Living Building Science

Goals

The purpose of the Living Building Science team is to evaluate the impact of the Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design on the non-human living and nonliving environment using sustainable scientific methods.

Issues Involved or Addressed

Monitor the water quality of potable water in the building and evaluate how rainfall and building usage affects biological and chemical properties.
Characterize the chemical and biological properties of water exiting the constructed wetland/ gray water treatment system.
Evaluate the effects of solar panel arrays on building heat capture and surrounding environment.
Examine the effect of compost infusion treatment on garden soil microbiome composition.
Develop methods to increase carbon capture by soils.
Quantify resident and migratory wildlife populations through remote sensing technology.
Examine the effects of pollinator diversity and abundance on fruit production in urban agricultural settings.
Develop low/no impact laboratory protocols that minimize energy and water utilization and waste production.
Engage Atlanta community with twice-yearly LBS research open houses.
Maintain and add to a searchable database of biodiversity found at the site suitable for community-engagement biodiversity events (BioBlitzes)