WESTIN COPLEY PLACE GREEN INITIATIVES

 

BOSTON, MA - The Westin began 2010 with the goal of becoming certified by a third party to show their leadership in protecting the environment by establishing a wide range of policies and practices. By the close of the year, they had earned a “4 Green Key” rating from Green Key Global, the “Green Seal Environmental Certification” , and became an “Energy Star” labeled facility. This completed “The Triple Play”; 3 third-party environmental certifications under one roof.
 
They didn't stop there... On November 2, 2010 they, together with AJAX Partners, started their extensive guest room renovations. The knowledge and consciousness acquired during their pursuit of “The Triple Play” proved pivotal in defining the scope of work for the renovation. The new guestrooms are a reflection of Westin’s timeless design focusing on personal, instinctive and renewal experiences with a touch of Boston’s tailored and iconic style. A Classic Design; textural elements, graceful curves, metallic textiles and finishes.

 

Sustainable Features:

  • High efficiency lighting via compact fluorescent lamping in all fixtures and LED lighting at the headboard
  • High efficiency toilets
  • Low-flow shower heads
  • Low VOC paints
  • Recycled/green backing for all vinyl wall coverings
  • “Green Label Plus” guestroom & corridor carpet (CRI)
  • Carpet pad meets LEED requirements
  • Headboard fabric = 66% recycled content
  • Entry wood floor = post-industrial recycled wood fiber
  • Mecho shades for energy efficiency and greater comfort

 

Waste Diversion: During the first month of our renovation over 69 tons of waste were created, of which about 63 tons were diverted from landfill. This constitutes an amazing diversion rate of: 90.57%

 

The Westin Copley and AJAX Partners looks back with pride at these accomplishments and looks toward tomorrow, continuing our leadership in sustainability, making our home greener for generations to come.

 

 

NICHOLSON APPOINTED TO MASSACHUSETTS
ZERO NET ENERGY BUILDINGS TASK FORCE


BOSTON, MA - Ajax Partners Director of Sustainable Development Craig Nicholson was recently appointed to the Massachusetts Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force, a group appointed at Governor Deval Patrick’s direction to help the state’s public and private sectors design and construct super-efficient “green” buildings. By employing aggressive use of energy efficiency and on-site renewable energy, zero net energy buildings meet most of their energy needs through efficiency measures and on-site renewable energy generation so that, on net, they increase neither energy demand nor greenhouse gas emissions. Zero net energy buildings also have the potential to lower costs for residences and businesses and spur clean energy technology development and job growth. The task force has been charged with developing specifications for the first state-owned zero net energy building by January 1, 2010 and statewide adoption of the standard for new construction by 2030. Nicholson will be focusing on addressing the medium- to long-term prospects of moving the commercial construction market in Massachusetts toward zero net energy.


“Ajax is excited to be a part of this task force and we are looking forward to working with other building and energy leaders to advance the state’s goals for reduced energy use and greenhouse gas emissions while increasing the use of renewable energy sources,” said Craig Nicholson. “We look forward to playing an active role in the creation of this new standard for advancing energy efficiency for buildings. We see this as a potential win-win for building developers, owners, occupants and the environment.”

 

To learn more about the Massachusetts Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force, please go to www.MAZNEB.org