U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2021-02-10
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has released its annual list of the Top 10 States for LEED green building with Massachusetts leading the country in 2020 with the most certified square feet per capita.

Across the top states, more than 60 pct of certifications were office, healthcare, higher education and K-12 projects.

This year, USGBC also released a ranking of states with the most LEED professionals with California taking the top spot. Collectively, the 2020 rankings represent 1,171 certified LEED buildings and spaces, and more than 100,000 green building workers.

"If we are to rebuild an economy that supports our health and our planet, we must lead with changing the way we design and build," said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC. "Last year was a stark reminder that the quality of our buildings impacts the quality of our life. Looking ahead, people want to trust that the spaces they occupy are good for them and their communities, and LEED has always been a tool to support those goals. Now is the time to ensure that every building is LEED certified as that is the only way we are accomplishing our goals of access to healthy, green buildings, homes and spaces."

While offices, education and healthcare projects accounted for a majority of certifications, warehouses, distribution centers, multifamily and retail projects represented almost 20 pct. Also, almost half of all projects were certified Gold, indicating a commitment to a high level of certification.

Top 10 States for LEED Green Building in 2020 are: Massachusetts, Washington, Illinois, Colorado, New York, Maryland, California, Virginia, Texas and Nevada in that order. (Source: US Green Building Council, PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Certification,  U.S. Green Building Council ,  Green Building,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC
Date: 2020-12-21
In the Golden State, SoCalGas has praised the US Green Building Council (USGBC) for including the use of RNG in the latest beta version of its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system.

With the new system, a project may utilise RNG to earn LEED points by capturing and using biogas on-site, sourcing biogas from a third party, or purchasing biogas to store in the project's own storage system. The RNG can be used for heating, hot water, and cooking in commercial buildings, and for stoves, dryers, water heaters, fireplaces and heating in homes. (Source: SoCalGas, PR, Dec., 2021) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org; SoCalGas, Jeff Walker, VP Customer Solutions, www.socalgas.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED,  Energy Efficiency,  SoCalGas,  USGBC,  RNG,  Energy Efficiency,  

Earth Advantage
Date: 2020-12-16
Earth Advantage®, Inc. and RESNET are reporting a partnership to help deliver green and energy-efficient home data through the Green Building Registry® (GBR). Historically, important information on a home such as energy ratings, third-party building certifications or renewable power production estimates (solar panels) has not been included in For Sale listings. Thousands of dollars of value could be lost because trustworthy data was not available for a listing agent and potential buyers to react to at the time of sale. That lack of data has also prevented appraisers and lending institutions from accounting for those market reactions, according to the release.

Since 2017, GBR has provided green home data to the public and real estate multiple listing services. The DaaS (Data as a Service) platform provides verified data directly from sources such as U.S. DOE, ENERGY STAR Home Energy Scores, US Green Building Council LEED for Homes, National Green Building Services (NGBS), solar data, and other third-party verification programs. Nationwide values for the HERS Index, a scoring system for home energy performance administered by RESNET will now be included in GBR for the entire U.S..

The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) is the independent, national nonprofit organization that homeowners trust to improve home energy efficiency and realize substantial savings on their utility bills, according to RESNET's website. (Source: Green Building Registry, PR, Website, 15 Dec., 2020) Contact: Green Building Registry, Meg Garabrant , 503.310.9138 x62, meg@greenbuildingregistry.com, www.greenbuildingregistry.com; Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET, Steve Baden, Exec. Dr., www.resnet.us; Earth Advantage, David Heslam, Exec. Dir., www.earthadvantage.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Earth Advantage,  Green Building Registry,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-12-11
Edmonds College in Lynnwood, Washington ,reports its recently completed Science, Engineering & Technology building has been awarded US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold certification in recognition of the building's energy efficiency and sustainability.

The $41 million building met rigorous standards for sustainability metrics including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy use and eddiciency, indoor environmental quality and more. Gold LEED is the second highest LEED rating level a building can achieve. (Source: Edmonds College, PR, 10 Dec., 2020) Contact: Edmonds College, www.edmonds.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council news,  Energy Efficiency news,  LEED Certification news,  

USDGBC, ENERGY Star
Date: 2020-11-20
Dublin-based Wattics Energy Management Ltd. and Washington, DC-headquartered US Green Building Council affiliate Arc Skoru, are touting the recent integration of the two software platforms that together will deliver the following features and benefits:

Automate building data collection and management to monitor, improve, and steer toward energy efficiency certification;

Leverage real-time data monitoring toward a project's performance score in ARC -- eg. electricity, water, gas, air quality data, GHG data, etc.;

Scale green building certification for large building portfolios;

Analyze and compare performance across building portfolios and/or individual buildings within a portfolio;

Compare the performance of certified buildings to non-certified buildings and determine US Green Building Council LEED, ENERGY Star, BREEAM and other third party certification "readiness" for buildings

The software platform enables the collection, management, and analysis of utility/IoT/sub-meter data to conduct energy audits, forecast savings, benchmark building portfolios and analyse KPIs, measure and verify efficiency and renewable energy projects, analyse tariffs and create sustainability reports at scale.

