Philip Merrill Environmental Center

Sited on 31 acres of the Chesapeake Bay shoreline in Annapolis, Md., the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s (CBF) headquarters, stands as a global model of energy conservation and sustainable building techniques. The Center earned a LEED^® platinum rating from the U.S. Green Building Council, the highest rating offered, making this facility one of the nation’s “greenest” office buildings.

Every aspect of the building was designed to reflect CBF’s mission to “Save the Bay” through resource restoration and protection, environmental advocacy and education. Building materials and systems were specifically chosen that met strict environmentally-friendly standards. For example, the building’s beams are parallam-strand lumber, which is constructed from new growth, regenerable wood. Each member is 65’wide and weighs between 8 and 9 tons. Concrete from demolition of the site’s previous buildings was also recycled for use in roadbeds. Rooftop cisterns capture rainwater for hand washing and fire suppression, and composting toilets reduce nutrient pollution.

Approximately 30 percent of the building’s energy load is provided through building-integrated or directly connected renewable energy sources. To maximize energy efficiency, natural ventilation takes advantage of the bay breezes to cool the building without relying completely on air conditioning. When sensors determine the outdoor climate is suitable, the mechanical system shuts down and motor-operated windows open. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) are used for the building’s walls and ceilings, which greatly improve its envelope performance and decreases energy demands. These panels are used as an alternative to conventional framing, requiring considerably less wood. In addition, computers tell employees when, in the interest of saving energy, they should open or close windows. Photo sensors turn off the lights as well when sufficient natural light is shining through the glass walls.

As a result of many of these positive environmental measures, the building reduces air pollution by using 66 percent less energy than a typical office building of the same size.