National ASHRAE President Speaks in Orlando

5/15/2007

ORLANDO, FL – The Central Florida chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) hosted its national president, Terry E. Townsend, PE, on May 10 who delivered a presentation titled “The ASHRAE Promise: A Sustainable Future.” The event at the Orlando Museum of Art drew over 150 of Central Florida’s leading engineers, building owners and industry professionals. Townsend has met with leaders in 21 countries to discuss ASHRAE’s role in addressing the environmental issues that government leaders, architects, engineers, developers and owners must consider to ensure a sustainable world for future generations. Association sponsors for the event included the Central Florida chapters of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Corporate sponsors included Aqua Air Products, Mechanical Services of Central Florida, Inc. (MSI), TLC Engineering for Architecture, and Trane.

Townsend outlined the challenges society will face in coming generations, including renewable energy and the environment. He called on engineers, architects and owners to embrace the challenge of designing, building, operating and maintaining facilities that reduce negative impacts on the environment. ASHRAE’s initiatives include more stringent energy efficiency standards, reduction in water consumption and significant reductions in carbon emissions. Nationally and internationally, ASHRAE is coordinating with governments and organizations to develop strategies for new and existing buildings. The initiative will also be a primary goal of the Central Florida chapter of ASHRAE.