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Sustainability

About / Sustainability

Building a More Sustainable Future

ASI’s green initiatives create a sense of place and a connection to nature for the building users while honoring Swedish values of sustainably built environments, dating back to the 15th century.

Joining the Turnblad Mansion on ASI’s campus is the Nelson Cultural Center, an environmentally-friendly structure that received a LEED® Gold-certification when it was completed in 2012. ASI was the first museum in Minnesota to earn this designation which award trumpets the holistic approach to sustainability that guided the building’s design process from conceptual thinking through construction.

Sustainability Features

A lush rooftop garden featuring tall grasses and clusters of purple flowers. In the background, theres a large, triangular rooftop of a building, with more buildings and trees visible under a cloudy sky.

Green Roof

The Nelson Cultural Center’s green roof provides insulation for the building and reduces storm water runoff.

A modern building with large glass windows showing a staircase inside. Several people are conversing on the stairs and in the lobby. Two women walk outside past a patio table and chairs. Indoor lights create a warm atmosphere.

Natural Lighting

Careful planning and positioning and extensive use of windows provides abundant natural light and connects building occupants to the site and the outdoors. Lighting controls keep the lights off when they are not needed.

White industrial pipes with silver valves and green labels showing Condenser Water Supply are arranged vertically and horizontally. Some valves have orange handles. A person in a blue and yellow jacket is partially visible on the right.

Geothermal Heating

A geothermal heating and cooling system, made up of 96 wells each 250 feet deep, provides energy for the Nelson Cultural Center.

A close-up of a honeycomb covered in a dense cluster of bees. The setting appears to be outdoors, with a large building visible in the blurred background.

Urban Apiary

ASI is proud to be a designated “Urban Apiary Host” by The Beez Kneez, a Twin Cities honeybee education organization. There are two active bee hives located on campus. (paused for construction)

An outdoor event at a modern architectural venue with slate-covered buildings. People are gathering on a lawn and patio area adorned with string lights. Trees and urban buildings are visible in the background, under a partly cloudy sky.

Our Values

ASI is guided by its mission, vision, and values. Learn more about the beacons that guide and shape our programs, exhibitions, community engagement, and other initiatives.

Learn More