Codes and Standards, Next-gen Technologies, Glass Recycling and More at NGA Glass Conference
The NGA Glass Conference brought conversation of next-generation glass technologies, glass recycling, daylighting and human health, and more to Long Beach, Jan. 24-26. The event drew more than 100 glass industry leaders, who came together in-person at the Renaissance Long Beach or joined virtually. The event also included updates from NGA’s Fabricating Committee, Forming Committee and Advocacy Committee, alongside educational sessions. The event’s program includes up to six hours of AIA LU | Elective credits for architects, joining virtually.
Day one of the conference included a presentation on “10 Industry Metrics You Should be Watching,” along with a panel discussion of the innovative Aquarium of the Pacific, where attendees gathered for an evening reception. Attendees also heard numerous technical committee updates and were able to participate in a glass cutting demonstration. (Read full coverage from day one.)
Technical deep dive
The second day of the conference took a technical deep dive, with a breakfast presentation, “NGA Update – the Year of Glass and the Technical & Standards Activities Review.” Attendees were able to get updates on glass industry technical standards, model building codes and legislation impacting safety glazing and building energy performance requirements. Additionally, NGA Advocacy and Technical Director Urmilla Sowell offered a sneak peak of how architectural glass will be featured through special events and publications in the United Nations International Year of Glass 2022.
Light and human health
The lunchtime presentation offered a closer look at “Psychological Impacts of Light on Human Health & the Implications for Glazing,” with Richard Lang, director of the Visual Systems Group at Cincinnati Children's Research, building daylighting expert and researcher Lisa Heschong, and NGA code consultant Thomas Culp. Presenters discussed new research that demonstrates the presence of myopia in children who can’t access sufficient natural daylighting throughout the day.
Glass recycling
The final day of the conference kicked off with the annual Fun Run & Walk, followed by a meeting of the Laminating technical segment. The lunchtime presentation, “The Need for Recycling to Enhance Our Supply Chain,” featured Bertrand Cazes, of Glass for Europe, and Jeremiah Watson, Infinite Recycled Technologies.
Next-gen IGU
The day ended with meetings of the Energy and Insulating technical segments and a final presentation on “New IGU Technologies for Carbon Reduction and Zero Net Energy,” from Stephen Selkowitz, a retired senior advisor for building science, and former group leader of the Windows and Envelope Materials Group in the Building Technology and Urban Systems Division of LBNL. Watch the replay.
Future events
The NGA’s next events include the Building Envelope Contractors Conference, March 27-29, and Glass Processing Automation Days (GPAD), March 29-30, both taking place in Nashville.
