New Science Building
Any type of construction can have environmental impact. Existing structures are cleared away, creating a waste stream of construction materials; trees and ground covers, which stabilize the soil and mitigate stormwater runoff, are removed and paved over with impervious materials; habitat may be lost; and new structures may be larger and have greater energy and water needs.
A building designed to house instructional and research laboratories tends to consume more resources than a non-laboratory building. Its ventilation needs are much higher due to the use of potentially hazardous chemicals, there are processes that require water in addition to the needs of the building’s occupants, and power requirements for wide variety of electrical equipment and computers. While a laboratory building’s power and water requirements tend to be non-negotiable, a well-designed building can lessen its environmental impact in other ways.
Currently under construction on the Lehman College campus is a modern science building that will house world class research on plant biology and environmental sciences. The building contains many sustainable features that reduce its need for water and power, reduces the amount of stormwater entering the combined sewer system, uses materials and equipment that take into consideration future maintenance and upkeep needs, and hardy, low-maintenance landscaping using plants native to the New York City area.
For more information, visit the College’s New Science Facility.
Last modified: Oct 13, 2011
