This would be a fun class trip in the future…the Chicago Center for Green Technology is a building complex that has used green, or sustainable technology in its design. It uses natural light to help heat the building, and has a lighting system that adjusts the electricity depending on the amount of light outside. It has a green roof, to absorb rainwater and to reduce the amount of water going into the sewer system. Large cisterns also capture the water and reuse it to water the landscape. The building encourages people to use other modes of transportation besides cars. It has bike racks and showers and features outlets for those who drive electric cars. But there are only 2 dedicated spaces for those who carpool. Over 40% of the materials used in the renovation were purchased within less than 300 miles of the site (helping to decrease transportation distance). And over 40% of the materials used in the construction of the building were made from recycled materials. It is only the 3rd building in the US to use high standards of green technology. Where and when will we see the others?