The ARC platform allows buildings, city and community projects to collect data, manage and benchmark progress, measure impact and improve sustainability and calculates a performance score based on global building data and action-oriented strategies across five categories, including energy, water, waste, transportation and human experience. (Source: Wattics Ltd, PR, 19 Nov., 2020) Contact: Wattics Energy management, Antonio Ruzzelli, CEO, Amy Ryan, +353 1 415 1241, amy.ryan@wattics.com, www.watics.com; Arc Skoru, Dave Witek, COO, www.arcskoru.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Building,  USGBC,  ENERGY Star,  BREEAM,  Energy Eddiciency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-11-18
The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) has released the architecture firm LMN Architects and Booth Hansen's USGBC LEED Gold certification qualifying design for a new 135,000 sq-ft Computer, Design, Research, and Learning Center.

Construction is slated to get underway in Spring 2021 for completion in Spring, 2023. (Source: University of Illinois-Chicago, School Construction News, 17 Nov., 2020) Contact: University of Illinois-Chicago, 312-996-7000, www.uic.edu; LEED, US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Certification,  USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC, COastal Risk
Date: 2020-11-13
Geospatial modeling, data analytics, and risk assessment technology specialist Coastal Risk Consulting (CRC) reports it is partnering with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to deliver a RiskFootprint™ for buildings, communities and cities that provides a climate risk analysis. The service will integrate with LEED's vulnerability to physical climate risks.

Coastal Risk's automated assessments add to a project's due diligence and risk management. The RiskFootprint Dashboard and property-specific RiskFootprint Reports are an important part of a rigorous underwriting process and research-driven market analysis. The RiskFootprint Dashboard provides customers with a secure web portal, an interactive map of the US, and portfolio spreadsheet scoring for 14 columns of risk. This includes 6 current flood risks, 4 current, natural hazard risks (wind, tornado, earthquake and wildfire), and 4 future (2050) climate change impacts (tidal/sea level rise, extreme heat, extreme rainfall, and risk of drought). Contact: Coastal Risk Consulting, RiskFootprint, Albert Slap, Pres., www.riskfootprint.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  LEED Certification,  

USGBC, Vanderbilt University
Date: 2020-11-13
In Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University has been honored with a 2020 Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council for achievements in green building and its commitment to creating a healthy, sustainable future. The university was among 10 companies, projects and individuals across the nation to be spotlighted during the Greenbuild Virtual conference on Nov. 12.

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system, known as LEED, has become the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of energy efficient, high-performance sustainable buildings.

The Vanderbilt campus has 21 LEED certified buildings, as well as WELL and PETAL projects. WELL is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being, while PETAL is a green business certification program for making organizations sustainable and healthy.

Examples of Vanderbilt's sustainable architecture includes six "green roofs" that cut building energy consumption, urban heat island effects, improve storm water management, increase roof longevity and improve aesthetics, according to the release. (Source: Vanderbilt University News, 13 Nov., 2020) Contact: Vanderbilt University, Mike Perez, Chief Faccilities officer in the Division of Administration, 615-322-7311, www.vanderbilt.edu; WELL Building Institute, +646.883.5001, +646.607.1058, info@wellcertified.com, www.wellcertified.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  WELL Building,  Green Building,  

USGBC, Coastal Risk
Date: 2020-11-13
Geospatial modeling, data analytics and risk assessment technology specialist Coastal Risk Consulting (CRC) reports it is partnering with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to deliver a RiskFootprint™ climate risk analysis for buildings, communities and cities. The service will integrate with LEED, Arc and GBCI rating systems to help assess a project's vulnerability to physical climate risks.

Coastal Risk's automated assessments add to a project's due diligence and risk management. The RiskFootprint Dashboard and property-specific RiskFootprint Reports are an important part of a rigorous underwriting process and research-driven market analysis.

The RiskFootprint Dashboard provides customers with a secure web portal, an interactive map of the US, and portfolio spreadsheet scoring for 14 columns of risk. This includes 6 current flood risks, 4 current, natural hazard risks (wind, tornado, earthquake and wildfire), and 4 future (2050) climate change impacts (tidal/sea level rise, extreme heat, extreme rainfall, and risk of drought). (Source: COastal Risk Consulting, PR, 13 Nov., 2020) Contact: Coastal Risk Consulting, RiskFootprint, Albert Slap, Pres., www.riskfootprint.com; LEED,US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org;

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  

CenterPoint Properties
Date: 2020-11-04
Oak Brook, Illinois-headquartered industrial real estate company CenterPoint Properties is reporting closure of its inaugural $250 million green bond issuance.

