CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Where is the Product GWP limits table and related referenced standards cited?
Table 5.409.3 contains the product GWP caps you must meet under CALGreen. Section 5.409.3 requires a Type III EPD for each listed product and that the product’s GWP be at or below the Table value; concrete may be shown compliant using the code’s weighted‑average exception and Equation 5.409.3.1.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The controlling provision is § 5.409.3: the prescriptive path requires that every permanently installed product listed in Table 5.409.3 must have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD) and must not exceed the maximum GWP value shown in Table 5.409.3. § 5.409.3.1 states the “shall not exceed” requirement and the section includes an exception and the Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1 allowing a concrete-weighted-average compliance option. The Appendix provides verification and worksheets (Worksheet WS‑8) and a voluntary Tier table (A5.409.3) for Tier 1/2 limits.
The single most important rule: every product listed in Table 5.409.3 must have a Type III EPD and its product GWP must be at or below the table’s maximum allowed value (unless you use the concrete weighted‑average exception).
Requirements in detail
Where the table and limits live
- The prescriptive GWP limits are published in Table 5.409.3 — Product GWP Limits (referenced directly from § 5.409.3).
- Voluntary Tier 1 and Tier 2 alternative limits appear in Table A5.409.3 (Appendix A) for non‑mandatory Tier compliance.
Required documentation and verification
- Every product listed in Table 5.409.3 must have a Type III EPD (product‑specific or factory‑specific). This requirement is stated in § 5.409.3.
- Appendix guidance requires submittal of calculations, EPDs, and Worksheet WS‑8 signed by the design professional; updated EPDs are to be provided to the owner and enforcing agency on request. (See A5.409.3.2 / verification notes.)
Table — decision‑relevant dimensions and values
A condensed selection from Table 5.409.3 (these are the controlling maximum GWP values to compare an EPD against):
| Product category (representative) | Maximum acceptable GWP (GWP_allowed) | Unit | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot‑rolled structural steel sections | 1.77 | MT CO2e/MT | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Hollow structural sections | 3.00 | MT CO2e/MT | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Steel plate | 2.61 | MT CO2e/MT | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Concrete reinforcing steel | 1.56 | MT CO2e/MT | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Flat glass | 2.50 | kg CO2e/MT | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Ready‑mixed concrete, 2500–3499 psi | 489 | kg CO2e/m3 | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Ready‑mixed concrete, 4500–5499 psi | 661 | kg CO2e/m3 | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
| Lightweight ready‑mixed concrete, up to 2499 psi | 875 | kg CO2e/m3 | Table 5.409.3, § 5.409.3 |
(Full table and footnotes are in the code text — use Table 5.409.3 for complete categories/rows.)
Important table footnotes and sources
- The Table values (footnotes) note that many GWP values are based on 175% of the Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except concrete (which uses 175% of the NRMCA 2022 v3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark for ready mixed concrete). Concrete high‑early strength values use a different multiplier (see table footnotes). These sourcing footnotes are part of Table 5.409.3.
Exceptions & special cases
- Concrete grouping exception (§ 5.409.3 Exception & Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1): concrete may be treated as one product category. Compliance may be shown by demonstrating the project‑wide weighted average GWP for all concrete mixes is less than the weighted average maximum GWP allowed per Table 5.409.3, using Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1. The code provides the summation equation and defines GWP_n, GWP_allowed and v_n.
- For the exception, industry‑wide EPDs are acceptable (the exception explicitly allows industry‑wide EPDs for concrete mixes when using the weighted average method).
- Voluntary compliance tiers: Appendix Table A5.409.3 lists Tier 1/Tier 2 (stricter) limits and a separate verification path (see Appendix A5.409.3). Use the Appendix if pursuing Tier 1/2 voluntary performance.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting the Type III EPD requirement for listed products — § 5.409.3 requires a Type III EPD (product‑ or factory‑specific). Don’t substitute other EPD types without checking the code.
