Buildings

Building a healthier future

According to the Southface Energy Institute, the construction, operation and maintenance of buildings produce close to 48 percent of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making sustainable building one of the most important things an institution can do to reduce its carbon footprint and positively impact our local and global community. Research has linked sustainably-certified buildings with enhanced student testing performance and improved health outcomes. Emory’s commitment to sustainable building reflects the University’s values, ethics and commitment to excellence.

So Far


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Emory is a leader in its commitment to sustainable buildings with over 4.28 million gross square feet of space in 39 LEED certified University and Healthcare buildings. Emory’s 2025 Vision adds LEED Silver minimum certification for all renovations, and encourages exploration of other sustainable building standards like Living Building, Fitwel, and WELL.

Today

64%

of construction waste was recycled or reused in 2019

3.7 million

gross square feet of LEED certified building space

37

buildings built/renovated to LEED standards

Tomorrow

Our plans for the next decade will further our leadership in sustainable building practices and policies. By 2025:

  • All new construction on campus will be carbon neutral.
  • Major building renovations will be held to a minimum of LEED Silver standards, and roof replacement projects will be cool, green and/or solar.
  • In the new Campus Life Center (former DUC), incorporate regenerative architectural standards such as net-zero impact and “living building.”
  • Renovate and use iconic buildings on campus such as the president’s home for sustainability education and outreach.