Green skyscraper stands tall in S'pore

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SINGAPORE--The 43-storey Asia Square tower, which is branded as "the human building", is not only the latest addition to Singapore's Central Business District's skyline, it is also one of the most technologically-advanced and eco-friendly buildings here. ZDNet Asia takes a closer look at what makes it stand out from the rest.

All photos and captions by Ellyne Phneah

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
The Cube Square, which is designed as a podium accentuated with trees, has holes--otherwise known as "light tubes"--peppering the ceiling to allow natural light to flood through for the flora to thrive in.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Giant TVs equipped with microtile technology, which eliminates glare and reflection, broadcast news and upcoming events 24/7. There are 50 speakers installed within the Cube Square's walls and ceilings, but volumes are kept at a comfortable, yet audible, level.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Entrance to the building's control room is extremely critical, which is why biometrics was chosen to ensure strict security. Punch-cards won't cut it here.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Asia Square's control room monitors everything, from the general safety of the building to the air purity to ensure comfort for everyone within.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
When the lifts move and kinetic energy is produced, the energy is converted into electrical power to be distributed back to the lift system, thus saving on energy consumption and costs.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Ultraviolet C (UVC) emitters help promote good indoor air quality by sanitizing surfaces and removing unhealthy airborne germs and microorganisms.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Its biodiesel plant recycles the oil from waste generated by the building's eateries and surrounding food and beverage (F&B) outlets. The pure diesel is then used to power other generators and vehicles that are used in the construction of Tower 2, which will be ready in 2013.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah
Water condensation from the tower's air handling unit is collected and redistributed for other uses such as watering Asia Square's greenery or flushing of toilets.

Published: December 9, 2011 -- 08:27 GMT (00:27 PST)
Caption by: Ellyne Phneah

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City-state's latest addition to skyline--Asia Square Building--boasts high-tech, eco-friendly features such as a biofuel plant, self-powering lift system and biometric access to distinguish it from the rest.