There are not too many LEED industrial buildings in North America. Most factories are constructed in the cheapest possible way with little regard to the environment or energy efficiency. Hence a car plant certified to the highest LEED standard caught GallonDaily’s eye.
The building is a Volkswagen car plant newly constructed in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The building has many environmental features. Some of those least expected at a car plant include:
- superior building insulation;
- LED lighting on the exterior;
- rainwater collected and used to flush toilets and cool equipment;
- a white roof to reflect heat;
- built on a brownfield site; and
- 100 ft. wide creeks and wetlands around the property to create natural habitats.
More information at http://www.volkswagengroupamerica.com/newsroom/2011/12/01_vw_chattanooga_earns_LEED_platinum.htm