Environmental Studies Program
Date of this Version
Spring 5-2011
Abstract
This research project deals with improving energy sustainability in Pound Hall dormitory located on the University of Nebraska at Lincoln’s (UNL) city campus. An investigation on the current energy usage of Pound Hall showed that its energy rates worsened between the years of 2009 and 2010. These combined (electricity, steam, and water) energy rates were compared with those of the newly renovated Othmer Hall to emphasize the lack of sustainability in the older dormitory. In order to improve Pound Hall’s energy rates, an energy benefit analysis of implementing a green roof was performed. Having a green roof on this dormitory would result in annual energy savings of $123.63. By exploring alternative impacts of the green roof, it was found that the interaction with nature also has cognitive and therapeutic benefits on the mind. To determine what would draw students to the green roof 25 UNL students were surveyed. According to the survey, 92% of the students would regularly visit the green roof and 80% would voluntarily help maintain it. When asked what aspects would attract them to the roof the majority felt that flowers, seating, and exercise equipment would be the most appealing. This project’s overall goal is to decrease the university’s impact on the environment by making Pound Hall more sustainable.
Included in
Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment Commons, Environmental Monitoring Commons, Natural Resource Economics Commons, Other Earth Sciences Commons, Other Environmental Sciences Commons, Sustainability Commons