Green Building in O.C. to Expand in 2011

Green building works according to the findings of the Orange County Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. After successful efforts paid off in 2010, the council has announced several new programs and services for the new year.

The new plans will include three primary focus areas: community partnerships, broker/tenant education and mentor-ship. Educating people about green practices is one of the council's main objectives, and they will work with schools and non-profit organizations in Orange County to foster awareness and green building initiatives.

In 2010, Executive Director, Lisa Kramer forged alliances with community and business leaders and USGBC sponsors. The Orange County chapter followed their guidance in reaching its goals. Supporters and newcomers can expect that cooperative effort to continue in 2011.

To kick off the 2011 campaign, the council will hold an event at the Business Expo Center in Anaheim on January 27 at 5:30pm. Among the featured guests will be one of California's most charismatic and knowledgeable experts on green building, Panama Bartholomy (below), Deputy Director of the Energy Efficiency and Renewables Division of the California Energy Commission. The event is available to members for $25.00, non-members for $35.00, and students at a reduced price of $15.00.

The USGBC is a non-profit organization that promotes sustainability through cost-efficient and energy-saving green building. They offer LEED certification for buildings that meet the organization's human health and environmental requirements. For more information about the Orange County chapter of the USGBC, you can visit their website at usgbc-oc.org.