Amanda D. Smith

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Amanda D. Smith is a Senior Scientist for the Built Environment at Project Drawdown, a nonprofit research organization advancing science-based climate solutions. She leads research on climate solutions across buildings and related sectors, including electricity, industry, waste, and transportation. She holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Mississippi State University and focuses on building energy use, emissions, and decarbonization pathways.

Amanda D. Smith

Jan 04 2026

Net zero buildings don’t exist – at least, not yet

Illuminem Voices

Building Materials · Cities

An analysis of the limits of net zero building claims, arguing for more transparent accounting, deeper emissions cuts, and a broader reimagining of climate-friendly design