The certification process began in 2005 during reconstruction of the Schuman campus, and includes use of efficient lighting fixtures, occupancy sensors and dual level switching to conserve energy, a heat recovery system in the labs that captures heat and humidity exhaust to warm incoming air within the ventilation system, use of low VOC emitting materials, and expansion of the recycling program to significantly increase the amount of waste recycled.
In addition, Ecolab sought to preserve the surrounding natural environment of the campus, which includes wooded stands of trees and prairie grass, during and after construction by engaging with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to develop a forestry and wildlife stewardship plan.
The LEED Green Building Rating System is the established certification system, providing third-party verification that a building was designed and built with energy savings, water efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources in mind, in order to reduce its environmental impact. The LEED-EB designation is awarded to existing buildings which have been retrofitted to meet LEED standards.
