Medical Education Building architect Caroline Spigelski, from the firm of Diamond and Schmitt Architects, discussed the LEED Green Building rating system, a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings on March 18.

Biologist Alan Darlington, the Medical Building’s living/biofilter wall designer, discussed the use of plant systems in improving the indoor environment. Dr. Darlington has more than 20 years experience in the study of plant-environment interactions and is the inventor of several plant-based biofilters used to enhance indoor space. Outdoor magazine named him one of 2005’s 25 True Believers in North America, for his commitment to the environment and his efforts to improve quality of life.