Harvard Reduces Emissions, Costs With 50 LEED Certifications

I mentioned in a previous post PSU’s addition of the Sixth Avenue Building as an example of green buildings, and their efficiency in working against the harmful effects of emission. This post is written in the spirit of universities becoming more environmentally cautious by using green buildings. The spotlight is on Harvard University, who recently achieved its 50^th LEED certification, highlighting their strong commitment to protecting the environment.

Harvard’s use of “green resources” is not only limited to classrooms, but extends to dormitories, laboratories, and offices—spanning over 1.5 million square feet. The university’s efforts are impressive to say the least, and set a new standard in educational accountability.

Harvard’s future plans for sustainability include:

•  Green building standards, adopted in 2009, to integrate design, occupant engagement, life cycle cost, and energy modeling with LEED certification ensuring accountability;

•  An office for sustainability that oversees implementation, and occupant engagement programs provide the university community with resources to reduce energy use and conserve resources;

•  A green building services team that provides consulting, certification management, energy audits, measurement of implementation efforts, and knowledge management services; and

•  An online green building resource for sharing best practices and driving improvements.

By going green, the university is already seeing positive benefits toward the environment. In terms of actual emissions reductions, the university has seen an annual carbon dioxide reduction of over 4,000 metric tons. The benefits are not only environmental, there are financial benefits too, with over $1.5 million in annual energy savings. Initially the switch to green buildings may seem expensive and cumbersome, however figures like these are difficult to ignore, and eventually will persuade other schools to follow suit.

http://campustechnology.com/articles/2011/08/02/harvard-reduces-emissions-costs-with-50-leed-certifications.aspx

-Sara O’Connell