This month's SLO Monthly Lecture Series took on a new format for May, allowing multiple, local professionals to present a 5-minute pitch for their green expertise. But don't be fooled, this was not only a great marketing opportunity but also earned high points for education, as each presenter demonstrated expert knowledge in each of their fields. The depth of information and relevance to our local community and built environment was so impressive, that we had to put together a brief summary for you!
Heather Gray, of Gray Electrical Consulting + Engineering, LLC (GECE) kicked-off the presentations to share the company approach and core values for her newly founded electrical engineering firm in Santa Maria. This woman-owned small business was recently selected as one of Santa Barbara's top three emerging businesses by the Santa Barbara Spirit of Entrepreneurship Foundation and the reasons are clear. When it comes to green design, GECE reminds us that quality does not have to be sacrificed for energy efficiency. In addition to her practice and volunteering for C4, Heather also participates with National Women in Construction (NWIC) to support and inspire current and future generations of women professionals in the building industry.
Aeron Arlin Genet from the Air Pollution Control District of San Luis Obispo County (APCD) brought the group up to speed on the progress towards meeting climate protection plan goals for the City of San Luis Obispo and other cities within the County. With secured mitigation funds, APCD can now provide grants to help cities prepare for the voluntary Assembly Bill 32. While regulations related to climate change and climate protection have been subject to a hostile political and local environment, the City of Atascadero and Paso Robles, among others have agreed to move forward with a plan. This forward-thinking demonstrates the understanding of the built environment and new construction as a major component, for addressing the conservation of energy resources, and limiting pollution and health impacts in our communities.
Alma Wagner, Project Construction Manager of Arcadis is educating folks about sustainability issues both internally with Arcadis and on multiple local projects, including the County Women's Jail and California Men's Colony which is currently pursuing a LEED Gold Certification. At Arcadis, they are driven towards sustainable practices through design and operations to benefit both the environment and client health.
C4 was delighted to have our intern Devin Graham also present. When Devin isn't updating the C4 website, or pursuing his architectural degree at Cal Poly, he can be found in the new office of InBalance Green Consulting. Their recent project highlights include Shale Oak Winery and San Luis Obispo's new location for the Chamber of Commerce- which really stepped up their presence downtown. And in case you were wondering what that super modern structure is across from the San Luis Obispo Airport, that's the headquarters for Rosetta which is currently pursuing LEED Certification.
Ann Sever, Senior Landscape Architect from Wallace Group shared the multi-disciplinary team's specialized focus on water. Wallace Group's Water Resources department has worked on over 100 local wineries where many of them implement water recycling of their treated process water. The Wallace Group team is also experienced in SWPPP requirements and the upcoming post-construction regulations currently in development with the Regional Water Quality Control Board. When it comes to water conservation, Ann can address plants and irrigation efficiency in the design phase or as a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor. Whether as individual experts or part of a collaborative, Wallace Group understands the importance of addressing water in ways that are environmentally sound and implementable.
Cheryl Cochran, Land Use Technician with the Energy Division of County of San Luis Obispo Planning & Building shared a sneak preview of the upcoming Energy Awareness Month and The Energy Event. This year's event will focus on families and kids, featuring hands-on activities, an energy magic show and the Energize SLO Cross Country Run. More features and prizes are still being added for everyone, of all ages. The October 5th event will be held at Cuesta College. Visit our calendar page for more details.
Speaking of events, the happiest event of the year is coming up on May 28th, 5pm - 7pm, at the SLO Museum of Art. Rebecca McKay shared the details on the third annual Bike Happy - a free happy hour for bicycle enthusiasts! Find out more or sign up to volunteer at www.facebook.com/bikehappyslo
If we missed you at last Friday's monthly lecture series, be sure to catch us next month when we focus on residential and commercial renewable energy. Join us every third Friday of the month for a great mix of local professionals at the forefront of sustainability and green design.
