Dallas, TX - The Dallas Convention Center announced today that they have been awarded the LEED® EB (Existing Building) Silver Certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI).
Interim Director Al Rojas said “The LEED Certification exemplifies our commitment to providing the highest quality space for our customers and employees. We understand the importance of these efforts which not only lower costs but improve the environment for generations to come.”
LEED EB addresses the operation and working of existing buildings. Upgrading an existing building to “green standards” is far more difficult than designing and building an entirely new building to operate in a way that it has less impact on the environment.
This rating system helps building owners and operator’s measure operations, improvements and maintenance on a consistent scale with the goal of maximizing operation efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. Building upgrades and improvements were combined with an aggressive adjustment to the operational procedures to earn the credits leading to the certification.
The Convention Center’s green building programs and features include: alternative transportation options, energy efficient lighting with reduced mercury content; environmentally sensitive cleaning products and practices; reduction of indoor potable water through low-flow fixtures and the replacement of one cooling tower; and a comprehensive recycling program.
The Center has achieved a remarkable 58.7% saving on electricity consumption and 55.6% savings on the consumption of natural gas since the start of the project.
The Dallas Convention Center’s LEED EB® Silver Certification demonstrates tremendous green building leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair of the U.S. Green Building Council. “The urgency of USGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and the Dallas Convention Center serves as a prime example of just how much we can accomplish.”
The Dallas Convention Center is a 2.2 million sq. ft. facility that has demonstrated a constant commitment to service, technical and culinary excellence, as well as environmental sustainability.
