Kalamazoo College
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Hicks Student Center

The Hicks Student Center project was completed in 2008, one of the first LEED-Silver projects in West Michigan. Some of the sustainable features include:
  • Increased insulation of walls and windows, and optimized mechanical and electrical systems resulted in a 16% savings over the minimum LEED design and requirements.
  • 90% of construction waste was diverted from landfills.
  • 89% of existing building structure was preserved.
  • 41% of the building materials were from within 500 miles of the project.
  • 36% of the building materials used were recycled or rapidly-renuable products.
  • Energy-efficient lighting systems are featured throughout the building.
  • 40% water savings was achieved through the use of waterless urinals and low-flow faucets.
  • 42% of the building's energy is provided through green sources (i.e. wind and solar.)
  • Individual control of thermal and lighting systems is provided throughout the building.
What is LEED?
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. The rating system addresses six major areas:
  • Sustainable sites
  • Water efficiency
  • Energy and atmosphere
  • Materials and resources
  • Indoor environmental quality
  • Innovation and design process
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