Business View Magazine - October 2018

148 149 it easier for new projects that sign up for LEED to fully integrate the benchmarking system into their projects. “USGBC is a mission driven organization–with a vision that buildings and communities will re- generate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within a generation.We believe that there is room in the marketplace for any organization that aligns with this vision. In order to truly make an impact we need all hands on deck. LEED contin- ues to be the world’s premier green building rat- ing system with 2.2 million square feet certifying every day in more than 167 countries and territo- ries. LEED offers high quality, technical rigor and impact. LEED is a platform for engagement and a mark of leadership. BVM: If you were writing a profile on Maryland Green Building, what are the salient points that you would like a reader to take away from it? U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL - MARYLAND CHAPTER Jacobsen: “Though a small state, Maryland is one of the most progressive and forward-thinking when it comes to sustainability, and is a leader in the prevalence and promotion of green building in the country. There are more than 1,000 com- mercial projects in Maryland that are LEED-cer- tified, representing nearly 125 million square feet of space. In 2017, Maryland ranked fifth in USGBC’s annual Top 10 States for LEED, and has appeared on the list every year since 2011. “Maryland has been a longstanding leader for green building, with a diverse range of projects across the state.We celebrated six LEED Platinum commercial buildings last year and continue to showcase how sustainable design can enhance all communities. LEED project teams across the state work hard to make green buildings accessi- ble to everyone. The state of Maryland has made commitments to implementing strategies to mit- igate climate change. LEED is a proven tool for economic development, and supports these state and local strategies.”