Campus Sustainability

The Oaks Dining Center

Green RoofTrack the Solar Panel Energy of the Green Roof here!

  • Features:
    • Live-Roof green grid interlocking plant tray system made of Sedum
      • Sedum is hardy, has local ground cover, is green 12 months out of the year, requires little to no water, and has many benefits (see below)
    • Watering is done using a rainwater retention system
    • Deck is made from repurposed Douglas fir
    • Siding is Ohio barn siding
    • Picnic Tables are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles
    • Lawn chairs are 100% recyclable resin
    • Planters are used for perennials and a variety of vegetables and herbs
    • Four dwarf fruit trees are planted in large pots
    • Solar powered water fountain
    • Composting bin for organic material
    • Partially funded through Student Green Initiatives Fund (about 50%)
  • Benefits 
    • Urban Heat Island mitigation
      • Urban areas can have a 2-6 degree difference than surrounding rural areas. Green roofs help reduce this difference in urban environments saving on summertime peak energy demands, air conditioning costs, and heat-related illnesses.
    • Reduction of Storm Water Run Off
      • The sedum acts like a sponge and absorbs excess rain water
      • The green roof filters water before returning it to the aquifer
    • Habitat Recreation
      • Plans attract birds, butterflies, and other flying wildlife
    • Extension of Roof Life
      • Acts as a protecting shield from the elements such as UV radiation, sun/drying effects, cracks, leaks, water damage, etc. 
      • It can extend the life of the roof by 200 to 300%
    • Energy Conservation
      • Reduces indoor temperatures 6-8 degrees in summer and acts as an additional insulating layer in the winter
      • Saves money on HVAC costs

Special features

  • Green Roof with fresh produce, herbs, and composting
  • Kiosk explaining green designs
  • Employee shower facilities
  • Bike racks, etc. to promote commuter alternatives

Design

  • Glass exposures for natural light
  • Thermal comfort design

Construction

  • Site preparation used demolished building recycled materials for fill
  • Construction waste recycled at 75%
  • Materials used are low emitting – sealants, adhesives, paints and Floorings
  • All materials used were purchased within a 500 mile radius.
  • Recycled materials used
    • Materials used are 20% recycled.
    • Flooring materials are recycled products
    • Bamboo flooring – renewable resource
    • Ohio barn wood utilized in flooring, millwork, and wall treatments

Systems

  • Enhanced refrigeration equipment
  • Alternative transportation for fuel-efficient delivery vehicle
  • Water conservation
    • Water reduction of 35%
    • Storm water reclamation for gray water use in restroom fixtures
    • Storm water reclamation for all landscape irrigation
  • Pulper for garbage processing
  • Trayless dining to save on waste

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