A lot of builders announce their projects are applying for LEED certification, however, few follow up with an
announcement that they received it. Lawrence
Technological University is one of the few that can make that claim.Lawrence Tech's Student
Services Center
received silver certification through the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design from the U.S. Green Building Council. The building's green
features include a geothermal heating and cooling system, low-e glass skin, a
10,000-square-foot green roof and sensor-controlled lighting.
Geothermal systems use the constant temperature of the
earth to heat and cool the building at a significantly lower cost than
traditional furnaces and air conditioners. Low-e glass skin allows for more
natural lighting and is designed to reduce heat loss while maximizing daylight.
A green roof reduces runoff and associated pollutants
while providing more insulation. It also normally lasts twice as long as a traditional roof.
The lighting sensors and timers help adjust the building's lighting needs so
it uses the minimum amount of electricity.
Many of the systems and features are studied by students so
they can put them to use in the real world.
The LEED rating system is a nationally accepted benchmark
for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green
buildings. It promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by
recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health:
sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials
selection and indoor environmental quality.
Source: Eric Pope, spokesman for Lawrence Technological University
Writer: Jon Zemke
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