In 2005 the NRD built an addition and extensively remodeled its existing building at 3125 Portia Street, Lincoln, using "green" concepts wherever possible. The term green building describes the use of materials that have one or more of the following characteristics: non-toxic, recycled content, resource efficient, long life cycle or environmentally conscious. The benefits of green building practices are numerous and lasting. They lead to a healthier work environment through the use of non-toxic materials, help the economy through increased efficiency and utilization of recycled materials and the green building practices are less wasteful.

Wall material made from sorghum.

The NRD staff is pleased with the new building addition and with the opportunity it provides to raise environmental consciousness. Ed Ubben, the NRD Projects Coordinator, says: “I’m glad we did it because it’s the right way to do it. In the long run it will save the tax payers money and help preserve the environment,” and the NRD staff gets a beautiful and healthy workplace!

Recycled denim insulation. Recognize your old jeans?

Here are a few of the green building materials and devices:

• Carpet, linoleum flooring, tile flooring, and cabinets all made of recycled or natural materials. These materials also have long life spans.
• Insulation made from recycled denim. Cellulose insulation for a healthier workplace.
• Paint and carpets with low VOC (chemicals that quickly evaporate into the air and could be harmful)
• Electric wall switches with occupancy sensors and daylight controls
• Dual flush water closets (toilets)
• Faucets with lower gallons per minute flow to save water.
• Insulated ductwork to save energy
• Windows replaced with new, thermally broken clad windows with insulated, Low-E glass.
• Skylight for the use of natural light
• Low maintence buffalo grass; doesn't require as much water
• The use of local brick to keep down the use of resources for transportation
• Geo-thermal heat pumps to lessen the burden on resources. More energy efficient than normal furnace.

Energy efficient windows help conserve	Grasses preserved in resin make beautiful and interesting decorations	Motion sensors save electricy by turning off lights when no one is in the area

 

The skylight provides natural, healthy, sunlight	Staircase of new wing	Top floor of new wing

Find out more about building green by clicking on the following links:

Green Building Resource Guide
United States Green Building Council
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
Building Green