Northwestern Energy Technology Group (NETG) in association with this year’s One Book One Northwestern program, organized a tour of the LEED Gold (being certified) condominium building in Evanston - The Winthrop Club. Around 20 people including graduate and undergraduate students, faculty and staff participated in this event last Thursday Jan 21st, 2010. The group left from Scott Hall on campus and walked to the Winthrop Club. After the group settled in with some coffee and snacks, Mr. Bob Horner, co-developer, started the program off with a presentation on Green buildings.
He explained to the audience the LEED accredition system; criteria that go into the measurement of credits, as well as the various credits Winthrop club had accumulated. He touched upon recycled materials for construction, sustainable materials for flooring, and energy and water conservation measures that had gone into these condos. Additionally, the importance of sourcing material from close geographical proximity was highlighted. Bob also discussed elements of sustainable urbanism while emphasizing the location of the building. He pointed out that the building scored 98 out of 100 points on walkability due to easy access to mass transit (CTA and Metra), entertainment, shopping and educational facilities. The group then toured a number of condominiums. Green roofs and the garden space attached to the condos, although sparsely populated in this weather, were appreciated by the audience. Low water-use fixtures and energy efficient lighting was used in order to minimize the use of water and electricity in all the condos. Mr. Horner also mentioned a plan to introduce energy efficient shared cars (I-go and Zip car) to encourage a less energy intensive lifestyle. The preeminent role of the location in an urban setting in facilitating change to a more sustainable lifestyle was made evident from this visit. All-in-all, for the people who came despite the light rain, it was an interesting and informative learning experience. If you are interested, a second tour of the Winthrop Club is being organized on Tuesday Feb 16th, 2010. Please RSVP for that event here.
Mr. Bob Horner, co-developer, Winthrop Club, explains to participants what it means to be Green
A look out the window shows green roofs and garden areas of the condominiums
Participants ask questions about recycling and energy use
Elements of sustainable urbanism: Mass transit, entertainment and educational institutions within walking distance.
Participants ask questions about recycling and energy use
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