This
structure is an attempt by architects and engineers
to produce a building that is both useful and low-impact.
The philosophy is appropriate in two ways. First,
it is a college-owned building, and college students
are
more
likely to be environmentally conscious.
And secondly, because it is part of the Texas Medical
Center, an entity that exists to preserve life, not
to pave it over. The designers of the building are
using a number of interesting techniques to limit
its impact. Among them: The use of ash waste from
a coal-fired electric power plant instead of cement.
The use of recycled aluminum. Instead of cutting down
new trees, the wood will come from trees found at
the bottom of the Mississippi River. Bricks from a
demolished building in San Antonio, Texas. The building
is designed to last at least 100 years and to be adaptable
to changing needs. Taking these extra steps means
an extra expense. For this building, it was about
two percent, or $US1,140,000.00. In time, it is believed
this cost will be recouped through lower energy and
maintenance costs. This building could mark the start
of an important trend for the area. The University
of Texas has pledged to model future buildings on
the sustainability of this one. We will see if other
organizations choose to follow UT's example.
