Before “sustainability” and “green building” were buzz words, Watson-Forsberg was working on building in a way that was environmentally responsible and also resource-efficient. To this day, environmental stewardship for future generations is an important value at Watson-Forsberg.

While we view sustainable practices as a responsibility, they also provide an opportunity for Watson-Forsberg to distinguish itself in the market.

Our commitment to sustainability has been at the forefront of the construction industry.

Highlights of our experience include:

1980s: Watson-Forsberg partnered with West Bank Housing to super-insulate 207 housing units

1990s: In constructing the headquarters of Erickson Diversified, the design and construction team followed a protocol similar to today’s LEED guidelines.

2000s: LEED certification; geo-thermal heating and cooling systems; solar/alternative energy sources on-site; unique landscape strategies to reduce heat, control storm-water and preserve green spaces; natural rainwater filtration; incorporation of mass-transit, bicycle, and pedestrian paths.

Before seeking to recycle, at Watson-Forsberg we first strive to avoid waste in the first place (through reduced reliance on packaging and new materials) or through material re-use, where appropriate.

At times, however, waste is inevitably created during the construction process. When materials are used, we take pride in meeting and exceeding goals for re-cycling and re-use during construction.

Another important aspect is that we save our clients money in post-construction building operations through efficiencies that regularly exceed energy code requirements – another way we act as stewards of resources even after we are gone.