UR's International Center receives LEED Gold certification

October 14, 2015

The U.S Green Building Council has awarded University of Richmond’s Carole Weinstein International Center with LEED Gold certification. This building is the second on campus to achieve this accreditation. Weinstein Center for Recreation and Wellness is also LEED Gold certified.

LEED certified buildings are recognized for positive impacts on the health of occupants and promotion of renewable, clean energy.

Carole Weinstein International Center’s unique sustainability features include:

  • A freeze tank cooling system, which means abundantly available energy is used to freeze tanks of water at night and the ice is then used to cool the building during the day
  • 50 percent reduced water usage for landscaping
  • 92 percent of construction waste was reused or recycled
  • 10 percent of building materials are from regional sources, meaning they were harvested or manufactured within 500 miles of campus
  • 100 percent of indoor spaces have adjustable thermostats and lighting; there are also windows in almost every room for natural lighting

As part of the Presidents’ Climate Commitment, which Edward L. Ayers, president emeritus, signed in 2007, the university committed to attaining LEED Silver certification on all new construction.

“In order to achieve this goal, innovation is key to creating buildings that are sustainable and preserve the health of the community,” said Andrew McBride, associate vice president for Facilities and a LEED accredited professional.

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