The bond proceeds will be used to finance projects such as green building construction, the development and operational maintenance of green buildings and to acquire new, refurbished, or existing buildings that receive LEED, ENERGY STAR® and other industry-leading certifications. Bond proceeds will also be used to fund energy-efficient projects within the company's current portfolio, including operational enhancement and other sustainable maintenance. (Source: CenterPoint Properties, PR, Mercom, 3 Nov., 2020) Contact: CenterPoint Properties, (630) 586-8000, www. centerpoint.com; LEED,US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org; US DOE, ENERGY STAR, www.energystar.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News CenterPoint Properties,  LEED,  ENERGY STAR,  Energy Efficiency ,  

Aramark,US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-11-04
Philadelphia-headquartered food services and facilities provider Aramark Corp. is reporting its global headquarters office space in Philadelphia has scored US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Silver certification for sustainable workspace design and construction.

Specific LEED qualifying sustainability highlights include:

Water saving fixtures that reduce water consumption by 35 pct;

Efficient LED lighting that decreases lighting power density to 40 pct below code;

Over 90 pct of all appliances hold Energy Star certifications;

Locally sourced and manufactured materials and certified Forest Stewardship Council's (FSC) wood used throughout;

75 pct of waste construction materials were diverted from landfills; and others. (Source: Aramark Corp., PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Aramark Corp., www.aramark.com; LEED, US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Michelin, US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-10-07
Greenville, South Carolina-based tire manufacturing giant Michelin North America, Inc. reports its southeast distribution center in Woodruff, S.C. has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Gold certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficient materials, zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells solution to power its material handling lift trucks, and other energy efficiency features.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Association (EIA) buildings account for roughly 40 pct of national CO2 emissions. LEED-certified buildings have 34 pct lower CO2 emissions, consume 25 pct less energy and 11 pct less water, and have diverted more than 80 million tons of waste from landfills, according to the USGBC. (Source: Michelin North America, Inc., PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Michelin North America, www.michelinman.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Michelin,  LEED Gold,  USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council,Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-10-05
In Alabama, Auburn University reports its Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center has been awarded US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold certification. The Center's energy efficiency and sustainability features include:

Reduced construction waste and pollution;

Reinforced use of public transportation, bicycles and fuel-efficient vehicles;

Improved storm water management for Auburn University and the city of Auburn through reduced rainwater surface runoff;

Reduced water and energy usage achieved with the use of high-efficiency fixtures and equipment and innovative building design;

Use of local and/or recyclable materials, and others. (Source: Auburn University, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Auburn University, Office of Communications and Marketing, www.auburn.edu; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Date: 2020-09-28
In Saudi Arabia, the King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) reports it is the world's first industrial city to receive US Green Building Council (USGBC) Silver level accreditation for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

SPARK aims to be the primary gateway to the regional energy sector. Its technologically-advanced ecosystem offers investors supply-chain efficiency and an ultramodern "plug and play" infrastructure. As well as targeting large corporations, SPARK also caters to small and medium-sized enterprises and provides support through its SPARK SME Hub, creating a tailored microcosm for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). (Source: SPARK, Design Middle-East, 28 Sept., 2020) Contact: King Salman Energy Park, info@SPARK-KSA.com, www.spark-ksa.com

USGBC
Date: 2020-09-11
In Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Gate Avenue has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Gold accreditation and Green Building Certification Inc. for energy efficiency and building excellence from integrative design to human health to material use.

DIFC LEED qualifying features included: water conservation fixtures; extensive recycled content -- including concrete, steel and glass; energy efficient lighting; occupancy sensors; CO2 sensors; and others. (Source: Design Middle East, 10 Sept., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Green Building, Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-09-04
In Jerusalem, the Israeli Ministry of Environmental Protection (MoEP) is reporting the passage of new mandatory sustainable construction legislation under which all new buildings will be constructed according to the national green standards, starting March 2022.The new legislation was originally passed in 2005 as a voluntary standard that was periodically updated.

According to the Ministry, Israel has roughly 1.3 million buildings, 450 of which hold green certification. An additional 1,000 are currently being examined, and another 50 comply with the US Green Building Council's LEED rating systems or BREEAM, the internationally recognized comprehensive and holistic environmental assessment method with over 2,250,000 registered projects and 565,000+ certified buildings in more than 83 countries. (Source: Israeli Ministry of Environmental Protection, Xinhua, Sept., 2020) Contact: Israeli Ministry of Environmental Protection, Ran Avraham, Green Building Unit Head, www.sviva.gov.il/English/Pages/HomePage.aspx: BREEAM, www.breeam.com; USGBC LEED, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News BREEAM,  LEED,  Green Building,  Energy Efficiency,  Israeli Ministry of Environmental Protection ,  

USGBC
Date: 2020-08-30
In India, Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt reports its SRK House, the 2,25 million sq. ft. crafting unit of one of the largest diamond companies, has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification -- the US GBC’s highest rating for sustainable and environment-friendly building operations .

SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility eith energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy sources; increased recycling; energy benchmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas ; Natural Cooling through out; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC
Date: 2020-08-26
In India, Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt reports its 2,25 million sq. ft. SRK House diamond manufacturing unit has scored US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification for energy efficient, sustainable and environment-friendly building operations.

SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility with energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy; increased recycling; energy benc-hmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas; natural cooling and lighting; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org; Shree Ramkrishna Exports, +91 261 404 0544, www.srkexport.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Platinum,  Energy Efficiency,  

Brookfield Properties,USGBC
Date: 2020-08-24
In Dubai, real estate services firm Brookfield Properties reports its ICD Brookfield Place building has achieved US Green Building Council (UEGBC) LEED® Platinum certification for green building design, construction, operations and performance. ICD Brookfield Place is the tallest and largest office building in the EMEA region to achieve the rating, and is among the top 20 of the world's largest LEED® Platinum projects.

The 53-story, 1.1 million square foot office and retail complex in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is designed to be energy efficient and minimize its ecological footprint, and has reduced its energy consumption by 28 pct above industry standards. (Source: ICD Brookfield, MENAFN , 22 Aug., 2020) Contact: Brrokfield Properties, www.brookfieldproperties.com; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinim. Energy Efficiency,  USGBC,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-08-05
In North Carolina, the City of Greensboro is reporting receipt of US Green Building Council LEED Silver®certification for its sustainability efforts. The City began the process in May 2019 when it was one of 15 US cities to receive a grant to participate in the USGBC LEED for Cities and Communities Program, supported by Bank of America.

Throughout the LEED certification process, the City worked to track and verify performance on a wide variety of sustainability indicators including energy, water, transportation, education, health and more. LEED for Cities provides a consistent rating system and independently verified data analysis, allowing comparison with local, regional and global peer cities.

LEED-certification helps Greensboro advance City Council's goal of becoming a leading city in resilience, sustainability and energy independence, and to meet or exceed the state's commitment to address climate change and transition to clean, renewable energy. (Source: City of Greensboro, City News Release, 5 Aug., 2020) Contact: City of Greensboro , David Parrish, City Manager, www.greensboro-nc.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC news,  LEED Certification news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

SUNY New Platz, USGBC
Date: 2020-07-27
In the Empire State, the State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz is reporting it's new, 2-story, 19,500 sq-ft Engineering Innovation Hub (EIH) building has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Gold Certification.

The project's $13.5 million energy efficiency features include: building envelope and mechanical systems that have cut energy costs 28 pct; landscape water conservation and reuse features; SUNY New Platz, white reflective TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane roof system with added insulation to improve the R-value; energy efficient LED lighting with motion sensors; proximity to public transportation; water saving plumbing fixtures; and low-VOC emission locally sourced building materials. (Source: School Construction News, July, 2020) Contact: SUNY New Platz, www.newplatz.edu; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News SUNY New Platz,  USGBC,  LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  

Arizona State University
Date: 2020-07-13
In Tempe, Arizona State University (ASU), home of the world's first school of sustainability and the first university-issued sustainability degree, reports its new $120 million Biodesign Institute C R&D center has been awarded Lab Manager magazine's Excellence in Sustainability prize, part of the first annual Lab Design Excellence Awards.

Biodesign Institute C, which is also LEED Platinum certified by the US Green Building Council, is the third building in a set of four ASU scientific complexes focused on bio-inspired research for global impact. The building's sustainability and energy conservation features include: active chilled beams, which permit decoupling of space cooling loads from the required ventilation air; an enhanced run-around loop (ERAL) system in the air handling units; and other energy efficiency features.(Source: ASU, Lab Manager, July, 2020) Contact: ASU Biodesign Institute C, www.cfo.asu.edu/biodesign-c, USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Arizona State University,  USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-07-13
In Washington, DC, City View, a three-story, 58-unit affordable community in the Anacostia neighborhood has received U.S Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold certification.

The $12 million project's LEED qualifying sustainable features include: a rooftop solar panel array. Energy Star rated windows; individual energy efficient HVAC and hot water heater units; low-consumption plumbing fixtures and appliances; and others. (Source: USGBC, Multi Housing News, 13 July, 2020) Contact: USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  

Jersey City
Date: 2020-06-12
In the Garden State, Jersey City officials are touting the Sustainability Incentive Program (SIP), a voluntary dual-pronged approach to development designed to reduce pollution while promoting sustainable development.

The first green initiative incentivizes new and existing development to divert storm water from the sewer system by installing green infrastructure, as well as meeting strict energy and water conservation standards provided in US Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines. If the building is built to LEED certifications, it will receive a discount on water and sewer connection fees based on that level of LEED accreditation.

