2. Water Efficiency
A rainwater vegetated glen surrounds the building and collects rainwater draining from nearby parking areas. Native plants reduce the need for irrigation by half. No potable water is used for irrigation. The building uses 30 percent less water through the use of low-flow plumbing fixtures and valves.

3. Energy and Atmosphere
Solar photovoltaic roof panels (288) provide five percent of the power needed to operate the center.
Energy-efficient lighting, mechanical equipment, insulation of exterior walls and roof, windows with low-E and high-performance glass and air lock vestibules at all entrances and radiant heating and cooling built into the floor to regulate building temperatures contributed points toward the Gold LEED certification.

4. Materials and Resources
Seventy-five percent of construction waste was diverted from disposal. Silt fencing, sediment traps and basins prevented pollution of the surrounding area. FSC-certified wood was specified for half the value of the wood used for the project. Trees removed from the site created planters, display stands for bonsai exhibits and tables for plant exhibits. A walnut wall was created for the Lenhardt Library. Ground tires are used as flooring in open office areas and metal shavings fabricated into bathroom countertops.

5. Indoor Environmental Quality
Clerestory windows provide natural light. Pitched ceilings direct natural light into interior open offices.
Building materials were selected to have no or low-volatile organic compounds, such as paints and coatings, adhesives and sealants and composite wood and agrifiber products.
Segregated areas were provided for hazardous chemicals or gases with containment drains and high level of filtration. Duct work parts were kept sealed before installation so that they would be clean and dust free when installed.

6. Innovation and Design
Monitoring equipment installed on the green roof garden will help plant conservation scientists measure the roof?EUR??,,????'?????<