Building standards are really important for making sure that the materials used in schools are good for the environment. These rules often set guidelines for how materials should perform when it comes to health, safety, and the environment. This information helps in choosing the right materials.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Energy Efficiency Standards:

   • By 2023, more than 40% of states in the U.S. have made rules about energy use in buildings. These rules say that building materials must meet certain standards, helping to cut down energy use by up to 30%.

2. Using Sustainable Materials:

   • The International Standards Organization, or ISO, has set rules that encourage using recycled materials in construction. For example, some building codes suggest that at least 20% of a material should be made from recycled sources.

3. Carbon Footprint Regulations:

   • In some areas, there is a requirement to evaluate how materials impact the environment over their entire life, from start to finish. This assessment helps in picking materials that create less pollution and greenhouse gases.

In short, building codes greatly influence how sustainable schools can be. They encourage using materials that save energy and are better for the planet.