What is Sustainable Design? Southern Connecticut State University Residence Hall Designed for LEED Certification The goal of green or sustainable building design is to meet today’s consumption needs without borrowing resources from future generations. Green buildings are designed to provide a high level of comfort and service, while using less energy with a lower environmental impact.
Environmental Impact of Buildings Pratt & Whitney Customer Training Facility 36% of total energy use 65% of electricity consumption 30% of greenhouse gas emissions 30% of raw materials use 30% of waste output/136 million tons annually 12% of potable water consumption Source: United States Green Building Council
U.S. Green Building Council Promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Leading a national consensus for producing a new generation of buildings that deliver high performance inside and out. Developed the LEED Certification System Eastern Connecticut State University Residential Village Designed for LEED Certification Source: United States Green Building Council
LEED Certification The Mark Twain House & Museum Center First LEED Certified Building in Connecticut Whole-building approach Optimizes environmental and economic factors Four levels of LEED-NC certification: Certified Level26-32 points Silver Level33-38 points Gold Level39-51 points Platinum Level52+ ponts (69 possible) Source: United States Green Building Council
Environmental Benefits Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity Improve air and water quality Reduce solid waste Conserve natural resources Chesapeake Bay Foundation Headquarters Building LEED Platinum Commercial Building Source: United States Green Building Council
Economic Benefits Reduce operating costs Enhance asset value and profits Improve employee productivity and satisfaction Optimize life-cycle economic performance Herman Miller Office Building LEED Gold Certification Source: United States Green Building Council Studies indicate that poor indoor air quality in the U.S. has resulted in an annual loss of $15 billion in worker productivity.
Health & Community Benefits Improve air, thermal and acoustic environments Enhance occupant comfort and health Minimize strain on local infrastructure Contribute to overall quality of life Source: United States Green Building Council Caribou, Maine Weather Forecast Office LEED Silver Certification