Green Campus Development
As an environmentally- and socially-responsible institution, sustainability has long been a strategic priority of the University. To support the integration of sustainability concepts in teaching, research and campus operations, PolyU has put every effort into building a green campus environment.
Redevelopment of Block X – An All-rounded Resource-efficient Green Building
PolyU kickstarted the Block X redevelopment project in October 2014 and completed it in August 2017. The project’s design, construction, operation and maintenance aspects all comprehensively demonstrate the concept of sustainability. For example, a typical low-rise design was adopted, differentiating the block from the surrounding buildings to ensure plenty of open space. In addition, Block X is surrounded with abundant plants and greenery, including a green roof and a green wall, creating a relaxing ambience.
[Photo]: Greening areas at Block X
[Photo]: Green wall at Block X
Numerous examples of cutting-edge energy saving technologies can be found in this brand-new building. Some home-grown inventions were adopted – for example, a screen-printable self-cleaning coating has been applied to the glass canopies and skylights. Developed by the Department of Building Services Engineering, this nano-composite paste demonstrates superior cleaning functions by breaking down organic dirt. Eco-Blocks are used in the footpath, a patented technology developed by PolyU’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The bricks are made from glass aggregate and construction waste, and hence reduce waste going to landfills. They also help absorb roadside air pollutants like nitrogen oxides.
[Photo]: Screen-printable self-cleaning coating is applied over the skylight
[Photo]: Footpath composed of Eco-Block
Energy-efficiency facilities are another highlight of the green design of this building. LED integrated handrails, LED exit signs and directional signs, T5 fluorescent tubes, nano-reflectors, and service-on-demand escalators all work together to save electricity. Photosensors are installed to utilize natural sunlight and enable smart adjustment of indoor lighting levels. In terms of renewable energy, solar park lights are in use as an eco-friendly solution for outdoor illumination. Block X also sets a pioneering example for other buildings on campus through the installation of smart metering, which helps track and record electricity consumption effectively.
[Photo]: Block X’s innovative and aesthetic LED integrated handrails
[Photo]: Solar park lights demonstrate renewable energy in action
Finally, to achieve higher-level targets for water conservation, dual flushing cisterns, automatic sensors for water taps and urinals are used in all washrooms in Block X. Solar-sensing automatic sprinklers and a drip irrigation system are also employed for landscape irrigation to reduce water wastage at Block X.
Footbridge Linking the Main Campus and Block Z
To enhance the overall accessibility of the campus, an iconic footbridge linking the PolyU Main Campus to Block Z is scheduled for completion in late 2019. In addition to improved pedestrian connectivity, the footbridge is also planned as the initial step of a cycle route pilot scheme to test engineering-related activities for the long-term campus master plan.
[Photo]: The iconic footbridge linking the Main Campus with Block Z (construction in progress)