Water Efficiency: Case Studies

The Church of Saint Joan of Arc, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, embodies the overall philosophy of environmental stewardship . In addition to boasting energy saving practices, high indoor environmental air quality, and the use of environmentally friendly materials, the church also emphasizes water conservation throughout the structure. Fixtures with low potable  flow properties were installed throughout the building. Xeriscaping techniques on the outdoor landscape  were also implemented to decrease water consumption for irrigation. This building has greatly reduced its overall demand and consumption of potable water. Developed on a previously-used site  and costing 2.7 million dollars, this church serves as a role model for other buildings. This building was granted the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Pollution Prevention in 2002 in honor of its implementation of green building  practices.

^{Fig. 1 Church of Saint Joan of Arc, Minneapolis Minnesota}

Another good example of a water-efficient and, on the whole, a green structure is the Swissôtel’s Green Hotel Initiative in Buckhead, Georgia. The main goal of this hotel, located in Buckhead, GA, was to provide comfort to its travelers while promoting green design and practices.  As important key factors, this hotel emphasizes on water and energy efficiency , as well as waste reduction.  Below are a few examples of Swissôtel’s water efficiency  measures:

1. Linen reuse program - Guests have the option to reuse towels and bedding linens and are encouraged to do so.  In addition to reducing water consumption costs, a linen reuse program saves energy, chemicals, and labor costs.
2. Plumbing retrofits - Swissôtel installed 1.5 gpm aerators on bathroom faucets, 2.5 GPM showerheads, and toilet fill cycle diverters in guest rooms.
3. Heating and cooling systems - Cooling tower blowdown is minimized through automated conductivity controls, which are programmed to maintain a high cycle of concentration.  Furthermore, boiler condensation is recycled and all once-through cooling systems have been eliminated.
4. Leak  detection - Housekeeping and engineering departments are required to use the Espresso Rapid Response System to report leaks immediately upon discovery.   
5. Ice machines - Water-cooled commercial ice machines have been converted to air-cooled machines.  

The Church of Saint Joan of Arc and the Swissôtel’s Green Hotel Initiative are two examples of buildings which have implemented water saving techniques into the building structure. There are many options to undertake in order to increase the water efficiency  of a building. Taking small steps, such as installing more efficient fixtures for toilets or sinks is one simple step to implement in order to have a more positive impact upon our environment and preserve our precious natural resources.