Sustainability

Harris is proud to offer sustainable building solutions for projects that aim to be environmentally conscious and energy efficient. We manage all the processes from design and engineering to materials and construction to ensure the integrity of the project.

Harris’ impact is felt during the design and execution phases,  when we leverage advanced design and encourage participation and collaboration with the client, right down to ensuring documentation validating the design.

We are a proven leader in creating sustainable, economical solutions. We hold a patent for Fluidized Bed Incineration, and we have patents pending for new energy efficient processes.

We either design-build or plan-spec each sustainable project. Whether it’s creating a gray water system or magnifying pipes in a solar field to heat water, we have the experience to adapt, innovate and create future-looking features and greener buildings.

Taking the LEED

For most owners, installing sustainable components is a means to an end. They’re seeking a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification — the most renowned green building certification program used worldwide. The LEED program maintains rating systems for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of green buildings, homes and neighborhoods.

We plan and build with LEED in mind to help clients achieve a LEED certification of Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum.

Certification levels

Under LEED there are 100 possible base points awarded based on the potential environmental impacts and human benefits of each credit. Points are distributed across six categories:

  • Energy and atmosphere
  • Indoor environmental quality
  • Innovation in design
  • Materials and resources
  • Sustainable sites
  • Water efficiency

To participate in LEED, a building must comply with environmental laws and regulations, occupancy scenarios, building permanence and pre-rating completion, site boundaries and area-to-site ratios. After the project is complete, the owner must share data on the building’s energy and water use for five years after occupancy (for new construction) or date of certification (for existing buildings).

The Harris engineering team drives the custom design of each LEED building — not every contractor can claim this service. We know that every project is different and we leverage outside vendors to tailor solutions for client needs. It’s all part of working within and creating holistic systems for the good of all.

Sustainability in Action

Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center hired Harris to provide plumbing, heating and cooling piping and HVAC systems with the goal of consuming 53 percent less energy than current building code standards. To meet that goal, we installed:

  • Geothermal coils
  • Horizontal and vertical wind turbines
  • Solar hot water system
  • Three photovoltaic panels

We also incorporated native plants green roofs, a bioretention cell system and pervious pavements to support the Center’s extensive stormwater management program. These improvements earned Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center a LEED Platinum certification.

Our other sustainable projects include:

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