Caring for the environment requires smart choices in building design and everyday life. The Environmental Education Center is a place to educate and involve residents, community and environmental leaders, building professionals, and educators in environmental responsibility and demonstrate sustainability concepts and practices.
Each member of our regional community, from resident to corporate organizations to public entities, play a vital role in protecting and preserving our environment. Sustainability is an approach to decision-making that integrates environmental and social concerns into business and economic decisions; considering more than cost, performance and aesthetics. The core issues are long-term durability, energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction. The Environmental Education Center will be Plano’s first green building, designed to incorporate as many sustainable practices as feasible.
Sustainable Design Features include:
 |
Architectural site orientation and layout plan for maximum energy efficiency (roof overhangs, east-west orientation, shade)
|
| |
Use of recycled/renewable/nontoxic materials (low VOC paint, recycled carpet, tiles, fly ash concrete, glass)
|
| |
Energy efficient and renewable energy technologies (solar panels, natural lighting, photovoltaics)
|
| |
Water conservation (rainwater harvesting, gray water recycling, low-flow water system, efficient irrigation)
|
| |
Educational applications (interpretive displays, interactive programs, regional training site, workshops, public presentations)
|
| |
Utilization of site’s natural features (creek habitat and environmental discovery gardens)
|
