Drought-tolerant, native plant species have been reintroduced to return the site's ecosystem to its original state and to minimize the need for irrigation. Meadow and grassland plantings require only annual mowing, reducing the amount of fuel necessary to maintain the site. The overall design concept extends beyond the local site and building. The CBF also promotes sound transportation policies. The center is located near existing retail and residential areas.
Some employees walk, bike, or kayak to work.
Bicycle storage, lockers, showers, and changing rooms are included in the facility. Video-conferencing technology reduces the need for staff to travel to meetings. Results Compared to typical offices buildings of the same size, the Merrill Center uses 50 percent less energy, thereby reducing air pollution. Despite some improvements over the past 35 years, the Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem is still seriously endangered. It has lost 90 percent of its underwater grasses and 60 percent of its wetlands.