Faculty of Arts and Sciences: Resource Conservation Case Studies
FAS implements a wide variety of projects to conserve energy and water. The cases highlighted here exemplify some of the school's best efforts to date. In sum, these projects alone are saving at least $500,000 and 4.5 million pounds of CO2 emissions. That's the equivalent of annual emissions from 1621 average cars or electricity for 961 homes! Water savings total 9.5 million gallons - enough to fill fourteen Olympic-sized swimming pools. Financial savings are used to implement even more resource conservation projects. FAS is deeply committed to reducing its environmental impact, and these projects are a great start.
Click on the titles below for a brief project summary and contact information.
Water Conservation Overview
Several progressive strategies have been employed to save water in residential, laboratory, and outdoor settings.
Green Team: Earth & Planetary Sciences Department
HGCI has collaborated with EPS staff, faculty, and students to reduce resource consumption within the department through educational and active campaigns. EPS wishes to become a model for department-based environmental action within FAS.
Harvard Yard Irrigation Controls
To prevent unnecessary irrigation in Harvard Yard, overrides were connected to existing controls to prevent sprinklers from going on during rain events.
William James Hall: Responses to Course Recommendations
Undergraduate students enrolled in an Engineering Sciences tutorial spent a semester identifying opportunities for improved efficiency and indoor environmental quality in William James Hall. FAS responded with a variety of positive changes.
Washing Machine Replacement
Harvard's laundry machine and service provider replaced all washing machines in College residences with a high-efficiency model.
Lighting Upgrades
Efficient Super T-8 lamps replaced conventional T-12s in 26 FAS buildings. Lighting occupancy sensors were also added.
Mather House Lighting Upgrades
A specific study on just one of the many lighting upgrades that have taken place.
Fume Hood Sash Management
An educational campaign and competition encourages research chemists to save energy by closing their fume hood sashes.
Barker Center Economizer Controls
A variety of controls were installed to reduce chilled water consumption, electrical usage, and heating loads.
Delta-T Improvements at the Science Center
Improved controls and piping will cool the building more efficiently, raising the Delta-T of chilled water as it returns to the nearby plant.