Showing posts with label green building. Show all posts
Showing posts with label green building. Show all posts
Monday, December 8, 2014
New documentary on architect, Vo Trong Nghia, and his use of bamboo in his masterpieces
A wonderful new documentary on the famous Vietnamese architect, Vo Trong
Nghia, was recently published and entitled “Rebel Architecture-Greening
the City”. Mr. Nghia is pioneering a distinctive place for bamboo in
worldwide architecture and has created mesmerizing structures time and
again. Like Lamboo, he believes bamboo offers distinctive acoustics,
structural advantages, and durability that will ultimately shape the
future of sustainable architecture. See the video below!
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Lamboo Wins Governor’s Export Award
On July 31st, 2013 Lamboo was honored by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn as the recipient for the 2013 Illinois Governor’s Export Award in the Emerging/New Export Business category.
Pictured Left, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, congratulating Lamboo, Inc. President and CEO, Luke Schuette (Right), at the award ceremony for 2013 Illinois Governor’s Export Award on July 31st, 2013. Lamboo received the honor in the Emerging/New Export Business category.
The award recognizes the rapid growth of Lamboo’s export sales in 2012 by 63 percent over 2011. 27 percent of the company’s total sales are now attributed to exports.
“We are immensely proud to receive this award,” said Luke Schuette, founder and president of Lamboo. “The award is testimony to the growing global recognition of Lamboo as a high-performance brand and the growing interest in bamboo as a sustainable raw material for green building and design applications.”
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn handed out the award at a ceremony in Chicago.
“Lamboo’s vision is to combine high-performance technology with sustainability,” said Schuette. “We see great potential for growth as the green building and ecological innovation wave within primary industries continues to spread across the globe.”
For further information, please contact Henrik Rasmussen at 202-403-4240 or henrik@lamboo.us.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
‘Green Building’ Movement Gains Traction Worldwide
The “Green Building” movement is gathering momentum worldwide as businesses increasingly see attractive economic returns and social-environmental benefits from enhancing the overall sustainability of their operations, including initiatives to conserve and enhance efficiencies with regard to energy, water and other natural resources.
The number of businesses anticipating that more than 60 percent of their operations will be “green” by 2014 will more than triple in South Africa; more than double in Brazil, Germany and Norway; and increase from 33-68 percent in Australia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the UK and the US, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s, “World Green Building Trends – Business Benefits Driving New and Retrofit Market Opportunities in Over 60 Countries.”
Green building market: Moving from supply-push to demand-pull
Surveying green building activities among businesses worldwide, McGraw-Hill Construction and United Technologies Corp. (UTC) found that 51 percent of survey respondents expect that more than 60 percent of their operations will be green by 2015. That’s a big increase from the 28 percent that expect the same in 2013, and double the 13 percent from 2008, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s press release.
“This report confirms that the green building movement has shifted from ‘push’ to ‘pull’—with markets increasingly demanding no less than green buildings,” John Mandyck, chief sustainability officer, UTC Climate, Controls & Security, was quoted as saying.
There has been a decided shift toward focusing on green building among business executives and management, the researchers found. Green building has become a business imperative in economies worldwide. The top driver in the 2008 Green Building report was “doing the right thing.” In 2012, client and market demand are the key factors driving green building initiatives, according to the report authors.
Returns, benefits from doing the right thing
A resonance has developed in recent years whereby business opportunities and expected benefits of green building are matching up: 76 percent of respondents reported that green building lowers operating costs, with more than one-third pointing to higher building values (38 percent), quality assurance (38 percent), and future-proofing assets (36 percent) as tangible benefits and returns on investment.
"The acceleration of the green building marketplace around the world is creating markets for green building products and technologies, which in turn will lead to faster growth of green building,” commented Harvey Bernstein, vice president of Industry Insights and Alliances at McGraw-Hill Construction.
"And the fact that green is growing in all parts of the world indicates that there are market opportunities in both established markets as well as developing countries.”
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article from Triple Pundit. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
One of the most important elements regarding green building projects is the materials that the buildings are constructed with. There are a variety of products from natural, recycled, and synthetic sources that improve efficiency and performance, yet many are still of a finite nature.
The most unrecognized yet potentially successful (and Sustainable) material for this green movement is bamboo, particularly in engineered form. Bamboo is one of the most rapidly renewable plant sources that is also remarkably strong and resilient. Bamboo reaches maturity in 6-8 years and after harvesting will regrow from the roots with no replanting necessary. Bamboo is also renowned for its great oxygen production and carbon sequestration; a great positive environmental impact. Once in engineered form (Laminated Veneer Bamboo LVB) the material has great thermal and performance attributes that makes it ideal for energy efficient systems built for longevity.
Certifications
Product Information
Research
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
The number of businesses anticipating that more than 60 percent of their operations will be “green” by 2014 will more than triple in South Africa; more than double in Brazil, Germany and Norway; and increase from 33-68 percent in Australia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the UK and the US, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s, “World Green Building Trends – Business Benefits Driving New and Retrofit Market Opportunities in Over 60 Countries.”
Green building market: Moving from supply-push to demand-pull
Surveying green building activities among businesses worldwide, McGraw-Hill Construction and United Technologies Corp. (UTC) found that 51 percent of survey respondents expect that more than 60 percent of their operations will be green by 2015. That’s a big increase from the 28 percent that expect the same in 2013, and double the 13 percent from 2008, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s press release.
“This report confirms that the green building movement has shifted from ‘push’ to ‘pull’—with markets increasingly demanding no less than green buildings,” John Mandyck, chief sustainability officer, UTC Climate, Controls & Security, was quoted as saying.
There has been a decided shift toward focusing on green building among business executives and management, the researchers found. Green building has become a business imperative in economies worldwide. The top driver in the 2008 Green Building report was “doing the right thing.” In 2012, client and market demand are the key factors driving green building initiatives, according to the report authors.
