Testing Bird-Friendly Windows for Decarbonized Buildings
Project Update
Since the project started in December of 2025, 4 glass manufacturers have been confirmed to provide 8 types of glass samples. The types of tests are still being discussed with manufacturers. Viewing the Bird Threat Factor has been completed ahead of the original proposed schedule for the planned glass samples, the team is considering testing new products including thicker gauge window glass. The project is currently preparing for the first Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting in late spring 2026.
The Issue
Windows cause considerable bird collisions and mortality in California. There is interest in designing window technologies that address both building decarbonization and reduce bird collisions. The pros and cons of different window glass sample specifications are being considered in this research, to identify glazing for insulated glass units, test energy performance, and test bird safety. This information will then be able to inform energy standards such as Title 24.
Project Innovation
The main innovation is the combination of bird-friendly visible patterns with existing high-performance glazing without reducing energy efficiency. Demonstrating that multiple manufacturers can provide these products is expected to help dispel the misconception that bird-friendly visible glazing cannot be energy-efficient. This research may also support the inclusion of bird-safety requirements into energy standards such as California’s Title 24.
Project Goals
Project Benefits
The effort will validate performance of bird-safety window glazing solutions and provide a scientific basis for adoption of bird-safety requirements in California or local building codes, including Title 24.
Consumer Appeal
Test widely available and current standard energy-efficient windows to validate efficacy of glazing in protecting birds without compromising energy efficiency.
Environmental Sustainability
Provide information and data that support increased specification and adoption of bird safety glazing without reducing the energy and carbon emission performance of buildings. This information could lead to a decreased number of bird collisions and a decreased environmental impact of building windows.
Key Project Members
Subrecipients
Match Partners