- Unit mismatches: Table uses MT CO2e/MT for some steel and kg CO2e/m3 for concrete. Always convert quantities and GWP units consistently before comparing or computing weighted averages (the exception equation requires consistent units).
- Applying the wrong table: mandatory prescriptive compliance uses Table 5.409.3; Tiered (voluntary) limits use Table A5.409.3. Using the wrong table (or the wrong multiplier from the footnotes) will yield incorrect compliance decisions.
- Ignoring the table footnotes about how the table values were derived (the 175% multiplier and NRMCA benchmarks for concrete) — those notes explain the benchmark origins and are part of Table 5.409.3.
Worked example — concrete weighted‑average exception (numbers)
Situation: the project uses two ready‑mixed concrete mixes.
Step 1 — identify volumes and EPD GWPs:
- Mix A: 3,000 psi (category 2500–3499 psi). Volume v_A = 30 m3. EPD GWP_A = 500 kg CO2e/m3.
- Mix B: 4,500 psi (category 4500–5499 psi). Volume v_B = 70 m3. EPD GWP_B = 640 kg CO2e/m3.
Step 2 — get allowed (table) values:
- GWP_allowed_A (2500–3499 psi) = 489 kg CO2e/m3 (Table 5.409.3).
- GWP_allowed_B (4500–5499 psi) = 661 kg CO2e/m3 (Table 5.409.3).
Step 3 — compute weighted sums per Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1:
- GWP_n = Σ(GWP_n * v_n) = (500 × 30) + (640 × 70) = 15,000 + 44,800 = 59,800 kg CO2e.
- GWP_allowed = Σ(GWP_allowed * v_n) = (489 × 30) + (661 × 70) = 14,670 + 46,270 = 60,940 kg CO2e.
Step 4 — compare:
- Since 59,800 < 60,940, the project meets the concrete weighted‑average exception and complies with § 5.409.3 for concrete using the exception. (All units were kg CO2e/m3 and m3 as required.)
Related provisions
- § 5.409.2 — Whole building life cycle assessment (context for GWP reductions and elective path).
- § 5.409.3.1 — Products shall not exceed the maximum GWP value specified in Table 5.409.3 (the explicit “shall not exceed” clause).
- Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1 — the concrete weighted‑average equation and definitions used for the exception.
- A5.409.3.2 (Appendix) — verification requirements and Worksheet WS‑8 details for product GWP compliance.
- Table A5.409.3 — Appendix Tier 1 / Tier 2 product GWP limits (voluntary enhanced tiers).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 5.409.3 High relevance — show source text
and
n = each concrete mix installed in the project GWP n = the GWP for concrete mix n per concrete mix EPD, in kg CO 2 e/m [3]
GWP allowed = the GWP potential allowed for concrete mix n per Table 5.409.3 v n = the volume of concrete mix n installed in the project, in m [3]
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-25
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
TABLE 5.409.3—PRODUCT GWP LIMITS Col2 Col3 BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA MATERIALS PRODUCT
CATEGORY1MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE GWP VALUE
(unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT Hot-rolled structural steel sections 1.77 MT CO2e/MT Hollow structural sections 3.00 MT CO2e/MT Steel plate 2.61 MT CO2e/MT Concrete reinforcing steel 1.56 MT CO2e/MT Flat glass 2.50 kg CO2e/MT Light-density mineral wool board insulation 5.83 kg CO2e/1 m2 Heavy-density mineral wool board insulation 14.28 kg CO2e/1 m2 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 CONCRETE PRODUCT CATEGORY MAXIMUM GWP ALLOWED VALUE
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT up to 2499 psi 450 kg CO2e/m3 2500~~-~~3499 psi 489 kg CO2e/m3 3500~~-~~4499 psi 566 kg CO2e/m3 4500~~-~~5499 psi 661 kg CO2e/m3 5500~~-~~6499 psi 701 kg CO2e/m3 6500 psi and greater 799 kg CO2e/m3 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 CONCRETE PRODUCT CATEGORY MAXIMUM GWP ALLOWED VALUE
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT up to 2499 psi 875 kg CO2e/m3 2500~~-~~3499 psi 956 kg CO2e/m3 3500~~-~~4499 psi 1039 kg CO2e/m3 1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table 5.409.3 are based on 175 percent of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not
included in the BCCA.
