Though most people have never heard of Scottish architect Alexander Thomson, those familiar with his work revere him as a pioneer in sustainable building — he was part of a movement that was about 150 years ahead of his time.
Today, the work he began more than a century ago is flourishing: “Green” buildings are being constructed all over the world. Builders and developers are using energy-efficient appliances, incorporating recycled materials and increasing insulation. Some structures are even sustainable enough to produce just as much energy as they consume.
Many of these cutting-edge buildings are sitting on college campuses or are a product of university brainwork. One such example is nestled in 74 acres of a Chicago neighborhood: Saint Xavier University (SXU) is committed to climate neutrality and sustainable building. Although hundreds of other universities have joined its rank, SXU isn’t just going for the green, it’s shooting for gold. With two buildings already designated as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold — the second highest certification by the U.S. Green Building Council — SXU is setting an example for a sustainable future.
And according to SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, it is a moral imperative for universities to take a leadership role in this field.
“[Colleges] have the ability to work with the next generation of leaders — that has always been the privilege of universities,” she said. “We will need leadership now and in the future regarding this effort.”
