The California Academy of Sciences built a new LEED Platinum certified green building that uses 30-35% less energy and 30% less water than a conventional building. It generates 5-10% of its electricity through solar panels and uses natural ventilation, radiant heating/cooling, and natural light to reduce energy usage. The building recycles 98% of rainwater and utilized recycled materials like steel, concrete, and wood in its construction to minimize raw material usage. The Academy aims to teach visitors about sustainability through exhibits, programs, and using the green building itself as an educational tool.

1. Sustainability at the California Academy of Sciences Aaron Pope Manager of Sustainability Programs

13. An aquarium, rainforest, Inside the Academy… A rainforest, an aquarium, a planetarium and a natural history museum, under a living roof