Whenever possible, the Museum uses materials that are renewable or recycled.

The roof tiles on the Pizza Shop are made from reclaimed wood and recycled vinyl.

The Museum features an innovative geothermal system that draws stable-temperature water from Brooklyn′s underground aquifers to a series of air handlers that control the temperature of the building.  The water stays about 57oF year-round, so it’s cooler than the air in summer and warmer than the air in winter. When the water enters the building, it reduces the need for air-conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter.

Daylight sensors regulate the amount of artificial lighting needed at any given time. Photoelectric cells dim indoor lights when there is an abundance of natural light and brighten the electric lighting at night or in cloudy weather.

When people enter the Museum’s offices, classrooms, and restrooms, motion sensors turn the lights on. When they leave, the lights turn off automatically.  The Museum also uses super efficient, cool-burning low-energy light bulbs.