The facility is slated to be the first Smithsonian Museum building to secure the certification. It imbibes several green features such as use of a high-performance exterior and interior building management system. It also features about 150 species of native vegetation inside its landscape which adds to its sustainability. The plantations represent upland hardwood forest, lowland freshwater wetlands, eastern meadowlands and traditional croplands.
The landscape of the museum is designed in such a way so as to run low on water consumption. It is equipped with systems which help upgrade the quality of its interior air. In addition, the facility utilises offsite and onsite energy from renewable sources while incorporating an efficient reclaiming and waste management system.
