Illinois third in nation for sustainable construction, according to Green Building Council | Courtesy of Shutterstock
Illinois third in nation for sustainable construction, according to Green Building Council | Courtesy of Shutterstock
Illinois ranks third in the United States for LEED-certified green building, as listed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
Illinois has remained among the top 10 on the list since the ranking began seven years ago.
"Illinois has a strong history of and appreciation for architectural innovation," Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Acting Director Sean McCarthy said. "It is evident as you walk down the streets of Chicago, drive by the buildings in Springfield or tour one of our many world-class education institutions. Green builders employ the most advanced technology possible to create a sustainable future, while also driving our economy and making our state a better place to live, work and invest."
LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a ranking system created by the USGBC to recognize and encourage sustainable design.
"I am proud to see Illinois continue to emphasize state-of-the-art practices to yet again earn the title of a top LEED builder," Intersect Illinois Chairman and CEO Jim Schultz said. "Our focus on innovation and the future of our state continues to attract companies and jobs from across the globe. We will continue to employ our best efforts to support green technology and help make Illinois the state of innovation."
As of last year, Illinois was home to 151 LEED-certified projects. Notable projects from that year include Motor Row Brewing in Chicago, which ranked LEED Silver; Chiaravalle Montessori School North Wing in Evanston, which ranked LEED Platinum; and Presence Center for Advanced Care in Chicago, ranked LEED Gold.
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