[USGBC logo]In constructing Cassat and Memorial residence halls, Carleton is pursuing a gold level of certification through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. The LEED system was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to provide a suite of standards for environmentally sustainable construction.

The highlights of our sustainable construction efforts include the following:

sustainable site

• Building sited to create quad with usable open space and views
• Landscape designed with native vegetation and no irrigation system
• Parking lots with porous pavers minimize stormwater run-off
• Storage rooms within the buildings provide space for securing bicycles
• Preferred parking spaces designated for fuel-efficient vehicles and carpools

energy + atmosphere

• High efficiency lighting with daylight and occupancy sensors will conserve electricity
• Building envelope constructed of insulated concrete forms for increased thermal performance
• Radiant in-floor heating system will result in energy savings and thermal comfort compared to conventional heating
• Solar thermal hot water system heats domestic water with roof-top collectors
• Third party commissioning agent to review all mechanical engineering systems for maximum efficiency

materials + resources

• Priority given to materials with recycled content throughout project
• Main lounges to have floors made from salvaged wood
• Building designed with easily accessible recycling and composting locations
• 75% of construction waste will be diverted from landfill for recycling or reuse
• 20% of building materials manufactured within 500 miles of Northfield

water efficiency

• Plumbing fixtures selected to reduce water consumption by 30% more than a traditional building
• Rain gardens and surrounding landscape will include plants native to Minnesota
• Plant species examples: White Oak, Northern Pin Oak, Swamp White Oak, Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle, Sedges, and Gray Dogwood

innovation + design

• Reduction in CO2 emissions by using high volume of fly ash in all concrete
• Radon mitigation system in each building for healthy indoor environment
• Green housekeeping program eliminates toxic cleaning products
• Sustainable education program includes interior signage and real-time energy and water use monitoring and web display

indoor environment

• Project goal of highest possible indoor air quality for residents through selection of materials with low-emitting volatile organic compounds
• Lighting and heating controls for improved comfort
• Natural daylighting and views in all rooms