Guiding principles adopted by Westminster’s Session of Elders and Board of Trustees for Open Doors Open Futures included a focus on ecologically sustainable building practices and a demonstration of environmental leadership.
In accordance with the principles, during construction of the new wing Westminster recycled and diverted demolition and construction debris from landfills and used high quality, lasting materials that originated or were manufactured within 500 miles whenever possible.
LED lighting now is employed in all areas of the church, and 95% of the new wing receives natural light, reducing the demand for artificial lighting. Energy efficient mechanical equipment with thermal control is reducing energy consumption in all spaces, and recycling has expanded to include paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and organics.
To reduce the church’s heat island effect, promote habitat, and provide critically needed green space in downtown, Westminster added green roofs, trees, and landscaped areas. New permeable pavers and sub-grade soils naturally cleanse rainwater and control the rate of water flow into storm drains, limiting erosion and reducing surface pollution.
A cutting-edge stormwater management system captures and stores rainwater and reuses it internally to flush toilets and externally for irrigation and to supply a stormwater demonstration fountain. Read more here.
In 2018, Westminster won two Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District Greening & Public Realm Awards: Best Small Green Space and Public Realm Improvement.