Historical Newspapers of South Carolina

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6RCCII • COIlTinUED PROIR I pursue nothing less than LEED silver certification. USC hasn’t signed that letter because getting LEED certification is not always the most sensible route for small renovations, but green techniques will still be applied to make the facility as healthy and productive as possible. LEED certification will be sought for larger projects. Green facilities rely on LEED’s rating system for the promotion of comprehensive guidelines for whole building integrated design. “LEED provides a system of guidelines for us to provide comfort and quality for green buildings,” Koman said. “These buildings are designed to promote - natural daylight, outdoor views and the conservation of resources.” A building is considered “green” if it takes into consideration enerev and water efficiency, building materials used, waste management and the indoor environment for occupants. The Environmental Protection Agency refers to the field of green building as the process of creating healthier and more resource efficient '“tnodels of construction, renovation, operation, maintenance and demolition. West Quad is the first “green” building at USC to earn a silver rating in LEED certification and is the largest and most energy-efficient college residence hall in the world, say university officials. Clemson’s Advanced Materials Research Laboratory was the state’s first LEED certified public facility. Koman insists Clemson’s movement toward sustainable construction was initiated after USC’s plans for West Quad renovation had been • I announced. “The West Quad renovation changed everything,” Koman said. “Many schools, such as Clemson, Winthrop and York Tech recognized what we were doing and followed suit.” Clemson recently reopened the residence halls formerly known as the Fraternity A building is considered green if it takes into consideration energy and watter efficiency, building materials used, waste management and the indoor environment for occupants. Residential Area, now named the Greek Community on the Quad. The university is seeking LEED silver certification for the Greek Community on the Quad. Koman boasts that green buildings such as West Quad increase 'productivity and decrease health concerns such as mold, allergies and “sick building syndrome.” In green buildings, outdoor air is filtered to remove humidity and dust particles. Interior lights include motion sensors that automatically turn lights on and off as people enter and exit a room. Other green features include low-flow plumbing, high-efficiency washers and dryers, a changing room for bicyclists who commute to campus and lots of outdoor green space for relaxation. “With green buildings, students will be able to work and study better and have less sick days,” Koman said. Cost was an initial concern for green building, but the $30.9 million renovation of the West Quad was proof that a new standard for facilities can be achieved at the old cost. LEED requires all contractors and designers meet together and then decide how their part impacts others’ parts. For example, a certain type of roof or insulation can reduce unnecessary air conditioning and heating units. The Department of Energy estimates that half of buildings are over-designed. LEED’s goal is to downsize those unnecessary appliances. More time and money than before is spent in the designing process, but hours and costs are eliminated from the construction phase because of less last-minute change orders. “We are working hard not to spend extra money to make buildings green,” Koman said. “So far, all planned projects at USC will adhere to the budget allotted.” Additions to the Library Special Collection will cost more than before, but private donations and a Kresge Foundation grant will help with design costs. No extra money will come out of USC funds. USC students are encouraged by University Housing to become aware of and participate in going green. “You don’t have to be a tree hugger or environmental nut to participate,” Koman said. “Students can learn how to change some of their habits due to unawareness to help the environment here at USC.” Comments on this story? E-mail gamecocknews@gwm.sc.edu •*Lip gloss helped me pay for my car.. .and a couple of _ _ road trips!*" —Emily, mark Representative . 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