question 4 “site ecology”. key environmental issues: land use and stormwater management

Question 4

• “Site Ecology”

key environmental issues: land use and stormwater management

mapping led to a 25% reduction in required space which fixed land use issues

this left more open space to meet stormwater requirements

underground storage structures with restrictors that control the release of collected stormwater

other environmental quality issues include onsite ecosystems, ambient noise levels, and light pollution.

landscaped with native and adapted species

small ecosystems for prairie plants, a rain garden, shade foliage

vines for the gabion site walls

congregation members saved plants for replanting

new chiller located within brick enclosure to meet local noise pollution ordinance

The curtainwalls contain dark, non-reflective glass to protect birds (many thousands of birds die each year flying into glass

buildings that they can not see)

interior lights do not spill outside the building

Use large exterior windows and high ceilings to increase daylighting

Question 5

• “Water Resources”

drought-resistant plant species that eliminate the need for an irrigation system

Outdoor hose connections

building uses 40% less water than a comparable baseline building

Water-saving fixtures were used throughout the building:

· dual-flush, low-flow toilets

· ultra-low-flow urinals

· low-flow showers

· low-flow faucets

Question 6

• “Cost Implications”

payback period of 5 to 10 years for cost of ecological changes

$135,000 from the Illinois Clean Energy Foundation

project was funded through a capital campaign and building loan

constructed on a relatively modest budget

35% total energy savings

Trimmed building by determining the most productive and efficient use of spaces

discarded (financial limits): integrated photovoltaic roof, a solar hot water system, a vegetative roof, a pervious pavement system for

the parking lot, and a ground-source heat pump system

reflecting the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam ("Repairing the World")

healing of the world around through congregational education

THE END