Dalhousie University
IN-4: Innovation 4

Sustainable Building Policy Dalhousie University is committed to pursing sustainability goals and objectives as articulated in the Dalhousie Sustainability Policy, Statement of Principles, and Plan. This policy formalizes Dalhousie’s existing practice and commitment to green building as demonstrated by the design and construction of a number of energy efficient buildings from the 90s to the LEED designed buildings of today. Purpose This policy supports the sustainability direction of the university by: • Reducing operating costs of building utilities; • Being a leader in sustainable building practices; • Reducing environmental impacts such as greenhouse gases; and • Providing healthy and social spaces for Dalhousie students and employees and community Policy Dalhousie University will plan, construct, manage, and maintain all Dalhousie properties using principles of sustainable building. All new “major building projects” should be designed, constructed and certified to meet at least LEED Gold standards. This policy will affect all new buildings being currently built and opening after 2011 and any new buildings thereafter. A major building project is defined as a construction project larger than 10,000 gross sq ft. Dalhousie will set standards for green building design and operations in all renovation projects of all sizes from retrofits of interior building spaces and houses to major buildings. Green building programs for existing buildings such as LEED for Existing Buildings and Operations and Maintenance will be explored. Criteria for choosing designers, architects, construction managers, and consultants shall include demonstrated knowledge of green building practices and familiarity with life cycle cost analysis and LEED ratings. Procedures and Responsibilities Facilities Management shall be responsible for annually evaluating and reporting to President’s Advisory Council on Sustainability on how well the University construction and renovation projects are meeting this policy. Education Facilities Management and Office Sustainability staff should incorporate annual green building training for staff. Green building tours, videos, fact sheets and other communications products will be made available to the Dalhousie campus and community at large. member’s.