MIT is world-renowned for its pioneering role in sustainable technology, and boasts some of the best architecture and planning programs in the nation, and has a handful of LEED-certified buildings on its campus.
The Brain and Cognitive Science Center, completed in 2008, was awarded a LEED Silver rating; unlike the Sloan and Koch buildings that were planned from stage 1 to be green, it was an old building that was retrofitted to meet the highest standards in green design. One of the project’s highlights is the conservation of water throughout the building.
The retrofit features a collection system that recycles rainwater that can be used in various applications throughout the building and landscaping. Additionally, low-flow water fixtures were installed in all bathrooms and laboratories. The Center also took a step outside of its own surroundings to address the preservation of the larger ecosystem by installing a comprehensive storm water management system to reduce the University’s impact on the Charles River.
Since 2007, M.I.T. has undertaken three more LEED-certified building projects. Two of their buildings, the Stata Center and Simmons Hall, were green even before the LEED standard came about. And the University started a Green Building Policy in 2001, before most schools were on board with the green movement.
Still, the Sustainable Endowments Institute “Green Report Card” gives the school an overall sustainability rating of B+. In comparison, Harvard has achieved an A-.
