Green architecture has so many benefits but never seems to catch on that well. For years, people have known that we can build with materials that not only stop environmental damage but enhance life. It may seem as only a few independent people are what’s driving green building from being extinct.
I was very pleased to find the University of Pennsylvania has stepped up and is leading the nation in sustainable campuses. I found on their website an article about the newly dedicated Kings Court English College House. When constructing the building they decided the usually rubber roof covering would not do. Instead, they produced a green roof with a mix of grasses, sedum and mosses. Not only did this beautify the area but they have a longer lasting roof and a reduction in temperature control costs in the building.
I was impressed with the desire to design with green factors in mind. I was even more excited to find that this wasn’t all they were doing in this area. The article showed a long list of procedures taken to have environmental sustainability. These actions had not gone undetected either. The University was one of eight organizations honored by the state of Pennsylvania for green-power purchases. They were also recognized as one of the top 15 colleges in North America in sustainability.
It will take large organizations like this to bring green architecture to the masses. The fact that larger universities are accepting and improving the process of this design is amazing. Hopefully, with help from schools and other institutions, we will be able to cut down everyone’s carbon footprint.
