Working in a green building feels good

One employee at the Environmental Protection Agency describes what it's like to work in a green building.

Thu, Feb 11 2010 at 11:31 AM

Related Topics:

Energy Efficiency, EPA, Green Building, LEED

Photos: EPA

Most of my green building news is specific to the building’s themselves — energy efficiency, water conservation efforts, LEED certification, and so on. However, every now and then I run across some information about what it is like to work in a green building. Sure, studies have shown

that employees who work in a green and presumably healthier environment are happier and healthier. Wendy Dew, a longtime employee of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), agrees and actually blogged about it for the EPA.

In her post, What Life is Like Working in a Green Building, Wendy says, “Working in a green building is the only way to work in my mind. I have more energy throughout the day which I attribute to the environmentally healthy aspects of our building. I have the pleasure of knowing my work day has also been less of an impact to the environment.” Source: Greenversations

Wendy works at the EPA’s Region 8 Headquarters in Denver, Colo. The building features a green roof, which serves two purposes: reducing the heat island effect and managing stormwater. The building also relies on windows and other measures to maximize natural lighting, uses low-flow plumbing, and sourced materials that have high recycled content. The building is also pursuing LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance (LEED EB: O&M) Gold certification.

In addition to feeling more energetic while working in a green building and understanding that the building is better for the environment, Wendy is also thankful that the EPA is practicing what they preach by building green.

The opinions expressed by MNN Bloggers and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not reflect the opinions of MNN.com. While we have reviewed their content to make sure it complies with our Terms and Conditions, MNN is not responsible for the accuracy of any of their information.

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Comment: 1

Steve Feb 23 2010 at 7:57 AM

This is very interesting! I'm sure a of people would love to work in a green building or even live in a green home. When it comes to green products window films(aka window tints) are a great addition since it is one of the most convenient way to reduce energy consumption. Window film is that it blocks radiant heat flow, keeping hot air out in the summer making it easier for your air conditioner to do its job. You can ask and seek help about your tinting needs at www.TintBuyer.com. They provide free

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technical support to homeowners and businesses. Getting the “right window tint” is not only practical but also eco-friendly.