Illinois has most 'green' building space for 3rd year

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois created the most "green" building space per capita in the U.S. for the third year running.

The U.S. Green Building Council will announce Tuesday its top 10 states for "LEED," or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design.

LEED-certified spaces use less energy and water, reduce carbon emissions, create jobs and establish a healthier community.

In its sixth year, the ranking looks at total square feet of green space per resident. Illinois has 161 newly certified projects representing 3.43 square feet per capita. Maryland was second with 127 projects and 3.43 square feet.

Illinois' 44 million total square feet was highest by far than six of the other nine states. California and Texas had more total but less per capita square feet.

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Online: http://www.usgbc.org/