CH2 was completed in 2006 in response to meeting the council’s own targets for zero carbon emissions by 2020. Its design is based on ‘biomimicry’, reflecting the complex ecosystem of the planet. The building uses the sun, water and wind in combination with a slew of sustainable technologies. These include a basement water-mining plant, a facade of richly toned wooden louvres that track the sun (powered by photovoltaic cells), and light and dark air-circulation ducts that either absorb heat or draw in fresh air from the roof. According to post-occupancy studies, productivity of those working in the green building has improved by 10%.
