The Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center was awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold Certification for the sustainable design of the building last month.
“This project shows what can be accomplished when owners, users, architects and builders keep the long-term health of occupants and the environment as a priority through the design and construction process,” Michael Ziemann, LEED engineer for University Facilities Planning, said after the Berry Center received the award.
Some of the projects the Berry Center has worked on to get the LEED Gold Certification include reducing construction waste by 80 percent and establishing low-flow faucets and toilets. The fact that its bicycle rack has room for about 140 bicycles also was factored into the certification process as it encourages alternative transportation, according to UW News.
It also has a living roof, which means the roof is at least partially covered in vegetation as a way to better absorb rainwater and to provide insulation to the building.
UW is just one small part of the LEED program as there have been successful programs established in 135 countries.
In order for a building to be LEED certified, it must demonstrate that it has reduced waste that is sent to landfills, that it is healthier and safer for occupants, conserves energy and water and that it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.
The LEED program offers different levels of certification to various kinds of buildings including businesses, homes and even entire neighborhoods. It also has four different levels including simply being certified in addition to silver, gold and platinum awards. In order to receive one of these certifications, a certain number of credits are earned in five design categories including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.
The Berry Center is just one building on campus that has received LEED certification. In 2011 the College of Business, which reduces energy and water usage with low-flow toilets, also received the LEED Gold Certification. In January, the Bim Kendall House received gold certification as well.
While UW, along with universities across the country, still has a ways to go in reducing its carbon footprint, the LEED certifications show the progress the university has made in its commitment to going green.
