University of Arkansas Announces
New Design Policy, Encourages Use
of Green Globes™

Workers build a "green roof" at the University of Arkansas

In a move designed to reduce both the environmental impacts of its buildings and the cost of ownership, the University of Arkansas recently became the first educational institution to include Green Globes in its design and construction policies.  The university now stipulates that any new campus facility or full building renovation of more than $1 million must achieve a two globes rating using the Green Globes system or an equivalent rating under LEED®.

"We applaud the University of Arkansas and the members of its Facilities Management group for making the sustainability of their buildings a priority," said Ward Hubbell, president of the GBI. "The importance of these efforts cannot be overstated and we plan to provide the university with as many tools as possible in this pursuit."

To support the university's increased focus on sustainability, the GBI will provide complimentary use of Green Globes for one year, as well as free third-party verification—which is required before a building can be promoted as having achieved a Green Globes rating—for one new construction project and one existing building project. Interested professors are also invited to use the system in a classroom setting for one semester, free of charge. Green Globes is currently used in architecture and design programs at California Polytechnic State University, Clemson University, Stanford University and Arizona State University.

"This support from the Green Building Initiative is a wonderful development that will help the University of Arkansas take on an even greater national leadership role in the broad application of green design techniques in campus facilities," said university chancellor John A. White. "As a university, we have a responsibility to incorporate principles of sustainability throughout our curricula and, through research, to advance the current state of knowledge in the field."

As part of the GBI's education outreach program, student affiliates can use the Green Globes system for up to three projects a year at no charge, with additional uses available on request.  For information or to become a student affiliate, please visit the GBI Web site.