The Effect on Embry-Riddle’s Sustainability if Current and Future Buildings are Certified as LEED on the Daytona Beach, FL Campus

Embry-Riddle has asserted itself as an innovative, STEM-driven university. Throughout Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus, there is a mix of modern and dated buildings-- this is true both in architecture and sustainability measures. Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus must take measures to preserve its community by implementing more sustainable practices such as transitioning all buildings to LEED (Leader in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified Buildings. The aim of this project is to convert the Lehman College of Engineering, Mori Hosseini Student Union, and Doolittle Hall to LEED Certified Buildings, while integrating the three pillars of sustainability: economics, social science, and environmentalism. These buildings were chosen due to their differing construction techniques, population density, and integrated technologies. The project’s methodology involves interviewing the Embry-Riddle Facilities Management team to determine each building’s current sustainable practices. Each building will receive a plan with changes on how it could ultimately achieve LEED certification. Analysis will consist of the feasibility of said certification for each building, cost estimates, and plan for completion. Using the USGBC’s (U.S. Green Building Council) guidelines for certification, success of this project will be assessed both in the short (receiving LEED certifications), and long term (tracking trends of more efficient energy use, cost savings, and carbon footprint). Completion of this project will create a sustainable environment for Embry-Riddle, economic opportunities for the university, and create a culture of social awareness wherein students and administration participate in positive environmental endeavors and sustainable growth