Being green
Birmingham City Council aims to cut carbon emissions by 60% before 2026, and the Library of Birmingham has an important role to play in helping to achieve this target. 95% of waste material from the construction site was recycled, keeping it out of landfill, and the building was designed to minimise the impact on the environment.
Environmentally friendly features include the use of low carbon technology for heating and cooling, low energy lighting and water conservation systems.
The Library recycles all used materials including paper and plastic – use the special bins provided.
The two elevated garden terraces – the Discovery Terrace on level 3 and The Secret Garden on level 7 – provide green spaces in the heart of the city. They are planted with a variety of species to provide colour and interest throughout the year. This includes fruit, vegetables and herbs on the Discovery Terrace to provide a focal point for learning about where food comes from and encouraging ‘grow your own.’
The brown roof is covered in rubble from the construction of the Library and provides a natural city centre habitat for wildlife.
If you’re looking to do your bit to reduce your carbon footprint, we are well-served by public transport.
The Library of Birmingham was awarded BREEAM ‘Excellent’ status in 2013. BREEAM is the national standard against which the environmental sustainability of new buildings is measured.
