The project comprises 13 separate green roof areas totaling 24,000 square feet. The extensive green roofing uses Garland lightweight soil at depths from 4 to 6 inches. Its 33 distinct species of plants include low-growing ground covers, such as sedums, as well as a variety of perennial flowering plants. In keeping with the college's environmentally responsible mission, all trees and shrubs that were cleared to construct the new Environmental Studies Building were transplanted to other areas of the campus.

In addition to its energy-savings benefits, the Garland GreenShield® vegetative roof system is helping the university to effectively manage stormwater run-off. The 24,000 square feet of green roofing has reduced the university's retention-pond requirements. LEED® GOLD certification is currently pending for the college's Environmental Studies Building.

The architect for the new construction project was Mahlum Architects & Mark Cork & Brent Compton of Seattle. The roofing contractor was Wayne's Roofing, and the landscaper was Northwest Landscape. DPR Construction Inc. served as general contractor for the project.