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Sustainability Office
Kagin Commons
1600 Grand Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105
651-696-8138
Comments & questions to:
sustainability@macalester.edu
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Sustainable aspects of the Fine Arts project follow a long history on campus of incorporating energy conservation measures since the 1970’s – today we use the term “sustainability” vs. energy conservation.
But there is a fundamental difference today from the 70’s/80’s/90’s, sustainable initiatives are not an “add on”, they are “integrated” into the design – eg. the architects design a building envelope with “maximum” insulating characteristics and they do this in consultation with the mechanical engineer in order to “minimize” the mechanical systems and resulting energy consumption.
For the project we will not seek LEED, but use the MN B3 guidelines as our guide and we will keep in mind the goals/criteria of the LEED silver and gold certification levels. For more information on MN B3 standards visit www.msbg.umn.edu and to compare with LEED standards visit www.usgbc.org/LEED.
We have already completed the XCEL Energy program for new and renovation projects called Energy Design Assistance. The focus is looking at measures to reduce electricity consumption in the building. Further, XCEL provides rebates for energy saving equipment and to apply for those rebates, you need to follow the EDA process. (for more information on the XCEL Energy Design Assistance program visit www.xcelenergy.com/CustomerService/Pages/EnergyDesignAssistance.aspx).
Sustainable initiatives that will be reviewed for Fine Arts will include, but not limited to:
- Building envelope – amount of insulation and R-value characteristics of the different components – walls, roof, windows
- HVAC equipment and controls for efficient operation to reduce heating/cooling/electricity consumption BUT meeting standards for good IAQ (indoor air quality)
- Heat recovery where appropriate
- Lighting controls/daylighting
- Water saving fixtures
- Local and/or recycled materials for building components, furnishings and finish details
- Low- or zero- VOC (volatile organic compound) paint, carpet, adhesives, sealants, wood products, and furniture.
- Landscaping design/plant material/storm water control including site issues such as bike racks and parking for alternative vehicles
- Space for recycling to reduce trash
- Green cleaning program
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