New Exact Sciences Facility Showcases Environmental Leadership

By Sarah Kohlbeck

Exact Sciences’ Discovery Campus laboratory and warehouse on Madison’s near west side is a showcase for resource efficiency and climate leadership. Opening in summer 2019, the Exact Sciences building has earned LEED Gold certification.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGB), is the most extensively used green building rating system in the world and is recognized globally as a merit of success.

As a global leader in cancer diagnostics, Exact Sciences is working hard in the fight against cancer while also prioritizing the care of their employees and the environment.

Kevin Conroy, the chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences, expresses these values; “Our passion for doing things the right way extends to all areas of our business. It is a huge honor to achieve LEED Gold certification, knowing this world-class facility will help us keep up the fight against cancer at the same time it cares for our employees and the environment.”

Exact Sciences priority towards implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions that promote efficiency and sustainability led them to achieve LEED Gold certification.

Outstanding features of the Exact Sciences’ laboratory and warehouse consist of:

• Energy Savings – 37.3% annual energy cost savings compared to standard building design through the use of efficient equipment and management.
• Water Efficiency – 73.5% of potable water used in bathroom facilities and irrigation is replaced by a 30,000-gallon stormwater collection tank.
• Transportation Options – Sustainable commuting is encouraged through the provision of charging stations for hybrid and electric vehicles, a conveniently located bus top, and bike-friendly building features.
• Healthy Materials – Chemicals that impact indoor air quality were minimized through the vital and conscious selection of high quality, green building materials.
• Green Space – Mental and physical employee wellness is encouraged through the development of walking paths while native wildlife is protected through habitat restoration projects.
• Waste Reduction – 94.9% of construction waste was diverted from landfills during the building process through purposeful efforts to reduce debris. 

Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO of USGB praised Exact Sciences; “The work of innovative building projects like Exact Sciences’ is a fundamental driving force in transforming the way our buildings are built, designed, and operated. Buildings that achieve LEED certification are lowering carbon emissions, reducing operating costs, and conserving resources while prioritizing sustainable practices and human health.”

Exact Sciences’ project is a great example of how Dane County businesses are leading on efficiency and climate action. The Office of Energy & Climate Change is excited to share climate success stories like this one. 

• Do you have an environmental success story you would like to share with us? Let us know! 
• Earn public recognition for your efforts by applying for our Climate Champions awards.

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