Station Style FeatureSustainable design, also referred to as “green architecture,” offers the opportunity to create environmentally sound and resource-efficient fire stations by using an integrated approach to design that is sensitive to natural resources and their protection. Green design criteria minimize hazardous environmental consequences and reduce energy use. Building components are used that are more efficient to manufacture and are frequently renewable. Reduced life-cycle costs are an additional benefit.

The U.S. Green Building Council, the most publicized source for sustainable design information, developed the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system for buildings, as well as a professional training and accreditation program for individuals. LEED is a flexible, point-driven certification of buildings that sets values for design features, construction processes and energy use. The registered project checklist and a directory of LEED-accredited professionals is available at www.usgbc.org. A LEED-accredited professional will help get a new station LEED-certified.

Benefits of green design include reduced operating costs, enhanced health and well-being of the crew, availability of grants and incentives, and community betterment.

While incorporating sustainable concepts during preliminary design is the most-effective way to achieve the maximum advantage from a green station, many practices can be incorporated during renovation, repair and maintenance at existing locations. For example, operating costs can be reduced when energy, water and other resources are used more efficiently.

1. Protect and retain existing landscaping and natural features of the site. Choose plants that have low water and pesticide needs and generate minimal trimmings. Use compost and mulches.

2. Passive design strategies can affect building energy usage. Window size, skylights, building shape and orientation can be calculated to take advantage of natural daylight.

3. Task lighting reduces overhead light levels.

4. Tankless water heaters use less energy than traditional models.

5. Select energy-efficient lighting, equipment and appliances.

6. Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights that use 50% less electricity.

A healthful environment at the station house enhances the health and well being of crew.

1. Specifying construction materials and interior-finish products with zero or low emissions improves indoor air quality. Many building materials and cleaning/maintenance products emit toxic gases, like formaldehyde, which can have a negative effect on firefighters' health and productivity.

2. Selecting materials resistant to microbial growth can prevent microbial contamination.

3. Adequate ventilation, heating and cooling systems promote comfortable work and living environments.

Grants and financial incentives are available to departments pursuing LEED certification and sustainable practices. One source is the U.S. Department of Energy Web site at www.energy.gov. State and federal governments and utility companies offer programs for the installation of solar systems.

The community profits when the new fire station gains public acclaim from LEED certification. Despite all the publicity, LEED-certified buildings still are rare. Only 100 are certified, but there are more than 1,000 going through the process at this time. Municipalities make a statement about respect for the physical environment when a high-visibility building such as a fire station achieves LEED certification.

Pulling together the right design team early in the project-planning phase is critical to building a successful green station. The architect, engineers and general contractor should be LEED-accredited professionals committed to environmentally sustainable design. And contrary to a common misconception, resource efficiency doesn't have to add to the cost of construction. The project team presents the department with design suggestions that improve the performance of the new station.