The conservation message of the rehabilitated facilities of the International Institute of Tropical Forestry

Abstract

Over a period of about 20 years, the International Institute of Tropical Forestry (the Institute) and its collaborators developed and implemented a facilities plan that included both new and restored facilities. Among the restored facilities, the historic Headquarters Building received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certificate, and was praised by the State Historic Preservation Office for the manner under which the restoration was conducted. It is unusual for historic buildings to acquire this certification. New facilities, both at Institute headquarters and the Sabana Field Research Station, improved the Institute’s capacity to fulfill its mission while also enhancing employee safety and comfort during day-to-day activities. The recycling of materials during construction and the performance of facilities in relation to the use of potable and storm water, energy, and materials exemplify the application of the conservation ethic of the Forest Service, and the message it delivers to the public as part of its mission.

Citation

Lugo, A.E.; Rullan, J. 2015. The conservation message of the rehabilitated facilities of the International Institute of Tropical Forestry. Res. Note IITF-RN-2. U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry, Rio Piedras, PR. 49 p.