Kent County Animal Shelter announced as Innovative Project 2nd place winner
The Innovative Project Award is designed to honor projects that break the mold of standard building construction, design, and operations. The projects in question exemplify innovation and astute practices that reflect the goals of the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan (USGBC-WM)’s programs. The Innovative Project winner this year was chosen in a close vote between our Board of Directors and Staff. The USGBC-WM is excited to announce Kent County Animal Shelter as the second-place winner for their Reducing Pathogens in Animal Shelter Air project.
Kent County Animal Shelter partnered with Hedrick Associates to conduct a pilot project aimed at improving indoor air quality. The shelter, which houses a variety of animals, often faces challenges related to pathogen exposure due to the nature of its operations.
To establish a baseline, 46 air samples were collected on January 18, 2024. Following the installation of Hedrick's pathogen focus equipment on January 19, 2024, additional air samples were taken on March 18, 2024. A remarkable 89% reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs), including mold, fungi, bacteria, and viruses, was observed during this two-month period.
One specific concern in animal shelters is Bordetella, a respiratory disease commonly known as "Kennel Cough." In the areas where Bordetella testing was conducted, an 88% reduction in CFUs was achieved. This significant reduction can improve animal health, reduce the need for isolation and medical treatment, and enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, the pilot project resulted in a substantial reduction in animal odor. The overall smell of the building was significantly improved, despite no changes in cleaning practices or protocols.
The success of this pilot project demonstrates the potential benefits of implementing pathogen reduction systems in various indoor environments, including animal shelters and other occupied buildings. The low cost and substantial results make this technology a compelling solution for improving air quality and overall health.
Kent County Animal Shelter was awarded at our 2024 Annual Party & Leadership Awards Ceremony on December 5, 2024. Hosted by the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan, the evening event was held at the High Five in downtown Grand Rapids. The program included a keynote address by Sandra Lupien, Director, MassTimber@MSU, the Leadership Awards Ceremony, and the celebration of this year’s achievements.
To learn more about the event and to read our 2024 Annual Report visit our Annual Party & Leadership Awards Ceremony Page.