The second initiative is the Flood Overlay Zone Program, which will require new developments in FEMA-designated flood hazard zones to incorporate green infrastructure to help control localized flooding and minimize pollution runoff into local waterways. New developments will implement green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, green roofs, bioswales, and permeable pavement, to absorb and filter storm water runoff, which will help avoid combined sewage overflows in which sewage and wastewater overflow and pollute local waterways. (Source: Jersey City, PR, Hudson Reporter, 10 June, 2020) Contact: Jersey City Office of Sustainability, Kate Lawrence, Director(201)-547-4632, www.erseycitynj.gov/cms/One.aspx?portalId=6189744&pageId=12571658, www.jcmakeitgreen.org; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sustainability,  Energy Efficiency,  Green Infrastructure,  USGBC,  

US Green Building Council,Virginia Energy Efficiency Council
Date: 2020-06-01
In the Old Dominion State, Henrico County and the University of Virginia are being lauded by the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council and the US Green Building Council for innovation in their efforts to improve energy efficiency in schools, libraries, university construction and government buildings. The two green-building programs received the council's fifth Virginia Energy Efficiency Leadership Awards last month.

The county program included building or renovating 16 government buildings and schools to LEED certification standards since 2011, and the county is pursuing certification of LEED Silver or higher on six current projects. The efforts are credited with reducing energy consumption by approximately 30 pct, according to a release. (Source: Virginia Energy Efficiency Council, Richmond BizSense, June, 2020) Contact: Virginia Energy Efficiency Council, 804-464-8233, www.vaeec.org; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  ,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-05-15
The US Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced a new strategy intended to leverage LEED -- and the communities implementing the rating system -- to support buildings and neighborhoods in a post-pandemic world.

The Healthy People in Healthy Places Equals a Healthy Economy strategy promotes the idea that prioritizing the health of people, communities, and the planet is the fastest way to rebuild a healthier, more sustainable economy. USGBC is launching emergency guidance and upgrades to the LEED green building program to ensure that it reflects the realities that buildings, and more importantly, the people inside them, will face in the near future.

Under the new initiative, USGBC will update current LEED strategies in LEED v4.1 that support indoor environmental quality, cleaning, occupant comfort, operations, better materials, and risk management, while finding opportunities to introduce new approaches given the current public health crisis.

Introduce new LEED strategies and launch new pilot credits to support social distancing, nontoxic surface cleaning, air quality, and infection monitoring.

Form CEO Advisory Councils to advise and support USGBC's CEO on how the organization, its programs, and the building and construction industries can prioritize sustainability in a post-pandemic world.

Accelerate the implementation of its USGBC Equity program to better address the social, health, and economic disparities within communities.

Call for ideas and perspectives from the broader market on how LEED and healthy spaces can evolve given the current public health crisis.

Adapt a review process for LEED and other green business certification programs, and amend its LEED process to incorporate the lessons learned.

Publish a series of best practice guidance reports to help project teams assist their occupants as they re-enter their spaces.

According to USGBC, refining LEED strategies and providing guidance that clearly communicates the economic, health, and environmental benefits of sustainable buildings, communities and cities to people -- especially during this time of uncertainty -- will be a priority. (Source: USGBC, Env..Energy Leader, 13 May, 2020) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-05-06
In the Keystone State, the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh reports the city's adjacent new MuseumLab has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED® Gold certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

MuseumLab was recently honored with the 2020 Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award for Construction Project Rehabilitation work dedicated to the protection of historically and architecturally significant places. (Source: Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, May, 2020) Contact: Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, Jane Werner, Exec. Dir., 412-322-5058, www.pittsburghkids.org; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  US Green Building Council,  

Notre Dame
Date: 2020-04-20
In Indiana, the University of Notre Dame is reporting receipt of US Green Building Council LEED Gold certification for the design, construction and operation of the three 830,000 sq-ft buildings surrounding Notre Dame Stadium -- Duncan Student Center, Corbett Family Hall and O’Neill Hall.

The University earned 60 credits in nine categories including the use of sustainable materials and resources, water efficiency, energy, innovation in design and indoor environmental quality, among several other areas. Throughout the construction of the project, more than 20 pct of the building materials consisted of post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled content and more than 20 pct of materials were manufactured or harvested regionally. (Source: University of Notre Dame, PR, 20 April, 2020) Contact: University of Notre Dame, www.und.edu; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  Energy Efficiency,  

America University,USGBC
Date: 2020-04-17
In Washington DC, American University is reporting four buildings on its East Campus have received US Green Building Council (USGBC)LEED Gold certification for their sustainable design and construction. To qualify for LEED Gold status, East Campus incorporated the following elements:

100 pct of the buildings receive their power from green electricity;

97 pct of on-site construction waste was diverted from landfill;

the East Campus buildings are 27 pct more energy-efficient than standard buildings;

21 pct of materials used in its construction was locally sourced;

buildings incorporate 13,000 square feet of green roofs;

computerized thermostats to regulate temperature, providing optimum air quality and thermal comfort;

buildings use sealants, paints, and furniture with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs);

state-of-the-art HVAC systems;

ultra-low-flow faucets, toilets, and urinals use 43 pct less water than standard buildings, and various other energy efficient features and amenities.(Source: American School & University, 14 April, 2020) Contact: America University, www.american.edu; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

CapitaLand
Date: 2020-04-17
Singapore-headquartered CapitaLand reports it has secured a 4-year, S$400 million ($282.65 million) in green loan funding from the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC)to increase its green assets and enhance its global property portfolio by 2030.

