When we set out to build one of the greenest buildings in all of Utah for our Insight Technology/FactorLoads headquarters, we wanted to make sure we would have little impact on our state’s natural resources. That includes our facility’s exterior and grounds, where we incorporated several important green elements.
First, we planted a row of Swedish Aspens along the building’s south side. These attractive trees grow to become a perfect fence line that shades the building in the summer. When the leaves fall off in autumn, the southern exposure allows the heating warmth of the sun to heat the building for the cooler months of the year. They do not get too tall or too wide, which make maintenance easier as well.
Second, our facility has very little grass, which typically requires gas-powered motors to cut. All of the plantings are watered through a drip system when needed. Now that the lawn and plantings are nearly fully established, we need to use the drip system only rarely.
Third, we’ve installed a bike rack to encourage workers to ride to work rather than using gas-powered vehicles.
