University of California, Irvine and American Campus Communities Open Sustainable Student Living Center - Seite 2

With floor plans designed with students in mind, Plaza Verde’s units start at just $789 per person. Students moving in this fall are enjoying fully furnished apartments, state-of-the-art fitness centers, multi-purpose rooms and outdoor pavilions. The Academic Success Center, group and private study lounges help students prepare for success.

ACC's partnership with UCI began in 2004 with the delivery of its first student housing development on campus. Since then, ACC has developed and manages more than 6,000 beds in five communities. This is the seventh project within the University of California system for ACC.

“We are very proud of our ongoing partnership with American Campus Communities to create this award-winning sustainable and healthy living environment offered at affordable prices,” said Willie Banks, vice chancellor for student affairs at UCI. “This first-of-its-kind project at UCI is the start of our plans for continuous sustainable innovations moving forward.”

Plaza Verde includes an all-electric system that eliminates the need for natural gas and uses new proven technology, such as heat pump water heaters and an electric outdoor grill system, among other efficient appliances. In addition to offsetting the annual energy usage of Building A with onsite renewable energy, it provides a host of alternative transportation options including bike storage to accommodate more than 760 bikes. The location provides access to several public transit lines and close walking proximity to community services and basic human needs. Native, drought tolerant landscaping combined with recycled water helps to reduce the demand on potable water by 100 percent. Water conserving plumbing fixtures installed in the building also contribute to significant water reduction in potable water usage.

Adding to the eco-friendly elements, are building materials that limit the negative impact associated with raw material extraction and transportation. For example, all of the wood at Building A is either non-tropical, reclaimed, or sustainably harvested in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

“It’s amazing that this community was built for students, like me, who are passionate about sustainability but also in need of affordability,” said Randy Yan, a third-year biological sciences major and president of the Associated Students of the University of California, Irvine (ASUCI). “From the inviting entrance with the grand staircase to the quality amenities like the academic success center, Plaza Verde provides a beautiful, comfortable sustainable living space while providing the necessary academic resources. It’s a win-win.”