Buildings as ecological systems: Monitoring and analyzing energy flows, material cycles, feedback control and the developmental trajectory of the lewis center for environmental studies at Oberlin College

Natural ecosystems are largely: powered by recently captured solar energy, exhibit high degrees of material recycling, are controlled by decentralized feedback, and are well-integrated into surrounding systems.  In contrast, contemporary human managed systems are characterized by: dependence on non-renewable energy, one way flows of material resources, centralized control, and poor integration with surrounding ecosystems.  In particular, the “built environment” (buildings and immediate landscapes) accounts for 37% of total energy use in the U.S., 67% of electricity, 36% of greenhouse gasses, and 12% of fresh water consumption.  The emerging field of ecological design is premised on the notion that sustainable social, economic, agricultural and technological systems within human society should be modeled on desirable features of natural ecosystems.   Applied to the built environment, the field has emphasized ecological knowledge and analysis as crucial features of decision making.  However, long-term monitoring and assessment of ecological performance are lacking.  The Lewis Center for Environmental Studies has served as an icon for ecological design.  In 2001 we instrumented the building and landscape with over 150 sensors to document and provide real-time feedback on environmental performance.  Six years of data reveal success in achieving three major design goals; the building is a net exporter of electrical energy, internally recycles the majority of water used, and the landscape serves as a repository for biodiversity and produces substantial food crops.  On the other hand, centralized control and technological and management shortcomings suggest much room for broader application of ecological principles to improve the performance of buildings.