The Langeveld Building on campus Woudestein of Erasmus University Rotterdam has won the Honourable EWF-award, for the successful implementation of natural ventilation in the building. Last Tuesday, the prize was presented to Marijke Weustink-van Ditzhuijzen, Director Real Estate & Facilities at Erasmus University Rotterdam: "I consider this award a compliment to my team and my predecessors. This is an extra incentive to continue our efforts with sustainability and innovation in all our real estate."
The EWF climate system in Langeveld Building is based on a natural ventilation concept using sun, wind and water. It works with a solar chimney which, in combination with a humidification system and venturi hood, ensures a natural flow of fresh air. This system is very energy-efficient and ensures a healthy and comfortable indoor climate in the building. Research has shown that this system uses 20% less energy than traditional ventilation systems.
Combined with all the other sustainable choices made in Langeveld Building, such as solar panels, this results in an Energy Performance Coefficient of less than zero. This means that the building can meet its own energy needs and even become energy-positive. Thanks to the integrated design approach, no additional costs are involved in realising this installation concept, and because no large installation spaces are needed compared to traditional air handling units, more square metres are left for teaching.
About the Honourable EWF-award
The Honourable EWF Prize was awarded for the first time this year, by the Earth, Wind and Fire lab (EWF lab), a foundation that builds on the work of Ben Bronsema. In his doctoral research, he developed the Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF) concept, which ensures an energy-efficient, but also healthy and comfortable indoor climate in buildings. Langeveld Building is the first educational building where this natural ventilation system has been applied. Ben Bronsema: "EUR receives the Honourable EWF Award for the bold application of the EWF concept in Langeveld Building as an early adapter".
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