September 2019

IN THIS ISSUE


                             
 
STAY CONNECTED:
Tuesday, September 10, 2019, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
In partnership with IIDA-St. Louis Chapter, Missouri Botanical Garden, BiodiverseCity St. Louis, and Academy of Science-St. Louis
 
 
In the built environment, we can use the emerging field of Biophilic Design to create building interiors that connect people to nature; that are connected to their place and mimic the sensory delights of a hike through the woods; that evoke the emotions we feel when immersed in water, that bring nature's smells, sounds, colors and textures indoors.
 
This presentation will explore clear and compelling case studies of built projects that illustrate Biophilic Design strategies have a significant ROI in interior spaces. Participants will leave with practical resources, tools and tips they can use to embrace this newly emerging field.
 
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
  • Examine Biophilic Design as it relates to building interiors
  • Discuss some of the leading reasons to integrate Biophilic Design in projects
  • Explore case studies of Biophilic Design in built projects
  • Identify Biophilic Design benefits by the numbers- data points on ROI
 
SPEAKER
Tracy Backus, Director, Sustainable Programs, Teknion 
Tracy Backus will also present an in-depth seminar the following day:

CONTINUING EDUCATION
Approved for 1 LFA General CE Credit
Submitted for approval of 1 GBCI CE Hour and 1 AIA LU
     
REGISTER> 
 
THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS!

Growing Green Inc.

Hastings + Chivetta

Lawrence Group

Roof Top Sedums LLC

Teknion

upcomingUPCOMING EVENTS

Monthly Evening Program
Biophilic Design: Designing for Health and Increased Performance
September 10, 5:30 -7:30 pm

In the built environment, we can use the emerging field of Biophilic Design to create building interiors that connect people to nature. This presentation will explore clear and compelling case studies of built projects that illustrate Biophilic Design strategies have a significant ROI in interior spaces. Participants will leave with practical resources, tools and tips they can use to embrace this newly emerging field.

REGISTER>  
Indepth Seminar 
Designing with Nature: Biophilic Design in LEED, WELL & Living Building Challenge
Wednesday, September 11, 8:00 - 10:00 am

The presenter will lead a discussion on the impact of biophilia on three rating standards: LEED v4, WELL and Living Building Challenge. This presentation will explore various projects with compelling connections to Biophilic Design strategies with significant ROI.  Participants will leave with practical resources, tools and tips they can use to embrace this newly emerging field.
 
Webinar
Energy in LEED - Today & Tomorrow
September 10, 12:00 - 1:15 pm

During this webinar, presenters will delve into how LEED addresses energy today through LEED v4 and through pilot credits and also take a look towards how today's trending topics, like the water-energy nexus impact LEED's future goals.

Offering 1  LEED Specific (BD+C, O+M, and ID+C) GBCI CE Hour and 1 AIA LU

REGISTER>
Webinar
Online LEED Green Associate Exam Prep Course
4 Consecutive Thursdays, 2 - 4 pm, September 19 & 26, October 3 & 10 

The LEED Green Associate is a foundational credential signifying core competency in green building principles. We are excited to offer this online, webinar-based exam prep course together with several other USGBC Chapters.
 
Drop-In Benchmarking Help Session
September 24, 9:00 - 11:00 am

Join the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter, the City of St. Louis, and partners for a Benchmarking Help Session. Attendees will receive hands-on help to benchmark their energy and water use in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and report data to the City of St. Louis.

REGISTER>

Emerging Professionals Plogging Run
September 28, 9:00 am

Join the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter's Emerging Professionals for their first "plogging" run. In this fitness trend (a combination of the words "jogging" and "plucking"), joggers with gloves and plastic bags gather trash as they go. All runners and walkers are welcome!

