When it comes to creating a work environment that is collaborative, cutting edge and incorporates sustainable materials and technologies, Bayer MaterialScience LLC has set the gold standard. The company's Pittsburgh headquarters earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design — Commercial Interior (LEED-CI) gold-level certification for a renovated office building on its campus.
"Bayer MaterialScience LLC offers a portfolio of products that make more energy-efficient, more comfortable and more innovative buildings possible," said Jerry MacCleary, president, Bayer MaterialScience LLC. "This LEED certification again demonstrates Bayer's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency."
The renovation at Bayer MaterialScience LLC's Pittsburgh headquarters included installation of more energy-efficient systems for heating, cooling and plumbing, as well as selection of sustainable construction materials, many of which feature Bayer products, including:
•Makrolon® MAK clear polycarbonate sheet, which is used for the work stations, allowing natural light to filter throughout the workplace.
•Makrolon® polycarbonate resin, used in LED (light-emitting diode) light fixture lenses.
•Technogel® polyurethane material which is incorporated into the employee and guest seating, providing greater ergonomic comfort.
•Gthurm® windows, a line of energy-efficient windows, produced by Graham Architectural Products. Installed in the building's lobby, they employ a polyurethane composite using resin supplied by Bayer.
The renovations made to achieve this LEED-CI gold level certification are part of a $17 million "Workspace of the Future" project encompassing several other buildings on the Pittsburgh campus. Insulation upgrades, installation of energy-efficient windows and LED lighting in three additional buildings are complete.
LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system sponsored by the U.S. Green Building Association. It provides official verification that building designs meet high energy-efficiency and environmental standards.
In addition to this LEED certification, Bayer's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency extends to its EcoCommercial Building (ECB) Network in North America, which assembles leading producers of high-performance building products and experienced service providers to collaboratively pursue challenges associated with environmentally responsible new and retrofit structures. Together, ECB members strive for a net-zero energy building environment by providing innovative products and services to architects, contractors, engineers and building owners.