Commitment to the Environment
The Shapiro Center is energy efficient and has a limited effect on the environment.
In addition to being the most advanced cardiovascular center of its kind in the region, the Carl J. and Ruth Shapiro Cardiovascular Center embodies the latest advances in “green” design and technology.
From its blueprint, to its construction to its day to day operation, the Center has in place numerous environmentally friendly features - fulfilling Brigham and Women’s Hospital’s commitment to leading the way toward energy efficiency and environmental performance.
“Green” features of the Center include:
- Reliance on natural light and low-energy fixtures throughout;
- Glazed windows and shading that limits temperature changes;
- An Energy Star compliant roofing system that is designed to control heat emissions;
- High-efficiency air handlers and conveyance systems that keep air moving through the building;
- Low flow plumbing fixtures that minimize water consumption;
- Water efficient landscaping designed to reduce water use by 50 percent;
- A wastewater recycling system;
- Mechanical systems are in place that control and monitor indoor air quality;
- Environmentally friendly carpets and floor coverings that are rubber, organic and biodegradable are throughout the building;
- In construction, contractors recycled more than 90 percent of construction waste and used recyclable building materials when possible;
- Low-emitting adhesives, sealants, paints and coatings were used in construction;
The Carl J. and Ruth Shapiro Cardiovascular Center conforms to the Green Guidelines for Healthcare Construction (GGHC), the health sector’s first quantifiable sustainable design toolkit that integrates enhanced environmental and health principles and practices into the planning, design, construction, operations and maintenance of facilities. As a result, the Shapiro Center is in the process of being considered for Silver status in the U. S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, making Brigham and Women’s Hospital the first hospital in New England and the largest and most advanced patient care center to achieve this honor.
