Posts Tagged ‘green offices’
March 12th, 2009 in Green No Comments
This article explores the ways in which a number of Minneapolis companies are living their values by developing sustainability strategies at the office level. The companies profiled include an LEED-certified law firm, an architectural firm applying for LEED certification and a property management company. The tactics employed by these firms are varied and include:
- The strategic use of glass throughout offices to distribute natural light (and cut down on light fixtures);
- Occupancy sensors in conference rooms, individual offices and restrooms;
- Recycled office furniture and carpets;
- Hands-free faucets and flush valves; and
- Subsidized public transportation passes.
The article stresses that company concern goes beyond cost-savings to include “the triple bottom line for environmental, economic and other community benefits.” While some companies may not be considering LEED certification, the Mississippi Headwaters [the Minnesota Chapter of the U.S. green Building Council] offers helpful guidelines that can be used to create a plan that gradually replaces fixtures with more energy-efficient ones as they wear out. Additional tips for sustainability efforts are provided at the end of the article.
Source: Anna Pratt, Finance And Commerce Daily Newspaper, Mar 12, 2009
September 22nd, 2008 in Green No Comments
This article begins with an exploration of the areas and degrees of risk involved with green building projects. It begins with a look at the first state-level green building code adopted by the California Building Standards Commission earlier this year, outlining the nature of the regulations as well as the potential legal pitfalls. The article warns that while California is the first to adopt formal, green building standards, “local governing bodies across the country have similar requirements and others are rapidly moving in the same direction.” (more…)
September 15th, 2008 in Green No Comments
A panel of green building experts met in Minneapolis in late September of 2008 to discuss examples of how green building principles can result in long-term operational savings. Among the projects and studies discussed were:
- A green roof for the Target Center (due in 2009) that will save the city over 20 percent on its cooling bill from June through September, as well as $76,000 annually saved from reduced storm water fees. The added building cost would be fully recovered through these savings in just over 5 years.
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September 15th, 2008 in Green No Comments
This article explores the new state mandates in Indiana that require all new and renovated state buildings to be designed and operated for maximum energy efficiency. The author discusses the enormous benefits for building owners, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, energy usage and construction waste, particularly regarding materials sent to landfills. He also addresses the economic boost anticipated for the state as improved air and water quality enables it to better compete for new jobs and for the best people to fill them. The article ends with a discussion of the productivity-enhancing potential inherent in sustainable design practices. Notes one expert, “A physical layout and design of space can be just as valuable in boosting productivity as actual business processes.” (more…)
