The Monsignor Andrew J. McGowan Science Building, completed in November, was designed to fit the unique residential character and rich historic vernacular of Lincoln Park. DePaul is seeking silver (or higher)
LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for the facility’s energy-efficient and environmentally friendly features. Check out the following green facts about the new state-of-the-art building:
- To reduce energy consumption, this building incorporates energy efficient lighting and windows, high efficiency fans, motors and pumps, and an exhaust air energy recovery system. It is 24 percent more efficient than a conventional building and creates annual energy savings of approximately $78,000 per year for DePaul.
- To reduce water consumption, this building utilizes low-flow plumbing fixtures and landscaping that includes only indigenous and climate appropriate vegetation. The carefully selected vegetation provides open space for the benefit of nature and pedestrians.
- To significantly reduce heat absorption and surrounding air temperatures, this building uses highly reflective roofing materials along with a partially vegetated roof surface and reflective paving.
- Eighty-two percent of the construction waste was recycled instead of being sent to a landfill.
- More than 45 percent of construction materials were manufactured within 500 miles of the building, thus reducing our carbon footprint and providing support for the local economy.