Returns, benefits from doing the right thing
A resonance has developed in recent years whereby business opportunities and expected benefits of green building are matching up: 76 percent of respondents reported that green building lowers operating costs, with more than one-third pointing to higher building values (38 percent), quality assurance (38 percent), and future-proofing assets (36 percent) as tangible benefits and returns on investment.
"The acceleration of the green building marketplace around the world is creating markets for green building products and technologies, which in turn will lead to faster growth of green building,” commented Harvey Bernstein, vice president of Industry Insights and Alliances at McGraw-Hill Construction.
"And the fact that green is growing in all parts of the world indicates that there are market opportunities in both established markets as well as developing countries.”
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article from Triple Pundit. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
One of the most important elements regarding green building projects is the materials that the buildings are constructed with. There are a variety of products from natural, recycled, and synthetic sources that improve efficiency and performance, yet many are still of a finite nature.
The most unrecognized yet potentially successful (and Sustainable) material for this green movement is bamboo, particularly in engineered form. Bamboo is one of the most rapidly renewable plant sources that is also remarkably strong and resilient. Bamboo reaches maturity in 6-8 years and after harvesting will regrow from the roots with no replanting necessary. Bamboo is also renowned for its great oxygen production and carbon sequestration; a great positive environmental impact. Once in engineered form (Laminated Veneer Bamboo LVB) the material has great thermal and performance attributes that makes it ideal for energy efficient systems built for longevity.
Learn more about Lamboo
What is Lamboo?Certifications
Product Information
Research
For questions regarding Lamboo or our products please visit our website
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
The Future Wave of Green Buildings
Green buildings is on a rise to be a mainstay in Southeast Asia and proving its value at BEX Asia
Sustainability has changed business practices in Southeast Asia greatly. Three companies in Singapore have made it to the exclusive Global 100 list, which consists of the world’s most sustainable companies. The companies are City Developments Limited (CDL), CapitaLand and StarHub.In Singapore, the building sector is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emission. Therefore, developers and businesses are increasingly aware of the need to not just implement sustainable business practices, but also to influence their stakeholders.
Singapore is among the leading cities in skyrise greening with over 50 hectares of rooftop greenery in public and private buildings.
The Housing Development Board has also come up with labour saving technology like the Prefabricated Extensive Greening roof system, which allows plants to thrive without irrigation and uses lightweight plastic trays which are easy to install.
Other countries in the region are also expected to invest in the green movement.
In Thailand, USD13 billion may be needed over two decades by the energy efficiency and green construction sector. This conclusion comes after a report on energy efficiency spending between 2003 and 2011. Currently the sector is anticipating the positive effect of energy efficiency, green building standards and certification which will drive growth in the industry. Also the Philippines is positioning itself as the regional hub of multinational corporations (MNCs), and the demand for environment-friendly smart buildings is gaining traction. A third of MNCs want their local headquarters in an “intelligent,” eco-friendly skyscraper. This was revealed by architects, urban planners, a real estate expert and a consultant for environment sustainable structures.
While in Malaysia, the government is currently working on a plan to convert all light bulbs in Government buildings to energy-saving bulbs. The Malaysian Government spends RM2.7bil a year on energy costs, and this does not include the electricity bill for statutory bodies. It is expected that the Government can save an estimated of at least RM800mil across the board if they switched to LED lighting.
Although the role of policymakers and government officers is central in driving the building and construction industry to design and develop green buildings, it is a three prong approach – where government, building professionals and the community, all play an integral part.
All this and more will be discussed at the International Green Building Conference (IGBC) 2013, held in conjunction with BEX Asia 2013 on the 11-13 September 2013 at the Marina Bay Sands, and is supported by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC). BCA will also unveil the 3rd Green Building Masterplan, launch new Green Mark Schemes and latest updates on Green Mark at IGBC 2013.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article from EcoSeed. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
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Lamboo is working internationally to promote sustainability through the use of green practices and building materials with the integration of bamboo into building and manufacturing markets. Bamboo is a remarkable plant that has a plethora of green benefits. Additionally in it's engineered form (Laminated Veneer Bamboo, LVB) bamboo based products and systems far exceed other materials both in performance and longevity. Learn more about LambooWhat is Lamboo?Certifications Product Information Research |
 |
For questions regarding Lamboo or our products please visit our website
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
“Green” Building Construction Rises in U.S.
Taking the “LEED”
in Green Buildings In 2000, the Albanese Organization was chosen to develop the first “green” high-rise residential tower in the United States. Called The Solaire, it was the first high-rise residential project to receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED certifications is a widely recognized third-party verification that a building is environmentally friendly. Subsequently, Albanese developed three more LEED Certified buildings in Manhattan, The Visionaire, The Verdesian, and The Vanguard Chelsea.Now comes The Living Building Challenge (LBC). The Living Building Challenge is a green building certification program that defines the most advanced measure of sustainability in the built environment possible today. Projects that achieve this level of performance can claim to be the ‘greenest’ anywhere. The LBC requirements go beyond those of a LEED certification. The LBC uses a vetting process to avoid some of the pitfalls suffered by various LEED certified buildings, where “efficient” structures have proven to be less than advertised after completion and energy audits.
One building that is attempting to qualify for the LBC is the newly constructed Bullit Center in Seattle, WA. Qualifying is no small feat: The Living Building Challenge has 143 registered projects in 10 countries, but only three buildings in the United States have been fully certified so far; the largest of those is an eighth the size of the Bullitt Center.
The Living Building Challenge requires a project to meet 20 specific imperatives within seven performance areas (or “Petals”). For the Bullitt Center, meeting the imperatives will include the following:
The location will support a pedestrian-, bicycle-, and transit-friendly lifestyle. Rainwater will be collected on the roof, stored in an underground cistern and used throughout the building. A solar array will generate as much electricity as the building uses. The building will not contain any “Red List” hazardous materials, including PVC, cadmium, lead, mercury and hormone-mimicking substances, all commonly found in building components. The lifespan of The Bullit Center is projected to be 250 years. The building officially opens on April 22; Earth Day.
