
The Santa Monica Civic Center Makes Own Energy 1,711 Views - Click for Larger Image
The Santa Monica Civic Center parking is the first parking space with LEED certified parking structure on the planet says ecofriend. LEED is the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System which is the national standard by which a green building is judged. Buildings are awarded LEED certification by earning credits for green building performance in sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. LEED certification then is a positive step and a signal of commitment to human and environmental health.
Equipped with an array of solar panels that power the building, it makes pretty much its own energy. Add to this the fact that the LEDs that are used to do the lighting around the space and you have one clean combination to go hyper-green. Other sustainable features include a storm drain water treatment system, recycled construction materials and waste, low-VOC paints and coatings, low-e glazing for heating and cooling efficiency, and energy efficient mechanical systems. Designed by Moore Ruble Yudell Architects and Planners, t provides 900 spaces spread through six levels of above grade parking and one and a half levels of below grade parking. The building looks more like a green hub at this point than just a parking lot. I bet it is a lot greener than most homes across the country and that in itself is a fine achievement. Just hope one does not have to spin around in circles in this!
(ecofriend.org)
References: ecofriend.org
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