The Sciences Building (SCI) was designed to be green from its very construction, which was an important factor in the facility’s LEED certification. Over 70% of the waste generated from the demolition of the old “Art Barn” on this site, and construction itself, was recycled to prevent it from ending up in a landfill. Over 40% of construction materials came from within 500 miles of UTD, greatly reducing the pollution generated from their transportation. Over 20% of the the building’s materials are recycled.
SCI’s roof and 90% of the surrounding hardscape reflect back sunlight to help mitigate the “heat island” effect common to many urban areas. The building was designed to reduce the energy required for lighting and cooling, and the surrounding landscape and irrigation system was arranged to cut water usage by over 50%.