In Lancaster, there's a sanctuary of sorts, surrounded by 120 acres of pure nature preserve, naturally inviting for birds and wildlife. Inside, a 300 foot atrium houses about a thousand tropical plants, topped by skylights that let the sun shine in.
Hundreds of people actually get paid to spend their days in this environment, where "green" is so much more than a color scheme. At Ecology and Environment, they take pride in knowing they are at the top of the class for energy conservation and design. The company recently was awarded a platinum rating for "LEED" certification, or "leadership in energy and environmental design."
The building was constructed in 1988 and was ahead of its time in concept and design. The company also encourages employees to car pool and drive energy efficient cars, and rewards those who do with premium parking.
Says E & E's President Kevin Neumaier, "At our core we believe it's the right thing to do. We believe it's a very important thing for the world...we are a role model."