The David Brower Center advocates for the beauty, diversity and ecological integrity of Earth. We accomplish this mission through a distinctive combination of permanent infrastructure and ongoing programs in a unique institution that informs, inspires, and connects people and resources. We house 20+ environmental nonprofits and social enterprises in LEED Platinum offices, and host over 350 events per year in our various green event spaces which require clients to abide by low-waste principles. We offer environmental art exhibitions and public programs to foster a more engaged a community. Our Hazel Wolf Gallery, which is free and open to the public six days per week, is the site of three rotating exhibitions which feature the works of established artists as well as local high school students who explore the use of art for environmental activism.
What is one interesting fact about your space?
The Brower Center is LEED Platinum rated, the highest possible rating from the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program, and is still 40% more energy-efficient than required by code. More than 50% of the total material used in its construction is recycled and it is the Bay Area’s first large-scale building to be constructed with sustainable high-slag concrete. The Brower Center is also the first building in the state of California to collect and recycle rainwater to irrigate plants and flush toilets, leading it to use 40% less water than a standard building of its size. Other buildings have now adopted a similar model, spreading water-saving technology across our drought-prone state.
What are your favorite resources that you would recommend to others?
For local nonprofits, we recommend using us as an event venue to enjoy a special nonprofit discount as well as the marketability of a uniquely eco-friendly venue. For local artists, we invite you to apply to our “Art/Act: Local” exhibition in which a jury selects four Bay Area artists to be featured in a full-length exhibition, including a $1000 honoraria to create a new work, opening night panel, and networking opportunity with a range of other artists and resources. For the public, we encourage you to come visit our Hazel Wolf Gallery, which is free and open to the public 6 days per week and features environmental art that is likely to move and inspire hope for the future.
Center Name: The David Brower Center
Location: Berkeley, CA
Center Website: http://browercenter.org/
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