Buildings
The University of Vermont was established in 1791 and hence owns and operates many historic buildings, which pose a challenge both for maintenance/preservation and sustainability. Although many of these buildings could be made much more energy efficient, any renovations or upgrades to historic buildings on campus, which are defined as those 50 years and older, must be approved by the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation.
Despite the historic preservation restrictions, UVM strives to prioritize sustainability both in small upgrades such as lighting and more major construction projects such as rebuilding Old Mill from the inside while leaving its historic shell intact.
In addition, UVM has committed to a standard of LEEDTM Silver minimum for all new construction and major renovation projects on campus. Due to these sustainability efforts, although UVM's greenhouse gas emissions have been slowly increasing every year, the greenhouse gas emissions per square foot of building space has been steadily decreasing at the same time that we have increased both building space and student enrollment.
OP Credit 1: Building Operations and Maintenance (0/7)
UVM has a minimum of LEED Silver requirement for all new construction and major renovation. UVM has certified 6 LEED gold buildings and 3 LEED silver buildings.
STARS Operation Credit 1 awards a total of 7 points based on percentage of square footage for existing buildings that are LEED certified. UVM has certified 868,000 gross square feet out of 5.3 million square feet for a total of 16%. However, none of these projects were considered Existing Building renovation under the LEED certification therefore no credit can be given.
Michelle Smith, Green Building Coordinator
UVM Capital Planning & Management
OP Credit 2: Building Design and Construction (2.89/4)
UVM has built 8 new LEED Certified buildings in the past few years and has the put a place a policy for all new construction to be a minimum of LEED Silver certification. However, many of the existing buildings are quite old and do not meet the standards for STARS credit; therefore, UVM may receive 2.89 out of 4 possible points.
Michelle Smith, Green Building Coordinator
UVM Capital Planning & Management
OP Credit 3: Indoor Air Quality (2/2)
Air quality and CO2 levels are measured in every building on campus through a management plan that also allows occupants to file a complaint. UVM would receive the full 2 points for this credit.
Ralph Stuart, Environmental Safety Manager
UVM Environmental Safety Facility
