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In the past, many business leaders viewed sustainability and profitability as mutually exclusive – if it ' s good for the environment, it ' s bad for business. Yet, over the past decade we’ve seen a growing sense of corporate responsibility and the dawning recognition that being “green” isn’t being broke. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Sustainability supports business success. This is especially true in casino design and operation. The purpose of this paper is to address sustainable design strategies for casinos that help save money. With their high energy needs and frequent remodeling campaigns, casinos offer a unique opportunity for sustainable design initiatives.

The authors detail various sustainable strategies – from using combined heat-and-power systems to streamlined access flooring and ductless air supply combinations. In addition, case studies that offer insights for best practice strategies to enhance building performance and ultimately reduce operational costs are analyzed.

It is found that with the right planning and the right technology, “good for the bottom line and good for the environment” can be achieved through sustainable design.

The paper is believed to be the first of its kind to focus on a range of sustainability initiatives to reduce energy use in casinos. The authors highlight the following design and operational strategies: daylighting, energy-efficient gaming systems and electronic gaming machines, access flooring/ductless air-supply systems, lighting and HVAC retrofits, heat recovery systems, cogeneration plants, solar arrays, fuel cells, and wind-generated power. Not only do these strategies cut operating expenditures and reduce energy demands, they create appealing and comfortable interior environments that enhance patrons’ gaming experience.