What: Our air conditioning system changes the airflow to areas as air conditioning needs change due to the amount of people or lighting in the room. The system also monitors carbon dioxide levels to provide more air when needed.
Why: Changing airflow reduces the amount of energy used when rooms are empty but also provides the fresh air needed for a room full of people.
Air Quality & VOCs
What: VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds, or air pollutants. Glues, sealants, and paints used in the building are Low-VOC, meaning they have very few air pollutants, or fumes. Chemicals are stored in areas with separate ventilation so that chemical fumes do not escape into the building.
Why: Low-VOC items have fewer fumes, which means a healthier environment for our staff and visitors.
What: Green roofs reduce heat islands. Heat Islands are city areas that are up to 10 degrees hotter than surrounding countryside. When plant life is replaced with concrete and cars and buildings release warm air, a heat island forms.
Why: Heat Islands can cause illness, increase energy needs for air conditioning, and increase the creation of smog. With plants on the roof, our building releases less heat.
Be Green At Home: Have you noticed that on a hot day your driveway is much hotter than the grass in your yard? The driveway is a mini heat island: it stores more heat than the grass does.