The U.S. Green Building Council has awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification to the University of Notre Dame’s Jenkins and Nanovic Halls, in recognition for sustainable design, construction and operation.
“Earning LEED Silver for Jenkins and Nanovic Halls exemplifies the University’s commitment to designing and building energy-efficient, environmentally conscious facilities,” Vice President and University Architect Doug Marsh said.
Throughout the construction process, project managers eliminated and minimized construction waste, diverting 83 percent of waste from the landfill. More than 39 percent of the building material contained recycled content, and about 40 percent of the material was harvested or manufactured within 500 miles of the University.
During daily operation, Jenkins and Nanovic Halls conserve water and use less energy and other natural resources. With low-flow faucets in bathrooms and kitchens and high-efficiency shower heads and toilets, occupants in the building consume about 40 percent less water compared to the average amount of water consumed in standard new construction. Energy-efficient LED lighting is used throughout the building as well as occupancy sensors in nearly all of the offices and open office workspaces to conserve energy. In addition, spaces such as classrooms, conference rooms, lounges and lobbies have lighting controls with dimming capabilities, allowing for adjustability and conservation.
Because of the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, the building consumes 16 percent less energy and uses no CFC-based refrigerants, which contributes to a healthier, more sustainable atmosphere. Additionally, temperature controls in offices and workstations and all multi-occupant spaces efficiently regulate heating and cooling.
Since 2011, the University of Notre Dame has been committed to following LEED standards for all new construction. The University has earned nine LEED Gold certifications and five LEED Silver certifications including Jenkins and Nanovic Halls. In addition to saving energy and resources, LEED buildings contribute to a greener, more sustainable environment for generations to come.
Originally published by at news.nd.edu on December 18, 2018.