7.22.08 | Zeeland, MI | Herman Miller's Education Solutions team's March 2008 survey revealed that student expectations surpassed technology as the number one factor driving new needs for higher education learning spaces. Comparisons from a previous 2006 survey show that student expectations rose to 37% from 9% in 2006 and technology rose to 22% from 7%.  The survey also found that the most valuable aspect of effective learning spaces is the support of student and faculty engagement. Further survey results covered suggestions for higher education presidents, characteristics of effective learning spaces, and characteristics of ineffective learning spaces.

7.17.08 | Minneapolis, MN | InformeDesign published two research summaries:

• Exploring the Use of Tools for Urban Sustainability in European Cities, by authors J.O. Jensen and M. Elle, analyzes case study findings from the Practical Evaluation for Urban Sustainability (PETUS) project in Europe (www.petus.eu.com)
• The Built Environment and the Ecosphere: A Global Perspective, by William E. Rees, discusses the current unsustainable use of natural resources and explores ways to avert a crisis.

7.16.08 | Washington, DC | AIA released the results of a study it commissioned on Local Leaders in Sustainability: Green Counties. The study looked at 200 of the most populous counties in 2008 representing more than half of the country. Working in conjunction with the National Association of Counties, the AIA spoke to planners, building officials, and sustainability managers across the country, resulting in a total response rate of 88%. The results show:

• 39 counties have a green building program
• 25.6% of the sample population in iin counties with green building programs
• an additional nine counties are in a more advanced stage of developing green building programs