Sustainable Design

When you're in the business of developing land and infrastructure, it may seem disingenuous to talk about sustainability and conserving natural resources. But as we see it, our business is building better communities—and that means designing sites that are not only better for the environment, but more cost effective for the owner to operate and healthier for the people who use them.

In fact, Kleingers & Associates was one of the first civil engineering/development firms in Ohio to have LEED®-accredited engineers and project designers on staff. And in early 2007, we completed work on what is expected to be Ohio's first LEED-certified elementary school. We view each of our projects as an opportunity to effect positive change, and we provide our clients with greener options to enhance the overall value of their product.

• What is LEED?
• Why incorporate sustainable design principles into your next project?
• Why work with a LEED-accredited civil engineer?

What is LEED?

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is a voluntary national standard created by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) in 1998 for the purpose of developing high-performance building guidelines. Emphasizing initiatives such as sustainable site development, water conservation, energy efficiency and materials selection, LEED awards certification at various levels based on performance benchmarks, or “credits,” awarded upon completion of the project.

LEED is also known throughout the industry as sustainable design or green building. This holistic approach to design and construction is based on the belief that we all benefit from buildings with healthier indoor environments that require less energy to operate.

Why incorporate sustainable design principles into your next project?

Beyond the obvious environmental benefits, high-performance buildings reduce energy costs while improving indoor air quality, increasing occupant comfort and productivity, and enhancing asset value. In many cases, the construction cost of a high-performance building is only 6-8% of the total lifetime cost of the structure; operating costs make up the remaining 92-94%. Sustainable design can reduce these operating costs as much as 50% annually, maximizing the owner's return on investment.

Why work with a LEED-accredited civil engineer?

LEED accreditation provides a thorough understanding of sustainable design principles and the certification process—from documentation and registration to eligibility of the project for LEED credits. As one of only a handful of companies in the state of Ohio with LEED-accredited civil engineers, K&A has the experience and expertise to ensure a smooth sail toward certification.

Even if your goals don't include achieving LEED certification, you'll benefit from the sustainable design principles that we often incorporate with little or no upfront costs—increasing the lifetime value of your development.