UMass Boston

The UMass Boston Campus Center was designed using L.E.E.D criteria and numerous, energy efficient and energy conservation features. It is a great example of a public university building built with sustainable design, day-lighting, “green” interior design and operations. The Campus Center showcases many recycling and sustainability features:

• Paper, Bottles and Cans: Containers are located throughout the facility to support paper recycling as well as plastic bottles and aluminum cans.
• Lighting: The building was constructed with a large amount of open space which provides natural lighting during the day.  Many areas are controlled by timers to provide light only when needed. Lighting in restrooms, storage closets and low-traffic areas are controlled by motion sensors.
• Water Conservation: Restroom faucets have been fitted with automatic shut-off devices. Toilets and urinals have fitted with water-saving flush mechanisms. The university itself operates an award winning water and energy conservation retrofit program.
• Compost: The Campus Center composts all cafeteria dinnerware, trays and food waste (except plastic forks/knives/spoons).
• Office Paper: All department printers and copy machines within the Campus Center utilize 30% post-consumer recycled copy paper or higher.
• Cardboard: Within the loading dock area, the Campus Center contains an onsite cardboard compactor, recycling nearly 100% of all shipping, packaging and office-related cardboard products.
• Heating and Air Conditioning: Computer controls manage both heating and air-conditioning to reduce energy consumption and maximize the use of energy resources only when the building is occupied.
• Locally Grown: During the growing season and when available university food services utilizes locally grown fruits, vegetables and dairy.
• Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products: Cleaning and maintenance staff use cleaning products that are primarily natural, non-toxic and earth-friendly.
• Food Products & Fair Trade: Serve organic coffee and other sustainably developed food products at our cafeterias, and many Fair Trade products are sold at the university bookstore.
• Energy Conservation Program: The Campus Center participates in UMass Boston’s on-going “Campaign to Conserve” a university-wide effort to save energy and reduce waste.