2. For concrete, 175 percent of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for the GWP
allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3.CALGreen § 409.3 High relevance — show source text
For concrete, Tier 1 is 150%, Tier 2 is 100% of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for
the GWP allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130% of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table A5.409.3 are based on 150% of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not included
in BCCA.
2. For concrete, Tier 1 is 150%, Tier 2 is 100% of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for
the GWP allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130% of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table A5.409.3 are based on 150% of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not included
in BCCA.
2. For concrete, Tier 1 is 150%, Tier 2 is 100% of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for
the GWP allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130% of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|A5.409.3.2 Verification of compliance. Calculations to demonstrate compliance, Type III EPDs for products required to comply if included in the project, and Worksheet WS-8 signed by the design professional of record shall be provided on the construction documents. Updated EPDs for products used in construction shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction and to the enforcement entity upon request. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.
A5.409.4 Whole building life cycle assessment of additional impacts. Maintaining compliance with the requirements of Section 5.409.2, conduct a cradle-to-grave whole building life cycle assessment performed in accordance with ISO 14044, including operating energy, and demonstrating a minimum 10-percent improvement for a minimum of two additional impacts listed in Section A5.409.4.1, as compared to a reference baseline building of similar size, function, complexity, type of construction, material specification, location and operating energy performance that meets the requirements of the California Energy Code currently in effect.
A5.409.4.1 Impacts to be considered. Select from the following impacts in the assessment:
Fossil fuel depletion.
Stratospheric ozone depletion.
Acidification of land and water sources.
Eutrophication.
Photochemical oxidants (smog).
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-31
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5-32 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
CALGreen § 702.2 High relevance — show source text
A copy of the whole building life cycle assessment which includes the GWP analysis produced by the software, in addition to maintenance and training information, shall be included in the operation and maintenance manual and shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.
5.409.3 Product GWP compliance—prescriptive path. Each product that is permanently installed and listed in Table 5.409.3 shall have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD), either product-specific or factory-specific.
5.409.3.1 Products shall not exceed the maximum GWP value specified in Table 5.409.3.
Exception: Concrete may be considered one product category to meet compliance with this section. A weighted average of the maximum GWP for all concrete mixes installed in the project shall be less than the weighted average maximum GWP allowed per Table 5.409.3 using Exception Equation 5.409.3.1. Calculations shall be performed with consistent units of measurement for the material quantity and the GWP value. For the purposes of this exception, industry-wide EPDs are acceptable.
Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1
GWP n < GWP allowed
where
GWP n = Σ (GWP n )(v n )
and
GWP allowed = Σ (GWP allowed )(v n )
and
n = each concrete mix installed in the project GWP n = the GWP for concrete mix n per concrete mix EPD, in kg CO 2 e/m [3]
GWP allowed = the GWP potential allowed for concrete mix n per Table 5.409.3 v n = the volume of concrete mix n installed in the project, in m [3]
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-25
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
TABLE 5.409.3—PRODUCT GWP LIMITS Col2 Col3 BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA MATERIALS PRODUCT
CATEGORY1MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE GWP VALUE
(unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT Hot-rolled structural steel sections 1.77 MT CO2e/MT Hollow structural sections 3.00 MT CO2e/MT Steel plate 2.61 MT CO2e/MT Concrete reinforcing steel 1.56 MT CO2e/MT Flat glass 2.50 kg CO2e/MT Light-density mineral wool board insulation 5.83 kg CO2e/1 m2 Heavy-density mineral wool board insulation 14.28 kg CO2e/1 m2 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 **Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, CALGreen § 5.4 High relevance — show source text
3||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Life Cycle Assessment, Scope, Product GWP compliance –
prescriptive path, 5.409.3.1 with Exception and Exception
EQUATION, Verification of compliance and Product GWP
Limits Table with Footnotes|5.409.1,
5.409.3,
5.409.3.1,
5.409.3.2 and
Table 5.409.3||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Recycling by occupants (with exception)|5.410.1||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Recycling by occupants: additions (with exception)|5.410.1.1||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Recycling by occupants: sample ordinance
|5.410.1.2||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Commissioning new buildings (≥ 10,000 sf) [N]|5.410.2||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Owner’s or owner representative’s Project Requirements
(OPR) [N]|5.410.2.1||||| |DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
Efficiency
(continued)|Mandatory|Basis of Design (BOD) [N]|5.410.2.2|||||2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-45
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N/A O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACH(continued)
DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
EfficiencyMandatory Commissioning plan [N] 5.410.2.3 (continued)
DIVISION 5.4
Material
Conservation
and Resource
EfficiencyMandatory Functional performance testing [N] 5.410.2.4 (continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 5.409.3 High relevance — show source text
3**|Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3| |CONCRETE PRODUCT CATEGORY|MAXIMUM GWP ALLOWED VALUE
(GWPallowed)|UNIT OF MEASUREMENT| |up to 2499 psi
|450|kg CO2e/m3| |2500~~-3499 psi-
|489|kg CO2e/m3| |35004499 psi-
|566|kg CO2e/m3| |45005499 psi-
|661|kg CO2e/m3| |55006499 psi|701|kg CO2e/m3| |6500 psi and greater|799|kg CO2e/m3| |Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2|Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2|Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2| |CONCRETE PRODUCT CATEGORY|MAXIMUM GWP ALLOWED VALUE-
(GWPallowed)|UNIT OF MEASUREMENT| |up to 2499 psi
|875|kg CO2e/m3| |25003499 psi-~~4499 psi|1039|kg CO2e/m3| |1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table 5.409.3 are based on 175 percent of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not
|956|kg CO2e/m3| |3500
included in the BCCA.
2. For concrete, 175 percent of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for the GWP
allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130 percent of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table 5.409.3 are based on 175 percent of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not
included in the BCCA.
2. For concrete, 175 percent of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for the GWP
allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130 percent of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|1. The GWP values of the products listed in Table 5.409.3 are based on 175 percent of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not
included in the BCCA.
2. For concrete, 175 percent of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for the GWP
allowed, except for High Early Strength.
3. Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130 percent of the ready-mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.|CALGreen § 409.3 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Concrete may be considered one product category to meet compliance with this section. A weighted average of the maximum GWP for all concrete mixes installed in the project shall be less than the weighted average maximum GWP allowed per Table A5.409.3 using Exception Equation A5.409.3.1. Calculations shall be performed with consistent units of measurement for the material quantity and the GWP value. For the purposes of this exception, industry-wide EPDs are acceptable.
