According to Dean Nye, the Kennedy School plans to construct a new building in the space between Taubman and Elliot, as soon as sufficient funds are donated. The building would complete the campus and allow for some expansion of the school, while easing space restrictions for existing students and faculty. A group of students, staff, faculty and alumni have argued that the new edition should be a Green Building . Green buildings are partly constructed out of special materials that create a less toxic internal environment and are more easily recycled. They also use much less electricity and water, and generally provide a more livable workspace.
Studies show that ecologically designed workspaces can increase worker productivity.
In addition, there are a number of government and private grants and low-interest loan schemes available to meet up front costs. MPP 1 Jennifer Tice, also involved with the initiative, argued that the cutting edge architecture could also attract potential donors. A number of high profile figures have become involved with the Green Building Project, including the world s leading practitioner of ecological design and TIME Magazine Hero of the Planet, Bill McDonough, as well as Nobel Laureate and Kennedy School Professor John Holdren. He added that a green building would be a source of great prestige for the Kennedy School. Student supporters of the Green Building Project plan to take their case to Dean Nye soon, and to hold a Forum event or symposium this semester to increase awareness and support for ecological design.