Ruby Falls, an EMJ Construction Chattanooga project, is a multi-award winning project. The project was awarded “Sustainable Project of the Year” by the BRIC and was a recipient of the 2019 Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards in the “Building Green” category. Both awards are reflective of the innovative work the EMJ team demonstrated during this project and the high standard of excellence that EMJ strives to deliver.
Ruby Falls is known for their commitment to protecting and preserving the natural wonders of the cave on Lookout Mountain and the resources of the earth for the education, wellbeing and enjoyment of generations to come. They are a leader in tourism sustainability and environmentally-sensitive business practices.
“EMJ is proud to have partnered with Ruby Falls to help turn their ‘seemingly colossal goal’ towards sustainability into a reality through this project,” says Chas Torrence, EVP of EMJ Construction in Chattanooga. ” This project has created numerous benefits for the local community and we are excited that it is being recognized through these prestigious awards.”
The 2019 BRIC awards banquet.
Highlighted below are just a few ways that EMJ partnered with Ruby Falls to demonstrate conservation and sustainability practices throughout the duration of this project:
- Materials and resources were tracked closely during design and construction
- 22,716 tons of rock were excavated during construction and repurposed
- More than75% of all construction waste was recycled
- More than 20% of materials were manufactured within a 500-mile radius
- Recycled content and regionally sourced materials lessened the greenhouse gas emissions
- Indoor air quality management practices were implemented to minimize dust and protect against moisture
In addition to these recent accolades, Ruby Falls is Green Globe Certified and Tennessee Green Hospitality Certified. It is also now on its way to achieving LEED certification. For more information on the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards, visit the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation website.
