better?

BP opened it's first BP Helios House in Los Angeles recently.

It may not be the huge move people would like to see from a

big oil company like BP, but it is a good start to make the average

consumer a little more aware of environmental issues.

A few features-

"Water: Helios House exceeds current environmental standards

for on-site collection, filtration and distribution of water; canopy

collects rainwater for irrigation; rain and site water are filtered to

prevent hydrocarbons from polluting groundwater.

Heat: Helios House is designed to minimize the “heat island”

effect. The green roof is landscaped with drought tolerant

plants, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems,

minimizing rainwater runoff, and re-oxygenating the air through

CO2 absorption (carbon sink).

Light: 90 solar panels produce enough energy to power two to

three homes which is equivalent to just over 5,000 lbs/year of

CO2 generation reduction. Energy-efficient lighting in the

canopy area uses 16 percent less electricity than traditional

stations.

Materials: The site utilizes farmed wood from renewable

sources; bathroom tiles utilize 100 percent recycled glass;

signage is made from stainless steel scraps from the project;

all stainless steel used on site is recyclable"

The stations also boasts a cell phone recycling center,

LED lights, natural light, lighting timers and a staff trained

in giving consumers green tips.

(source: LAlist.com)