Want a Sustainable Community? Try an Island

Brenda Keener — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 23:19:00 +0000

The tiny Caribbean island of Bonaire claims to be the very first 100% sustainable island in the world. Located in the Netherlands Antilles, its waters have been protected since 1979 - making it one of the most pristine snorkeling and scuba diving spots that can be found.

In order to capitalize on the up-and-coming ecotourism business, Bonaire agreed to the installation of a 11MW wind farm, 14MW biodiesel plant and a 3.5MW backup battery in 2007 with the end goal of completely unyoking itself from fossil fuel dependence. Spearheading this project are Ecopower Bonaire BV, a consortium of Dutch-German companies, Evelop, Enercon, and the local Bonaire water and energy company.

Harvard Offers Students Sustainable LEED Certified Dorms

Jerry James Stone — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:13:51 +0000

In keeping with Harvard’s university-wide commitment to sustainable building practices and campus operations, the university has just completed graduate housing that is set to achieve a high level of LEED certification. The 115,000 sq ft project houses 215 beds in over 30 different suite types, and includes a faculty director’s suite, a fitness room, study lounge spaces, a multipurpose room, and a garage that extends under the building.

The swanky housing is packed with renewable bamboo flooring, considered wall paneling, low VOC finishes, and regionally sourced siding with recycled content. It was also designed and engineered to minimize energy usage.

The housing was designed by architect Kyu Sung Woo, who recently won Korea’s version of the Nobel Prize - the Ho-Am Prize.

Source: worldarchitecturenews.com

Green Options » green housing

Want a Sustainable Community? Try an Island

Harvard Offers Students Sustainable LEED Certified Dorms