APPA Library

"The Development and Application of Policy-Based Tools for Institutional Green Buildings"
Author: Cupido, Anthony F.,
Published In: Facilities Manager
Date: March/April 2010

In 2008, APPA forwarded a Web-based survey on the author's behalf to all designated representatives of APPA member institutions. The purpose of the survey was to determine if institutional policies are an important criterion for an institution's sustainable building practices and the use of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED[R]). Initiating this survey through APPA's Center for Facilities Research (CFaR) provided an opportunity to expand and strengthen the facilities body of knowledge, as well as engage members in groundbreaking research regarding green building policies in the United States and Canada. The research consisted of the comprehensive quantitative survey and qualitative follow-up interviews with 24 individuals who volunteered to participate with additional detailed questions. The number of interviewees was selected to ensure that four members in each of APPA's six regions were chosen to give a geographical balance across the United States and Canada. The survey evaluated the institution's use of a policy, guideline, standard, law, or goal related to sustainable building practices, and the interviews provided an opportunity for the researcher to qualitatively explore and supplement components of the survey and to gain greater insight as to the strategic application of sustainable facility initiatives at their respective institutions. This article examines the results of the survey, which indicated that higher education institutions are contributing to the growth in sustainable practices in higher education, and that the facility professionals are contributing to the much needed leadership in this field. The findings also confirm that the motivator for many institutions with a policy is assured lower building operating costs.

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