New Science Building
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences faculty have played a key role in shaping the university’s new state-of-the art, LEED-certified science center, which will open in 2010.
Not only will the building have many “green” features, but construction has also been undertaken in ways that protect the environment. Much of the wood used in the structure was obtained from local sources; the previous parking lot was recycled into clean asphalt and fill dirt; and a large percentage of the construction waste is being recycled rather sent to a landfill.
When completed, the science center will feature a highly energy efficient heating and air conditioning system, which will provide significant energy savings. The building was also designed to maximize use of natural light, and many rooms will feature motion-sensor lighting, so power is never wasted in empty rooms. In addition, all faculty offices will have windows that can be opened, to improve indoor air quality, and each floor will have a built-in recycling station.
