Campus architecture goes green with ECSU’s Science Building

For $46 million, Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU) flaunts a modified colossal green Science Building that spreads over 174,000 square feet. This is part of a national trend to go green in campus architecture. Designed to have more healthful interiors, take advantage of natural light, use recycled materials and conserve energy and water, this educational structure follows the adage, “Practice before you preach” with a green flair. The offices and classrooms ring the building’s outer rim to take advantage of natural light while the furniture inside is locally made from recycled materials. Water is conserved as pipes carry recycled water and water-free urinals are eco-friendly.

The sensors monitor air quality and gauge room occupancy to turn lights on and off. And to top it all, a flat-screen TV in the Science Building’s lobby displays the energy consumption of the building and compares it with other academic buildings on campus.
Eastern professors say they are pleased with the state-of-the-art facility, which replaces 1970s-era lab and office buildings scattered around campus.



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