Even the White House is Going Green!

Inhabitat magazine announced last week that the White House is looking at a remodeling effort to earn LEED certification.  The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standard is offered by the US Green Building Council.  (Learn more about green building standards here.) 

These plans by the Obama family follow efforts by Carter and Clinton which focused on energy conservation, and by the first Bush family to introduce solar panels.  If the plans push forward, the certification will make the Obama effort different from the others.  The existing green building certifications require a wholistic approach to new green buildings or remodeling of existing buildings.  To earn LEED certification the White House will have to significantly improve energy efficiency and the quality of the indoor air throughout the property.  This takes a focused effort beyond the more one-product solutions previously introduced at the White House. 

Whether you live at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue or not, this wholistic look at home improvement is the smart way to enjoy your home more, save money, and cut utility usage. 

Stay tuned for updates on the efforts to make the White House green!