Healthy Environment
**This page is currently being updated**
Resiliency focuses on reducing vulnerabilities in the connections between ecological health and human social systems. PCC has incorporated equity into the heart of the 2021 of the Climate Action Plan by centering people when creating benefits and solutions to the climate crisis, ensuring that equity is a focus rather than an afterthought.
Better Air Quality
PCC has committed to purchasing products and furniture that reduce indoor air pollution caused by toxic chemicals. This supports a healthy indoor environment and is better for occupant health.
Bicycle Parking
Bicycles are a great mode of active transit to reduce reliance on single occupancy vehicles (SOV’s). Providing bicycle parking incentivizes more community members to bike to campus which improves health, while reducing noise, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from SOV’s. [link to sustainability map]
Green Cleaning
PCC is committed to purchasing non-toxic green cleaning products when possible. This is healthier for both custodians and building occupants and better for the environment.
Low VOC Furniture
Furniture can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which often contain carcinogens. PCC purchases low-emitting furniture that contains little VOCs to improve indoor air quality and human health.
Native Planting
Native plants occur naturally in the place where they evolved without the intervention of non-indigenous peoples. These plants require less maintenance and resource inputs, since they would naturally grow in the environment they’re placed. This reduces the amount of resources used, such as water and fertilizer, and supports natural habitats.
Natural Ventilation
Instead of relying on energy-intensive air conditioning, natural ventilation allows for cool air to enter the building without consuming energy. When conditions are right, automated windows open to cool the building by bringing air from the outdoors. Natural ventilation systems allow constant fresh air and can help prevent airborne viruses.
Near Public Transportation
Single occupant vehicle use (SOV) is one of the highest sources of greenhouse gas emissions at PCC and nationwide. PCC supports public transportation and improves equitable access to our facilities, by locating new buildings near public transit.
Outside Views to Nature
Through large windows, building occupants have a direct line of sight to the outdoors. Connecting with the outdoors is important when inside to improve human health, wellbeing and comfort.
