Green Building is a design and construction practice that has positive effects on the environment by reducing production waste and minimizing future maintenance and utility costs. The primary aspect of Green Building is to reduce new constructions' strain on resources but is also concerned with being cost effective.

In 2007, the Richardson City Council provided direction on all new City buildings being built to LEED certifiable criteria. LEED is a program that certifies buildings on environmental aspects ranging from construction, waste disposal, energy efficiency, land use, and many other aspects of the design and building trade.

In 2009, Richardson’s Fire Station #2 and the new Huffhines Recreation Center were completed. Both facilities were certified LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2010. For more information on LEED certification, check out the U.S. Green Building Councils website.

Green Building standards are continuing to be developed across the country. To learn more about what is current in Green Building topics you may search the helpful websites below:

• Green Built North Texas 
• LEED 
• Energy Star 
• International Code Council
• REGREEN Residential Remodeling 
• Resnet