MBA’s CEO visits site of major new sustainability, energy and environment complex

Our CEO, Nigel Hunton, visited the University of Colorado this month to learn more about the team’s vision to create a unique learning environment designed to inspire collaborative, interdisciplinary research around sustainability. He met University Chancellor Phil Di Stefani and Gifford Miller, Professor of Geological sciences.

Nigel was invited to explore the site of the university’s planned Sustainability, Energy and Environment Complex (SEEC), where three research institutes, along with federal partners and academic departments will use cutting edge laboratory equipment and state-of-the-art techniques to build momentum on pressing circular economy and sustainability issues. The university aims to have the new complex ready for action in 2015.

University of Colorado Professor Tom Cech describes the proposed collaboration as ‘fruitful collisions of people, research, and ideas’, while his fellow Professor James White foresees the creation of ‘academic neighbourhoods’ under one roof, allowing for maximum mingling and interdisciplinary interactions. The groups housed at the SEEC campus are currently spread across 17 buildings, he explains.

“Our vision for SEEC is to help guide the world towards sustainability in an elegant and innovative fashion,” White says.

The 145,000 sq ft LEED-certified laboratory building will be constructed using an open lab design concept to encourage idea exchange and collaboration. Meanwhile, a 289,000 sq ft office building will be retrofitted and equipped as offices for SEEC tenants.

The university still needs to raise $15 million for the construction of the complex. White is launching a major fundraising campaign to help meet these costs. Please click here if you’re interested in donating to the building fund.