Green Initiatives
Green Roof
Also referred to as a live, living, or eco-roof, the first 660 square foot green roof was installed over the student computer lab wing in 2008. The plantings include several varieties of sedum and their containers are composed of 100 percent recycled polypropylene. The 2010 construction of the Student Success Center (now the Student Development Center) and Student Services wing included an additional 6,100 square foot of green roof. The space also provides a green view for the second floor office windows located along the first floor roof.
Why a green roof? With urban development and the various impervious surfaces created by it, the mitigation of storm water runoff is a major move toward environmental stewardship. The green roof's slower absorption and subsequent release of storm water deters the rapid runoff of contaminants into our rivers and drinking water systems and help prevent soil erosion. Green roofs offer insulation benefits that result in energy savings.
A green roof generally has a longer life than traditional roofing methods, as the component materials do not deteriorate as quickly as conventional roofing systems.
Green Cleaning Policy
KVCC intends to reduce the exposure of building occupants and maintenance personnel to potentially hazardous chemical, biological, and particulate contaminants by adopting a Green Cleaning Policy. Protocols include:
- Establish standard operating procedures addressing an effective cleaning and hard floor and carpet maintenance system
- Develop strategies for promoting and improving hand hygiene
- Develop guidelines addressing the safe handling and storage of cleaning chemicals
- Develop requirements for staffing and training of maintenance personnel
- Auditing of the appearance and cleanliness of all areas on a quarterly basis using the APPA Custodial Staffing Guideline Standards
- Collect occupant feedback and continuous improvement
Why a Green Cleaning Policy?
We recognize that green cleaning is a significant component of indoor air quality, and that the contribution of indoor air quality to employee productivity is significant. We are committed to devoting the time and resources to perform these functions at an exemplary level. It is our policy to ensure that our buildings operate in an environmentally responsible manner and we demonstrate good environmental stewardship within our community.