Quad/Graphics Plant Earns LEED Certification

In addition, the USGBC recognizes innovations beyond those prescribed in the LEED rating system. Quad/Graphics' Hartford plant earned extra points for offering proactive environmental education programs for employees, such as Eco Driving and Sustainable Purchasing; for the type of low-mercury fluorescent bulbs it uses; and for exemplary recycling performance for efforts like the plant cafeteria's coffee-cup refunds, which keeps thousands of styrofoam cups out of landfills.

Quad/Graphics met many of the USGBC's rigorous criteria for LEED certification because of long-established environmental programs and practices, including:

• The creation of the Quad Building Management Network, an enterprise-wide computerized system for monitoring, recording and, controlling in real time heating, ventilating and air conditioning; electrical and natural gas consumption and demand; process boilers, chillers, air compressors and vacuum systems; indoor air quality; and life safety systems.

• A comprehensive recycling program. The Hartford plant recycles 99.3 percent of its solid waste, including paper, fluorescent lamps, batteries, metal, plastic, wood and concrete.

• Exterior lighting that reduces light pollution of the nighttime sky. Exterior building and parking lot lights at the Hartford facility are shielded, directing light downward to where it is needed. This allows people an undiluted view of the stars and moon and also minimizes the lighting's impact on nocturnal wildlife in the area.

• Installation of high-efficiency, low-mercury fluorescent lighting. Quad/Graphics uses bulbs that burn 50 percent brighter while consuming 52 percent less energy.

• A progressive approach to site development and grounds maintenance. Quad/Graphics' manufacturing plant grounds have been designed to minimize storm water runoff leaving the property and reduce the need for fertilizers that contaminate groundwater. The Hartford plant utilizes a very water efficient landscaping plan.

• Proactive water conservation. Quad/Graphics uses non-potable water for irrigation and has also installed low-flow water fixtures within its plants to reduce water consumption.