According to the company's statement, the green loans will be used for financing or refinancing the development, investment, and acquisition of green buildings that achieve or are expected to achieve either a Green Mark Gold PLUS certification from the Building & Construction Authority of Singapore (BCA) or US Green Building Council LEED Gold certification.

The statement also notes CapitaLand will purchase Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) from the solar energy generated from over 21,000 solar panels installed atop CapitaLand's six industrial properties in Singapore. CapitaLand holds 16 properties in Singapore, China, Belgium, India, and four business parks in India that are fully or partially powered by renewable energy. (Source: CapitaLand, MERCOM India, 16 April, 2020) Contact: CapitaLand Group, Andrew Lim, CFO, www.capitaland.com/international/en.html#menu-lang-main

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  Green Building,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-04-13
In the Golden State, the City Center Bishop Ranch retail center in San Ramon reports receipt of US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency. LEED qualifying features, programs and improvements include:

Promoting water efficiency and biodiversity by planting drought-tolerant and native plants throughout the center's landscaping and using reclaimed water for all landscaping.

Installing water-efficient fixtures that allow the center to use 36 pct less water indoors than typical buildings of the same size.

Reducing energy use by 48 pct compared to typical outdoor lifestyle/retail buildings of the same size -- equal to 1,112 metric tpy of greenhouse gas emissions.

Acquiring 25 pct of the building's energy from a solar PV array.

Diverting 98 pct of the center's construction and demolition waste from landfills through recycling or salvaging and using regionally sourced and recycled materials used in construction.

Incorporating zero or low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) finish materials (Source: City Center Bishop Ranch, USGBC, Danville San Ramon News, 12 April, 2020) Contact: City Center Bishop Ranch, www.citycenterbishopranch.com US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

University of Pittsburgh
Date: 2020-03-25
In the Keystone State, the University of Pittsburgh is reporting its $17-million, 170-bed Livingston Alexander House residence hall in Bradford has earned US Green Building Council LEED Silver certification for green construction practices, water and energy efficiency, high-efficiency HVAC and thermal glass and insulation to reduce the building's energy consumption by 30 pct over standard construction.

The 3-story dormitory also utilizes renewable energy, organic compounds and furnishings made from recycled materials. (Source: University of Pittsburgh, PR, 23 Mar., 2020) Contact: University of Pittsburgh, Rhett Kennedy, Dir. Auxiliary Services, 412-624-4141, www.pitt.edu; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Albemarle Corporation
Date: 2020-03-13
North Carolina-based specialty chemicals industry leader Albemarle Corporation is reporting receipt of US Green Building Council LEED Gold certification for its headquarters 141,000 square-foot expansion project in Charlotte.

The USGBC recognized the company for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at achieving high performance in the following categories: water efficiency, energy use and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, location and transportation. (Source: Albermarle Corp., Mar., 2020) Contact: Albemarle Corporation , Luke Kissam, CEO, 225-388-7402, www.albemarle.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Albemarle Corporation,  USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC
Date: 2020-03-09
In Illinois, the Kane County Dept. of Resource Management reports the county is one of 20 agencies nationwide -- and the only one in Illinois -- awarded a US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED for Cities and Communities program grant to tackle larger-scale energy efficiency and sustainability objectives with help from regional partners.

The LEED for Cities and Communities program offers participants access to a performance platform, educational tools and professional liaison to support LEED certification, according to the USGBC website.

The grant program, which also receives support from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, allows county leaders to measure how their sustainability efforts fare both internally and globally. The program provides an award package to communities that have shown commitment in addressing climate change, resilience and social equity.

Each recipient receives an annual silver membership to the Green Building Council; registration and certification review fees in the LEED Cities and Communities program; access to the Arc platform that encourages improvement and benchmarking; and the availability of online educational resources, project management tools and monthly conference calls. (Source: US BC, Daily Herald, 7 Mar., 2020) Contact: Kane County Resource Management, Jessica Mino, Management Coordinator, 630-208-8665, minojessica@co.kane.il.us​, www.county ofkane.org; USGBC LEED for Cities and Communities Program, www.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems/leed-for-cities, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2020-02-28
In the Sunshine State, the city of Tampa (pop. 400,000 +-) reports it has been selected by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for its 2020 LEED for Cities and Communities Grant Program aimed at accelerating progress on resiliency, social equity and climate change planning.

The program provides climate change and resiliency educational resources, data, performance bench marks and establishes a peer network for increased communications and idea sharing. More than 100 cities and communities worldwide have already participated in the program. (Source: City of Tampa, FLAPOL, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: US Green Building Council. LEED for Cities and Communities Program, www.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems/leed-for-cities, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Green Building Council,  Climate Change,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-01-29
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced its list of Top 10 States for LEED green building. The list ranks states based on the number of LEED certified sq. ft. per person. LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world with more than 100,000 projects engaged. This year's top states are home to more than 105 million people, including more than 80,000 LEED green building professionals with the skills to support the sustainable transformation of buildings.

