The Green Construction Guide Manual continues in 2024 – Environment+Energy Leader

Meribet Collins

Virginia maintains a strong commitment to resistance in 2024, with over 20 million square feet of buildings winning Leed certification in 100 projects. The state is ranked among the top 10 countries for Leed for the 12th consecutive year, strengthening its leadership in green construction initiatives.

Remarkable certified Leed projects in 2024

Several high -profile projects received LEED certificates, demonstrating energy efficiency, resource conservation and sustainable design:

• Nature Conservcy Arlington
• 600 East Broad Street
• Virginia Beach Congress Center
• Maronda Lot C&MARONDA LOT D

New Green Construction Policy

Virginia also saw progress in the resilience policy. Richmond has adopted Ordinance 2024-271, requiring SDSS standards (SDSS) for city-funded projects. The policy imposes a LEED certificate for buildings and provides for infrastructure certification, guaranteeing long -term environmental benefits.

Looking forward by 2025

With 380 new projects registered for the LEED certificate, Virginia has been designated for continuous progress in the green building. Professionals in the industry and community members can get involved through the events, membership and volunteer opportunities of USGBC Virginia to help to achieve sustainability efforts.

Project

Nature Conservancy Arlington headquarters

• Certification level: Platinum
• Leed version: V4 for construction design and construction
• Date of Certification: May 28, 2024
• Project Highlights:
  • Sustainable repair: Nature Conservancy (TNC) has undertaken a complete renovation of its Arlington plant to increase sustainability and stability. The project focuses on the modernization of construction systems to reduce energy consumption and minimize the environmental footprint.
  • Holistic design approach: By incorporating feedback from stakeholders, the renovation aims to improve the consumer experience and to increase the sale of the newly created many tenants of the floors, to align the TNC mission to protect vital lands and waters.
    

600 East Broad Street, Richmond

• Certification level: Platinum
• Leed version: V4.1 For Operations and Maintenance (Re -Certification)
• Project Highlights:

Virginia Beach Congress Center

• Certification level: Gold
• Leed version: V4.1 For Operations and Maintenance (Re -Certification)
• Project Highlights:
  • Pioneer Design: The Virginia Beach Congress Center was the first congress center in the United States to achieve Leed Gold certification.
  • Sustainable operations: The facility emphasizes energy efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable operational practices that serve as a public place model throughout the country.

Maronda Lot C&MARONDA LOT D

• Certification level: Gold
• Leed version: V4.1 for the design and construction of buildings (residential)
• Project Highlights:
  • Energy efficient design: These housing projects give priority to energy efficiency through modern construction techniques and materials.
  • A healthy life environment: Focus on creating a healthier indoor environment for residents by using low emissions materials and providing excellent indoor air quality.