Michigan State University STEM Complex receives I2SL Sustainable Lab Award

The International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) recognized the Michigan State University STEM Complex with a Sustainable Laboratory Award for Excellence in Adaptive Reuse Decarbonization during its Annual Conference in Anaheim, California. The STEM Complex was one of five Excellence Awards given in the Lab Buildings and Projects category.

The project transformed a decommissioned coal-fired power plant into a science education hub by adding two new STEM teaching wings that house 21 flexibly designed laboratories for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and Engineering. The adaptive reuse of the power plant along with the use of mass timber for the teaching wings contribute heavily to the complex’s carbon-efficient design.

The I2SL Sustainable Laboratory Awards recognize projects, programs, and people that decrease greenhouse gas emissions, improve water and energy efficiency, divert waste from landfills, and promote sustainable best practices. Winners inspire, educate, and uplift others in the sustainable laboratory community with their dedication to advancing sustainable laboratories.

“This year’s Sustainable Laboratory Award winners demonstrated a commitment to advancing both science and sustainability, and their efforts contribute to the overall goal of more efficient, safe, and decarbonized laboratories around the world,” said Kathleen Brady, Executive Director of I2SL.

Ellenzweig served as Design Architect and Laboratory Planner for the project, working in a collaboration with Integrated Design Solutions, Architect of Record and designer of the power plant renovations.