The top LEED state is Colorado, followed by Illinois, Mass., New York, Hawaii, Maryland , Virginia, Minnesota, Oregon and California in that order. (Source: US Green Building Council, Jan., 2020)Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  Energy Efficiency,  LEED Certification ,  

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2020-01-24
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) reports the Land of Lincoln slipped to second place, behind Colorado, on its list of top 10 states for LEED green building, based on the number of LEED-certified square feet per person.

Illinois certified 3.85 square feet of LEED space per resident in 2019, representing 121 projects and more than 49.3 million gross square feet of space.

The Top 10 list is based on 2010 U.S. Census data and includes commercial and institutional green building projects certified throughout 2019. (Source: US Green Building Council, RE Journals, 23 Jan., 2020)Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Green Building Council,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-01-10
Following up on our November 9, 2018 coverage, in the Windy City, Equity Office, the U.S. office arm of private-equity giant Blackstone Group, reports its 1974-vintage, 110-story Willis Tower -- fka the Sears Tower -- has became the largest building in the U.S. to reach the US Green Building Council's LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency. The building received a $500 million energy efficiency and sustainability upgrade in 2018.

As previously reported, the building scored LEED Gold in 2018. In moving up to Platinum, building efficiency was improved via upgrades to heating and cooling systems, hot water generators, lighting, plumbing and an ongoing major overhaul of the elevator systems which make more than 46,000 trips daily and serve about 5.8 million people every year. (Source: USGBC, Star Tribune, 19 Dec., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Willis Tower,  Energy Efficiency,  US Green Building Council,  LEED Platinum,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-01-06
In the Bay State, the Boston-based U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is claiming the LEED energy efficiency certification of more more the 100,000 commercial projects.

The widely recognized LEED green building rating system, which is available for virtually all building and interior space types, provides a framework for highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings. Certification signifies a building has gone above and beyond to ensure it is designed, constructed, operated and performing to the highest level of sustainability. (Source: US Green Buildings Council, Green Buildings, NEREJ, Dec., 2019)Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Rutgers University,USGBC
Date: 2019-12-23
In the Garden State, Piscataway-based Rutgers University reports its 106,000 sq-ft Richard Weeks Hall of Engineering -- Busch campus, was recently awarded LEED™ Gold Certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

The Richard Weeks Hall energy efficiency features include: energy cost savings of 29 pct through solar orientation and superior envelop design; mechanical systems include active chilled beams; ventilation with 100 pct outdoor air with energy recovery; occupancy controled LED lighting; a 38 pct reduction of potable water use; diversion of 97 pct of construction waste from landfills, and other energy efficiency and sustainability features. (Source: Rutgers University, School Construction News, 18 Dec., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rutgers University,  LEED Certification,  USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2019-12-20
In the Windy City, Equity Office, the U.S. office arm of private-equity giant Blackstone Group, reports its 1974-vintage, 110-story Willis Tower -- fka the Sears Tower – has became the largest building in the U.S. to reach the US Green Building Council’s LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency.

As previously reported , the building scored LEED Gold in 2018. In moving up to Platinum, building efficiency was improved via upgrades to heating and cooling systems, hot water generators, lighting, plumbing and an ongoing major overhaul of the elevator systems which make more than 46,000 trips daily and serve about 5.8 million people every year. (Source: USGBC, Star Tribune, 19 Dec., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  LEED Certification,  

ACEEE
Date: 2019-12-16
A recent CommercialCafe study ranking the top 50 U.S. cities on CO2 emissions reductions, air quality improvements, improvements in air quality, the number of US GReen Building Council LEED certifications, growth in environmentally focused occupations, ratings given by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and other related factors has rated top ten 10 U.S. cities making the most progress toward sustainability. According to the study , Washington, D.C. leads followed by New York City, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, Seattle, Baltimore, Atlanta and Portland, Oregon, in that order. (Source: CommercialCafe, KATU News, 14 Dec., 2019) Contact: CommercialCafe, www.commercialcafe.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy,  ACEEE,  Energy Efficiency,  

RenewAire,USGBC
Date: 2019-12-04
Waunakee, Wisconsin-based RenewAire reports its 111,000-square-foot, 35 year-old HVAC manufacturing plant has achieved LEED Gold certification in the “Optimize Energy Performance” category in. received 60 out of a possible 110 points for its efforts. Of the 60 points awarded, RenewAire received 14 in the. The ERVs and DOAS processes, which reduce cooling/heating loads and result in smaller chillers and boilers and less refrigerants, earned two points in the refrigerant management category. Other energy performance credits came from LED lighting, which cut lighting costs by 50 pct compared to industrial/office space lighting.

