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exterior of C-MORE Hale

The building that houses the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Center for Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education was awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum for energy use, lighting, water and material use. The award is the highest level of certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute.

C-MORE Hale became the first research laboratory building in Hawaiʻi—and only the eighth construction project in the state—to receive the highest level of LEED certification. Group 70 International served as lead design firm.

Green design and construction features

LEED certification of C-MORE Hale was based on green design and construction features that positively impact the project and the broader community. These attributes include

  • Incorporation of ultra low-flow toilets, automated faucets and waterless urinals to reduce use of potable water by 48 percent
  • Diversion of 25,000 gallons of water from city storm drains through the implementation of an underground storm water chamber detention system
  • Establishment of a 2,400-square-foot green roof to help to reduce storm water runoff, lower building temperature, remove carbon dioxide and provide an attractive eco-habitat for insects and birds. 
  • Reduction of irrigation demand by 65 percent through landscape design that includes dry stream beds with river rocks, drought-tolerant and native plants and drip irrigation
  • Utilization of solar hot water heat recovery, contributing to reduction of the building’s energy consumption by 52.2 percent
  • Use of smart controls on primary lighting to shut off lights when rooms are unoccupied and adjust light levels according to the amount of daylight detected.

What happens at C-MORE?

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