BY TYLER BUTLER
In natural building, some are as significant as Anthony Floyd. With a career rooted in sustainability, Floyd has transformed economic practices in Arizona and beyond. Floyd has played a significant role in positioning Arizona as a leader in ecological construction as a top green building and energy code consultant for the City of Scottsdale. Floyd has reshaped urban development, fostering a more sustainable future, and inspiring the next generation of green innovators, through initiatives like Scottsdale’s Green Building Program and the adoption of the International Green Construction Code ( IgCC).
Floyd’s interest in sustainability began in the 1970s as a result of the economic awakening that year. He became acutely aware of the dangers of unregulated business growth after studying civil engineering and architecture while being influenced by groundbreaking works like Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring. A crucial moment occurred while visiting a private residence in the Virgin Islands. This modern home – which generated its own electricity, harvested rainwater, and recovered wastewater – left a lasting impression, solidifying Floyd’s lifelong commitment to sustainable living and design.  ,
Floyd’s commitment to sustainability increased as a summer apprentice at Arcosanti, a pioneering town that architect Paolo Soleri in Yavapai County had in mind. Designed to harmonize architecture with ecology, Arcosanti’s philosophy deeply resonated with Floyd. In addition to contrasting undisturbed nature with contemporary urban life, he also attended a seminar that to examine the evolution of Earth and mortal civilization. He was inspired by this revolutionary encounter to develop a lasting appreciation for the delicate balance between development and conservation, a principle that has guided his career ever after.  ,
In 1988, Floyd joined the City of Scottsdale as a building official, embarking on a journey that would reshape the city’s approach to building regulations and sustainability. His impact was initially felt in 1998 when he launched Scottsdale’s Green Building Program, making Scottsdale the second city in Arizona, and only the second in the nation, to implement such a program. The initiative, aimed at advancing socially responsible building practices, featured a comprehensive rating checklist, builder incentives, and public outreach efforts such as lecture series and home tours, all designed to increase awareness and adoption of sustainable practices.
This program laid the groundwork for Floyd’s following major achievement: Scottsdale’s adoption of the IgCC, a complete building code that mandates natural construction practices. Scottsdale was recognized as a pioneer in green industrial development thanks to its support of the IgCC. Although there were a number of different viewpoints among Scottsdale’s advisory groups when implementing the IgCC, Floyd’s commitment to collaboration finally brought all parties up, enabling Scottsdale to set a national example.
Floyd’s impact extends far beyond Scottsdale, shaping green building practices on a global scale. He participated in the development of the IgCC and the National Green Building Standard as a committee member of the International Code Council’s Sustainable Building Technology Committee. He also served as Vice Chair of the U. S. Green Building Council’s Green Codes Committee, working to remove barriers to lasting building methods. His expertise has received speaking engagements at global conferences, including those held at Dubai’s World Organization of Building Officials.
One of Floyd’s most notable achievements recently is his important role in Scottsdale’s LEED Gold mandate, which mandates that all new city buildings and significant renovations adhere to stringent sustainability standards. As a liaison with Scottsdale’s Public Works division, Floyd ensures that all fresh projects are made to be sustainable, positioning Scottsdale as a leader in environmentally conscious urban planning.
Floyd is a faculty associate at Arizona State University and Scottsdale Community College in addition to his academic work. Through courses on green building codes and sustainability practices, he emphasizes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and resource management, preparing the next generation to drive green building innovations ahead.
Looking back, Floyd envisions great potential for innovation in renewable energy, heat island mitigation, and construction waste management, particularly in the arid Southwest. He thinks that Arizona can further reduce its economic impact by embracing these opportunities and serve as a model for other states that are dealing with the same climate issues.
Floyd’s impact on green building in Arizona has been revolutionary. Through his groundbreaking work with Scottsdale’s Green Building Program, his leadership in implementing the IgCC, and his dedication to education, Floyd has established a benchmark for economic responsibility that resonates well beyond Arizona’s borders. His journey is a testament to vision, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to building a more lasting future. The career of Floyd serves as an inspiring illustration of how one person’s commitment to sustainability can lead to lasting change and leave a lasting legacy.