REGISTER>
THE LATEST
In-depth Seminar
Wednesday, September 11, 8:00 - 10:00 am
 
This interactive workshop with natural elements will provide a personal inspiration to biophilic design. The presenter will then lead a discussion on the impact of biophilia on three rating standards: LEED V4, WELL and Living Building Challenge. This presentation will explore various projects with compelling connections to Biophilic Design strategies with significant ROI.  Participants will leave with practical resources, tools and tips they can use to embrace this newly emerging field.
 
SPEAKER
Tracy Backus, Director, Sustainable Programs, Teknion


CONTINUING EDUCATION 
Approved for 2 LFA General CE Credits
Submitted for approval of 2 LEED Specific (BD+C, ID+C) GBCI CE Hours and 2 AIA LU

 
Green Schools Quest
Through the Green Schools Quest, the U.S. Green Building Council - Missouri Gateway Chapter challenges public & private schools in Missouri & southern Illinois to devise & implement, with the help of Green Mentors, the most creative, effective & no or low cost sustainable practices for their schools.

Schools have until September 15th to register! 

We are still looking for a handful of additional mentors. If you're interested in mentoring, click here to register now or contact Hope Gribble with any questions.

2019-20 TIMELINE
September 15, 2019 - Deadline for schools to register
October 2019 - March 15, 2020 - Participating schools work with their Green Mentors to pursue a sustainability project
April 2020 - Winners announced at the 13th Annual Green Schools Event
Mid-April-May 2020 - Awards presented

Saying Farewell to Johanna Schweiss, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator JS

Join us in bidding a fond farewell to Johanna Schweiss, USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator! Johanna joined the Chapter in 2013, and in the six years since has managed the Chapter's membership, marketing, volunteer coordination, and community efforts.

In that time, she led 30 volunteers in the 2014 LEED Community Project, managed the Chapter's voluntary energy benchmarking campaign Better Buildings Through Benchmarking, supported Bethel Lutheran to become the first ENERGY STAR Certified house of worship in Missouri, trained nearly 300 building owners and managers in benchmarking and energy efficiency, and much more!

Johanna shared "It has been a pleasure and an honor to work with the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter. I have so enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to the Chapter's efforts to make every building a green building, and get to know our wonderful community of members, volunteers, and partners. I look forward to staying involved, transitioning to the role of enthusiastic volunteer and supporter!" 

Join us in thanking Johanna for her efforts! The USGBC-Missouri Gateway will refill her position - stay tuned for a future announcement when the job is posted.


USGBC-Missouri Gateway was thrilled to help two iconic and historic St. Louis buildings historic buildings celebrate their LEED Gold Certifications! On August 7, USGBC's President and CEO, Mahesh Ramanujam, visited St. Louis to award LEED Gold Plaques to Soldiers Memorial Military Museum and the Visitor Center & Museum at the Gateway Arch.

Congratulations to the owners and project teams of these fantastic projects! We are so proud to see St. Louis' institutions leading the way towards a healthier, more sustainable future.

Visitor Center & Museum at the Gateway Arch Plaque Presentation

From left to right: Richard Schuessler, USGBC-MGC Board chair; Ryan McClure, Executive Director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation; Phillip Lawrence, Project Manager, National Park Service; Mike Ward, Superintendent, Gateway Arch National Park; Mahesh Ramanujam, USGBC President & CEO; Ralph Bicknese, Hellmuth+Bicknese Architects; Anna Leavey, Director of Construction, Gateway Arch Park Foundation; Emily Andrews, Executive Director, USGBC-MGC.

To learn more about the Visitors Center and Museum at the Gateway Arch, visit the Gateway Arch Park Foundation's website.

Soldiers Memorial Military Museum Plaque Presentation

Karen Goering, Missouri Historical Society Managing Director of Administration and Operations and Mahesh Ramanujam, USGBC President and CEO.

To learn more about Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, visit the Missouri Historical Society's website .

And stay tuned for LEED Projects Profiles coming soon - or visit the museums yourself!


Together, the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter and the City of St. Louis have partnered to release an Energy Efficiency Checklist.

