Feature
Expanding the Engineers’ Comfort Zone: Working with Adaptive Thermal Comfort
Ensuring that a building’s occupants are neither too hot nor too cold is a complex challenge. Thermal comfort is determined not only by temperature, but also by humidity, airspeed, clothing, and activity level—and, we’re learning, by the occupants’ sense of control and connection to the outdoors. This feature article examines thermal comfort and how it is addressed by LEED® and the new ASHRAE Standard 55-2004.
News
DOE Disqualifies Ten Energy Star CFLs
Following their failures in the watchdog Program for the Evaluation and Analysis of Residential Lighting, ten CFLs were recently stripped of their Energy Star designations.
Carpet Industry and California Agree on New Green Label
The Carpet and Rug Institute’s new Green Label Plus emissions testing program bridges the gap between their existing Green Label program and the California approach as outlined in the state’s Section 01350 specification.
Newsbriefs
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Awards & Competitions
Award Briefs
City of Portland Announces BEST Awards
Portland’s Office of Sustainable Development has awarded ten "Businesses for an Environmentally Sustainable Tomorrow" Awards, including several to building-related companies.
Product Review
Solar-Powered Faucet from Sloan
As part of its new Water Conservation Division, Sloan’s solar faucet uses a PV cell to power its optical sensor. The PV cell, charged by fluorescent or natural light, extends battery life by up to five times.
The Cold Climate Heat Pump from Nyle
Nyle’s multiple-stage air-source heat pump delivers more heat as outside temperatures drop, giving it an overall performance that rivals geothermal heat pumps.
From the Library
Rebuilt Green: The Natural Capital Center and the Transformative Power of Building
Rebuilt Green tells the story of the Jean Vollum Natural Capital Center, a LEED Gold warehouse renovation in downtown Portland, Oregon.
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