What's In a Green Highrise?

 MetroTower III aims to reach new heights for green building (Journal of Commerce, December 4, 2008) describes this 25-story tower, USGBC's first Canadian pre-certified LEED Platinum core and shell commercial building structure.

Attaining LEED certification will purportedly add $1.5 million to the $170 million project and is expected to reduce annual operating costs by $75,000.

Among the building's green attributes are:

• Large windows, light sensors, heat exchangers, and reliance on renewable energy sources, contributing to energy conservation
• A curved southwest facade to maximize daylight in a nearby outdoor plaza
• Low-e glass that admits more daylight, but less heat
• Collection of rainwater for landscape irrigation and flushing of toilets
• Drought-resistant landscaping and restoration of native habitat
• Replacement of trees removed for construction
• Access to public transportation
• Regional materials and materials with recycled content
• Recycling of construction waste
• Certified woods for finish carpentry
• Shower and lock-up facilities for bicycle commuters

The developers claim a 35% reduction in the building's carbon footprint.