign nations,

within Indian Country, tribes constitute thegoverning body or regulatory authority. Like thefederal or State government, Tribes may legislateto encourage sustainable development and mayhave funding opportunities that are availableto governments. For example, the Indian TribalGovernmental Tax Status Act of 1982, 96 Stat.2607, accorded the tribes many of the federal taxadvantages enjoyed by states, including that ofissuing tax-exempt bonds to finance governmentprojects.

In one of the first examples of an IndianTribe using a financing mechanism commonto cities and counties, the Cabazon Band ofMission Indians has arranged to receive $145million in tax-exempt bond financing issuedby the California Statewide CommunityDevelopment Authority. The funds will beused to build a 12-story hotel and convention

center, part of a larger tribal plan including asecond hotel, a golf course and a time-sharedevelopment.

Source: Indian Tribe Issues MunicipalStyle Bonds to Finance Growth, Eureka TimesStandard,July 11, 2003.

Municipal Bonding A New Approach for Indian Tribes

Assist TribalMembers andBusinesses

to SecureFinancing forSustainable

Building Efforts

Use fundingoptionsavailable

to Tribalgovernments



19

RESOURCESSustainable Building Cost Information

Pacific Gas and Electric Company: 1-800-933-9555

Southern California Gas CompanyPh. 1-800-427-2000Centralized CorrespondenceP.O. Box 3150San Dimas, CA 91773

Southern California Edisone-mail: [email protected]. 1-888-371-3777Fax. (714) 895-0347ESP Services SCESSID- Administration Building7300 Fenwick LaneWestminster, CA 92683

San Diego Gas and Electric8326 Century Park Ct.San Diego, CA 92123

Ph. (619) 696-2000Fax: (858) 654-1515Toll Free: 1-800-411-7343

CIWMB Cost Issues Web Sitewww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/Design/CostIssues.htm

CA State ArchitectFunding Sustainable Building Sitewww.sustainableschools.dgs.ca.gov/SustainableSchools/financing/wastemgmt.html

Top 20 Cost-Effective Ways to Green an Affordable Housing Projectwww.globalgreen.org/programs/20ways.html

Building Green on a Budget, Environmental Building News, Vol. 8, No. 5, May 1999.www.buildinggreen.com/features/lc/low_cost.cfm

United States Environmental Protection Agency Funding Web Sites

U.S. EPA American Indian Environmental OfficeTribal Grantswww.epa.gov/indian/tgrant.htm

U.S. EPA Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem Solving Grant Program Fact Sheet, 2003www.epa.gov/indian/pdfs/EJ-CPSGrant-Fact-Sheet.pdf

U.S. EPA Region 9 Drinking Water Vulnerability Assessment Grantswww.epa.gov/region09/water/drinking/grants.html

U.S. EPA Tribal Assistance Programswww.epa.gov/owm/mab/indian/programs.htm

U.S. EPA Region 9 List of Grants Availablehttp://yosemite.epa.gov/R9/FSFC.nsf/fundingsources?ReadForm

U.S. EPA Drinking Water Tribal Set-Aside Grantswww.epa.gov/region09/funding/dwtsa.html

U.S. EPA Clear Lake Region Pesticide Environmental Risk Projectwww.epa.gov/pesticides/grants/r9_clearlakerfp.htm

U.S. EPA Region 9, Native American Water/Waste Water System Operation and Management Trainingand Technical Assistance Cooperative Agreement Projectwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/water_wastewater_tribal.html



20

Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Program and Asthma Management Trainingwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/air_iaq.html

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Water Quality Cooperative Agreements forTribeswww.epa.gov/region09/funding/water_quality_tribes.html

Source Reduction Assistance Programwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/p2.html

Integrated Pest Management and Sustainable Agricultural Projects

www.epa.gov/pesticides/grants/r9_agfqpa.htmlDrinking Water Tribal Training Intensive Co-Sponsorship Solicitationwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/water_drinking_tribal.html

