Ecology and Environment headquarters building in Lancaster, N.Y., was the first in the U.S. to be awarded Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification in part through the use of indoor plants. Credit for the use of indoor plants was given under LEED, a third party rating system offered through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Points were awarded in the category of Innovation in Operation and Maintenance, under LEED for Existing Buildings 2.0.
The specific credit was for the Biophilic Connection to plant life found in this building, which supports the argument that human beings need to feel connected to the natural environment in order to enjoy a sense of psychological, physical and social well being. Key points cited in the submittal were live plant’s ability to filter volatile organic compounds VOCs), uptake carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and release fresh oxygen into the atmosphere.