This is a term that many of us, especially mechanical engineers and building automation professionals, are familiar with when writing the sequence of operations for a building’s controls system. Owners often ask that engineers specify what a “building automation system shall be capable of” in terms of operations or performance.
by James D.QualkLEED AP | March 2, 2010 | Comments (2)
One of my favorite scenes from the 1995 film Braveheart takes place on the battlefield before the hand-to-hand combat takes place. In a rousing speech, Scotsman William Wallace challenges his troops to stay and fight. His words whip them into a frenzy.
Most people reading the news items or blogs on ED+C and Sustainable Facility magazines’ websites have jobs directly related to the building design, construction and operations industry.
by James D.QualkLEED AP | February 2, 2010 | Comments (1)
With so many manufacturers touting the environmental benefits of their products, there’s little doubt that some of those claims are less than forthright. In fact, the mainstream media has taken notice – an indication that the backlash against greenwashing is already in full swing and that, increasingly, all things “green” will be treated with greater scrutiny.
Last month, those of us who were in Phoenix for Greenbuild witnessed the continuing strength and momentum of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. More than 28,000 people made the pilgrimage to Phoenix for this well-organized conference.
by James D.QualkLEED AP | December 3, 2009 | Comments (6)
One of the benefits of my job is the ability to view construction projects in progress throughout the country. During a recent trip to Indianapolis, I took a few minutes to take in Marriott Place, a stunning downtown development slated for completion in February 2011.
