AFDW actively involved in DOD priority to save energy, environment

Published Nov. 15, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Tabitha N. Haynes
Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs

Joint Base Andrews, Md. -- With the recent opening of two environmentally-sustainable "green" buildings on Joint Base Andrews, Md., the Air Force District of Washington is doing its part to support the Department of Defense's priority of environmental awareness and energy efficiency.

"The Department of Defense is the largest energy user in the federal government," said AFDW Commander Maj. Gen. Darren McDew. "Because of this, we have a responsibility to our service, to the taxpayers and to each other to find ways to reduce our overall energy consumption."

AFDW and Joint Base Andrews are committed to transforming the way energy is used by reducing demand and building an energy-conscious force. The command is promoting sustainable facilities by ensuring Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards and energy efficiency are used in all base construction projects.

"The concepts used in the site layout, design and construction [of the LEED facilities] provide benefits such as lower energy consumption per square foot and more flexible spaces that can be reused over time," said Patricia Grey, AFDW Installations and Mission Support. "The operating cost should be much lower as compared to the older facilities they replace."

Beyond the benefit of new and improved space, these types of facilities use renewable and recycled products to reduce impacts on natural resources and reduce waste streams, said Grey.

The key ingredients needed to achieve a green building include reduced energy consumption, water conservation, and recycling waste. Generally, the focus is on efficient water fixtures and lighting, utilizing recycled content materials and products, providing bicycle racks and showers, and more.

The new William A. Jones III Building was also specifically equipped with a green roof.

"Green roofing improves the quality of rainwater runoff, has an insulating effect for the building, and fights the urban heat island effect," said Grey. "LEED is a process and the features are a big part of the result, but the emphasis is on making smart choices from concept to execution."

Well-designed green buildings save money, increase comfort and create healthier environments for people to live and work, using improved indoor air quality, natural daylight, and thermal comfort.

"Green buildings are often touted for being more enjoyable, higher quality of life spaces, for occupants," said Grey.

Along with the building's internal and external features, prime parking spaces are reserved for those driving hybrid and fuel-efficient model vehicles.

The command is adapting the same lifestyle changes by downsizing the vehicle fleet to mini sports-utility vehicles, using alternative-fuel vehicles and tracking vehicle mileage. Of the current vehicles owned by the command and the command's units, approximately half are using "green" alternative fuel options.

Between the vehicle fleet, the buildings and more, the command is ensuring active participation in DOD's mission to conserve the energy, and protect the environment.

"Energy conservation requires discipline and sustained efforts, and is central to our continued mission success as a service," said McDew. "I encourage all Airmen to make energy savings a part of their daily routines."