making a difference, one resident at a time.
Our 'ecological footprint' is the measurement of what we consume and the 'footprint' it leaves on the earth. Consciously contributing to a community that helps preserve the environment will allow our students to take part in the greater focus on saving the earth. WPI wants to become a more environmentally responsible community.
95% of the construction materials from demolition and construction materials have been recycled
Dedicated bicycle storage room to promote alternative forms of transportation.
12 hybrid/ alternative energy fuel parking spots created on campus as part of the project.
We selected furniture companies with sustainable production techniques and environmentally friendly factories.
All of the furniture chosen is ahead of current EPA standards for environmentally sensitive furniture production standards.
All the wood on the first floor is certified cherry wood that was not purchased from illegally harvested forests.
The companies chosen do not waste leftover wood in furniture production but recycle the leftover materials for other projects.
All furniture in student bedrooms are part of a company (DCI) that is a member of the sustainable forestry initiative.
Fabrics for some furniture is made from recycled yarns and material.
Lounge furniture has keylock reversible cushions which allow the replacement of components and extend the life cycle of furniture by replacing only some of the parts (e.g. cushion)
When most furniture was delivered, it came blanket wrapped to reduce post-consumer packaging waste
WPI built East Hall on the lower campus of WPI is a state-of-the-art “green” facility that was conceived and realized as a truly sustainable project. This residential building provides academic, social and residential space in a five-story, 103,000 sf building. EAST HALL is WPI’s second structure built to the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards, a set of stringent sustainability specifications that has set a national standard for development of high-performance, sustainable, and energy-efficient buildings. LEED guidelines rate a project in the following categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation & Design. The EAST HALL project will apply for a LEED Gold Certification rating.
Bedroom windows: when individual windows are opened, the heating/ cooling components will adjust accordingly so energy doesn’t “go out the window� Lighting throughout building are on motion sensors so that lights only go on when activity/motion is present
Large amount of windows in building allow for more natural light in building thus reducing the need for electricity during daylight hours.
Based on the path of the sun, some windows have shades and fins to block sun rays to prevent excess heating of rooms or apartments.
Residential Services provides green cleaning products for all apartment residents that are less harmful to the environment because they are made with natural ingredients
Building recycling program exists for glass, metal, plas-
Two flush toilet valves in units reduce the use of water in the Building.
Each apartment is designed for four students, and includes a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms, the majority of which are singles. These living arrangements offer the convenience and security of living on campus with the independence and privacy of living in an apartment. Having a fitness room in the residence hall will help to promote student wellness and stress reduction. East Hall also incorporates two music rooms with pianos that reflect the important role that the arts and humanities play for many WPI students. East Hall was specifically designed to incorporate a living-learning mission throughout all aspects of the building which reflect the distinctive features of the WPI academic curriculum, as well as its unique student culture. As a residence hall designed for juniors and seniors, there are 8 high tech media suites throughout the building which will allow students to work on their academic projects and group assignments. The extension of the classroom activities in the residence hall has been a hallmark of East Hall since the design stage.
Working within the university’s motto of theory and practice East hall has been a collaborative project within the college community. Incorporating student input into the building design and features was just one way we included student input. Throughout the process several faculty members have sponsored student academic projects on various aspects of the building including topics such as project management, building design, and value engineering.
Residential Services Office Office: 508-831-5645 Fax: 508-831-5870 resservices@wpi.edu