Is it possible that in it's quest to be the first 'green convention center' and incorporating green elements and technologies, basic construction and engineering safety may have been overlooked when building the David L. Lawrence Convention Center? I hope this wasn't the case.

The "Green" Factor

Green is glorious, both from an environmental - and marketing - perspective. As the world's first green convention center, the David L Lawrence Convention Center boasts elements that make a huge difference to both meeting planners and visitors. No other convention center in the country incorporates so many green technologies. The use of natural ventilation, daylight sensors and carbon monoxide sensors, a water reclamation system that reduces potable water use by nearly 60 percent, along with substantial use of recycled and nontoxic materials makes this Convention Center unique. Roof skylights and walls of glass produce diffused light and uniform temperature, admitting natural daylight into the exhibit space and pre-function areas. Seventy-five percent of the Center's exhibition space is naturally lit. Blackout shades are available for exhibitors who require a low-light environment. The shape of the building captures natural airflow from the Allegheny River to help ventilate and cool the building. This, combined with other features to minimize energy usage, such as occupancy and daylight sensors, creates an annual energy savings of about 35 percent. The Convention Center also maximizes use of nontoxic materials, such as paint and carpets that do not emit harmful fumes, thereby establishing a more wholesome indoor environment for meeting attendees. The Convention Center was awarded a Gold LEED certification for its excellence in building environmental performance. According to Teresa Heinz, chairman of The Howard Heinz Endowment and a national leader in the green building movement, "Achieving this high LEED certification shows every community that it is possible to have a world-class design with a huge expanse of space and still do justice to the people and the environment."

This entry was posted on Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 5:45 PM. You can skip to the end and leave a response.