Colorado ranked fifth in the nation for building LEED certified green buildings, according to a new report from the U.S. Green Building Council.
A LEED certified building uses less water and energy and is designed to reduce carbon emissions and save money for businesses and taxpayers.
“Colorado is a nationwide leader in green building and LEED certification. LEED creates jobs and increases opportunities for Colorado’s workers and businesses while contributing billions of dollars to the state’s economy,” said Rick Fedrizzi, head of the U.S. Green Building Council. “LEED has become an essential standard for the transformation of building design and construction. LEED certified buildings drive economic growth, creates jobs and makes communities healthier.”
The state had 95 LEED certified projects in 2015. Some of the more prominent ones include Denver’s Republic Plaza, Granite Tower and the Commuter Rail Maintenance Facility, the Pueblo County Judicial center and Boulder’s Fire Station 8.
Illinois ranked highest in the number of LEED certified projects, with 161.
