The building, located on the old Warren Tank Plant site, features numerous "green" design benefits that will reduce overall potable water usage by 20%, and reduce energy usage by 35%. The design also uses more natural day lighting, storm water for irrigation rather than potable water, renewable energy on-site, sustainable wood sources, regionally manufactured materials, and low-emitting materials to reduce building toxics.
All materials used in the building's construction were generated, manufactured, and shipped from sources less than 500 miles away. This reduced the transportation and air emissions related to the building process and supported area businesses and their economy. The office wall panes were all recycled and refurbished to an "as-new" appearance at an estimated savings of $717,000 to the state.
"The new Southeast Michigan district office is a demonstration of the DEQ's commitment to being a leader in promoting environmentally sound business practices," says director Steven E. Chester. "I hope that we see many more of these 'green' buildings being constructed not only by the state, but by private companies across Michigan."
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