A study by researchers at Michigan State University and published in the American Journal of Public Health provides compelling evidence that workers in LEED-certified buildings are more productive, absent less frequently, and healthier than when they worked in non-green buildings. "In two retrospective-prospective case studies we found that improved IEQ contributed to reductions in perceived absenteeism and work hours affected by asthma, respiratory allergies, depression, and stress and to self-reported improvements in productivity," wrote the researchers. The case studies involved workers who moved from traditional buildings to LEED certified buildings. The researchers will continue to monitor the study participants.
The buildingSMART alliance, which is working on a BIM standard called the United States National BIM Standard (NBIMS), is seeking input on Version 2 of the standard. Version 1 of NBIMS established the overview, principles and methodologies of what the standard will be. The Alliance is now beginning the development process for Version 2 (the nitty-gritty of the standard itself) and needs industry input. The standard is expected to be released in late 2011. For more information on how to provide input, visit www.buildingsmartalliance.org/index.php/nbims/committee.
As of June 2010, the building codes of 14 states do not meet the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2007. So the organization has applauded a Department of Energy announcement that it is seeking proposals to support activities related to the adoption and implementation of 90.1-2007. A total of $5 million is available to be awarded for up to 20 states (only one award per state). Award sizes will vary with a maximum of $250,000 available for each award.
The Princeton Review partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council to identify 18 colleges and universities for its 2011 Green Rating Honor Roll. These 18 schools were selected from a total of 703 applications for maintaining the most sustainable practices, policies and course offerings. The 18 schools, which all scored the highest possible score of 99 (in alphabetical order):
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Making a Building LEED-CI Ready
Building Performance Partnership: Post-LEED Certification
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