APPA Library

"Green Schools for Everyone within This Generation"
Author: Van Mourik, Jaime,
Published In: Facilities Manager
Date: March/April 2011

At the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), people see the profound, positive impact that green buildings have on people's lives and the innovation they have poured into the marketplace--from office and retail buildings to government facilities and individual homes. However, none of these markets speaks more powerfully to the benefits and potential of green buildings than educational facilities. This article discusses how stakeholders at colleges and universities across the country are connecting around the topic of sustainability. With the understanding that green buildings are about more than just bricks and mortar, institution leaders are creating new learning experiences and facilitating higher levels of community engagement. Students are also taking on a larger role, asking to be part of the greening of their campuses, and facilities staff and faculty are working together to provide experiential learning opportunities for students. The ability to use research, pioneer technological innovations, engage the community and encourage partnerships provides a unique opportunity for higher education institutions to serve as leaders in the creation of new and revitalized green communities. By continuing an integrated approach to planning and implementing sustainability initiatives, green schools for everyone within this generation can be achieved.

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