Green Features

Regarding the actual construction of the hospital itself, the new facility will be built to strict specifications set by the United States Green Building Council for new construction as established by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

This process is totally voluntary and is a way for building owners to demonstrate their commitment to building in an environmentally sensitive and responsible manner.  In order for a building to achieve any level of LEED certification there are “credits” which are clearly defined by LEED and are designed into the building and implemented during construction. Some of the credits included in the Howard Hospital project are as follows:

Some of the credits included in the Howard Hospital project are as follows:

1.    Maximizing Open Space During Site Development
2.    Water Efficient Landscaping Reducing Water Consumption by 50%
3.    Encouragement of Alternative Transportation With Showers & Changing Facilities
4.    Preferred Parking for Fuel Efficient Vehicles
5.    Reduced Heat Island Effect With a Cool Roof Membrane
6.    Implement Low Water Use Fixtures, Reducing Water Consumption by   20%
7.    Enhanced Refrigerant Management To Eliminate Use of CFC Based Refrigerants
8.    Energy Optimization Exceeding Code Requirements By 10%:

• tight building envelope
• high efficiency window glazing
• lighting fixture efficiencies
• efficient lighting controls
• heating and cooling equipment  and control efficiencies

9.      75% of All Construction Waste is Planned for Diversion From the Landfill
10.    Long Term Solid Waste Recycling Program
11.    Indoor Environmental Quality:

• Air Quality Management Plan During Construction
• CO2 Monitors in Large Conference Room for Ventilation Control
• Increased Ventilation 30% above Minimum LEED Requirements
• Use of Low VOC Emitting Adhesives, Sealants, Paints, Coatings, Carpet Systems, and Wood Products
• Green Housekeeping
• Thermal Performance

12.    Enhanced Commissioning To Assure Optimal Efficiency & Performance
13.    Non-Smoking Campus
14.    Community Sustained Agriculture: Organic food for the facility will be supplied from an on – site organic garden called Commonwealth