U.S.-Mexico Tribal Border Infrastructure Programwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/water_border_tribes.html

Water Quality Cooperative Agreementswww.epa.gov/region09/funding/water_quality.html

Tribal Clean Air Act Cooperative Agreementswww.epa.gov/region09/funding/air_tribal.html

Resource Conservation Funding

www.epa.gov/region09/funding/rcra.htmlIndoor Air Quality for Schools Programwww.epa.gov/region09/funding/indoorair.html

U.S. EPA Grant Resources for Tribal MSW Managementwww.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/tribal/pdftxt/tribfund.pdf

Other State and Federal Agency Funding Web Sites

California Integrated Waste Management BoardSustainable Building Grants and Contractswww.ciwmb.ca.gov/GreenBuilding/Grants/

California Energy CommissionEmerging Renewables Rebate Programwww.consumerenergycenter.org/erprebate/index.html

Solar Energy and Energy Distribution Grants Programwww.consumerenergycenter.org/solaranddg/index.html

Solar and Wind State Tax Creditwww.consumerenergycenter.org/renewable/tax_credit.html

Summary of California Solar Energy Property Tax Incentiveswww.sdenergy.org/pvweb/property_tax_sec73.htm

California Renewable, Energy Efficiency and Demand Reduction Financing Programswww.energy.ca.gov/peakload/AB29x-SB5x_program_summary.html

California State ArchitectSustainable Building Financial Incentives Linkswww.dsa.dgs.ca.gov/sustainability/incentives.htm

California State Water Resources Control BoardFinancial Assistancewww.swrcb.ca.gov/funding/index.html

California Public Utilities, Savings By Design Programwww.savingsbydesign.com/

California Department of Housing and Community Developmentwww.hcd.ca.gov/

U.S. Department of Energy, Financing Energy Efficiency in Buildings.www.rebuild.org/attachments/solutioncenter/financeEE.pdf



21

Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentNative American Housing Assistance and SelfDetermination Act (NAHASDA) Home Pagewww-domino.hud.gov/ihp/newhome.nsf

Indian Community Development Block Grant Programwww.hud.gov/offices/pih/ih/grants/icdbg.cfm

LA Regional Water Quality Control Board, Compilation of State and Federal Grant Funding Sources forWater Related Projectswww.swrcb.ca.gov/rwqcb4/html/programs/regional_program/wmi/summary_info_on_funding.doc

List of DOE Funded Indian Energy Projects: 19941999www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/solar.renewables/ilands/appa.html

Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Self-Generation Incentive Programwww.pge.com/selfgen

Life-Cycle Financing Programs

HUD Energy Efficient Financing Insurance Programwww.hud.gov/buying/insured.cfm

Fannie Maes Housing and Environment Initiativewww.fanniemae.com/housingcommdev/solutions/environment.jhtml?p=Affordable+Housing+%26+Community+Development&s=Affordable+Housing+Solutions&t=Environmentally+Efficient+Housing

Low Interest Energy Efficiency Loans Information, SAFE-BIDCOwww.safe-bidco.com/

Energy Star Energy Efficiency Mortgageswww.epa.gov/epahome/hi-energystar.htm

Energy Efficient Mortgages Web Sitewww.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/housing/energy_mort/energy-mortgage.htm

Fannie Maes Location Efficient Mortgage Programwww.locationefficiency.com/

Natural Resources Defense Council, Guide to Location Efficient Mortgageswww.nrdc.org/cities/smartGrowth/qlem.asp

Manufactured Buildings

Collaborative for High Performance SchoolsBest Practices Manual, Volume II, Guideline OS6:Relocatable Classroomswww.chps.net/manual/index.htm - vol2

California Manufactured Housing Institutewww.cmhi.org

Modular and Manufactured Modern Housinghttp://modernhousing.net/

Modularcenter.comhttp://modularcenter.com/

Greening Affordable Housing

Greening Portlands Affordable HousingDesign and Construction Guidelines to ImproveEnvironmental Performance, Tenant Health and Long-Term Durability in Affordable Housingwww.sustainableportland.org/AHGuidelines.pdf

Los Angeles Greening Affordable Housing Charrette: Recommendations and Strategies for Resource-Efficient Design, Construction and Maintenance, Global Green USA, 1997.