The checklist outlines numerous opportunities to save energy, including no-cost operational changes, low-cost improvements, medium cost measures, measures to consider at replacement or renovation, and trainings and certification opportunities for building staff. The checklist also outlines resources to use when searching for a contractor, funding resources, and opportunities for recognition.

LEARN MORE & DOWNLOAD THE CHECKLIST>
Wednesday, September 25, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm 

Sponsored by Delos, the EcoDistricts Foundation Course in St. Louis will immerse attendees in the approach and tools to create EcoDistricts and apply the EcoDistricts Protocol, a framework for urban and community development that puts equity, resilience, and climate protection at the heart of every decision.  
 
This course is for planners, architects, developers, community development professionals, and municipal leaders seeking to advance their skills, apply the EcoDistricts Protocol, and/or become an EcoDistricts Accredited Professional .
 
Discounts available for USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Members. Contact the Chapter directly for a discount code.  

LEARN MORE>
Thursday, November 14 - Friday, November 15, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm both days

Efficient operations and smart maintenance in buildings not only reduce operating costs by 20-50%, but increase occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction. Green Professional Building Skills Training (GPRO) Operations + Maintenance Essentials is a two day course that provides building professionals with strategies to improve efficiency, comfort, and health in our existing buildings. Participants leave with at least three immediately actionable measures and the next steps needed to achieve them.

This course is ideal for property managers and building staff in multifamily residential and commercial buildings, including: building superintendents, operators, facility and property managers, operating engineers and stationary engineers.

USGBC-MGC is the local delivery partner for this Green Building Professional Skills (GPRO) Training in partnership with Urban Green (NYC Chapter) who developed the training in partnership with the local building trades.

Continuing Education Hours: 12 GBCI CE Hours and 12 AIA/CES LU

Cost: $300 for USGBC-Missouri Gateway Members / $350 for non-members - includes course materials, breakfast & lunch both days, and certificate exam

Scholarships may be available. Please contact Emily Andrews at 314-577-0854 to inquire.

October 4th & 5th, 2019

Green The Church empowers people of all faiths to be leaders in caring for the Earth, providing resources to educate, connect, and advocate for healthier communities.
 
The Annual Green The Church Summit is the largest gathering of the Black Church on issues of environmental justice, climate change, and sustainable food networks. The Summit helps to empower church leadership and lay people to develop practical solutions to economic and environmental issues in the Black community. This year the Summit is taking place in St. Louis on October 4th and 5th.  
 
This year's Green The Church Summit presents a unique opportunity to connect with hundreds of individuals who are concerned about global warming, poverty and pollution, equitable green economies, and ensuring a sustainable planet. They anticipate an audience consisting of Green The Church affiliates, local congregations, concerned clergy, and environmental supporters. Summit attendees will experience a powerful conference centered on learning, connecting, and networking around environmental and sustainability issues.  
 

The USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Emerging Professionals (EPs) are recent graduates, young professionals and those new to the green building industry. EPs get together each month to network, share experiences, and give back to the community. All are welcome to attend - join them for an upcoming event soon! Sign up for their email updates here.

Plogging Run
Saturday September 28, 9:00 am 

Join the Emerging Professionals for their first "plogging" run. In this fitness trend (a combination of the words "jogging" and "plucking"), joggers grab gloves and plastic bags and gather trash as they go.

Volunteers will meet at the Mary Meachum Freedom Center on Great Rivers Greenway's Riverfront Trail for a safety briefing, and jog North along the trail. They will turn around after approximately a mile and a half and "plog" back to the starting point, picking up litter on their way back. The suggested total distance is approximately a 5K (3.1 miles), though volunteers may run (or walk) as long or short as they'd like. All speeds are encouraged to participate. Families and well behaved dogs are welcome. Water, snacks, and safety gear will be provided.
 

