It is no secret that I’m an avid University of Florida (UF) Gator fan and proud alumna. In fact, around this time of year (*cough* football season) some might call me borderline obsessive. So when I came across UF’s venture to create the first parking garage in the country to earn USGBC LEED Platinum credits – the most esteemed certification category – I immediately knew the topic of my next post.

In 2001, UF adopted plans to have all major building projects eligible for LEED certification and the parking facility is the school’s latest effort to improve its green rating, but this is no  ordinary parking garage. In fact, when one looks at the exterior of the building, one would never suspect it to hold parking spaces, feature office and retail space or changing rooms and showers. The facility expands its eco-friendly offering by providing more parking per square foot, alternative transportation options, wetland protection, low energy lighting and insulated windows. Additionally, the structure maintains HVAC systems, efficient storm water drainage, and a high impact-recycling program all while promoting a green education program to deliver the sustainable messaging.

UF’s green initiative does not stop there, however.  In 2007, the university joined the American College and University President’s Climate Commitment and began collaborating with a organization known as The Neutral Gator – setting the goal of being completely carbon neutral by 2025.  This year, UF has even made the commitment to become the first carbon neutral athletic program. Currently home to the first and only Platinum LEED-certified athletic facility in the nation, UF added two energy-efficient LED video boards at the north and south end zones at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium – talk about creating a new, exciting green element to Tebow’s touchdowns!

By promoting sustainable practices, UF joins a vast number of other institutions around the nation that are striving to become eco-friendly. Other universities that hold LEED certification include: the University of Colorado at Bolder with all new buildings LEED Certified, Harvard University with 17 LEED-certified buildings and New York University with all new construction and renovations meeting Sliver LEED standards. You can find additional schools meeting green standards by checking out the Sierra Clubs Third Annual Cool Schools List found here, http://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/200909/coolschools/allrankings.aspx#

Clearly, green is not only a trend but a call to action, forcing institutions that educate tomorrow’s leaders to take a long, in-depth look at its carbon footprint. UF is the latest university to make headlines with its high profile, sustainable project. And, being no stranger to cheering on the Gators, I am proud to say – way to go for the LEED.