To garner such a prestigious rating, the entire building features systems that make it a global model of energy conservation and sustainable building techniques. The site choice and design of the building supports the Smart Growth programs in Maryland and establishes an example for similar programs in other states. As part of the site redevelopment, materials from previous structures were recycled; for example, concrete from the former foundation was ground up for use as road bedding. The driveway and gravel parking lot are graded to feed runoff into a bio-retention filter and constructed wetlands that remove oil and other vehicle-related toxins in storm water runoff.

More than half of the materials for the project were produced within 300 miles of the facility to reduce transportation-related air pollution. Building beams are parallel-strand lumber, a process which uses strips of sustainably harvested wood that are glued with a low VOC adhesive, pressure molded, and then pre-cut to avoid waste.

Recycled materials in the Center include galvanized steel siding, galvanized roofing, and medium density trim. Salvaged barrel staves from a pickle factory were used to make the sun louvers on the front of the building. Cork flooring (a sustainably harvested product) naturally insulates and dampens sound while providing a cushioned walking surface. Other renewable materials used include cork tackboards, champagne-cork drawer pulls, natural linoleum, and bamboo flooring.

Water conservation efforts begin with waterless composting toilets, a feature of Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) education centers for 20 years. Captured rainwater is reused for all non-potable uses including fire suppression, hand washing, mop sinks, the climate control system, and washing equipment, reducing the need for groundwater from wells or the municipal water system.

Careful siting of the building takes full advantage of the sun for heat and light and the wind for ventilation. A "daylighting" system of windows, blinds, and the sun louvers optimizes shading in the summer and heat in the winter. A total energy management system regulates temperature and opens all windows when conditions are right for natural ventilation. Structurally insulated panels are used in the walls and ceilings. They are stronger for their size than traditional materials and have much higher insulation properties.

Geothermal wells drilled into the earth below the frost line take advantage of the constant temperatures there and assist in cooling the Center during warm weather and heating it in cold weather. Photovoltaic panels on the roof produce renewable electric power. Hot water for the building is generated by roof-mounted solar panels connected to a heat exchanger. All three renewable energy systems provide one-third of the Center's energy needs, and the building uses two-thirds less energy than typical office buildings of the same size. CBF estimates a $50,000 per year savings in utilities as a result of these and other strategies employed throughout the building.

A detailed, CBF-sponsored transportation plan includes incentives for employees to bike to work, to borrow bikes for local errands during the day, and to encourage the use of electric or hybrid vehicles. Showers and lockers are provided for employees who choose to walk, bike, or paddle to work. Additionally, videoconferencing, telecommuting, and other high-tech communication tools help reduce the need for travel to and from the Center for meetings.

Situated on a 31-acre parcel, the building also serves as an environmental education and training center for students and volunteers. The CBF and its volunteers plan to include restoration of the wetlands, forests, and shoreline habitats that are part of the site. Phase II of the project includes a restoration center to provide grow-out facilities and a hands-on training center for restoration volunteers, school students, and teachers.

For more than three decades, CBF has worked to Save the Bay through resource restoration and protection, environmental advocacy, and education. CBF's three main objectives are to reduce pollution, restore habitat, and replenish fish stocks.