Progressive AE has joined the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2030 Challenge, committing to ensuring that all new buildings, developments, and major renovations shall be carbon-neutral by 2030. The challenge was originally created by Edward Mazria, Founder and CEO of Architecture 2030

In a recent company townhall meeting, the firm’s sustainability team shared, “By committing to the AIA 2030 Challenge, Progressive AE will bring a common language across discipline integration that positions us to guide clients to combat climate change and make long-term business decisions impacting their facilities. This is the first step in environmental leadership in our industry.” 

According to the AIA, “With 40 percent of US energy consumed by buildings, architects play a key role in making significant reductions in CO2 emissions.” Therefore, Progressive AE views the 2030 commitment as a natural expression of our professional responsibility and architectural code of ethics. This commitment will help guide the firm in pursuing sustainable design, technology, and innovative solutions. It will also help clients save on energy costs, lower their carbon footprint, and create resiliency plans that will serve generations to come.  

Participating in the challenge affords access, through the AIA Design Data Exchange (DDx) platform, to confidential data from other participating firms around the globe to explore sustainable design practices, compare similar projects, and set data-driven target energy goals. In 2019 through the DDx, the AIA reported an overall 49% predicted energy use intensity (pEUI) reduction from participating projects, which is equivalent to 20.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions relative to 2030 baseline-equivalent buildings.  

In light of the global climate reality, Progressive AE is committed to providing relevant knowledge and environmental leadership to our clients and communities. 

About our Firm 

Progressive AE has provided innovative and sustainable architectural and engineering services for more than 50 years. Our work is guided by a fundamental and forward-thinking philosophy that spaces and environments should serve as strategic contributors that drive organizational change. The firm’s success has been achieved through a workforce that is a unique blend of creative people who think strategically, and strategic people who work creatively. Progressive AE is a privately held, employee-owned company based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan and Charlotte, North Carolina that practices throughout the United States.