As our school community is well aware, BCHS is preparing to begin construction of its new school. It is scheduled to be a combination of retro-fitting, remodeling and new construction. Many may not be aware, however, that Pinellas County Schools is committed to pursue LEED Certification indicating that the new BCHS will be energy efficient and have a reduced carbon footprint.
LEED, is an acronym that stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and represents an objective set of criterion that when met indicates that the building meets very high standards relating to energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact and an improved environment within the building.
- Site Impact
- Water Management
- Energy Management
- Regional Materials
- Waste Recycled and Reused
- Indoor Environmental Quality
You can learn more about the LEED program at their web site, www.usgbc.org, The United States Green Building Council.
I had the good fortune to be able to meet with Mr. Rob Hink of The Spinnaker Group, LEED consultants, who went over a few of the many benefits that these standards will have on our local environment and student population. I, Mrs. Nelson and students from earth science and ecology classes were invited to learn more about the project and its impact on our students.
Using environmentally friendly building standards is nothing new to much of the world and to some states, such as California, but it is rather new here in Florida. Sarasota and Gainesville are our states leaders in LEED certified buildings but there are currently no LEED certified public schools in the state. All new federal buildings must be LEED certified and Florida is expected to be a major player in advancing the cause with the governor’s climate initiative.
Although it costs roughly 1.8% more to build a LEED certified building, those costs can be expected to pay for themselves in energy savings within three years.
Indoor environmental quality is improved by the use of natural lighting, classrooms having the ability to moderate temperature and low VOC materials (Volatile Organic Compounds). Research indicates that productivity goes up, sick days go down and there is an increased efficiency in the work place and we're hoping it will have a similar effect on our school community.
We hope to have students involved in every step of the process so that they may share their experiences with their classmates. Having our own BCHS, designated as a green school provides a unique learning opportunity for our students and faculty.
If you are a student, or faculty member, that would like to be involved or would simply like more information please feel free to contact Mr. Mason to find out more about the opportunities.
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