November 2005 - Feature Story Sustainable Building & Design
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Major Green-Building Elements
(11/01/2005)
Several elements go into the State of Indiana Forensic and Health Sciences Laboratories in Indianapolis to ensure sustainability:
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East-west orientation allows better adaptation to the heating-cooling impact of the sun.
Site chosen required no demolition, and it is near public transportation to allow employees to come to work without driving.
Daylight harvesting adjusts the level of interior lighting depending on the amount of light coming through the windows.
As much as possible, building products use recycled materials, are locally sourced and promote energy efficiency.
Building materials and furnishings have low emissions of volatile organic compounds.
Contractors take extra care to minimize dust, debris and moisture.
At least 75 percent of construction waste is diverted from landfills.
Extensive paperwork is maintained to document compliance, and key systems are fully inspected and commissioned to ensure that they are functional and installed properly.