Careers in Sustainability Networking Session
Tuesday, October 8, 5:00 - 5:30 pm

Al
l are invited to join the Emerging Professionals for a special networking session from 5:00-5:30 pm immediately prior to the October Program to connect with professionals active in green building and sustainability. Participants will rotate in small groups between three professionals to discuss their career path and involvement in sustainability. Full time students and emerging professionals can attend the networking session and program free of charge.


Tour of National Great Rivers Research & Education Center, Lunch at Old Bakery Brewing Company
Saturday, November 9, 9:30 am

NGRREC
The USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter's Emerging Professionals invite you to join them for a tour of the National Great Rivers Research & Education Center (NGRREC), followed by lunch at Old Bakery Beer Company in Alton, Illinois.

The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC), a division of Lewis and Clark Community College, is dedicated to the study of great river systems and the communities that use them. The center's Jerry F. Costello Confluence Field Station in Alton, Illinois, serves as a model of green construction, with minimal environmental impact, integrated renewable energy systems, and internal recycling systems. The center earned LEED Gold Certification in 2015. The tour will highlight the building's sustainable features and NGRREC's research. 

Following the tour, the group will stop for lunch at Old Bakery Beer Company in Alton Illinois (open to all ages). All Old Bakery beer is USDA Certified Organic, and the brewery and restaurant incorporate many other sustainable practices like sourcing local food, composting food waste, and prioritizing energy efficiency in the design and construction of the Brewery.

Attendees are encouraged to carpool, but can meet the group at NGGREC for the tour at 10:30 am if they prefer.


The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced recently that Former President Barack Obama will speak at the Wednesday keynote of the 2019 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. This year's conference will take place Nov. 19-22 in Atlanta, Ga. at the LEED Gold Georgia World Congress Center. Registration is now open.
Early bird registration has been extended to September 5.

Greenbuild is the largest annual event for green building professionals worldwide to learn and source cutting edge solutions to improve resilience, sustainability, and quality of life in our buildings, cities, and communities. This year's event theme is "A New Living Standard."


November 13 - 14,  Omaha, NE

The Midwest Building Energy Codes Conference brings together stakeholders from across the Midwest to discuss how best to promote the adoption and raise compliance with building energy codes across the region. This free annual conference provides an opportunity to network, engage in building science and policy discussions, and learn from leading experts about current and future trends.
 
The Conference is free, and a limited amount of travel support is available to state and local code officials and other government employees.  


Building Operator Certification®(BOC) is a nationally recognized training and certification program focusing on energy efficient building operations and preventative maintenance procedures. Facilities with BOC graduates are proven to save energy, have lower energy bills, and offer improved comfort for occupants.
 
BOC Level 1 training is coming to St. Louis this fall, starting on September 11, 2019. Customers of Ameren Missouri are eligible for a rebate of $500 upon completion of the series. 
Customers of Spire are also eligible for a rebate of $350 upon completion of the series.  Veteran tuition discounts are available as well.  
 

The Missouri Division of Energy is now accepting applications for low-interest energy improvement loans to public K-12 schools, public colleges and universities, local governments to include municipal, county, regional, and international airports, public water and wastewater treatment facilities, and public and not-for-profit hospitals. In total, the department is making $4 million available for these entities to complete energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout the state of Missouri.

The loan application period ranges from June 17, 2019, through September 20, 2019, for loans between $10,000 and $500,000. Loan applications will be evaluated on a competitive basis. If money remains after applications have been reviewed and prioritized, consideration will be given to loans in excess of $500,000.

LEARN MORE> 
October 8-10, 2019

Since 2015, the Living Product Expo has pulled together the world's leading design firms, manufacturers and sustainability consultants to share game-changing innovations in sustainable product design.  

This annual exchange has emboldened companies to develop new products made of truly safe materials, informed by biomimicry and biophilia, and manufactured in factories powered by renewable energy and designed to foster worker and community health and happiness.


