Innovation in sustainability
August 27, 2014
Blue Roofs:
The term ‘blue roof’ is relatively new in the field of sustainability and refers to a non-vegetated roof that collects and stores water, typically rainfall, on top of a building or structure to reduce stormwater pollution and impacts. The stored water runs through a flow restriction device around the roof drain which slowly releases the water for beneficial reuse. It can be used for irrigation or toilets, or can be released gradually into the sewer system to prevent stormwater erosion and flooding. In addition tohelping manage stormwater runoff, the light-colored material of the roof also helps reduce the urban heat island effect. Rooftops are kept cool through the evaporation of moisture, which in turn lowers a facility’s energy and operating costs.
Zero net energy is quickly becoming a sought after goal for many buildings wanting to reduce energy costs and advance sustainably. A zero net energy building, or ZNE, is a building with zero net energy consumption, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. A building must have exceptional energy conservation and rely on on-site renewable energy sources to meet its electric, heating, and cooling needs. North Shore Community College’s Health and Student Service Building in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a noteworthy example. It is the first state-owned zero net energy building, leading the way toward a cleaner future.
LEED Dynamic Plaque:
USGBC has recently released a new product: LEED Dynamic Plaque. It is for existing LEED certified buildings as an add-on to monitor the buildings performance. The plaque is both physically and virtually displayed so employees and clients can view the ongoing performance and score of a building’s energy use, water use, waste, transportation, and occupant experience. The building’s official score will be updated and recorded yearly but the Dynamic Plaque updates each month or when new information is received. Owners can compare their building’s current and past performance and compare their performance of similar structures. GreenBiz called it ‘a sort of innovation that drives widespread change.’ See here for more information.
