The International Code Council launched its Certified Sustainability Professional designation last month, and already has its first application from ICC member Ayla Jefferson of Fontana, Calif. Jefferson is the first in the U.S. to achieve the new Certified Sustainability Professional certification.

The Professional Development Council approved the new combination designation in May 2017 to provide opportunities for licensed architects, professional engineers and code officials to become more involved with the Code Council.

An addition to the Code Council's suite of combination designations, the CSP designation is designed to provide portability for professionals holding ICC and/or California certifications to show proficiency and interest in sustainability across the nation without having to obtain another license or designation.

Since ICC publishes both the International Codes and California Codes, there are two methods by which to obtain the designation, depending on whether an individual holds ICC or California certifications. The Certified Sustainability Professional designation will require a current AIA, PE, CBO, CFM or Master Code Professional (MCP) license or designation; one current energy conservation certification; and one current green building certification.