Currently, there are more than 176 “green” colleges and universities, according to the U.S. Green Buildings Council, and the number continues to grow. Going green not only helps improve the air and water quality, it also conserves natural resources and leads to a better quality of life.

Among them is Portland State University. Their newest engineering building has natural lighting, and natural ventilation. Rainwater is also captured on rooftops and treated on site to be used to flush toilets. Combined with the use of low flow toilets, sinks and showers, school officials say the campus consumes 40 percent less water than state guidelines. Thanks to advance heating and cooling systems, building automation and energy efficient lighting, the school also uses 45 percent less energy.

Colleges and Universities are particularly more interested in developing sustainable buildings. So much so, that they are even becoming a part of curriculums across the country, with hands on classes in environmental engineering and sustainability.