One of Baltimore County's newest green buildings has earned a gold certification, the second-highest award given by the U.S. Green Building Council. Cignal Corp. and KCI Technologies Inc. earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification for the technology company's new headquarters in Sparks. Cignal included recycled elements throughout the 120,000 square feet of office space it built for KCI. The builder diverted more than 75 percent of the construction debris from landfills, selected interior finishes from recycled materials and products derived from renewable resources, and reduced chemical and pollutant emissions by eliminating carpet adhesives and using organic paints. Low-flow devices conserve water, and light sensors and motion detectors save energy. Joe Maranto, the company's vice president, said the company believes the environmental benefits of building to green standards will have a positive impact on future generations. Green buildings also enjoy a status that can enhance their marketability for lease and sale, particularly since an increasing number of government leases require LEED certification, he said. KCI will benefit for the next five years from Baltimore County's 60 percent tax credit for a gold certification.

- Mary Gail Hare