Overall Rating Gold - expired
Overall Score 72.34
Liaison Ciannat Howett
Submission Date July 25, 2014
Executive Letter Download

STARS v2.0

Emory University
IN-1: Innovation 1

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 1.00 / 1.00 Brent Zern
Environmental Engineer
Campus Services
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Title or keywords related to the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome:
Water Reclamation Facility

A brief description of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome :
Emory University is constructing a water reclamation facility that will process and reclaim wastewater for non-drinking reuse in our steam plant, chiller plants and for toilet filling. The hydroponic greenhouse with outdoor tidal wetland facility can process up to 400,000 gallons per day and save the University over 100 million gallons of potable water annually – over 30% of our water footprint – as well as millions of dollars in utility costs over the term of the 20-year contract. The natural, ecological treatment process uses a variety of microscopic organisms to remove the wastes, and very few chemicals are required. The facility also reduces stress on the county’s existing, aged wastewater infrastructure and reduces the energy footprint needed to move wastewater to the current, far-away treatment plant. Part of the sustainable facility’s energy needs will be offset by solar power. Emory’s water facility will be a great educational tool for students and the community alike, with research opportunities and outreach programs being planned. Construction is planned to be complete by the end of 2014.

A brief description of any positive measurable outcomes associated with the innovation (if not reported above):
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A letter of affirmation from an individual with relevant expertise:
Which of the following STARS subcategories does the innovation most closely relate to? (Select all that apply up to a maximum of 5):
Yes or No
Curriculum ---
Research Yes
Campus Engagement Yes
Public Engagement Yes
Air & Climate ---
Buildings ---
Dining Services ---
Energy Yes
Grounds ---
Purchasing ---
Transportation ---
Waste ---
Water Yes
Coordination, Planning & Governance ---
Diversity & Affordability ---
Health, Wellbeing & Work ---
Investment ---

Other topic(s) that the innovation relates to that are not listed above:
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The website URL where information about the innovation is available :
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
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