MADISON, Wis. – Aug. 21, 2020 – Built in 20 months and opened in the summer of 2019, Exact Sciences’ Discovery Campus laboratory and warehouse on the city of Madison’s near west side is now officially LEED® Gold certified.
Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence.
Exact Sciences is a global leader in cancer diagnostics. Through its screening and precision oncology products, the company is working to deliver earlier, smarter answers to health care providers and patients.
“Our passion for doing things the right way extends to all areas of our business,” said Kevin Conroy, chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences. “It is a huge honor to achieve LEED Gold certification, knowing this world-class facility will help us keep up the fight against cancer at the same time it cares for our employees and the environment.”
Exact Sciences achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions promoting efficiency and sustainability.
Highlights of Exact Sciences’ 169,000 square foot laboratory and warehouse include:- Energy Savings – Use of efficient equipment and controls result in 37.3% energy cost savings annually compared to standard building design.
- Water Efficiency – A 30,000-gallon stormwater collection tank replaces 73.5% of potable water used by bathroom flush fixtures and irrigation.
- Transportation Options – Parking spots and charging stations for hybrid and electric vehicles, a relocated bus stop, and bike-friendly features promote sustainable commuting.
- Healthy Materials – Strategic and deliberate selection of building materials to minimize any chemicals that impact indoor air quality – an ongoing, long-term benefit for building occupants.
- Green Space – Walking paths encourage mental and physical wellness of employees, while habitat restoration safeguards the environment for the native rusty patched bumble bee and box turtle.
- Waste Reduction – Thoughtful efforts throughout the project diverted 94.9% of construction waste from landfill.
“The work of innovative building projects like Exact Sciences’ is a fundamental driving force in transforming the way our buildings are built, designed and operated,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC. “Buildings that achieve LEED certification are lowering carbon emissions, reducing operating costs and conserving resources while prioritizing sustainable practices and human health.”
About the U.S. Green Building Council
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org.