Global Green USA Greening Affordable Housing Resourceswww.globalgreen.org/programs/building.html



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Santa Monicas Green Affordable Housing Checklistgreenbuildings.santa-monica.org/whatsnew/green-building-checklist/GreenBuildingChecklist.pdf

BOOKS

Rhonda S. Mills and Ciara Jaladoni, Power to Your Pocket: California Consumers Guide to EnergyIncentive Programs, Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies, 2002. Available atwww.cleanpower.org

Daianna Rincones, The Green Building Resource Guide,U.S. EPA, Region 5, 2000. Also available in .pdf

(portable document format) at www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/region5.htmJan McAdams, The Energywise Construction Funding Directory,2001. Available atwww.fundinggreenbuildings.com

California Energy Commission, Renewable Energy Program Guidebooks,2003. The set of guidebooksincludes Emerging Renewables Program, Existing Renewable Facilities Program, ConsumerEducation Program, and Overall Program Guidebook.

California Solar Center, California Renewable, Energy Efficiency and Demand Reduction Financing Programs,available in .pdf at www.flexyourpower.ca.gov

Alliance to Save Energy, Funds for Energy Efficiency Projects,2002. Available in .pdf atwww.ase.org/consumer/finance.htm

Environmental Law Institute, Smart Links: Turning Conservation Dollars into Smart Growth Opportunities,

www.elistore.orgU.S. EPA, Financing Brownfields Redevelopment Projects: A Guide for Developers, 1999. Available in .pdf atwww.smartgrowth.org/pdf/brownfield.pdf

NOTES1Department of Housing and Urban Development, Notice of Funding Availability for the CommunityDevelopment Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages, Fiscal Year 2003,Federal Register,July 16, 2003, p. 42195.

2Fannie Mae.3Bonneville Power Administration. www.bpa.gov/Energy/N/energy_tips/zemh/index.shtml

4Green Building News, June 2000. www.oikos.com/news/2000/06.html


29/157MODULE 4: SUSTAINABLE SITING AND DESIGN

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SITE SELECTIONFrequently, a building site has already been

established and site selection is not an option.However, here are several issues to consider whenthe site has not yet been determined or the locationand orientation within the site have not yet beendetermined.

Ideally, unless they arespecifically part of a newlyplanned expansion designedaccording to sustainable

development principles, newbuilding projects should avoid

the need for new roads, parking areas, or buildingson prime farmland or wildlife habitat; land whoseelevation is within or near the 100-year floodplain; land within 100 feet of any water, includingwetlands; or land that was previously open spaceor public park land. Tribes developing propertieswithin or near California municipalities maychoose to voluntarily adhere to the establishedland use policies for that community, or to meet thespirit of the policies in creative ways. As a general

rule, promoting sensitive infill consistent withlocal plans and infrastructure is environmentallypreferable to creating a new development requiringnew infrastructure or services.

Building projects can have a huge influenceon their local environment, both positively andnegatively. Issues such as where a building issited or how the whole building project (includingroads, parking, landscaping, etc.) is integrated withits surrounding environment and community arecritical. Using local climate, sun, wind, and shadeto maximum advantage are key siting elements.While not all of these issues are relevant to everyproject, considering each can help the Tribe

develop buildings that fit seamlessly and naturallywithin their natural environment and community.

Each projects particulars will determine ifaddressing these siting issues will add costs. Forexample, some sustainable building options mayreduce cost (for example, by moving the project toa lower value, previously developed brownfieldin an urban or suburban location) or may increasecost (for example, by involving expenditures tosafeguard land as open space). The most importantthing is to consider these alternatives and toexplore opportunities for win-win design changes

that further sustainable building goals and reducecost.

