In more sustainability news, the University of Texas at Austin has constructed its first certified, bona fide, environmentally friendly building. The new Research Office Complex at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus has been officially certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program of the U.S. Green Building Council. In order to become LEED-certified, the project had to meet goals on everything from water efficiency to energy use to indoor air quality. The project reused or recycled 95% of the waste generated by the construction. The parking lot features recharge stations employees can use once they start driving their electric cars to work. The office complex has a reflective roof, which stops the radiant heat of the sun from cooking the building. And they used nontoxic materials inside the building, including carpets made of recycled rubber and yarn. “The certification sends a message that UT Austin cares about the health of the building’s occupants,” said Rick Fedrizzi, the CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council, in a press release. “Everyone’s comfort, safety and well-being will benefit from the fresh air and natural daylight.”
This article appears in November 9 • 2007.