The three-year-old Third Creek Elementary School in Statesville, NC, wanted an environment that was not only comfortable and healthy for its students, but also helped young people learn about environmental stewardship. “We thought this would help make better citizens of our children,” says Mary Bruce McKenzie Serene, part of the team involved in the school’s planning and construction. “And certainly a building that is environmentally friendly is a good thing, especially if it can be done without increasing costs.” With this and sustainability in mind, the team used the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system as a guideline. Tiles, carpets, fabrics, partitions, and other materials were all selected for their high recycled content. Lights and mechanicals were placed on timers and sensors to reduce energy consumption. Instead of particle board, wheatboard was used for shelving and floor underlayment because it is rapidly renewable.

Water Conservation

Water conservation was also a top priority. “To save water, the school installed low-flow fixtures and waterless urinals,” says the building’s architect, Chris Venable of Moseley Architects, Raleigh, NC. “This helped reduce water consumption at the school by as much as 30%.” The planning team was surprised to discover that that a conventional urinal uses as much as 40,000 gallons potable water annually. Switching to no-flush urinals, such as those manufactured by Waterless No- Flush™ Urinals, eliminates this water use and can help earn LEED points as well. What’s more, the school saved money because the waterless urinals cost considerably less to install than traditional urinals. “We are all amazed,” says the architect. “We’ve built a school that is healthier and Greener, with products that protect our natural resources and save money as well.”

About Waterless Co.

Waterless Co. is the manufacturer of No-Flush urinals, the new urinal standard for restrooms that offer environmentally friendly plumbing fixtures without compromising functionality and hygiene. Waterless Co. is the originator of this type of water conserving technology and has been serving the U.S. market since 1991. They may be reached at: Waterless Co., 1050 Joshua Way, Vista, CA 92081, 888-NOFLUSH (888-663-5874), or link below.