Dennis Hays, the president of The Bullitt Foundation, said “The Bullitt Center will be the first office building in the United States to capture rain water, store it and purify it, and then use it for potable drinking water. We will use rain water in our coffee, our dishwaters, our showers, and for everything else. We will filter the resulting gray water and infiltrate it into rain gardens full of vegetation in front of our building. We will make no use of Seattle public water supply.” To help protect Puget Sound, rainwater will be retained on site and “grey water” from sinks in the building will be filtered through a green roof.”
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| Bullit Center in Seattle, WA |
Other Green initiatives
The University of North Texas built a state-of-the-art Zero Energy Research Laboratory, where students and faculty will get first-hand experience with sustainable energy technologies. The facility is designed to test emerging technologies that allow building systems to have a net-zero consumption of energy. The UNT ‘Zero House’ uses Benchmark wall panels because they cut the electric load by one half to two thirds. Initially, the facility was powered by solar energy.“Two faculty members, 6 graduate students and one post-doctoral research associate are working in ZØE research group at UNT,” explained Rambod Rayegan, a Visiting Assistant Professor in the mechanical and energy engineering department. “The research group is currently focused on integrated simulation and verification of the building and its sub systems, air flow and heat transfer analysis of solar chimney, human behavior factors sensitivity and uncertainty in energy modeling of the building, multiyear modeling of the ground loop heat exchanger, and design a novel thermal energy storage system to achieve the maximum utilization of solar power.”
Dr. Yong Tao, chair of the Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering and PACCAR Professor of Engineering at UNT, and a committee of experts oversaw the design of the lab. Tao is an internationally known researcher in fundamentals of thermal sciences, refrigeration system performance and renewable energy applications in buildings. He joined the UNT faculty in the fall of 2010. Tao also served as the director of the Future House USA project, an initiative that brought together academics, builders, industry sponsors and lobbyists to create a 3,200 square-foot zero-net energy house that was built in Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Games.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article from Azobuild. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
Lamboo, Laminated Veneer Bamboo (LVB), designed from one the most rapidly renewable plant species on the planet, bamboo, has the potential to be integrated in this new wave of "Green" buildings. Lamboo can be used to replace less sustainable materials in nearly any conceivable application from curtain wall systems to office furniture. Additionally use of Lamboo materials can receive accreditation from building codes such as LEED from the USBC on qualifying projects.
LEED Credits available through Lamboo integration
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Learn more about LambooWhat is Lamboo?Certifications Product Information Research |
For questions regarding Lamboo or our products please visit our website
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Thursday, February 21, 2013
SAIE México 2013
Lamboo, Inc. is pleased to announce they will be attending the sixth Annual SAIE Mexico 2013 Show and Conference. The show is put on by the International Building Trade Show or SAIE (SAIE by its Spanish Acronym – Salon Internacional de la Edicacion) and will take place on February 20-23, 2013 in the WTC Mexico City, Mexico.
The VI International Exhibition Building, SAIE MEXICO 2013, is a exhibition where technological advances in the industry are shared and networking opportunities between professionals and companies, in architecture, construction, design and sustainable lifestyle are present. This show is the most important trade show for housing, construction, and green building sectors in the Mexican market. The four-day event features over 140 exhibitors and more than 8,000 visitors during the 2013 show. SAIE is the leading trade show for green construction, sustainable building, and construction includes green design, low VOC products, paints, recovered materials, full solar and photovoltaic systems, wind power, lighting, and related products.
Lamboo, Inc. will be exhibiting at the show to promote green construction and sustainable building through the manufacturing of engineered bamboo for structural, architectural, and industrial applications. At the SAIE Show, Lamboo will be promoting the following product lines: Lamboo® Design™, Lamboo® Elements™, Lamboo® Renewall™, Lamboo® Structure™, Lamboo® Surface™, and Lamboo® Vue™.
As a technology, and manufacturing company, Lamboo, Inc. offers enhanced performance over traditional forms of construction material to the environment, the construction industry, and architects/engineers throughout the world. Representatives of Lamboo, Inc. can be found at the State of Illinois Pavilion, booth B38. Lamboo’s partner Multivi will also be in attendance showcasing in booth C28. As industry leaders they are integrating superior performing Lamboo (laminated veneer bamboo) within their window, door, and curtain wall systems providing some of the most stable, sustainable, and long lasting systems available to the market.
Multivi Windows & Doors
Booth #C28
Marco Perez Haces
Tel: +01 (222) 2 403 300
Email: marco@multivi.com
For questions regarding Lamboo or our products please visit our website
at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Thursday, December 6, 2012
USGBC launches Green Building Information Gateway
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced the launch of the Green Building Information Gateway. Coined GBIG, the web-based tool will accelerate market transformation by providing greater transparency and understanding of the green dimensions of the built environment.
GBIG seeks to use data-driven insights to create value and competitive advantage for high performing green building projects around the world, the green building council said.
“The launch of GBIG represents years of research, information gathering and testing, and has been a true labour of love,” said Chris Pyke, the council’s vice-president, research. “Green building has gone from an era of firsts, to a global movement, connected by data.”
Users can search and explore green building activity around the world, analyze trends and patterns in green building practice and discover connections between projects, people, products and services. Additional information is available at: GBIG.org.
The tool was launched at the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo in San Francisco.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by Daily Commercial News. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
A focus on sustainable building
In a still-recovering economy, here are several high-level best practices to guide green building projects.
Today’s smart architects and contractors know that whenever possible buildings should be designed and built green, but not everyone knows what determines a "green" space. How do you sustain a focus on sustainable building in a still-weakened economy? Here are the necessary steps and best practices for maintaining the momentum and keeping the sustainable building movement growing strong.