Exception EQUATION A5.409.3.1
GWP n < GWP allowed
where
GWP n = Σ (GWP n )(v n ) and GWP allowed = Σ (GWP allowed )(v n )
and
n = each concrete mix installed in the project GWP n = the GWP for concrete mix n per concrete mix EPD, in kg CO 2 e/m [3]
GWP allowed = the GWP potential allowed for concrete mix n per Table 5.409.3 v n = the volume of concrete mix n installed in the project, in m [3]
APPENDIX A5-30 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
TABLE A5.409.3—PRODUCT GWP LIMITS, TIER 1 AND TIER 2 Col2 Col3 Col4 BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA
PRODUCT CATEGORY1TIER 1
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE
GWP VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)TIER 2
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE
GWP VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT Hot-rolled structural steel sections 1.52 1.01 MT CO2e/MT Hollow structural sections 2.57 1.71 MT CO2e/MT Steel plate 2.24 1.49 MT CO2e/MT Concrete reinforcing steel 1.34 0.89 MT CO2e/MT Flat glass 2.15 1.43 kg CO2e/MT Light-density mineral wool board insulation 5.00 3.33 kg CO2e/1 m2 Heavy-density mineral wool board insulation 12.24 8.16 kg CO2e/1 m2 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 **Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, CALGreen § 8-3 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8 COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND
REFERENCE MATERIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Worksheet (WS-1) Baseline Water Use: Baseline Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . .8-3
Worksheet (WS-2) Water Use Reduction: 12-, 20- or 25-Percent Reduction Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4
Worksheet (WS-3) 5.105.2 Building Reuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4 Worksheet (WS-4) 5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5 Worksheet (WS-5) 5.409.3 Product GWP Compliance—Prescriptive Path: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5
Worksheet (WS-6) A5.105.2 Building Reuse Tier 1 and Tier 2:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Worksheet (WS-7) A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6 Worksheet (WS-8) A5.409.3 Product GWP Compliance—Prescriptive Path:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6 Worksheet (WS-9) 5.409.2 and A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Plan . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Worksheet. . . . . . 8-9 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Acknowledgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 Title 23, Waters, California Code of Regulations . . . . . . . . . 8-11 Commissioning Referenced Standards for Non-energy Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13 IES TM-15-11 Table A-1, Table 130.2-A and Table 130.2-B Uplight and Glare Ratings Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
CALGreen § 504.4.8 High relevance — show source text
A5.504.4.8
Product GWP Limits Table 5.409.3
Referenced Organizations and Standards Chapter 6 Renewable Energy A5.211
Site Development 4.106, 5.106, A4,106, A5.106 Bicycle parking and changing rooms 5.106.4, A5.106.4.3, Table A5.106.4.3 Bird friendly building design A5.107 Building orientation Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.106.9 Designated parking for clean air vehicles A5.106.5.1 Exterior wall shading A5.106.7 Grading and paving 4.106.3, 5.106.10 Heat island effect – cool roof Tables A4.106.5(1) – (4), A5.106.11.2, Table
A5.106.11.2 Heat island effect – hardscape alternatives A5.106.11, A5.106.11.1 Landscape design A4.106.3 Light pollution reduction 5.106.8 Low impact development A5.106.3 Reduce parking capacity A5.106.6 Shade trees 5.106.12, A5.106.11.3 Soil analysis and protection A4.106.2 Storm water management A5.106.2 Water permeable surfaces A4.106.4 Site Preservation A4.104, A5.104 Reduce development footprint and optimize open space A5.104.1 Site Selection A4.103, A5.103 Brownfield, greyfield or infill site development A5.103.2 Community connectivity A4.103.2, A5.103.1
Voluntary Measures 301.1, 306 Voluntary Tiers 304, 305, 306, A4.601, A5.601
Water Resistance and Moisture Management 5.407, 5.505, A4.407, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.407 Moisture control 4.505, 5.407.2, 5.505, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.407.9, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.505.2 Weather protection 5.407.1, A5.407.3
Water Reuse Systems A4.305 Graywater A4.305.1, A5.304.8 Recycled water for landscape irrigation A4.305.3 Recycled water piping A4.305.2 Water Use, Indoor 4.303, 5.303, A4.303, A5.203
Appliances A4.303.3, A5.303.3, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.210 Dual plumbing A5.303.5 Fixture flow rates 4.303.1, Table A5.303.2.3.1, 5.303.2.3.1, A4.303 Kitchen faucets and dishwashers
A4.303.1
Meters 4.303.2, 5.303.1 Multiple showerheads serving one shower 4.303.1.3.2, 5.303.3.3.2 Nonwater urinals and waterless toilets
CALGreen § 409.3 High relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
TABLE A5.409.3—PRODUCT GWP LIMITS, TIER 1 AND TIER 2 Col2 Col3 Col4 BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA
PRODUCT CATEGORY1TIER 1
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE
GWP VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)TIER 2
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE
GWP VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT Hot-rolled structural steel sections 1.52 1.01 MT CO2e/MT Hollow structural sections 2.57 1.71 MT CO2e/MT Steel plate 2.24 1.49 MT CO2e/MT Concrete reinforcing steel 1.34 0.89 MT CO2e/MT Flat glass 2.15 1.43 kg CO2e/MT Light-density mineral wool board insulation 5.00 3.33 kg CO2e/1 m2 Heavy-density mineral wool board insulation 12.24 8.16 kg CO2e/1 m2 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3 CONCRETE PRODUCT CATEGORY TIER 1
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE GWP
VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)TIER 2
MAXIMUM ACCEPTABLE GWP
VALUE (unfabricated)
(GWPallowed)UNIT OF MEASUREMENT up to 2499 psi 386 257 kg CO2e/m3 2500~~-~~3499 psi 419 279 kg CO2e/m3 3500~~-~~4499 psi 485 323 kg CO2e/m3 4500~~-~~5499 psi 567 378 kg CO2e/m3 5500~~-~~6499 psi 601 401 kg CO2e/m3 6500 psi and greater 685 456 kg CO2e/m3 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2 **Concrete, CALGreen § 5.409.2.3 High relevance — show source text
The software tools and data sets shall be the same for evaluation of both the baseline building and the proposed building.
