To conserve natural resources, as much of the building was left intact as possible. When new construction materials were needed, they had to fulfill the ESD's criteria for minimal environmental impact, including recycled content, recyclability, and low toxicity. To conserve energy, appliances with low energy requirements were installed. The energy-efficient HVAC system was also designed to ensure indoor air quality. In its capacity as an educational center, the Ridgehaven building contains an auditorium and an environmental library.
Computer displays explain the facility's environmentally sustainable features to visitors.
To train City employees in pollution prevention, recycling, and hazardous materials management, the ESD conducts classes on a daily basis. As an environmental demonstration building, the Ridgehaven facility has succeeded very well. It has attracted visiting government officials from as far away as Japan, and has even inspired the California Environmental Protection Agency to use it as a model in designing their own office building. The San Diego Environmental Services Department included recycled content products in the renovation of its new facility to conserve natural resources. The ESD, as well as the Mayor of San Diego, intended the Ridgehaven facility to serve as a model for future green buildings.