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| via Inhabitat |
The newest version of this rating system, LEED v4, has been updated to include stricter standards, but this hasn't stopped the creation of incredible buildings. The Haworth Showroom in Beijing was recently announced to have received the first LEED v4 certification under the beta version of the rating system, earning LEED Gold status by achieving 71 out of 110 total possible points.
The Haworth Showroom is located in the Parkview Green building in Beijing, a center for tenants to access transportation, bicycles, and lounge spaces. Parkview Green's neighborhood, Fangcaodi, literally "green, grassy area", is home to homes, shopping centers, and offices with innovative technology and a passion for environmental protection.
Environmental Leader reports that not only does the room make use of fresh air and natural lighting, but the showroom has also reduced its energy usage by 59% through the use of energy-efficient LED lights and a more efficient HVAC system. Additionally, the room decreased its water use by 53% through its use of a greywater recycling system. During its construction, 60% of nonstructural interior materials were reused. The company reports that even the furniture is Greenguard certified or reused from other parts of their building. Haworth has purchased renewable energy credits for the next five years for the showroom and have continued this process with their many other LEED certified buildings worldwide.
The USGBC is releasing the updated, official version of LEED v4 next month at the Greenbuilding International Conference and Expo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Want to become LEED certified or further your education? Check out our GreenEDU courses and packages for LEED Exam Preparation as well as LEED Continuing Education. Register for a course in your area or sign up for an online-anytime course to be taken at your convenience!