Biopharmaceutical company Bristol-Myers Squibb’s biologics manufacturing facility in Devens has received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification.

Its 90,000-square-foot laboratory and office building at the same facility received LEED Gold certification in December 2009.

"We are especially pleased to have received this recognition," said Chris Perley, vice president and general manager of Bristol-Myers Squibb Devens operations.

He added: "Our new facility, one of the largest of its kind in the world, demonstrates how Bristol-Myers Squibb is incorporating sustainability into its facilities and operations. The company chose a former military base and consciously designed and constructed the facility in such a way to earn this distinction."

To gain certification, the project used advanced energy modeling during the design. "Through the selection of high efficiency windows, insulation, and high efficiency motors, the manufacturing building is expected to consume 11 percent less energy compared to a building of similar size and use," said Daniel Noberini, associate director of Environment, Health and Safety for the Devens operations.

Some of the environmental highlights of the 183,000-square-foot Devens facility include:

• More than 30 percent of all building materials were manufactured using recycled materials.

• During construction, 89 percent of construction and demolition waste was diverted from landfills and was processed for further recycling.

• Redevelopment of a brownfield site.

• The building has been designed to reduce water consumption by 46 percent compared to a building of similar size and use through the use of ultra-low flow lavatories, low-flow showers and janitor sinks.

• No ozone-depleting substances are used in any of the building’s heating and cooling or fire suppression systems.

• Preferred parking for low emitting (hybrid) and fuel efficient vehicles.

• All paints, coatings, indoor adhesives and sealants used were low volatile organic compound (VOC) materials.

• Native plantings in the landscaped areas reduce fertilization and water usage.

• Non-manufacturing areas are cleaned with low VOC cleaners and will continue the site’s green commitment as part of its housekeeping program.