SDSU Buildings Earn LEED Certification
Zura Hall, Storm and Nasatir Halls and the Childrens Center have been recognized with LEED certifications by the U.S. Green Building Council.
San Diego State University continues to be a leader in environmental stewardship. Zura Hall, Storm and Nasatir Halls and the SDSU Children’s Center, recently became LEED-certified projects.
LEED is a third-party certification for “green” buildings and stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
The Children’s Center, which provides child care for SDSU students, faculty, and staff, was awarded LEED-Gold status, the second highest level of certification granted by the U.S. Green Building Council. Storm and Nasatir Halls, which underwent a major overhaul that was completed in 2014, also achieved LEED-Gold certification. The Zura Hall renovation project, completed in fall 2015, was LEED-Silver certified.
"As SDSU's first LEED-Silver certified residence hall, the newly renovated Zura Hall aligns with our growing commitment to building and operating sustainable residential facilities that are good for our students and staff, leverage our resources and limit the impacts on our planet," said Eric Hansen, director of the Office of Housing Administration.
The renovations in Zura Hall improved infrastructure and systems, increased sustainability practices and added a rooftop terrace, among other things.
The upgrades to Storm and Nasatir Halls, which were originally constructed nearly 60 years ago, include site recycling and waste management systems, as well as water-efficient plumbing and landscaping. Crews also installed energy efficient lighting and ceiling systems.
The SDSU Children’s Center renovations focused on upgrades that would make the building more energy efficient and sustainable for years to come.
“The team made a conscious effort to purchase environmentally friendly furniture and supplies,” said Michelle Zamora, director of the SDSU Children's Center. “The Children’s Center also reduced its water consumption by nearly 70 percent and implemented new recycling strategies in hopes of being an example for the students and families it serves.”
The Children’s Center, Storm and Nasatir Halls, and Zura Hall join the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, Aztec Recreation Center and Mission Bay Aquatic Center on the list of SDSU buildings with LEED certifications.
Several other campus buildings, both under construction and existing, are currently pursuing LEED certification, including the Aztec Aquaplex, South Campus Plaza, and the Engineering and Interdisciplinary Sciences Complex.
“San Diego State University's efforts in green buildings and LEED certification will result in lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact,” said Tom Abram, assistant director of Campus Sustainability. “These efforts will also enhance the residential, recreational, academic and workplace experience.”
