Compiled by Seth Teter
Photos by Galen Ludwick Harris

When the Nationwide Foundation and Ohio Farm Bureau pledged more than $6 million toward a new 4-H building on the Ohio State University campus in Columbus, they were investing in a premier site for youth development. Not only is the facility well on its way to achieving that goal, but it has become a standout for “green” construction.

The Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center is the first building on the Ohio State campus to be certified in the LEED program (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). At the ribbon cutting, Ohio State President Gordon Gee called the building “an important piece of Ohio State’s comprehensive work to be responsible stewards of our natural resources.”

More to the point, Gee stated, “I’ve never seen so much green in my life.”
Here is a look at some of the center’s green features:

1) Some of the building's structure, including studs and girders, was made from recycled steel. Highly reflective roofs help ease summer cooling costs.

2) 90 percent of the center’s space has natural light, reducing the energy needed for artificial light.

3) Some of the furnishings use sustainable materials such as bamboo and recycled plastic. Gray brick veneer in the multipurpose area contains recycled plastic. Walls are
composite boards that contain sunflower seed husks.

4) The carpeting is made of recycled material. The paint, carpet and carpeting glue contain low levels of volatile organic compounds.

5) The 4-H center encourages guests to recycle. Approximately 89 percent of the construction debris was recycled.

6) The building is part of Columbus' GreenSpot program, which promotes business and residential locations that commit to care for the environment. The center even contains a bicycle storage area and a shower to encourage people to ride bikes to work.