Furthering the cement industry’s commitment to sustainable development, the Portland Cement Association (PCA) obtained Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Furthering the cement industry’s commitment to sustainable development, the Portland Cement Association (PCA) obtained Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Commercial Interiors (CI) Silver certification of its Washington, D.C., offices. Locally based Fox Architects assisted PCA in achieving necessary elements for certification. A late-June move resulted in PCA’s occupancy at the National Association of Realtors building, a concrete-framed, glass-clad structure built on a brownfield site. Silver-rated, it is the District’s first LEED-certified new building.
LEED certification for Commercial Interiors addresses the building’s structure and its erection, recognizing high-performance interiors that provide healthy, productive places to work; operational and maintenance efficiencies; and, reduced environmental footprint. Most materials incorporated in the office design contain recycled content, were manufactured within 500 miles of the office, and emit low volatile organic compounds. Moreover, the office space capitalizes on access to daylight, as all interior offices feature glass fronts allowing penetration of light to minimize electricity demand. Daylight-responsive controls installed in all occupied areas manage light levels. Additionally, PCA’s offices exceed water efficiency requirements by more than 30 percent, and more than 70 percent of the appliances and office equipment are Energy Star rated.