Environmental Education Center - City of Plano

The building symbolizes Plano's commitment to environmental, social and economic stewardship. From the wind turbine and solar array to the rainwater harvesting systems, the EEC's LEED-eligible sustainable design creates the perfect atmosphere for environmental learning.

The facility hosts diverse audiences for presentations on a variety of environmental topics. Features contributing to the EEC as a special place for environmental learning include:

• Solar and wind power generate 30 percent of the facility's electrical needs.
• Harvested rainwater is used to irrigate landscaping and flush toilets. Dual flush toilets and a waterless urinal help conserve water.
• A pervious parking lot naturally filters pollutants from rainwater before they enter the nearby creek untreated.
• Native, adapted and perennial plant species were used in the landscaping.
• Sustainable and recycled building materials create a well-insulated space, which helps reduce energy costs.
• Through passive solar design, the EEC is naturally heated, cooled and ventilated. (7/10)