Mission & History
Advancing building science solutions for healthy resilient homes in cold climates.
Sustainable Shelter for Alaskans
The Cold Climate Housing Research Center (CCHRC) is a non-profit organization committed to pioneering sustainable housing solutions in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Located in Fairbanks, Alaska, CCHRC was formed in 1999 by members of the Alaska State Home Building Association to tackle the challenges of building in cold climates, including remote locations, harsh working conditions, and unstable ground.
CCHRC leads the way in sharing innovative, resilient housing solutions that prioritize energy efficiency, durability, and cultural relevance. Our work is made possible through a diverse range of funding sources, including support from the State of Alaska, federal grants, corporate partnerships, and individual contributions, which allows us to deliver high-impact results across the state.
Climate Information
Alaska is one-fifth the land area of the entire U.S. From the polar, treeless North Slope to the temperate rainforests of Southeast Alaska, the land stretches as far as the distance between San Diego and Seattle and, with the Aleutian Islands, stretches east to west as far as the distance between Washington D.C. and San Francisco.
The physical environment includes three major mountain ranges (with 17 of the 20 tallest mountains in the U.S.), permanently frozen soils (permafrost) underlying 80% of the land, frequent seismic activity, and extreme temperature fluctuations, especially in the interior region where climate records indicate temperatures as high as 100 degrees F in the summer and as low as -80 degrees F during the winter.
More than seventy potentially active volcanoes are present in the state, with several eruptions occurring in the past decade. Each year, Alaska has approximately 5000 earthquakes. Three of the largest ever recorded earthquakes in the world occurred in Alaska.
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Supporting CCHRC ensures the development of innovative, sustainable housing solutions that address the unique challenges of cold climates while promoting resilience in vulnerable communities. Your donation directly impacts cutting-edge research, workforce development, and education initiatives that advance energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and equitable housing practices across Alaska.
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Contributions to the Cold Climate Housing Research Center are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
CCHRC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN: 92-0169929.
Please consult your tax advisor for specific advice regarding the deductibility of your donation.