Ohio’s school construction program has reached the 200 mark for facilities earning certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, program.
The Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) said Wednesday that Violet Elementary in Pickerington schools is the 200th such facility.
According to the commission, Ohio’s certified schools are on average 33 percent more efficient in energy usage and 37 percent more efficient in water usage. “All of the OSFC projects encourage the use of products and components that are at least partially recycled and are recovered or manufactured within a 500-mile radius of the project,” OSFC stated.
In addition to the 200 certified schools, 140 are registered with LEED, meaning they are at some stage of the design, construction or review process, according to the commission. Ohio has required each project design to seek at least a LEED Silver certification since 2007. Three schools in Ohio have attained the highest certification, Platinum, said OSFC.
“These 200 projects, which represent a commitment to both our school children and the future of our environment, are the direct result of innovative team work from architects, construction managers, trade contractors, and our project partners, the local school districts. I commend them for their accomplishments,” OSFC Interim Executive Director David Chovan said in a statement.
“On behalf of the entire USGBC community, I commend the state of Ohio for certifying its 200th school under the LEED green building rating system,” Rick Fedrizzi, CEO and founding chairman of the U.S. Green Building Council, said in a statement. “This achievement demonstrates determination and commitment to create a healthy, sustainable environment for all of Ohio’s children. Schools are the centers of their communities and the positive impact these LEED-certified schools will have on the state and its children will be felt for years to come.”