U.S. EPA Science and Technology Center

Project Summary

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Kansas City, Kansas

Project Type:
Laboratory - Offices

Size:
72,100 Square Feet

Year Constructed / Occupied:
2002 / 2003

Project Details

Laboratories use more energy and water on a square foot basis than most any other building type. In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency chose to design a building that emphasized sustainability and energy efficiency. Energy savings for the Science and Technology Center are projected to be almost 50% greater than a typical laboratory building, due to careful selection and design of the HVAC system, electric lighting system, and reliance on daylighting. Local materials were used for construction and furnishing, and recycling diverted 72% of the construction waste from loose landfills. Significant attention was paid to occupant comfort, including extensive use of daylighting; encouragement of alternative transportation; sequencing of building finishing to minimize its impact on indoor air quality; and xeriscaping. The project earned a Gold Level rating under the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system.

Sustainable Design Features

LEED v. 2.0 Gold Certification
Use of carbon dioxide sensors in the conference, lunch, and reception areas ensures that air flow is increased only when necessary to accommodate additional people in these rooms.
Replacement of laboratory canopy hoods with smaller, variable air volume (VAV) fume hoods.
Motion-detector lighting controls installed in all laboratories.
A high-ceiling, open-bay office with large clerestory windows to daylight the space.
High performance glazing for all windows.
Rooftop rainwater collection system water used for plant irrigation.
Low-VOC paint, adhesives, glues, carpet, and floor tiles.