By Marcy Marro
The U.S. Green
Building Council has a vision to provide green schools for
everyone within a generation. A bold vision, perhaps, but it is the
main reason that the USGBC formed the Center for Green Schools in 2010. The Center
expands the USGBC's efforts to drive change in how schools and
campuses are designed, constructed and operated so they will
enhance student's learning experiences. Additionally, the Center
engages educators in creating sustainable learning environments and
applies solid research to advocate for the benefits of healthy,
high-performing schools.
Last month, the Center, along with United Technologies
Corp., released the results of an independent, nationwide survey revealing that
nearly three out of four Americans support federal investment in
school building improvements that focus on creating healthier
learning environments, saving tax dollars or lowering carbon
emissions. Conducted by GfK Custom Research North America, the survey
also found that one in three of the 1,000 surveyed said that the
majority of U.S. schools were in "poor" shape. Only 6 percent said
they were in "excellent shape."
"Americans understand the importance of our nation's school
infrastructure and see the urgent need for significant
investments," says Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair
of the USGBC. "Too many of our schools are outdated, woefully
energy inefficient, unhealthy and negatively affect our children's
ability to learn-and ultimately to compete in a global
marketplace."
"A green school is an energy-efficient school-meaning less money
is spent on overhead like heating and cooling and more can be spent
on keeping teachers in the classroom and getting them the resources
they need," says Sandy Diehl, vice president, integrated buildings
solutions at Hartford, Conn.-based United Technologies Corp., and a
Center for Green Schools advisory board member. "Investments in
green school buildings generate positive outcomes in classrooms and
communities everywhere. Investing in our school infrastructure
today is an imperative."
This month, our cover story, "
Green Education," takes a look at how schools across the
country are turning to green building, both as a way to cut
operating costs and remain competitive.
Also in this issue, check out the winners of the Metal
Construction Association's 2011 Chairman's Awards, as
announced at METALCON. In Green Scene, Associate Editor
Patricia Brehm takes a look at the increasing demand for rainwater
and rain catchment systems.