Boston University's new Center for Computing and Data Sciences by KPMB Architects sets a precedent for sustainable architecture as a design that's carbon-neutral and free from fossil fuels. The building will set itself apart as the largest carbon-neutral design of its kind in the city, and it will be heated and cooled with geothermal energy—there will be no gas lines connected to the building. The 19-storey building is elevated to protect it against flooding from the nearby Charles River and Boston University will be matching the building’s electricity load with renewable energy on from a wind farm in South Dakota.
While Boston itself is aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2050, Boston University is on a mission to be carbon-neutral a decade ahead of the city.
Carbon-Neutral University Buildings
The Center for Computing and Data Sciences is Fossil Fuel-Free
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Architecture - The growing interest in carbon-neutral buildings and fossil fuel-free designs presents opportunities for sustainable architecture firms to innovate and create more environmentally friendly designs.
2. Geothermal Energy - As buildings aim to become carbon-neutral and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, the use of geothermal energy, which is renewable and sustainable, presents an opportunity for innovation and growth in the energy industry.
3. Renewable Energy Matching - The practice of matching a building's electricity load with renewable energy presents an opportunity for renewable energy companies to invest in more infrastructure and scale their operations to meet the growing demand for carbon-neutral buildings.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - As the demand for carbon-neutral buildings and sustainable designs increases, architecture firms have the opportunity to innovate and offer more environmentally friendly designs.
2. Geothermal Energy - As buildings reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and shift towards renewable energy sources, geothermal energy companies have the opportunity to expand their operations and meet the growing demand for sustainable energy.
3. Renewable Energy - The growing trend of carbon-neutral buildings presents an opportunity for renewable energy companies to invest and expand their infrastructure to meet the growing demand for renewable energy matching services.