Action News tagged along as University representatives hosted a tour with the US Green Building Council Central California.
The group learned about UC Merced's commitment to environmentally-friendly designs and practices.
UC Merced says it's the only university in the country with 100 percent of permanent buildings certified under the council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED program.
The tour highlighted the Leo and Dottie Kolligian Library.
The university says it saves 51 percent in energy costs and consumes 42 percent less water, compared to similar buildings that meet state standards.