Environmental_Regulations Flashcards
(20 cards)
What types of agencies may enforce environmental regulations?
Federal (EPA, FEMA), state environmental departments, and local AHJs.
Why should environmental regulations be identified before signing a contract?
To determine scope of services and avoid unexpected responsibilities.
What is FEMA’s role in building projects?
Regulates floodplain design, may require watertight doors or raised buildings.
How can the Endangered Species Act impact a project site?
May restrict site improvements near habitats of endangered species.
What is the difference between mandatory and elective environmental standards?
Mandatory standards are legal requirements; elective standards (e.g. LEED) are chosen by the owner.
What does LEED certification assess?
Carbon, energy, water, waste, transportation, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality.
Who often hires environmental consultants, and why?
The owner, because consultants often deal with both design and construction means and methods.
What environmental issues do state agencies often evaluate?
Impact on waterways, groundwater, soil erosion, and electrical capacity.
What should CDs include to mitigate erosion?
Buffer strips, fencing, grading plans, and restoration areas.
What is the purpose of a waterproofing consultant in flood zones?
Ensure compliance with FEMA/local flood zone requirements through appropriate detailing and inspections.
What are greenfields?
Previously undeveloped land, usually agricultural, with minimal remediation needs.
What are brownfields?
Contaminated or potentially contaminated land complicating redevelopment (e.g., gas stations, tanneries).
What are blackfields?
A subset of brownfields with blighted coal mining land, often requiring major remediation.
What are greyfields?
Urban properties with obsolete structures, not necessarily contaminated.
What is land recycling?
Reusing previously developed or used land, categorized as greenfields, brownfields, blackfields, or greyfields.
How should AHJ environmental requirements be factored into project planning?
Include consultation meetings, submittal stages, and response timelines in the schedule.
What does floodplain classification affect in design?
Placement of mechanical equipment, waterproofing, elevation, and venting.
What are key considerations in environmentally sensitive site planning?
Weather patterns, microclimate, topography, soil, drainage, and vegetation.
Why is communication with environmental AHJs important during design?
To proactively address compliance issues and avoid costly delays or redesigns.
What should be discussed with the client early regarding environmental regulations?
Mandatory requirements, certification goals (e.g., LEED), and additional consultants needed.