Best Practices for Sustainable Building
1. Think of the Whole Project. Sustainability is about end-use, how a building functions for occupants within the community. Experts need to be involved from day one to work with architects and builders to develop the project as a team. Business needs must be determined to ensure they are effectively and clearly communicated to the team. Determining these needs ahead of time ensures all team members are able to assess different sites, communities, lots, and existing buildings when looking for the best fit.
2. User-Based Planning. Construction utilities and internet connectivity must be added in the beginning to schematics, but technology and building needs should also be considered. Technology can shape the way a building is used and how people work and live in it. By focusing on the building’s future use, the planners can help identify early cost-savings, better floor plans and tighter specifications.
3. Environmental Specifications. It is important to look at the complete picture of a building or new site when determining where to spend money for environmental and energy efficiency investments. In many buildings, especially single story brick buildings, the largest source of energy loss is through the walls as this is the largest surface area exposed to the exterior. Solar panels have a lot of sex appeal and show a commitment to “going green,” but cost to benefit ratio is not as high as some of the less visible upgrades. Spray foaming block walls to a depth of 2.5 inches can increase the R value (measurement of thermal resistance) by 500 percent, and this depth of foam also qualifies as a vapor barrier which prevents mold and condensation.
If the goal early on is to lower expenses associated with running the building, the architect and AV design partner (both should be involved early) can work together to design a space that utilizes and incorporates the natural resources of the site such as lots of sun, tree cover and orientation. For example, Spye Group’s newly remodeled building has dropped the lighting bill more than 50 percent due to installing many large windows and a lighting system that combines natural light with artificial light to obtain an optimal level in each office.
4. Integrated Design. An emerging trend in sustainable building is integrating interior aesthetics, high performance technologies and environmentally-focused specifications to create a space built and tailored to exactly fit a user's needs.
Sustainability can also be measured as the optimal benefit of a space, not just a reduction in expenses as compared to the same square footage of another building. By incorporating technology and smart design into a building, a company may obtain more from employees, be more efficient, create more products and sell at a higher margin.
In addition, if a building is designed to grow with a company (designing it for the future) there will be unmeasureable savings when upgrading technology, operating the business there for many more years than someone who cut corners at the beginning and has to move or do a major remodel.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by the Paul Krumrich, Founder and President, SpyeGlass. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
In this new era of sustainable construction the industry will have to embrace new practices and materials to replace traditional forms that are no longer feasible. Bamboo is a example of one of these new ultra renewable resources that will be used to meet the demand for our growing society.
Bamboo as a resource is unmatched in its potential as a environmentally friendly, structurally stable and renewable building material. Bamboo produces 30% more oxygen and sequesters 35% more carbon than a like sized timber forest area. With a growth rate of 6-8 years to maturity (compared to timber 25-50) and root structure that eliminates the need for replanting bamboo can be produced on a large scale with much more ease than timber forests cutting costs and limiting energy consumption. Learn more about the amazing attributes of bamboo here.
Additionally incorporating Lamboo (LVB) laminated veneer bamboo into projects can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under MR Credit 6 - Rapidly renewable materials, IEQ Credit 4.4 - Low-emitting materials; ID Credit 1 - Innovation in Design (Environmentally Preferable Material), and ID Credit 2 - Innovation in Design (Life Cycle Assessment / Environmental Impact).
*Please refer to USGBC for information regarding project requirements
Today’s smart architects and contractors know that whenever possible buildings should be designed and built green, but not everyone knows what determines a "green" space. How do you sustain a focus on sustainable building in a still-weakened economy? Here are the necessary steps and best practices for maintaining the momentum and keeping the sustainable building movement growing strong.
Best Practices for Sustainable Building
1. Think of the Whole Project. Sustainability is about end-use, how a building functions for occupants within the community. Experts need to be involved from day one to work with architects and builders to develop the project as a team. Business needs must be determined to ensure they are effectively and clearly communicated to the team. Determining these needs ahead of time ensures all team members are able to assess different sites, communities, lots, and existing buildings when looking for the best fit.
2. User-Based Planning. Construction utilities and internet connectivity must be added in the beginning to schematics, but technology and building needs should also be considered. Technology can shape the way a building is used and how people work and live in it. By focusing on the building’s future use, the planners can help identify early cost-savings, better floor plans and tighter specifications.
3. Environmental Specifications. It is important to look at the complete picture of a building or new site when determining where to spend money for environmental and energy efficiency investments. In many buildings, especially single story brick buildings, the largest source of energy loss is through the walls as this is the largest surface area exposed to the exterior. Solar panels have a lot of sex appeal and show a commitment to “going green,” but cost to benefit ratio is not as high as some of the less visible upgrades. Spray foaming block walls to a depth of 2.5 inches can increase the R value (measurement of thermal resistance) by 500 percent, and this depth of foam also qualifies as a vapor barrier which prevents mold and condensation.
If the goal early on is to lower expenses associated with running the building, the architect and AV design partner (both should be involved early) can work together to design a space that utilizes and incorporates the natural resources of the site such as lots of sun, tree cover and orientation. For example, Spye Group’s newly remodeled building has dropped the lighting bill more than 50 percent due to installing many large windows and a lighting system that combines natural light with artificial light to obtain an optimal level in each office.
4. Integrated Design. An emerging trend in sustainable building is integrating interior aesthetics, high performance technologies and environmentally-focused specifications to create a space built and tailored to exactly fit a user's needs.
Sustainability can also be measured as the optimal benefit of a space, not just a reduction in expenses as compared to the same square footage of another building. By incorporating technology and smart design into a building, a company may obtain more from employees, be more efficient, create more products and sell at a higher margin.
