Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/518838
w w w . i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m J u n e 2 0 15 • I NSIGH T | 29 I N S I G H T O N E N E R G Y B y N i k k i K a l l i o W hen it comes to adding "green" technology to building projects, the concept seems to have gone from expensive buzzword to standard feature. Companies are interested in sustainable and energy-saving technology both for the long-term cost advantage and because they see value in creating healthier work environments for their employees. "Instead of being outside the norm, I want to believe that this is very much the norm," says Tom Boldt, CEO of e Boldt Company. "is continues to be a high degree of interest for every customer, depending on their resources and their business." In general, prices for sustainable technology are coming down, partially because demand for LEED certified projects have increased and because the technology is simply becoming more cost effective. "is is a very long-term trend," says Mark Hanson, director of sustainable services for Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, A sense for sustainability Commercial construction sees evolving demands for energy efficient features Inc. "Look at what a cellular phone would've cost you 20 years ago. Look at what you can get today. It's that sort of similar technology development." Lower oil and gas prices are having mixed impact on projects. But because companies are becoming more concerned about health care costs, there's a growing focus on renovating for corporate wellness — a branch of sustainability in terms of employee health, says eresa Lehman, director of sustainable services for Miron Construction Co., Inc. Miron's clients are asking for things like natural lighting and zero-VOC- (volatile organic compound) emitting carpets and paints. A new ratings system by the International WELL Building Institute developed in partnership with the U.S. Green Building Council, called WELL, is adding momentum to the trend, aiming to eliminate toxic building materials. at's become easier now that the cost of recycled and low- or zero-VOC materials has become comparable to building [continued ] » Mark Hanson Bryant Esch Theresa Lehman Tom Boldt Waupaca Foundry's closed loop system helps reduce water usage and improve air quality. C O U R T E S Y O F W A U PA C A F O U N D R Y