Hospitals Seek LEED certification
Detroit Free Press reports how a low but increasing number of newly-built hospitals try to comply with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards defined by the U.S. Green Building Council, an association of vuilding product manufacturers, contractors, utilities and other parties involved in construction. Out of 2,100+ new construction projects built in the US which have obtained LEED certification since 2000, only two were hospitals. Another 80 plan to earn this certification.
Among them, Henry Ford Health System estimates meeting these guidelines will add up to 4% on top of its $310 million budget for the hospital it’s building in West Bloomfield. The rationale is to recoup these upfront costs with reduced energy bills and increased service quality. Kai Abelkis, environmental coordinator for Boulder Community Hospital, the first U.S. hospital to earn certification, said the medical industry is among the top energy users and waste generators in the country. Long-stay patients appreciate the ability to choose what and when to eat, a measure meant to reduce waste that contrats with the fixed menus served at rigid, early hours in many hospitals. Rooftop gardens are enjoyable in themselves and provide thermal and water insulation. Likewise, more natural light can have a positive impact on the mood of patients and personnel as well as reduce energy bills.
The LEED-NC certification for new construction define how to build sustainable sites, achieve water efficiency and manage energy and atmosphere, based on use of materials and resources and indoor environmental quality. They cover construction activity as well as a building’s life once it’s complete. Kim Weller, a member of the American Institute of Architects accredited by LEED writes in TheGreenGuide about America’s Top 10 Green Hospitals.
March 7, 2006 Related topics: Facilities, Trends