Page 244 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

220 ENERGY CONSERVATION

ADDITIONAL LEED CERTIFICATION DESIGN MEASURES

Half-flush/full-flush lavatories All lavatories at the center have the option of a
half flush or a full flush. This cuts back on water that is wasted when only a full flush
is given as an option every time. Half flushes use half the amount of water a full flush
uses.

Waterless urinals The center’s urinals are all waterless. This saves a significant
amount of potable water.

Foam exterior The center’s foam insulation cuts back on heater and air-conditioner
use and increases the R factor in the exterior walls, making it as energy efficient as
possible.

Lithocrete The center chose to use lithocrete rather than concrete because it is a supe-
rior paving process that blends both “old world” paving finishes such as granite and
stone with innovative paving finishes incorporating select, surface-seeded aggregates.
Carpet from recycled materials All the carpets at the center are made of recy-
cled materials, making them environmentally safe.

Landscape, California-friendly plantings The plants at the center are arranged
such that they go from ice age native California plants on one side of the campus to
modern-day native California plants on the other side of the campus. Native California
plant species are an integral part of the design, allowing the ground cover to blend into
the adjacent nature preserve. These drought-tolerant water-efficient plants are weaved
in a unique and beautiful demonstration garden.

Smart controllers Unlike most water-sprinkler systems, the Center for Water Educa-
tion’s landscape features smart controllers. Operated in conjunction with satellites,
weather dictates the amount, and the system operates. Smart controllers are also avail-
able for residential installation.

Recycled water State-of-the-art technology for irrigation and the use of reclaimed
water is just a couple of the features incorporated into the irrigation plan. Not just any
purple pipe, but a state-of-the-art coiled installation at the roots of the plants makes
this more efficient than most systems.

Braided stream for storm water This stream is the organizing element of the
garden, and it doubles as a drainage channel. Exposing the structure is not only beautiful
but also extremely useful in a natural setting.

Grounds Rock and decomposed granite enrich the color and water efficiency, which
allows the ground cover to blend into the adjacent nature preserve. These elements are
also perfect for residential installations.