Rugs and carpets are wool, which is non-toxic to paper and humans as well as being the ultimate renewable resource. Paints used are water-based with the lowest toxic emissions available. Granite that was displaced during excavation was reused to face the foundation of the building as well as the fireplace in the Executive Director's office. The three white pines that were harvested to accommodate the new structure were reclaimed and used to make the floor in the Henley Library. Our decision to use copper for the Research Center roof eliminates dependence on conventional roof replacement, which is necessary every ten to twenty years.
Outside air is employed for cooling when the temperature falls below threshold.
Through the tenacity of the Thoreau Institute, we have learned that the marketplace will respond to consumer demand for environmentally responsible building. Those of us involved will carry what we have learned to the next project, energized with the possibilities, and in time we believe the effect of the Institute's Research Center will be significant.