Regenerative Buildings: Amazon, Google, and Harvard Showcase the Value they Offer | GreenBiz

The Living Building Challenge (LBC) is a certification program established by the International Living Future Institute in 2006 that focuses on regenerative buildings and covers aspects such as energy, water, health, happiness, and beauty. There are currently 180 LBC certified buildings worldwide, with notable examples being Amazon’s Climate Pledge Arena, Google’s Bay View and Gradient Campus, and Harvard University’s Science and Engineering Campus.

Amazon’s Climate Pledge Arena, previously known as the Seattle stadium, is the first stadium in the world to achieve ILFI’s zero carbon certification. The arena’s all-electric building systems are powered by on-site solar energy, with embodied carbon emissions reduced through various measures. Eco-conscious artists have been attracted to perform at the arena, benefiting both Amazon and the city of Seattle financially.

Google’s Bay View and Gradient Campus in Silicon Valley is a 1.1 million square foot all-electric building that meets LBC’s net positive water standards. The innovative building features a building-integrated photovoltaic system known as “dragon scale”, showcasing Google’s commitment to new technologies and sustainability.

Harvard University’s Science and Engineering Complex in Cambridge, Massachusetts, incorporates a world-first hydroforming stainless steel screen facade and meets LBC’s Red List standards by avoiding harmful chemicals in building products. The university’s efforts have led to positive changes in the construction industry, inspiring manufacturers to remove harmful chemicals from their products.

During a panel discussion at the Living Future Conference, the challenges of achieving such ambitious building standards were openly discussed. Panelists emphasized the importance of resilience and turning obstacles into opportunities for innovation. The projects highlighted at the conference demonstrate the potential for organizations to drive positive change through sustainable building practices.

The Living Building Challenge is a forward-thinking certification program that encourages organizations to prioritize sustainability, resilience, and innovation in building design and construction. Projects like Amazon’s Climate Pledge Arena, Google’s Bay View and Gradient Campus, and Harvard University’s Science and Engineering Complex showcase the possibilities of regenerative buildings that benefit both the environment and society.

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