LEARN MORE & REGISTER>
Thanks To Our Members! Members 
Welcome New Members
 
August 2019 
Emily Bozarth, S. M. Wilson & Co
Laura Barber, The Haskell Company
Paul Levy, Refurbiture
Mark Walkenbach, Hilti
  
Thanks to our Renewing Members

August 2019
Katie Belisle-Iffrig, Code Green Collaborative
Contributor - Nicholas Bristow, Teachers' Retirement System of the State of Illinois
Stacey Clear, Clear Architecture LLC
Joe Davis, Custom Engineering
Lindsey Evans, McCormack Baron Salazar
Sean Flachs, USACE
Rene Freels, Ferguson Eco Team
Ed Hoganson, Sheet Metal Workers Local 36
Jen Kissinger, Navigate Building Solutions
Wanda Kolo, Saint Louis Zoo
Bob Kramer, CR2 Engineering


Angela Montgomery, Custom Engineering
Lesli Moylan, Missouri Environmental Education Assn
Ray Reasons, Sheet Metal Workers Local 36
Gordon Schweitzer III, CTS Group
Cady Scott Seabaugh, McCormack Baron Salazar, Inc.
Steve Sneed, Sheet Metal Workers Local 36
Kristina Steiger, Schaeffer Marketing Group
James Stine, CE Jarrell Contracting Inc.
Robert Towell, CxE Group LLC, Commissioning & Energy Savings
Stacey Towell, CxE Group LLC, Commissioning & Energy Savings

 
community
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
SEPTEMBER  
 


OCTOBER


SPONSORSTHANKS TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS
 
Thanks to our New & Renewing Annual Sponsors!  
 
Univerdant - NEW Gold  
 
   
The financial support of our sponsors is integral to ensuring that everyone can live, work and learn in smart and healthy buildings.
 
  
What Your Company Gains as a USGBC - MGC Sponsor: 
 
EXPAND: Grow the knowledge of green building and sustainability in our community.
  
PARTICIPATE: Get involved in educational programs, special events and community projects to showcase your company's leadership.
  
EXPOSURE: As a Chapter Sponsor, your company will be:
  • Listed on our website which receives 6,500 visitors and 60,000 page views per month.
  • Included in our monthly e-newsletter with over 5,000 subscribers.
  • Recognized at monthly programs, with an average attendance of 100.
LEARN: Keep up with the latest green building trends and technologies and earn continuing education hours.
  
ALIGN: Differentiate your company as a leader in the sustainability movement in your community.

USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Sponsorship includes numerous benefits - from complimentary Chapter memberships and monthly program passes to exposure on the Chapter website, e-news and at events.    
  
You can learn more by downloading our  2019 Sponsor Package or by contacting Emily Andrews at 314-577-0854.
 
Learn about Sponsorship Opportunities! 
 
Thanks to our RESTORATIVE sponsor

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Healthy Planet



AmerenMissouri







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GREEN SCHOOL CHAMPIONS
AmerenMissouri


GREEN SCHOOLS SUPPORTERS

Innovative Technology Education Fund

Trane


Cushman & Wakefield
 
DJM Ecological 
 
Dynamic Controls, Inc.
 
ECO Recycling
   
Energy Resources Group  
Guarantee Electrical Company 
 
Johnson Controls  
 
Mackey Mitchell Architects 
 
Metro Lighting
 
Missouri American Water 
Mohawk  
 
Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 
 
Rosemann and Associates 
 
Villa Lighting  
 

ASSA ABLOY

Electro Plastics/STEP Warm Floor

Ittner Architects   
 
Hastings + Chivetta  
HDR 
 
Integrated Facility Services 
 
Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Missouri
 
PayneCrest Electric
 
Schaeffer Marketing Group  
 
Siemens
 
S.M. Wilson   
USGBC-MISSOURI GATEWAY CHAPTER MISSION

To initiate, develop and accelerate the implementation of green building concepts, technologies and principles that promote environmentally responsible, prosperous and healthy places to live and work.
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