
The Ryan Resilience Lab is owned by the Elizabeth River Project and showcases a variety of ways to live more efficiently while protecting against climate impacts.
“So when we’re able to reduce our energy use, that is a climate change solution, and it saves you money, so it’s a win win,” said a lab representative.
The lab demonstrates practical solutions to the effects of climate change, including an elevated structure designed to avoid damage from flooding — an impact that happens regularly now in coastal Virginia.
The facility features a living wall and a partial green roof that shade the building, reducing cooling costs throughout the year. Solar panels cover the other half of the roof, providing the building with almost all of its energy needs.


