Green Features

Green features of the new MBC at State and Kinzie Streets will include:

• A white, soy-based roof which will reduce the urban heat island effect;
• CO2 sensors for demand-controlled ventilation to enhance indoor environmental quality;
• On the east side of the lobby, daylighting with dimming sensors to reduce the quantity of electric lighting required;
• Efficient plumbing fixtures to reduce water consumption;
• Materials of high post-consumer and post-industrial recycled content, rapidly renewable materials, and locally manufactured materials;
• High efficiency building envelope with extra wall and roof insulation and high performance glazing system that exceeds the requirements of the Chicago Energy Code;
• High efficiency HVAC system with automated energy management system;
• Energy efficiency approximately 40% better than the Chicago Energy Code; and
• Healthy materials that do not emit high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are sources of indoor pollution.