Virginia Schools Going Green
Green is good for business. Leaders who invested early in environmentally-friendly design are reaping the benefits and everyone is starting to notice. Green buildings use less energy, saving money year after year. New design features aimed at creating a light footprint are also creating welcoming spaces and a sense of well being. Plus green buildings are great for your reputation.
Some Virginia schools are stepping forward. The first school – actually the first building in Virginia – to earn a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certificate was Langston High School in Arlington in 2003.
More recently, Henrico County announced that their new high school, targeted to open in 2010, will aim for the LEED Silver Certificate.
The green features are expected to add about $1.5 million to the $74 million Henrico project. Over time, savings from reduced water and energy use helps recoup the initial investment. In Virginia Beach, a four year old elementary school with a LEED Silver award uses at least 10 to 15% less electricity than comparable schools.
Henrico officials say it’s good business and “even more important is that the school’s green design concept will be taught to the students.”
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Schools more that just the building itself and there are many
opportunities to be green on the grounds as well.