Sustainability and environmental ethics are integral not only to the Institute’s work but also to Cavallo Point’s facilities and guest experiences at Fort Baker.
Building Reuse: The primary sustainability strategy for the collection of historic buildings is the reuse of the buildings themselves. 100% of the building shells and approximately 75% of the building interior fabric have been retained. The reuse of buildings and materials significantly lowers the amount of energy required to produce new construction materials.
Green Buildings: Fourteen new lodging units have been built to LEED specifications and the facility meets the majority of the US EPA’s 14-point guidelines for environmentally preferable meeting and conference facilities.
Solar Energy: Solar energy systems are featured on 12 of the 14 new lodging buildings. The systems are using state-of-the-art unisolar thin film PV panels that work well in the Bay Area climate.
Green Building Materials: Green building materials include insulation made from denim and environmentally friendly paints and carpets.
Energy Efficiency: Cavallo Point’s buildings far exceed the State of California’s energy efficiency requirements, achieving nearly 20% in energy cost-savings in new buildings and more than 10% in historic buildings. Use of ceiling fans avoids the need for air conditioning.
Water Reclamation: The Cavallo Point facility integrates a state-of-the-art water reclamation system for the laundry, reducing its water use by 65%. The water reclamation system drains the water, spins dirt out and allows the water to be reused. Cutting-edge conservation systems use gray water for landscaping.
Native Planting: Almost two acres of non-native scrubland is being replanted with native species. Native plants used in the rehabilitation will be harvested and propagated from genetic natives of the Fort Baker watershed. The native coastal scrub community will be optimally suited for the local environment and is anticipated to consume significantly less water than the current landscape. No fertilizers or pest management chemicals will be used on native plantings.
Indoor Air Quality: All windows can be opened, avoiding the need for air conditioning and allowing guests to enjoy fresh bay breezes.
Sustainable Food: Menus feature locally produced, organically grown ingredients. Many items are made on site.
Transportation: The campus is easily walkable and guests are encouraged to take shuttles from the airport to the site. All on-site vehicles run on alternative fuels.
Easy access to nature-based activities: Meeting organizers are encouraged to incorporate team-building activities, such as a nature walk, bird watching or native plant nursery tour, into their conference programs.