In addition, if a building is designed to grow with a company (designing it for the future) there will be unmeasureable savings when upgrading technology, operating the business there for many more years than someone who cut corners at the beginning and has to move or do a major remodel.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by the Paul Krumrich, Founder and President, SpyeGlass. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
In this new era of sustainable construction the industry will have to embrace new practices and materials to replace traditional forms that are no longer feasible. Bamboo is a example of one of these new ultra renewable resources that will be used to meet the demand for our growing society.
Bamboo as a resource is unmatched in its potential as a environmentally friendly, structurally stable and renewable building material. Bamboo produces 30% more oxygen and sequesters 35% more carbon than a like sized timber forest area. With a growth rate of 6-8 years to maturity (compared to timber 25-50) and root structure that eliminates the need for replanting bamboo can be produced on a large scale with much more ease than timber forests cutting costs and limiting energy consumption. Learn more about the amazing attributes of bamboo here.
Additionally incorporating Lamboo (LVB) laminated veneer bamboo into projects can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under MR Credit 6 - Rapidly renewable materials, IEQ Credit 4.4 - Low-emitting materials; ID Credit 1 - Innovation in Design (Environmentally Preferable Material), and ID Credit 2 - Innovation in Design (Life Cycle Assessment / Environmental Impact).
*Please refer to USGBC for information regarding project requirements
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Sustainable Business and Green Building Projects
In an effort to protect the environment, many companies have begun developing sustainable business practices. By implementing green and sustainable practices, many have found that they can make choices that help the planet as well as their profits. Sustainable business is a relatively new concept for many companies, but it has grown in popularity and use over the past decade and considerable advances are expected for the future.
Sustainable business requirements
Not just any company that chooses to recycle is meeting sustainable business standards. There are certain requirements that must be met in order for a company to be considered part of the green business world. These include:- The business must be considered more environmentally friendly than traditional businesses
- Sustainability is at the forefront of business decision making
- An observable commitment to green practices has been implemented across the board
- Services and products offered from the business are environmentally friendly or meet the public demand for sustainable products.
One area that has been growing even more than others is green building and construction. In many instances, by creating homes, offices, and public buildings that are environmentally friendly, the costs of operating said buildings can be extremely low, and many companies are moving to this form of building.
Green building standards
The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) is the government organization in charge of overseeing the green design and function of buildings across America. By constructing buildings with efficient and supportive designs, the USGBC believes that they can help minimize the energy crisis and create jobs.The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) concept has changed several aspects of the way green construction and sustainable business practices are run. This international standard is offered as a reward to the building owners who operate their companies within certain standards of excellence in this field. With LEED in mind, many property owners are able to implement sustainable business practices, green construction, efficient building design, and maintain daily operations in an environmentally friendly manner.
Similarly, the United States Business Council for Sustainable Development (US BCSD) is available to help improve environmental awareness within industry, government projects, and business ventures. This non-profit organization is part of a worldwide group of councils that are partnered with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. These organizations work across the globe to promote sustainable business initiatives on a worldwide scale, but their impact can be felt locally.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by the Triple Pundit. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
Traditionally, building practices have focused on large scale, low cost production with little regard as to how this could be maintained in the future. This lead to many natural resources becoming strained due to over use and mismanagement. In an era of rising populations and demand for the buildings and structures to support it there becomes the need for not only more efficient building practices but also materials sustainable enough to provide a long term solution. With a maturity rate of 6-8 years (versus 25-50 with timber) Bamboo is just the resource the industry has been searching for. Bamboo is a remarkably strong plant that is not only able to rapidly replenish but also regrows without planting, saving an enormous cost associated with timber in terms of capital and energy.
Additionally, incorporating Lamboo (LVB) laminated veneer bamboo into projects can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under MR Credit 6 – Rapidly renewable materials, IEQ Credit 4.4 – Low-emitting materials; ID Credit 1 – Innovation in Design (Environmentally Preferable Material), and ID Credit 2 – Innovation in Design (Life Cycle Assessment / Environmental Impact).
*Please refer to USGBC for information regarding project requirements
For more information about the advantages of Bamboo please visit our sustainability page.
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
…
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Monday, August 27, 2012
Sustainable Building Certifications: LEED
Sustainable building certifications have been gaining momentum for
several years now and data centers are jumping on board in increasing
numbers. You have seen data center operators such as RagingWire, Apple
and Digital Realty achieve the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED
Certifications and/or the EPA’s Energy Star for Data Centers. Many data
center operators aren’t sure which certification to pursue, or if they
should pursue one at all. In order to make this decision a little
easier, I have provided a synopsis of each certification and their pros
and cons to help guide you toward your sustainable goals.
LEED
stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is a
third-party certification program developed by the U.S. Green Building
Council (USGBC) in 2000. It has undergone many iterations and is now
operating under LEED 2009. The certification process provides
independent validation of a project’s green features and verifies that
the building operates the way it was designed.
LEED Certification Process
LEED uses a points based system to achieve certain certification
levels recognizing the effort and commitment by the owner and project
team. There are four LEED certification levels with point requirements ranging from Base (40-49 points) to Platinum (80+ points).
At last count, there were 13 data centers that had received LEED Platinum certification.
LEED points are weighted by impact on energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. As an owner/end-user, your first decision is which LEED rating system you intend to pursue your certification under. Data centers will fall under one of the following rating systems:
Once your rating system is chosen, points are earned through implementing green measures in each of several categories. Each category has prerequisites that must be achieved before any points are earned. The categories are:
Also during the design phase, a worksheet indicating the credits you intend to pursue is completed. As the design progresses, credits are approved toward certification. This process continues during the construction phase as the sustainable measures are implemented and documented.
Clearly, documentation is the key to gaining credit for all of your efforts and requires constant attention. This effort should not be taken lightly and must be overseen by a LEED Accredited Professional, preferably with a specialty in the rating system you are pursuing. Documentation may take 50% or more of a team members’ time during the duration of the project.
