For years, schools have had to do their own belt-tightening while trying to minimize the impact of cuts on students and educators. Lowering operating expenses by reducing energy costs has proven extremely impactful, and there are numerous avenues through which to achieve this.
SAN DIEGO — What began as a student initiative to promote sustainability has led to LEED Platinum certification for the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union at San Diego State University (SDSU).
WASHINGTON — A new study released by the District of Columbia Department of the Environment details how the district can best craft policy and create incentives to build zero energy, zero water and Living Buildings.
Entitled “Net Zero and Living Building Financial Study: A Cost Comparison Report for Buildings in the District of Columbia,” the research was conducted by the New Buildings Institute, International Living Future Institute and Sweden-headquartered Skanska.
WASHINGTON — The White House Council on Environmental Quality and Department of Education recently recognized schools and school districts throughout the nation for their commitment to sustainability. The 2014 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award honorees included 48 schools across the nation who were honored for their exemplary efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, promote better health and ensure effective environmental education, including civics and green career pathways, according to the Department of Education.
BEREA, Ky. — Berea College’s Deep Green Residence Hall has achieved the highest LEED rating and LEED score of any residence hall in the world. With 90 points, the Deep Green Residence Hall achieved LEED Platinum certification and a new sustainable distinction.
Designed by ThinkEco Inc., the SmartAC system is a more intelligent way to stay cool in the classroom. This innovative, easy-to-use product allows users to set a personalized schedule to automatically turn A/C units on and off to conserve energy. The system also remote senses the room temperature and adjusts accordingly to avoid over-cooling and over-spending. It can be operated via ThinkEco software or via a smartphone application, making it accessible anywhere.
Windowfarms systems are a great way to bring hands-on science education to students and create a cleaner, healthier and more vibrant learning environment. With these vertical indoor garden systems, students can closely observe the growth process and harvest their own produce. These easy-to-install-and-operate systems use an innovative bioponic approach, which combines the advantages of hydroponic liquid nutrient feeding with organic or sustainable natural inputs and root system ecology.
Paul Hayhurst, project engineer at S. M. Wilson & Co. in St. Louis, has earned the LEED Accredited Professional credential from the U. S. Green Building Council with a Building Design + Construction Specialty. A LEED Accredited Professional demonstrates a solid, current understanding of green building principles and practices and shows a clear commitment to professional growth in the field, according to S.M. Wilson & Co. Hayhurst joined S. M.
John Tran, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB, has been hired as design principal at the Phoenix office of architecture, engineering and planning firm SmithGroupJJR. Tran will join the leadership team for the firm’s practice in Arizona and the southwest, while providing support to all SmithGroupJJR offices. He is an award-winning designer with 20-plus years of experience and has led projects as senior designer, project designer and design principal.
