Iowa City building gets highest “green” rating

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A plot of land on the east side of Iowa City once classified as an environmentally contaminated industrial site is now one of the most environmentally friendly places in the state.

The Environmental Education Center, built as part of the city’s East Side Recycling Center, has earned a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification, the highest classification available.

The center is the only city-owned facility in Iowa certified platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council. There are only five other platinum-certified buildings in the state.

The center uses solar panels and a wind turbine for power. Carpeting is made from recycled plastic bottles. The wood is sustainably grown bamboo and cork.

The center hosts educational programs on recycling and waste reduction, renewable energy, and environmental issues.