May 23
The Goal is Green
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, is the standard by which Austin’s building projects are measured these days. Developers seeking LEED certification must meet stringent requirements for reduced waste, conservation in energy and water use, healthy environment for occupants and employees, and demonstrate their commitment to environmental conservation and responsibility.
Austin lays claim to starting the green building trend. The city government has been at the forefront of providing incentives for home and office builders to apply sustainable building practices as they plan and develop residential and professional properties.
Austin recently hosted the Austin Green Living & Home Products Expo, April 18 through 20, at the Austin Convention Center to showcase new products and designs and offer workshops for consumers to learn simple ways they can change their lifestyles and products they use to help contribute to a more environmentally friendly future. Small changes such as using compact fluorescent bulbs and reusable shopping bags can make a big impact when a lot of people get involved.
The Expo featured builders, landscaping architects, producers of renewable and alternative energy sources, and natural, organic, and fair trade products. Mayor Will Wynn spoke about his Climate Protection Plan, introduced in 2007 to raise awareness and set some goals for sustainability for the city. His aim was to set an example for the rest of the state by encouraging area home and business developers to study ways of lowering energy costs and use and he�s leading by example. In an article in the Austin Chronicle, he stated “my home electricity bill is $28 again this month. I’m also driving a fifth what I used to”. His hope is that the city will set an example for the rest of the country and, indeed, the world.