Pierce Cedar Creek Institute not only works to educate individuals on environmental issues, but we also work to model these behaviors. Whether it is through composting ( Worm composting brochure 369 kb PDF), energy conservation, or the use of environmentally friendly chemicals, our staff continuously works to minimize the environmental impacts of the Institute’s day-to-day operations. Our mission serves as the basis for this work and is guided by our environmental policy (45kb PDF), which includes specific goals for reducing energy usage and waste production. This ongoing process will also lead to significant energy and cost savings. In addition, the Institute has been invited to be a part of the Green Venues pilot program through the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth. This program helps organizations determine and reduce their environmental impact.
When planning Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, one of our founders’ chief goals was to protect the land by minimizing the impact the buildings would have. The Institute’s leaders asked architect Jonathon Rambow, of Slocum Associates in Kalamazoo, to design buildings that blend in with, rather than disrupt, the landscape. Additionally, the buildings were designed to be energy efficient and environmentally safe.By building into the side of a hill, the architects were able to partially bury or "earth shelter" the Visitor Center, Education Building, and Prairie View to protect against summer heat and winter cold. At the same time, this method ensured that staff and guests would be treated to exquisite views of the landscape. Partially earth-covered roofs make the buildings appear as little more than grassy bumps on the hillside, while the low profiles of the structures keep them from dominating the view from the valley.
On the inside, the buildings at the Institute are just as environmentally friendly as their exteriors. Our heating and air conditioning is provided by a geothermal system. Whenever possible, the architects chose building materials that were low in volatile organic compounds (the cause of sick building syndrome). These building materials are simple and durable - mostly concrete and wood. The use of any lumber from tropical or temperate old growth forest was not permitted. The facilities were designed to be friendly to people with disabilities and safe for those with chemical sensitivities and/or environmental illnesses.
In June 2004, the Institute installed a 1,120 watt solar or photovoltaic (PV) demonstration system. The system is installed in front of the education building and connected to its power grid. It consists of eight solar panels, each producing 140 watts of power while the sun is at its strongest.
In addition to providing green power and clean energy, the Institute hopes to increase the public's awareness of renewable energy. The system was funded by grants from the Energy Office of the Michigan Department of Labor & Energy, the U. S. Department of Energy, and the Barry Community Foundation. For more information about the system, visitors may pick up a brochure (156kb PDF) at the Institute. Informational signs are located next to the solar panels and the inverter, located in the Education Building.