RenewAire has previously received two Green Globes and a LEED Silver certification for its former headquarters, a 32,000-square-foot Madison-based indoor soccer stadium it retrofitted in 2005 for its manufacturing headquarters. (Source: RenewAire, PR, HVAC, Dec., 2019) Contact: RenewAire, Chuck Gates, CEO, (800) 627-4499, www.renewaire.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  LEED Certification,  

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2019-11-27
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is touting LEED Positive -- a new vision statement and LEED development roadmap that will lay the foundation for a future of LEED and guide USGBC in transitioning LEED from strategies that reduce the harm done by buildings to strategies that cause no harm and begin the process of healing and repair.

LEED Positive will encourage development that allows buildings to become a vehicle for environmental restoration and repair. The vision is composed of several parts that will work together to guide the development of the LEED rating system, including:

Proposed LEED Positive targets for energy and carbon reduction that will require new construction to go further and push existing buildings with high energy usage to substantially increase their efficiency efforts;

Define LEED Positive targets for other LEED credit categories that make up the holistic LEED rating system;

Continue investment in LEED v4.1 to accelerate the implementation and adoption of LEED for both new and existing buildings; and

Support category level performance certificates through the Arc platform to provide existing buildings with a pathway to LEED certification. (Source: US Green Building Council, Floor Daily 26 Nov., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  U.S. Green Building Council,  Energy Efficiency,  Green Building,  LEED Certification,  

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2019-11-22
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is reporting the launch of "Insight", a new data-driven tool that highlights building project design features that can lead to better performance.

Insight is available as a feature of the Arc platform and provides information on the design attributes of LEED certified buildings within a specified geographic region. Using the tool, project teams can compare and rank potential sustainability strategies to see how they stack up against the performance of other buildings.

Insight leverages the depth of the existing LEED data to aid designers and builders in adopting smart, practical and achievable sustainability strategies.

Insight can be leveraged by LEED and green building teams to improve the design -- and eventually performance -- of their buildings by encouraging the implementation of best practices during the design and construction stage. Insight helps green building and LEED project teams identify practices that could improve building performance and eliminate those that pose a risk to their long-term investment. (Source: USGBC, Milehigh CRE, 20 Nov., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Certification,  U.S. Green Building Council,  Energy Eficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2019-11-20
The University of Illinois - Urbana is reporting receipt of its 21st US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification for its recently completed $98 million Electrical and Computer Engineering Building. The UI campus claims 4 Platinum, 10 Gold and 7 Silver certified buildings.

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Building was cited for: sustainable site development; construction and waste management; water savings; energy efficiency; materials selection; a $3 million rooftop solar array with 950 panels; stormwater storage system; passive heating and cooling features; and various other energy efficient features. (Source: University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana News-Gazette, 18 Nov., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC
Date: 2019-11-18
The US Green Building Council (USGBC) reports its LEED ratings system for sustainable building has reached a new milestone with more than 100,000 registered and certified LEED commercial projects with 2.6 million square feet being certified every day. .

"Today millions of us are living, working and learning in LEED-certified buildings around the world. These spaces are using less energy and water, mitigating the environmental burden on their communities, saving money and offering the people who occupy them a better quality of life. This latest milestone demonstrates how the global green building community is delivering on the vision we set forth more than 20 years ago with better buildings and spaces that equal better lives," said USGBC Pres. Mahesh Ramanujam. (Source: USGBC, 17 Nov., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Energy Efficiency,  

LEED Gold,USGBC
Date: 2019-11-11
In Dubai, Empower, the district cooling service is reporting construction is underway on its $76.2 million headquarters in Al Jaddaf.

The 10-story mixed use office and residential building will be constructed to US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold Certification standard and is expected to be inaugurated in Q1 of 2021. (Source: Empower, MEP, 10 Nov., 2019) Contact: Empower, www.empower.ae; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  Dubai Empower,  Energy Efficiency LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  

Minnesota Twins , USGBC
Date: 2019-11-01
In the baseball world, the Minnesota Twins are reporting receipt of US Green Building Council LEED Silver certification for sustainability. The certification was in recognition of the team organization's contributions to green building and sustainability in the sports industry.

The Twins were the first professional sports franchise to earn LEED Silver for both new construction and operations and maintenance, receiving those distinctions in 2010 and 2011, respectively, following the opening of Target Field and the team's first two seasons in their home ballpark. The Twins earned LEED Gold for facility operations and maintenance in 2017 and was recertified in 2019. (Source: Minnesota Twins, Ballpark Digest, Oct., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

USGBC
Date: 2019-10-23
In the Golden State, Block D, downtown San Diego's first multi-tenant commercial office building to be constructed in more than a decade, has been certified LEED Platinum by the USGBC. The six-story, 60,000-square-foot mixed-use Makers Quarter building is the first to hold this designation in downtown San Diego. (Source: Connect California, 22 Oct., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Platinum,  Energy Efficiency,