"The distance is nothing; it is only the first step that is difficult."
- Madame du Deffand

Brown University has what it takes to successfully implement real environmental improvements. M. Shreiberg's doctoral dissertation explores the organizational factors that influence environmental performance and leadership in higher learning institutions. He outlines conditions for success in environmental campus improvements

• collaborative decision making structures
• progressive/liberal political orientation
• a collegial atmosphere
• image-seeking behavior

Shreiberg claims, "Initiatives are most successful when driven by diverse stakeholders - with the support of top leaders - acting in a coordinated manner and capitalizing on or creating a "spark." Many groups and individuals in the Brown community have lit sparks for environmental campus improvement. Administration has the power to unite and feed this beneficial flame.

The recommendations on this website outline the importance of top-level support to increase the performance of Brown's buildings. Following the recommendations will allow Brown University to further appreciate the resulting economic, social, and environmental benefits.

The timeline delineates the changes necessary to bring about building performance improvements. The key to success is Corporation members and Administrators' agreement with the rational arguments for HPBD. With top-level support, Brown University buildings will achieve even greater economic, social, and environmental performance.

Recommendations for Adimistrative Support for:

• Adopting High Performance Building Design Guidelines

• Considering Life Cycle Costs

• Including High Performance Experience Criteria in Design Team Selection

• Hiring a Full time Energy Manager

• Implementing an Integrated Design Process

Timeline: Putting it all together

The success of a high performance, resource efficient building is measured by how well the interests of the owner, the occupants, and the natural environment have been balanced. Done correctly, the result will be a building that is functionally superior and aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sensitive and economically sound.