Green buildings: Darmstadtium

Darmstadtium features pioneering energy-saving and environmental technologies. For instance, a "Calla" - a flower-like funnel-shaped glass roof - in the heart of the building collects rainwater, lets in daylight and sucks in fresh air. Cooling is provided by a complex underground system. The stadium is just one of a number of congress centres and public venues responding to public awareness of environmental issues. Starting on January 1, 2009, all German convention centres and hotels will have to obtain a new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for Buildings designed to inform those buying and renting a building regarding a building's energy performance and could compel owners to modernize and implement environmentally friendly technology. A recent survey conducted by IMEX showed that 81% of German respondees would definitely avoid venues that do not meet green standards.