the science and engineering building received a leed silver rating in march 2009. seb achieved this rating by using recycled glass, steel, concrete, and wood. more than 60% of the leftover construction materials were recycled. the roof of seb was made to reflect 92% of sunlight. this reduces the amount of heat absorbed into the building, so reduces energy needed to cool the building. incoming air to seb is also cooled through evaporation so the need for air conditioning is reduced. high-performance window glazing also allows light to come in while keeping the building insulated. occupancy sensors allow lights to automatically turn off when a room is not occupied, saving electricity. low-flow sinks, toilets, and showers, as well as a drip irrigation system for the native desert landscape, reduce water usage by 42%. seb also uses a reclaimed water system that captures wastewater, providing 750 gallons of water a day that are used to flush toilets.