Sustainable Siting and Design IssuesSITE SELECTION

Use appropriate building sites.

Preserve open space.

Reduce sprawl.

Develop brownfields.

Safeguard endangered species.

Restore damaged environments.

Design to optimize sun, wind,and light.

SITE INTEGRATION

Enhance naturally occurringbiodiversity.

Minimizing site disturbance. Manage stormwater.

Optimize transportation options.

Reduce heat islands.

Reduce light pollution.

Useappropriate

building sites.

Sustainable Siting and Design

MODULE 4



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Consider incorporating thepreservation of open spacesundeveloped land and resource

areasinto your building project while avoidingimpacting previously undeveloped open spaces.For example, projects may establish a conservationeasement or donate adjacent lands to a local landtrust or open space district. If open spaces mustbe developed, consider donating an equivalent

amount of land elsewhere to open space status.Consider channeling the new building topreviously developed areas with existinginfrastructure wherever possible, while

protecting green fields (natural or park areas)and preserving habitat. This is most relevant todevelopments in established suburban or urbanenvironments, where the danger of sprawl is mostapparent. But even in rural areas, consolidatingresidential development through clustering,for example, can produce vibrant communitieswith stores and services located within walking

distance. At the same time, this practice reducestransportation needs and the potential for futuresprawl patterns.

Where possible, considerrehabilitating abandoned buildingsand sites. As defined in federal law,

(42 U.S.C. 9601) a brownfield site is real property,the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of whichmay be complicated by the presence or potentialpresence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, orcontaminant. Such sites must be thoroughly evalu-ated by a qualified environmental firm, with a

rehabilitation plan established, but should beconsidered. Developing brownfields allows thecleanup and recycling of existing infrastructurewhile preventing degradation of undeveloped land.

Avoid entirely any land or wetlandsspecifically designated as habitatfor an endangered or threatenedspecies. Conducting a detailed

inventory of plant and animal species is critical.Once identified, the presence ofendangered species may necessitatechanges to the project that are hard topredict ahead of time. Once complete,information about threatened andendangered species living in harmonywith a new building project can serveto tighten the connection betweenbuilding users and the naturalenvironment.

Some building projects mayprovide the opportunity torestore damaged lands to anatural state, such as conversion

of gravel parking lots to fields, meadows orwetlands, or replanting trees or native grasses.

The beneficial impacts ofdesigning a building around itslocal climate and topographyto achieve desirable sun,wind, and light patterns can

be quite impressive. For example, orienting a patioto provide a beautiful view, placing it outsideof typical wind patterns, or orienting glazingto provide views of a sunset can make a hugedifference in the qualitative feel and comfort of abuilding. These elements also impact energy useby affecting ventilation, lighting and heat flow, ofcourse, and so should be considered along withthese factors. The design should also consider theimpact of the new building on the surroundingenvironment and on neighbors.

Preserveopen space.

Restoredamagedenvironments.

Reducesprawl.

Developbrownfields.

Safeguardendangeredspecies.

Design tooptimize sun,

wind, and light.



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SITE INTEGRATIONRegardless of whether a site has already

been identified, the following steps can aid inintegrating the building project into the localenvironment and community.

Consider first maintaining andenhancing naturally occurringbiodiversity on the site. Design

the site to reconnect fragmentedlandscapes and establishcontiguous networks with

other natural systems both within the site andadjacent to it. For example, a corridor of treesmight be incorporated into a project to connecttwo adjacent forest areas. Avoid major alterationsto sensitive topography, especially removing orrelocating natural vegetation and wildlife habitat.Establish car-free areas exclusively for foot traffic,with information about local species, to promoteappreciation of the natural environment.

During construction thecontractor team will need to takesteps to minimize impacts to the

natural environment. Issues o

Building and Buying Green a Practical Guide for California Tribes

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