Vegetative Roofing: Whether you call it a vegetative, green, or living roof, this form of sustainable technology is often what people think of first, when they consider possible green building features. A vegetative roof is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium. The greenery is planted over a waterproofing membrane, and the roof may also include additional layers, such as root barriers and drainage/irrigation systems. Vegetative roofs absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and also help lower urban air temperatures.
Geothermal Technology: Geothermal systems use the Earth’s ambient, subsurface temperatures – a free, inexhaustible source of energy – to heat and cool buildings. The process employs a geothermal heat pump, which is a central heating/cooling system that pumps heat to or from the ground. It uses the earth as a heat source in cold weather, and as heat sink when temperatures rise. Geothermal technology substantially reduces the operational costs of heating/cooling systems.
Enhanced Commissioning: Commissioning is the process of verifying, in new construction, that a building’s subsystems achieve the project’s requirements, as intended by the owner and as designed by the architects and engineers. These subsystems can include HVAC, plumbing, electrical, building envelopes, and more. The main goal is to maximize the project’s efficiency, from the design phase through post-construction and occupancy.
Daylighting: Daylighting is the practice of positioning windows or other building openings so that natural sunlight provides effective internal lighting. Energy savings are achieved through the reduced use of electricity and the warmth gained from solar heat. Artificial lighting use can be reduced through daylight harvesting – a process in which dimming/switching electric lights respond automatically to the presence of daylight.
Waste Management/Recycling: When construction waste ends up in landfills, it increases the burden on landfill loading and operation. Whenever possible, it is best to minimize and recycle construction waste, demolition debris, and land-clearing debris – a process known as construction waste management. Specifications for the Phase 2 construction project stipulate that a minimum of 75% of construction waste will be recycled.
“We look forward to working with WIU-QC again on Phase 2,” said Loss. “We commend them for their commitment to green building, and for providing a healthy environment for their students and employees.”<< previous 1 2 3 4
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