Photo: Mostue & Associates
Recycled Content MaterialRecycled materials have been prevented from becoming waste. This reduces the amount of materials stored in landfills and the amount of new raw materials used for new products. Recycled materials were used throughout Trolley Square in the countertops, concrete and roofing.
Water-Permeable Walkways and Parking AreasWater-permeable materials reduce storm-water runoff by allowing water to soak into the ground and naturally filter sediment and pollutants. Trolley Square uses concrete pavers that are spaced as to allow water to drain from the plaza into the underground storm water retention tanks.
Urban heat islands are developed areas that are significantly warmer than their undeveloped surroundings as a result of surfaces that store the sun’s heat. These heat islands require more energy to cool and increase the load on cooling systems. Light-colored paving at Trolley Square and landscaped areas help to keep the heat down in the community. The white roofs reflect light and keep heat from being absorbed by the building.
Construction waste accounts for roughly 30% of landfill content. Trolley Square was built using a panelized construction method, which reduces waste by engineering pre-measured wall sections at the factory, rather than cutting them down to size on-site, which used less lumber. Trolley Square’s construction-waste management program recycled 90% of the construction and demolition debris.
Reducing, reusing and recycling building materials conserves natural resources and the costs associated with manufacturing and transporting raw materials. Many techniques and building products on the market contribute to more durable, healthy and resource-efficient buildings. Trolley Square’s strategies for using environmentally responsible materials are informed by the specific site and climate condition and linked to the developments’ sustainable site planning features (Criteria 3).
More Information:
Archived Webinar on Materials Beneficial to the Environment
Materials Beneficial to the Environment Resources in the Enterprise Resource Database