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UCSB Embarks on Sustainability Program for Existing Buildings
December 7, 2006
(Santa Barbara, Calif.) – UC Santa Barbara has signed an agreement with the U.S. Green Building Council to use the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Existing Building rating system in 25 of its existing buildings over the next five years. LEED is the national benchmark for high performance green buildings. LEED for Existing Buildings maximizes operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The program will provide the university with a roadmap to lower energy use, incorporate sustainable purchasing and maintenance practices, and improve indoor environmental quality. UCSB has already completed one successful LEED for Existing Building project in Girvetz Hall, and plans to make all existing buildings LEED certified. "At UCSB, we strongly believe that we have the responsibility to care for the environment of our planet and the health of employees and other building occupants," said Jon Cook, acting director of physical facilities at UCSB. "We believe that performance under the LEED Green Building rating system is a key indication that we are achieving this important goal." The University of California has adopted a green building policy for all of its campuses, which represents an extraordinary commitment to sustainability. At UCSB, Bren Hall and the Marine Science Building are leading examples of sustainable architecture. Bren Hall, home of the Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, and is the only laboratory building in the country to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design accreditation. It sets the highest standard for sustainable buildings for the future and is being used as a model for facilities and operations throughout the state. The Marine Sciences Building is UCSB's second LEED for New Construction certified building. It features ultra low water use fixtures, preserves natural landscapes and habitat, and is 25 percent more energy efficient than mandated by California's strict building codes. The Student Resource Building, which is nearing completion, will also be LEED certified. Both projects have recycled more than 90 percent of their construction waste and have purchased enough wind-generating electricity to power the buildings for two years.
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