The Athena Institute – unparalleled excellence in fostering a sustainable built environment
WELCOME
At the Athena Institute, we believe that better information and tools are critical to achieving a sustainable built environment. We also believe that a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach to sustainability is the only way to create a level playing field for the vast array of building materials in use.
From our Canadian offices, and through our US affiliate, Athena Institute International, the not-for-profit Athena organization undertakes and directs innovative research and development activities that allow architects, engineers and others to factor environmental considerations into the design process from the conceptual stage onward.
Over the past decade, the Institute has developed groundbreaking software, world-class databases and customized consulting services–as well as a worldwide reputation in the field of sustainable building and LCA. We also offer the only tools in North America for the life cycle assessment of whole buildings and assemblies:
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Allows users to evaluate whole buildings and assemblies based on internationally recognized LCA methodology. |
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Provides instant LCA results for more than 400 common building assemblies (free of charge). |
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Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an internationally recognized approach to evaluating the impacts that a product or process has on the environment over the course of its entire life. For buildings, LCA considers materials, assemblies or even whole structures from extraction through manufacturing, installation, use, maintenance and disposal or recycling, in terms of quantifiable impact indicators such as global warming potential. It allows design and construction professionals to make the kind of informed, scientifically-based choices that lead to better buildings.
Mayo School
The Mayo School in Mayo, Yukon was selected for full assessment by the Canadian National Team in the Green Building Challenge 2002 process. Life cycle assessment of the building was conducted by the Athena Institute.
Clearview Elementary School
Clearview Elementary School in Hanover, PA was assessed by the US National Team in the Green Building Challenge 2002 process. Life cycle assessment of the building was conducted by the Athena Institute.
Jackson Triggs Estate Winery
The Jackson Triggs Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario was selected for full assessment by the Canadian National Team in the Green Building Challenge 2002 process. Life cycle assessment of the building was conducted by the Athena Institute.
Red River College
Red River College, Princess Street Campus, in Winnipeg, Manitoba was selected for full assessment by the Canadian National Team in the Green Building Challenge 2002 process. Life cycle assessment of the building was conducted by the Athena Institute.
Battery Park City 18A, 'The Solaire'
Battery Park City 18A, 'The Solaire' in New York City, NY was assessed by the US National Team in the Green Building Challenge 2002 process. Life cycle assessment of the building was conducted using the Institute's Environmental Impact Estimator software.
site updated 10 June, 2008