When construction is complete, the project must be commissioned to ensure that the building operates as it was designed. Given that all data centers perform this task, no additional effort is required. Upon completion of the commissioning, all documentation is submitted for final approval and a fee is paid for certification.
The USGBC states that the average cost of certification across all rating systems is $2,000, but can be as high as $27,500 for a large project. After the submission is approved, your building can be included in the LEED registry and you receive the plaque for your building.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by Data Center Knowledge. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
What is LEED?
LEED
stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is a
third-party certification program developed by the U.S. Green Building
Council (USGBC) in 2000. It has undergone many iterations and is now
operating under LEED 2009. The certification process provides
independent validation of a project’s green features and verifies that
the building operates the way it was designed.
LEED Certification Process
LEED uses a points based system to achieve certain certification
levels recognizing the effort and commitment by the owner and project
team. There are four LEED certification levels with point requirements ranging from Base (40-49 points) to Platinum (80+ points).At last count, there were 13 data centers that had received LEED Platinum certification.
LEED points are weighted by impact on energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. As an owner/end-user, your first decision is which LEED rating system you intend to pursue your certification under. Data centers will fall under one of the following rating systems:
- New Construction and Major Renovations: Includes new buildings and projects in which the majority of the building will be modified.
- Existing Buildings-Operations and Maintenance: Addresses whole building cleaning and maintenance issues. This is generally applied to a building that is in operation, but wishes to make their operational processes more sustainable.
- Commercial Interiors: Intended for tenant improvements within an existing structure. At least 60% of the gross building area must be modified to the intended use to qualify for this rating system.
- Core and Shell: This system is complementary to Commercial Interiors and deals with the structure, envelope and HVAC system of the building.
Once your rating system is chosen, points are earned through implementing green measures in each of several categories. Each category has prerequisites that must be achieved before any points are earned. The categories are:
- Sustainable Sites: Focuses on areas related to the overall building site such as storm water run-off, pervious pavement, and availability of public transportation.
- Water Efficiency: Measures are established related to water conservation.
- Energy and Atmosphere: Energy efficiency measures account for most of the points in this area, which also has the largest number of points available of any category.
- Materials and Resources: Points are awarded in this category for using rapidly renewable materials and for sourcing materials that are manufactured within 500 miles of the site.
- Indoor Environmental Quality: This category focuses on human comfort factors such as the ability to adjust temperature and supply fresh air.
- Innovation in Design: This is the area in which innovation is recognized for new sustainable applications.
Also during the design phase, a worksheet indicating the credits you intend to pursue is completed. As the design progresses, credits are approved toward certification. This process continues during the construction phase as the sustainable measures are implemented and documented.
Clearly, documentation is the key to gaining credit for all of your efforts and requires constant attention. This effort should not be taken lightly and must be overseen by a LEED Accredited Professional, preferably with a specialty in the rating system you are pursuing. Documentation may take 50% or more of a team members’ time during the duration of the project.
When construction is complete, the project must be commissioned to ensure that the building operates as it was designed. Given that all data centers perform this task, no additional effort is required. Upon completion of the commissioning, all documentation is submitted for final approval and a fee is paid for certification.
The USGBC states that the average cost of certification across all rating systems is $2,000, but can be as high as $27,500 for a large project. After the submission is approved, your building can be included in the LEED registry and you receive the plaque for your building.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by Data Center Knowledge. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
“MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD” – Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
‘Green buildings’: From LEED to ‘net-zero’
“Green buildings” are structures that comply with sustainable practices throughout their life cycle – from construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and demolition. Though perhaps born in the energy crisis of the 1970’s, the green construction idea has found new urgency recently in relation to climate issues. Gaining more popularity, it is a now a key element in social measures that aim to lessen carbon footprints.
Green buildings use less water, generate energy savings, conserve natural resources, produce less waste and offer healthier spaces for its tenants, far from a conventional building’s features. Generally, they are designed to ease the sore impacts of the infrastructure both on human health and the environment.
More and more stakeholders are getting attracted to the concepts and practices of green buildings, and this has led to the creation of standards, codes and rating schemes by several organizations across different countries. These aid government regulators, developers and consumers in constructing green buildings with assurance.
Green building rating tools such as the United States’ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design; the United Kingdom’s Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method; Japan’s Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency; and Malaysia’s Green Building Index, among others, help users find out how green a building is.
They recognize and credit buildings that observe green design in categories like location and site maintenance, water conservation, energy efficiency, building materials sustainability and even occupants’ comfort and health. The number of credits given generally indicates to what level a building achieves its set goals.
The LEED standard of the United States Green Building Council is touted as the most prominent of the green building rating schemes and even as having spearheaded the “modern green building movement,” according to the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, a green industry advocate.
The race to green the buildings
In the race to develop “greener” buildings, countries are taking their concrete steps to be successful.
In the United States, President Barrack Obama took the move to the national level by issuing a memorandum in 2011 that urged all commercial buildings to be at least 20 percent more energy efficient by 2020. The president pledged to invest $4 billion to pave the way for energy upgrades in both federal and private buildings through the Better Buildings Challenge.
Among those that took the challenge was the iconic 81-year-old Empire State. Its ongoing retrofit is said to be the largest of its kind to date in the country, expected to significantly cut emissions by 105,000 metric tons over the next 15 years and reduce energy use by over $4.4 million every year. Overhaul plans for the 102 storey-skyscraper include upgrades of its 6,500 windows, new heating and cooling systems that automatically adapt to the temperature, insulation of the building space, improvement of its existing control system and installation of Internet-based system for occupants’ energy monitoring.
In Asia, countries are also working hard to keep up. China, which rivals the United States in the amount of emissions it sends to the atmosphere, is overhauling the architecture of its buildings. The 128-storey Shanghai Tower, when completed in 2014, will not only stand to be the tallest building but significantly will benchmark the green revolution in the country. It features wind turbines, a complex rainwater collection system, two envelope layers that wrap nine interior sky gardens and an ingenious design that will ease lateral loads from wind and reduces the necessary structural steel by over 20 percent.
