The 2023 Buildings Conference is quickly approaching and BuiltWorlds is excited to facilitate important discussions surrounding the AEC industry featuring expert insight from leaders in the field today. One focal point of this event is the need to make sustainability a fundamental pillar of the industry. A considerable portion of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions are from the built world because of resistance to change and weariness towards associated upfront costs. With such a vast amount of smart technology available today, implementing sustainable action is not only extremely accessible, but also favorable from an environmental, societal, economic, and reputational standpoint.
Michael Ellch, Senior Vice President of Related Midwest is a leading force within sustainable real estate development and will be the keynote speaker at the 2023 Buildings Conference. He has extensive experience in managing multibillion-dollar high-profile developments, including The 78. Ellch’s commitment to sustainability and innovation make him and Related Companies a valuable asset within the industry.
In 2022, Related released an Environmental, Social, & Governance Report that discussed the development of their projects from these lenses. The company designs developments with their environmental footprint in mind with a balance of density, ample amounts of green space, and LEED certification. Related also takes sustainable action by implementing efficient design with retrofit standards and renewable energy. The minimization of water use within projects is another core solution and includes water capture and reclamation for reuse. Related remains vigilant of climate change and its trajectory and they are evaluating their emissions and seeking out technology and solutions to improve it nationwide within their projects.
An exciting development in the works at Related Midwest is The 78, which is transforming 62 acres of underdeveloped riverfront land into a mixed-use space. There will be almost 13 million square feet of dynamic office space, residential, retail, hospitality, restaurants, music venues, and even a cultural, recreational, and educational facility. A notable feature is 12 acres of public green space–including a 7-acre park and a half-mile promenade connecting Ping Tom Park to the south. Something special about this development is the increase of accessibility between the South Side and downtown, with a new pedestrian and bike-friendly road to connect the areas. The 78 will be a hub for transportation boasting a new CTA Red Line Subway stop, a riverfront water taxi stop, connection to the commuter railway, and road access.
Another development in the works at Related Midwest is The Row in Fulton Market. The Row represents the neighborhood’s unique character and charm driven by creativity and innovation that put the area on the map. This 495-foot-tall building will feature 300 units, along with retail space on the ground floor.
Looking ahead, the need to implement sustainable initiatives within the construction industry is continually growing. To foster a sustainable industry means that there will be a reduced environmental impact, lower operating costs, and an increased promotion of social equity. The built world should be made to last, and without a habitable earth, there is no foundation for the innovative industry.
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