MNN - Mother Nature Network

When it comes to LEED certified square footage, Virginia is the nation’s hotspot.  The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), home of the LEED green building certification program, announced the top 10 states for LEED certified buildings in 2012 as measured by the amount of LEED certified space per resident.  Virginia came in on top with 3.71 square feet of LEED certified space per resident last year.

 

Although Virginia topped the list of states, the District of Columbia has about 10 times more LEED certified square feet per resident, 36.97 square feet.  The District of Columbia is home to the U.S. Green Building Council’s headquarters and green building has been one of the Obama administration’s many focal points and so it isn’t really surprising that DC comes in so much higher.

 

"In our nation's capital, we have a responsibility to lead by example,” said Mike Babcock, Chair, USGBC National Capital Region Chapter. “We are actively working with the stakeholders in our region toward realizing a shared vision for a truly sustainable community. The ongoing commitment and leadership of the public, private, and community-based organizations to support and encourage green building practices in our region has made this achievement possible. While still in the infancy of realizing our vision, this accomplishment reinforces a step in the right direction.”  Source: USGBC

 

2012 Top 10 States for LEED (plus the District of Columbia)

In its announcement, the USGBC recognized several projects that received LEED certification in 2012 including Cooper Vineyards in Louisa, Virginia (LEED Platinum) and the LEED Gold certified corporate headquarters of the National Football League in New York.