Sustainability Techniques

Key Sustainable Elements

The following are the top criteria as that determined the Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento's Platinum LEED certification:

• Water Efficiency: Using less water to accomplish the same tasks, such as lower-water toilets and faucets. 

  • 43% reduction in indoor water use

  • Building irrigation replaced with a rainwater collection and treatment system

• Materials and Resources: 

  • 56% of consumables waste (waste products from everyday usage) diverted from landfill to reuse and recycling programs

  • Interior trash cans are placed throughout the building with options for recycling, composting, and landfill

• Energy and Atmosphere: 

  • The building’s two courtyards significantly help airflow, cooling, and HVAC efficiency 

  • Lighting systems were designed to use minimum energy​

  • The roof is equipped with solar panels used to supplement electricity in the building and limit CO2 emissions

• Heat Island Effect: Helps to keep the individual building cooler, lowering HVAC costs and energy usage, helping lower the overall urban heat island of Mexico City. 

  • White, waterproof roof material helps reflect heat rather than absorb it, helping to keep the building naturally cooler

  • Rooftop gardens help mitigate the heat island effect. Vegetation evaporates moisture, cooling local airflow by releasing low levels of moisture back into the air. Plants and soils have the added benefit of mitigating air pollution.

• Alternative Transportation: 89% of people using this building get there via public transportation or green alternatives like biking and walking. 

  • City bike share system within a two-minute walk of the building

  • Bike racks available inside the building on the main floor

  • Several options for public transportation including metro and bus stations within a five-minute walk from the building's entrance

• Human Wellness: 

  • The large stairwell's central position and ornate design encourage building users to take the stairs rather than the elevator. In contrast, the elevator is small and tucked behind the staircase

  • Interior bike racks encourage building users to actively bike to work

  • The maintenance crew uses non-toxic, green cleaning supplies to ensure safe indoor air quality

  • Two indoor courtyards, as well as small balconies across the facades, promote fresh air and natural light throughout the building