I've Been Out-Curmudgeoned

Not that I'm surprised about this, I don't claim to have cornered the market on cranky behavior, but I just read an article by Joe Lstiburek (It's The Energy Stupid) that, in addition to being an excellent critique of much of green building today, is just plain hilarious. This is the first quote that got my attention, and I agree completely:
"So what’s with all these “green” programs providing “points” for “durability” and “indoor air quality”? I mean it’s pretty pathetic if we have to reward architects and engineers when they provide details and specifications that should be basic to fundamental practice. If you design and install a controlled ventilation system that meets Standard 62 you get points. You get more points if you keep the rain out and design the building to dry if it gets wet. And you get still more points if the occupants are actually comfortable. Aren’t these code requirements? Shouldn’t these be “the standard of care”? "
I like this concept. I have always said that most of building green is just doing things right, like keeping the water out, installing HVAC systems to meet the code, etc. The fact that we get "points" in green programs for doing these things is slightly (if not completely) insane. I am reminded of an article I read somewhere a while back about how young adults are so used to constant praise that many of them don't work effectively without it. This stems from kids sports leagues where every kid gets a trophy every season -just for showing up and playing. We are now treating green builders like 6 year old soccer players. Just for showing up and not doing things wrong, they get a green building certificate - before anyone knows if the building even works the way it's supposed to. The way Joe addressed this in his article made me laugh out loud:
"And enough with the awards before a building is built and the performance is verified. Award plaques should come with removable screws. Show me the utility bills. Compare the building to a building of similar size and similar occupancy in a similar climate. And if you don’t show any savings—shut up. You can’t be “green” if you don’t save any energy. "
I can honestly say that parts of this article were over my head, but most if it is spot on, and I really appreciate iconoclasts who say what they believe, particularly if they are right and can back it up.
Too bad I didn't come up with this myself, but I am inspired to be more of a curmudgeon and take people to task when they deserve it. And besides, I hope Joe reads this since I spilled some wine on him at dinner a few weeks ago, maybe he'll forgive me.