sustainable initiatives
Efficient and responsible use of native and raw materials is a way of life as a means of survival in the Midwest. The state of Kansas is no exception. This pragmatic influence is ever-present in the backdrop that is the Flint Hills and the Konza Prairie, day-to-day life, and a focus on the very real design implications of production and life cycle costs. IAPD students are challenged to not only creatively solve design problems, but to do so in ways that are ecologically responsible.
Most recently, revisions to course content are taking place for even greater inclusion of sustainable (or “green”) components at all levels of design studios and furniture workshops, while also influencing daily practices within the department itself.
The College of Architecture, Planning and Design (CAPD) is a member of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and supports students in their endeavors to become LEED Accredited Professionals prior to graduation. Additionally, CAPD is the only college-unit on campus to enact an across-the-board adoption of internal consumables recycling, spearheaded by the Dean’s Student Advisory Council.