White House Taking the LEED

Leadership by example is as strong a form of leadership as any other. It's great to have a couple in the White House that fully embrace that when it comes to the environment.

From Inhabitat...

The White House is doing its part in leading the way to a more sustainable nation. Not only are they growing their own food on site with Michelle Obama’s garden, but now even they’re aiming for LEED certification. The Obamas are trying to show that reducing energy use and leading a greener life really aren’t that hard.

Rick Fedrizzi, CEO and president of USGBC, is offering his expertise to help the White House achieve certification. “LEED certification of the White House is absolutely possible and viable,” Fedrizzi says. Although such an important structure will definitely make a historic renovation more challenging than any other building. Windowpanes, which are typically replaced to improve the efficiency of the building’s envelope, will not be able to be replaced at the White House because of their historic glazing. Instead alternatives like window films will have to be explored for higher efficiency.

Both Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton made upgrades to the White House and cut energy use, and George W. Bush installed a small photovoltaic system and two solar water-heating systems. But seeking LEED certification is a significant step forward and a great example for the nation.