This policy defines the University of Vermont’s commitment to a high level of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency on campus and within UVM design and construction practices. All significant projects must meet the minimum requirements of the current Vermont Commercial Building Energy Standards (CBES). CBES is a code that regulates minimum energy conservation requirements and is based on the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Current state and local criteria may also apply such as Criterion 9F of Act 250, Burlington’s Energy Modelling guidelines, Burlington’s Carbon Impact Fee, and Burlington’s requirements for bicycle parking and facilities. Formal Building Commissioning shall always be pursued when mechanical systems or building envelopes are significantly altered or expanded independent of any certification.

The University will evaluate incorporating a green building standard for all new construction and major renovation projects. An evaluation study will occur early in the project development stage by the design team and will be reviewed by the project manager, Facilities Management - Operations (Physical Plant Department), and Engineering, and a representative for the Office of Sustainability. Based on the conclusions a recommendation for the appropriate green building standard will be made to UVM senior leadership.

In support of national climate commitments, the UVM Campus Plan 2022-2032 and the University's 2030 carbon neutrality goal outlined in the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan 2023-2040, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification or other appropriate sustainable certifications for projects will be considered where appropriate and when the schedule allows. If LEED is pursued a minimum of silver certification will be established.

This policy supports the University’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and health in teaching, research and campus operations, and the University’s important role as the flagship institution of higher education in Vermont. The goal of this policy is to bring new and renovated buildings to the forefront of sustainable and energy efficient design, construction, and operation, thereby supporting the Campus Plan 2022-2032 and the University's 2030 carbon neutrality goal outlined in the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan 2023-2040, while enhancing occupant health and productivity.

The project significance, and thus LEED appropriateness, can be evaluated by both scope and impact. For projects of major renovations, significant system rebuild, or new building construction, LEED Silver Certification (or equivalent) should be evaluated.

Major projects are defined as multi-trade/multi discipline renovations, or new capital buildings. These projects impact multiple building spaces and systems. Because renovation projects range in scope from simple aesthetic improvements to complex physical reconfigurations and complex systems replacement, and may have an extended schedule, they need to be individually evaluated. In general, minor renovations typically include deferred maintenance/renewal projects where single components of the building are specifically addressed/replaced. In those cases, requirements for LEED certification will not be part of the project scope. 

Questions concerning the daily operational interpretation of this policy should be directed to the following (in accordance with the policy elaboration and procedures):