India, on the other hand, has been vocal about its intentions to become one of the global leaders in green buildings by 2015. It has been making intensive efforts in greening the buildings across the country – ranging from home projects, factory buildings and LEED-certified buildings in India. To date, the Indian Green Building Scorecard shows that there are about 267 certified sustainable buildings existing, including some hotels, shopping centers, office spaces and state infrastructure such as the Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3.
Net-Zero Buildings: The next big thing in green construction
No doubt, green buildings are booming, as venture capitalists generously invested over $4 billion on them since 2000, another report by Lux Research showed.
The study also found out that the first wave of green building start-ups has reached its maturity, and now these investors want something new and better technologies that will further improve green buildings.
“Early VC investors are looking for exits for the first wave of successful green buildings start-ups and the seeds of the next crop are being sown in on-site generation and sustainable materials,” said Ryan Castilloux, Lux Research analyst.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by EcoSeed. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
In this new era of green construction the industry will have to search and develop innovative practices and materials to replace traditional forms that are no longer sustainable. Bamboo is a example of one of these new ultra renewable resources that will be looked towards to meet the burden of demand in our expanding society.
Bamboo as a resource is unmatched in its potential as a environmentally friendly structurally stable renewable building material. Bamboo produces 30% more oxygen and sequesters 35% more carbon than a like sized timber forest area. With a growth rate of 6-8 years to maturity (compared to timber 25-50) and root structure that eliminates the need for replanting bamboo can be produced on a large scale with much more ease than timber forests cutting costs and limiting energy consumption. Learn more about the amazing attributes of bamboo here.
Additionally incorporating Lamboo (LVB) laminated veneer bamboo into projects can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under MR Credit 6 - Rapidly renewable materials, IEQ Credit 4.4 - Low-emitting materials; ID Credit 1 - Innovation in Design (Environmentally Preferable Material), and ID Credit 2 - Innovation in Design (Life Cycle Assessment / Environmental Impact).
*Please refer to USGBC for information regarding project requirements
"MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD" - Lamboo Incorporated
Green buildings use less water, generate energy savings, conserve natural resources, produce less waste and offer healthier spaces for its tenants, far from a conventional building’s features. Generally, they are designed to ease the sore impacts of the infrastructure both on human health and the environment.
More and more stakeholders are getting attracted to the concepts and practices of green buildings, and this has led to the creation of standards, codes and rating schemes by several organizations across different countries. These aid government regulators, developers and consumers in constructing green buildings with assurance.
Green building rating tools such as the United States’ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design; the United Kingdom’s Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method; Japan’s Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency; and Malaysia’s Green Building Index, among others, help users find out how green a building is.
They recognize and credit buildings that observe green design in categories like location and site maintenance, water conservation, energy efficiency, building materials sustainability and even occupants’ comfort and health. The number of credits given generally indicates to what level a building achieves its set goals.
The LEED standard of the United States Green Building Council is touted as the most prominent of the green building rating schemes and even as having spearheaded the “modern green building movement,” according to the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, a green industry advocate.
The race to green the buildings
In the race to develop “greener” buildings, countries are taking their concrete steps to be successful.
In the United States, President Barrack Obama took the move to the national level by issuing a memorandum in 2011 that urged all commercial buildings to be at least 20 percent more energy efficient by 2020. The president pledged to invest $4 billion to pave the way for energy upgrades in both federal and private buildings through the Better Buildings Challenge.
Among those that took the challenge was the iconic 81-year-old Empire State. Its ongoing retrofit is said to be the largest of its kind to date in the country, expected to significantly cut emissions by 105,000 metric tons over the next 15 years and reduce energy use by over $4.4 million every year. Overhaul plans for the 102 storey-skyscraper include upgrades of its 6,500 windows, new heating and cooling systems that automatically adapt to the temperature, insulation of the building space, improvement of its existing control system and installation of Internet-based system for occupants’ energy monitoring.
In Asia, countries are also working hard to keep up. China, which rivals the United States in the amount of emissions it sends to the atmosphere, is overhauling the architecture of its buildings. The 128-storey Shanghai Tower, when completed in 2014, will not only stand to be the tallest building but significantly will benchmark the green revolution in the country. It features wind turbines, a complex rainwater collection system, two envelope layers that wrap nine interior sky gardens and an ingenious design that will ease lateral loads from wind and reduces the necessary structural steel by over 20 percent.
India, on the other hand, has been vocal about its intentions to become one of the global leaders in green buildings by 2015. It has been making intensive efforts in greening the buildings across the country – ranging from home projects, factory buildings and LEED-certified buildings in India. To date, the Indian Green Building Scorecard shows that there are about 267 certified sustainable buildings existing, including some hotels, shopping centers, office spaces and state infrastructure such as the Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3.
Net-Zero Buildings: The next big thing in green construction
No doubt, green buildings are booming, as venture capitalists generously invested over $4 billion on them since 2000, another report by Lux Research showed.
The study also found out that the first wave of green building start-ups has reached its maturity, and now these investors want something new and better technologies that will further improve green buildings.
“Early VC investors are looking for exits for the first wave of successful green buildings start-ups and the seeds of the next crop are being sown in on-site generation and sustainable materials,” said Ryan Castilloux, Lux Research analyst.
(Read More)
(Excerpt of article by EcoSeed. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
In this new era of green construction the industry will have to search and develop innovative practices and materials to replace traditional forms that are no longer sustainable. Bamboo is a example of one of these new ultra renewable resources that will be looked towards to meet the burden of demand in our expanding society.
Bamboo as a resource is unmatched in its potential as a environmentally friendly structurally stable renewable building material. Bamboo produces 30% more oxygen and sequesters 35% more carbon than a like sized timber forest area. With a growth rate of 6-8 years to maturity (compared to timber 25-50) and root structure that eliminates the need for replanting bamboo can be produced on a large scale with much more ease than timber forests cutting costs and limiting energy consumption. Learn more about the amazing attributes of bamboo here.
