OK, so it’s not actually The Office (that beloved TV show) but your office that soon may be getting a bit greener–especially if you work in Arlington, Virginia.
The county has been selected as one of four local U.S. governments (including Charleston, SC; Nashville, TN; and San Diego, CA) to receive assistance in creating a Green Office Challenge program.
The innovative initiative, to launch locally in fall 2010, will engage property managers and office tenants in a friendly competition to save money, reduce energy, water usage and waste; and reach other environmental goals. Offices with the biggest savings over the course of one year will be recognized for their achievements.
The Challenge started last year in Chicago and is sponsored by the ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, a membership association of more than 600 local governments in the U.S. and 1,100 worldwide committed to advancing climate protection and sustainability.
With nearly 44 million square feet—more private office space than downtown Los Angeles, Denver or Dallas—Arlington County could reap significant energy and cost savings. Hailed in the DC metro area for its eco-efforts, Arlington will now have a chance to make its mark on the national map.
Complementing Arlington County’s existing programs to reduce energy use and carbon emissions, including the Fresh AIRE (Arlington Initiative to Reduce Emissions) Program, the Challenge has already been backed by Arlington businesses, and will be implemented with support from key community partners, including the Apartment and Office Building Association of Metropolitan Washington, Arlington Chamber of Commerce and Arlington Economic Development.
To learn more about the Green Office Challenge, visit ICLEI USA .
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