Sustainability

Overview & Green Initiatives

 

 

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A comprehensive commissioning of all major mechanical systems and equipment was a prerequisite for LEED certification. This process was completed to ensure all systems were installed as designed and performing per specification.

 

Other green practices continue to be carried out by building personnel after certification, including the following:

  • Operations and Maintenance- system performance and indoor environmental conditions continuously monitored. 
  • Preventive Maintenance- implementation of a “best practices” property management program for building systems and equipment.
  • Optimizing Energy Performance- efficient operation which has achieved an Energy Star performance rating of 87.
  • Green Site and Exterior Maintenance -
  • Green Roof Maintenance- inspection and maintenance of vegetation that covers the roof.
  • Water Use- water use reduction is tracked through meter data.
  • Recycling- waste stream audit conducted and occupant waste reduction program in effect to divert/recycle 52% of the building waste stream. Programs are in effect for occupant, battery and construction waste recycling.
  • Thermal Comfort- mechanical systems operated and monitored to ensure compliance with applicable standards.
  • Indoor Air Quality- IAQ management program implemented.
  • Green Cleaning- low environmental impact cleaning policy implemented.
  • Pest Control- a low impact pest management program is in effect.
  • Ongoing tracking- records are compiled, performance and costs are documented and impacts are assessed as part of the overall management process and for purposes of having the building recertified in the future.

Green Initiatives

 

Green Tips

At Emerald Plaza we are committed to protecting and preserving our environment. Along with the green initiatives we have taken in the Building, we have provided tips and links to great websites that will aid in continuing the initiative in daily life here and at home.

  • Optimize the energy settings on computers and other electronic devices and make sure to shut them down at the end of the day.
  • Unplug printers, scanners and copiers that are only used occasionally.
  • Turn off all lights and any audio/visual equipment that are not being used.
  • Keep things digital and minimize the use of materials whenever possible, do not use unnecessary amounts of paper.
  • Implement the use of recycled materials including recycled paper whenever possible.
  • Bring lunch and use reusable containers which will avoid unnecessary waste but save costs too. If you order take-out join co-workers in large orders to minimize waste of small individual packaging.
  • Bring in mugs/glasses/utensils to reduce the use of paper/plastic goods.

 

Click on the links below for more Green Information:
http://www.aboutmyplanet.com/
http://www.earthshare.org/green-tips.html
http://www.thegreenguide.com/