Additionally incorporating Lamboo (LVB) laminated veneer bamboo into projects can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under MR Credit 6 - Rapidly renewable materials, IEQ Credit 4.4 - Low-emitting materials; ID Credit 1 - Innovation in Design (Environmentally Preferable Material), and ID Credit 2 - Innovation in Design (Life Cycle Assessment / Environmental Impact).
*Please refer to USGBC for information regarding project requirements
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
"MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD" - Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Green Buildings: Boost Business and Neighborhoods
Seems the green building movement isn't just good for the planet, but for the pocketbook as well.
Developers and commercial building owners are increasingly using sustainable, environmentally friendly and energy efficient practices to lower costs, and the practice is spreading to include entire communities.
The U.S. Green Building Council just announced that the total footprint of commercial projects certified under its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building program surpassed 2 billion square feet. An additional 7 billion square feet is currently in the pipeline across the globe, the council reports.
Roof gardens, systems that recycle a building's heat and water, solar panels and drought-resistant landscaping have all been popular upgrades to older properties and built into new ones.
The trend has boosted business for a myriad of professions and industries. Architects and engineers who have embraced the green building movement are busy designing cutting-edge systems that save water, energy and money. Companies that manufacture or install solar collectors and other forms of sustainable energy have also benefitted from the tilt towards green.
The U.S. Green Building Council predicted that green building will support or create nearly 8 million jobs between 2009-2013 and contribute $554 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product.
Another by-product of the greening effort has been its attraction for tenants. Now there is a higher demand for healthier working space, and a recruiting edge for companies headquartered in green buildings. Improved indoor environmental quality in LEED-certified buildings has contributed to reductions in absenteeism and work hours affected by asthma, respiratory allergies, depression, and stress and to self-reported improvements in productivity, according to a study in the American Journal for Public Health.
The green development movement has expanded beyond individual buildings and has spread to include whole communities, with the U.S. Green Building Council's newest designation, LEED for Neighborhood Development.
The program, funded by a $500,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, aims to reduce suburban sprawl, promote smart growth principles and sustainability, and offers assistance to developers of affordable housing that employ green practices.
(Excerpt of article by Dave Winzelberg of Long Island Business News. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
Recent trends show that government officials, city planners, architects and even consumers are becoming much more conscious of the environment and how rapid population growth combined with increased consumption is starting to take its toll. As finite building materials such as aluminum, steel and even slow growing timber resources become much more difficult to source and use on a large scale there will be opportunities for rapidly renewable materials to take their place. Bamboo with its extraordinary strength and performance attributes and its 6-8 year growth rate will be looked towards to carry much of the burden.
Lamboo Technologies through species selection, adhesive bonding, and lamination processes have been able to create the first structural grade bamboo material available to the world that is eligible for up to 4 LEED credits. In addition to LEED certification Lamboo has also orchestrated the inclusion of laminated veneer bamboo (LVB) into the 2012 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, one of the most recognizable and respected certification bodies in the world.
"MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD" - Lamboo Incorporated
Developers and commercial building owners are increasingly using sustainable, environmentally friendly and energy efficient practices to lower costs, and the practice is spreading to include entire communities.
The U.S. Green Building Council just announced that the total footprint of commercial projects certified under its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building program surpassed 2 billion square feet. An additional 7 billion square feet is currently in the pipeline across the globe, the council reports.
Roof gardens, systems that recycle a building's heat and water, solar panels and drought-resistant landscaping have all been popular upgrades to older properties and built into new ones.
The trend has boosted business for a myriad of professions and industries. Architects and engineers who have embraced the green building movement are busy designing cutting-edge systems that save water, energy and money. Companies that manufacture or install solar collectors and other forms of sustainable energy have also benefitted from the tilt towards green.
The U.S. Green Building Council predicted that green building will support or create nearly 8 million jobs between 2009-2013 and contribute $554 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product.
Another by-product of the greening effort has been its attraction for tenants. Now there is a higher demand for healthier working space, and a recruiting edge for companies headquartered in green buildings. Improved indoor environmental quality in LEED-certified buildings has contributed to reductions in absenteeism and work hours affected by asthma, respiratory allergies, depression, and stress and to self-reported improvements in productivity, according to a study in the American Journal for Public Health.
The green development movement has expanded beyond individual buildings and has spread to include whole communities, with the U.S. Green Building Council's newest designation, LEED for Neighborhood Development.
The program, funded by a $500,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, aims to reduce suburban sprawl, promote smart growth principles and sustainability, and offers assistance to developers of affordable housing that employ green practices.
(Excerpt of article by Dave Winzelberg of Long Island Business News. NOT AFFILIATED WITH LAMBOO)
Recent trends show that government officials, city planners, architects and even consumers are becoming much more conscious of the environment and how rapid population growth combined with increased consumption is starting to take its toll. As finite building materials such as aluminum, steel and even slow growing timber resources become much more difficult to source and use on a large scale there will be opportunities for rapidly renewable materials to take their place. Bamboo with its extraordinary strength and performance attributes and its 6-8 year growth rate will be looked towards to carry much of the burden.
Lamboo Technologies through species selection, adhesive bonding, and lamination processes have been able to create the first structural grade bamboo material available to the world that is eligible for up to 4 LEED credits. In addition to LEED certification Lamboo has also orchestrated the inclusion of laminated veneer bamboo (LVB) into the 2012 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, one of the most recognizable and respected certification bodies in the world.
...
For questions regarding Lamboo, our products, or to schedule an interview please
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
visit our website at www.lamboo.us or contact us at info@lamboo.us 866-966-2999
"MAKING INNOVATIVE THINKING A STANDARD" - Lamboo Incorporated
Blog by: Dustin Dennison
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