Not only is it possible for a major hospital construction
project to take the environment into consideration, it’s essential. Rush has included many environmentally friendly features in the new Tower, making it Chicago's first green, full-service hospital.
“From the beginning, it’s been
designed to use
water and energy efficiently and keep down waste. We’re using
environmentally responsible building materials, and we’re recycling as much as
we possibly can,” says Mick Zdeblick, vice president, campus transformation.
Underscoring its commitment to being “green,” Rush is seeking gold leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) certification for the new hospital. The U.S. Green Building Council, a non-profit organization, awards LEED certification to buildings with high environmental standards.
Rush's sustainability efforts include:
- Planting indigenous landscaping and building multiple green roofs that slow or limit the release of rainwater into city storm sewers
- Capturing of air handler condensation, which is used to water gardens and supply makeup water for our chiller equipment
- Using environmentally preferable products in housekeeping. The water savings from a change to microfiber mops alone will be 500,000 gallons a year.
- Using recycled building products, from structural concrete to interior finishes and furniture
- Installing energy-efficient heating, cooling and lighting systems