Labs for the 21st Century

Labs for the 21st Century is a voluntary partnership program dedicated to improving the environmental performance of U.S. laboratories. The typical laboratory uses far more energy and water per square foot than the typical office building due to intensive ventilation requirements, and other health and safety concerns. The Labs21 website features information on approaches to sustainable laboratories, tool kits, and case studies. Visit http://www.labs21century.gov/ for more information.

Green Materials: Salvaged, Recycled and Rapidly Renewable Building Materials

When constructing a new facility or renovating an old one project team members should consider the environmental and energy impact of both the construction waste and new materials being used.  There are several businesses and organizations throughout the Northwest that recycle materials such as gypsum walls, posts, brick, beams, doors, etc. diverting such products from the landfill.  Such organizations also provide salvaged materials to be used in new construction and remodels.   When choosing products teams should carefully consider the Life Cycle costs of such items, including cradle to grave energy and environmental impacts.  Another consideration is the type of new materials used.  Rapidly Renewable materials such as bamboo, wheatboard and cork can provide a sustainable alternative to traditional wood flooring and gypsum walls.  There are several resources for learning more about incorporating renewable and salvaged materials in your next construction project.  Visit http://www.buildinggreen.com/menus/ to learn more about product options.

Green Roofs

A green roof, also called an “eco-roof” or “living roof” is an extension of an existing roof, covered with vegetation. It can be located below-, at- or above-grade – but in all cases the plants are never planted directly in the “ground”. Green roofs can not only provide a return on their initial costs, but can also result in a number of economic, environmental, and social benefits; including: savings on heating and cooling, reduction of ambient air temperatures, and reduction of the building’s footprint. Visit the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities at www.greenroofs.net.