Standing before a crowd of architects at the American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) 2008 National Convention and Design Exposition, NFRC Executive Director Jim Benney explained the role NFRC can play in helping architects design more energy-efficient buildings. Benney also fielded several questions about energy codes and the performance standards of windows during his hour-long talk, which drew an audience of over 150 people.

The AIA National Convention and Design Exposition is widely considered to be one of the premier industry events for architects and building professionals.

During Benney’s session, “Energy Codes and Fenestration,” he discussed fenestration’s role in energy efficiency and building design. More than 44 states and the District of Columbia reference or require NFRC ratings in their energy codes.

“I’m incredibly pleased that I was able to be a part of this event,” said Benney. “Architects are one of the many important stakeholders of NFRC and we value the relationship we have built with AIA.”

Show organizers encouraged all attendees to help make the expo “greener” to be certain it was an environmentally responsible show. One example was a reduction in printed materials. Exhibitors and attendees saved paper by making two-sided copies whenever possible and using more environmentally-friendly materials such as soy/vegetable-based ink on post-consumer recycled paper.

In keeping with the effort, NFRC eliminated paper all together by providing many of its fact sheets, standards, and a specifiers guide on a compact disc.