Notes:
- Software for calculating whole building life cycle assessment is available for free at Athena Sustainable Materials Institute (https://calculatelca.com/software/impact-estimator/) and OneClick LCA-Planetary (www.oneclicklca.com/planetary). Paid versions include, but are not limited to, Sphera GaBi Solutions (gabi.sphera.com), SimaPro (simapro.com), OneClick LCA (www.oneclicklca.com) and Tally for Revit (apps.autodesk.com).
- ASTM E2921-22 “Standard Practice for Minimum Criteria for Comparing Whole Building Life Cycle Assessments for Use with Building Codes, Standards, and Rating Systems” may be consulted for the assessment.
- In addition to the required documentation specified in Section 5.409.2.3, Worksheet WS-9 may be required by the enforcing entity to demonstrate compliance with the requirements.
5.409.2.1 Building components. Building enclosure components included in the assessment shall be limited to glazing assemblies, insulation, and exterior finishes. Primary and secondary structural members included in the assessment shall be limited to footings and foundations, and structural columns, beams, walls, roofs, and floors.
5.409.2.2 Reference study period. The reference study period of the proposed building shall be equal to the reference baseline building and shall be 60 years.
5.409.2.3 Verification of compliance. A summary of the GWP analysis produced by the software and Worksheet WS-4 signed by the design professional of record shall be provided in the construction documents as documentation of compliance. A copy of the whole building life cycle assessment which includes the GWP analysis produced by the software, in addition to maintenance and training information, shall be included in the operation and maintenance manual and shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.
5.409.3 Product GWP compliance—prescriptive path. Each product that is permanently installed and listed in Table 5.409.3 shall have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD), either product-specific or factory-specific.
5.409.3.1 Products shall not exceed the maximum GWP value specified in Table 5.409.3.
Exception: Concrete may be considered one product category to meet compliance with this section. A weighted average of the maximum GWP for all concrete mixes installed in the project shall be less than the weighted average maximum GWP allowed per Table 5.409.3 using Exception Equation 5.409.3.1. Calculations shall be performed with consistent units of measurement for the material quantity and the GWP value. For the purposes of this exception, industry-wide EPDs are acceptable.
Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1
GWP n < GWP allowed
where
GWP n = Σ (GWP n )(v n )
and
GWP allowed = Σ (GWP allowed )(v n )
and
CALGreen § 4.506 High relevance — show source text
Indoor Air Quality And Exhaust 4.506, 5.506 Bathroom exhaust fans 4.506.1 Carbon dioxide monitoring 5.506.2 Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) monitoring in classrooms 5.506.3
Filters 5.504.5, A4.506.1 Outside air delivery 5.506.1 Indoor Moisture Control 4.505, 5.505.1 Concrete slab foundations 4.505.2
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE INDEX-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INDEX
Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), Table A5.504.8.5 Covering of duct openings and protection of mechanical equipment during construction 4.504.1, 5.504.3 Environmental tobacco smoke control 5.504.7, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.504.9 Finish material pollutant control 4.504.2, 5.504.4 Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants A5.504.5 Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction 5.504.1, A5.504.1 IAQ Post-construction A5.504.2 Paints and coatings 4.504.2.2, 5.504.4.3 Resilient flooring systems 4.504.4, 5.504.4.6, A4.504.2, A5.504.4.7 Thermal insulation 5.504.4.7, A4.504.3,
A5.504.4.8
Product GWP Limits Table 5.409.3
Referenced Organizations and Standards Chapter 6 Renewable Energy A5.211
Site Development 4.106, 5.106, A4,106, A5.106 Bicycle parking and changing rooms 5.106.4, A5.106.4.3, Table A5.106.4.3 Bird friendly building design A5.107 Building orientation Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.106.9 Designated parking for clean air vehicles A5.106.5.1 Exterior wall shading A5.106.7 Grading and paving 4.106.3, 5.106.10 Heat island effect – cool roof Tables A4.106.5(1) – (4), A5.106.11.2, Table
CALGreen § 5.1 High relevance — show source text
5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3 5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15 5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19 5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 5-23 5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-31
CHAPTER 6 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS
AND STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3
CHAPTER 7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL
INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 701 General (Reserved) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3 702 Qualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
703 Verifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
CHAPTER 8 COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND
REFERENCE MATERIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Worksheet (WS-1) Baseline Water Use: Baseline Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . .8-3
Worksheet (WS-2) Water Use Reduction: 12-, 20- or 25-Percent Reduction Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4
Worksheet (WS-3) 5.105.2 Building Reuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4 Worksheet (WS-4) 5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5 Worksheet (WS-5) 5.409.3 Product GWP Compliance—Prescriptive Path: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5
Worksheet (WS-6) A5.105.2 Building Reuse Tier 1 and Tier 2:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Worksheet (WS-7) A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frequently asked questions
What exactly must be in the EPD for the product to qualify?
The code requires a Type III EPD (product‑specific or factory‑specific) for each product listed in Table 5.409.3; use the EPD GWP number to compare directly to the Table value. See § 5.409.3.
Can I use industry‑average EPDs for concrete?
Yes — the concrete exception allows industry‑wide EPDs when the concrete mixes are aggregated using the weighted‑average method per Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1.
Where do the numeric limits in the table come from?
Footnotes to Table 5.409.3 state most product values are based on 175% of the Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) values, and concrete uses 175% of NRMCA 2022 v3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmarks (with special rules for high‑early‑strength). See Table 5.409.3 footnotes.
Which worksheet do I use to show compliance?
Worksheet WS‑8 (Product GWP Compliance—Prescriptive Path) is the prescribed worksheet referenced for submittal and verification; Appendix guidance requires WS‑8 and signed documentation.
Do the voluntary Tier tables replace Table 5.409.3?
No. Table 5.409.3 is the prescriptive (mandatory) table for the listed path. Table A5.409.3 in the Appendix provides stricter Tier 1/Tier 2 values for voluntary enhanced compliance. Use the appropriate table for the chosen compliance path.
More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
- Administration (Chapter 1)
- Nonresidential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A5 — divisions A5.1–A5.6, electives & verification)
- Residential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 4)
- Definitions (Chapter 2)
- Voluntary Standards for Health Facilities (Appendix A6 / OSHPD guidance)
- Green Building – scope, mixed occupancies, phased projects (Chapter 3)
- Residential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A4 — divisions A4.1–A4.6, tiers & model ordinance)
- Nonresidential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 5)
- Compliance verification, construction documents & checklists (Section 102, Chapter 7, Appendix checklists)
- Referenced Organizations and Standards (Chapter 6)
- Voluntary Tiers and CALGreen Tier 1 / Tier 2 (performance tiers, thresholds)
- Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications (Chapter 7)
Ask about the CALGreen
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial