Riis Borg recently completed an 11,000 square foot green roof as part of a new shopping center at 24th & Pulaski in Chicago.  The client elected to go this route in lieu of installing a more expensive underground holding tank to satisfy local code requirements for limiting storm water runoff.  Other benefits of a green roof include energy savings, noise reduction, fire prevention, extended roof life, and the absorption of carbon dioxide and resulting creation of oxygen.  Green roofs are looked at favorably by city planners, zoning authorities and the community at large.
 
On other projects, Riis Borg has also participated in material reclamation programs as well as the procurement of sustainable materials.

While the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system and criteria is often thought of as an Architect’s concern, LEED very much affects the Contractor in planning and performance of the work.  The market outlook for green buildings looks remarkably strong, despite the current economic downturn.  The city of Evanston, as well as a number of other municipalities, recently passed a law requiring new buildings to achieve LEED certification.  Riis Borg has taken steps to be at the forefront of Green Building in Chicago.  We currently have LEED AP (Accredited Professionals) on staff and additional office and field staff are preparing to become LEED certified in 2010.  Riis Borg supports ongoing training and educational seminars for employees to remain current with the ever-changing technologies, including those associated with building “green”.