ABOUT ED
Boston College made a commitment
to sustainability in their future plans for
the university. As Senior Construction
Project Manager in Capital Projects
Management, Ed manages construction
projects for Boston College, including
those in the Master Plan which all must
be at least LEED certified.
about leed certification
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is an independent, non-profit organization which certifies that buildings meet LEED standards. LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A LEED certified project approved by the USGBC may attain a Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum level rating based upon how many total points were achieved. Points are accrued in six different categories that promote sustainability by recognizing performance in sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. The process for a building to become LEED certified begins in the design process. The architect ensures that the criteria for certification are met. When the contractor is selected, Ed reviews product information and ensures that building materials supplied by the contractor meet the criteria.
BC's first leed project
Ed is the project manager for the Weston Jesuit Community construction project. The residences there are targeting LEED Silver and the design includes several high-performance features like R-21 and R-45 insulation for walls and attic space, Energy Star appliances and a window system that lets in plenty of sunlight during the day. The design will reduce heating and electric consumption resulting in lower emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Other benefits include a non-toxic interior brought about by the use of environmentally friendly paints and sealants. The project is still in a very early stage but has already realized environmental benefits by diverting the waste from demolition of the existing houses from landfill. All of the construction debris was recycled!
why ed is involved
Considering how many resources go into the planning and construction of a building, Ed is concerned about the immediate and future impact of constructing a building. Ed agrees with the university’s plan for a sustainable institution. “The university made a decision that it’s the proper thing to do. We all know that in the long term it will provide better buildings, and it’s better for the environment. The LEED process has helped us to be more aware of everything that goes into our buildings.” The buildings will incorporate energy and water saving features into a comfortable, well lit space. You can see what else the university is looking to do in its Master Plan.
what you can do
"The LEED practices that you can easily incorporate into your own home are the purchases of Energy Star items. By adding insulation, using compact flourescent light bulbs, installing weather stripping and caulking drafty windows, you can improve the sustainability of your home." For everything you buy, you can research in advance what the Energy Star ratings are. If you are renovating, take a look at the mechanical systems, recovery systems, and windows to see if investment in an upgrade will pay for itself through reduced energy costs. "It's a matter of being more conscious when you're putting things in, as opposed to just shopping for the cheapest windows. In the end, you'll save money."
Become a conscious consumer. Visit the Energy Star website to learn more about what products can make a difference. Qualified products include appliances, heating & cooling systems, water heaters, home electronics, lighting and office equipment.