In this edition of ManagingGreen, we have a case study article from Planning Design Build, Inc., on using the LEED-EB application process to fully integrate sustainability into building operations at the Athena Building in Madison, Wisconsin. As always, previous editions of ManagingGreen are available at www.managinggreen.com.
All the best! – Michael Arny and the Leonardo Academy
The Athena Building, owned by Planning Design Build, Inc., in Madison, Wisconsin, achieved LEED-EB Certification at the Silver level in February 2007. The company experienced many unique challenges and opportunities during the certification process as a result of completing certification in-house without using a consultant.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), data centers are consuming up to 1.5 percent of all the electricity generated in the U.S. But the Cassatt® Corporation's breakthrough technology, Active Power Management™, can reduce energy consumption in data centers up to 50%. .
Currently, there are e-waste recycling centers in 18 states but over 2 millions tons of unwanted electronics to be disposed of. Sony and Waste Management plan to open at least one recycling center in every state within the next year with their new Take Back Recycling Program.
The LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot may be the US Green Building Council's biggest launch yet, with 238 developments registered to participate. If successful, this program will be the first national certification system for sustainable neighborhood design and development.
The World Business Council for Sustainable Development's new Global Water Tool will help companies map their water use and assess the risks of water scarcity to their global operations and supply chains.
A recent study by the Florida-based Brown-Wilson group concludes that an increasing number of corporate decision makers will consider green credentials when selecting outsourcing companies in the future, in an effort demonstrate their 'green leadership.'
