The new Washington Nationals baseball stadium could be the first American stadium to be certified as green by the U.S. Green Building Council — meaning it will include large water filters, energy-efficient toilets and environmentally friendly building materials.

The effort was briefly described Monday at the stadium, where officials representing the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission and the Nationals gave an overview and tour one year before the structure’s opening day. With construction well on its way — several levels of seating are taking shape and electrical work has begun — the stadium has been held up as an example of speedy efficiency by D.C. City Council members. [IMGCAP(1)]

But officials said they also are paying extra to make sure it doesn’t further pollute the nearby Anacostia River. Every year, 3.6 million gallons of water will be saved thanks to 1,100 energy-efficient plumbing fixtures, said architect Susan Klumpp. Organic materials such as hot dogs and peanut shells also will be separated from the stormwater. And with a remodeled Navy Yard Metro station under way, officials hope a day at the ballgame won’t mean more pollution from gridlocked cars.

— Emily Yehle