We grew up with the Three "R"s being Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. The NEW "R"s are REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE. Is it easy…yes. Is it time consuming…yes. It is worth it…absolutely yes!

It is somewhat daunting with all of the GREEN terminology flying around such as LEED-AP and LEED-EB. It can be like receiving the text message of TTYL, the person sending it knows that it means "talk to you later" but the receiver is just not sure. In the case of LEEDS, it is a city in England.

LEED-AP is the Professional Accreditation an individual receives when they pass an exam from the US Green Building Council. This person must possess the knowledge and skill necessary to participate in the design process, supports and encourages integrated design and can streamline the application process. Remember buildings are certified, professionals are accredited.

For most of our membership, LEED-EB is the Building Certification needed to be achieved for our owners and tenants. LEED-EB is the certification for existing buildings. "The LEED for Existing Buildings Rating System helps building owners and operators' measure operations improvement and maintenance on a consistent scale, with the goal of maximizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts", states the USGBC. This process includes the way you clean the building, the recycle programs, exterior maintenance programs (xeriscape, reduced irrigation, and shade to name a few) and systems upgrades (energy star rated equipment, roofing materials, exterior lighting).

Where do you start? If you haven't obtained your Energy Star Rating for your property, this is your starting point.

Next, look at recycling programs. Balers are great for cardboard recycle. Not only do you save it from the landfill, you may also receive rebates for it (value added for owner). Lamps, bulbs, batteries and cell phones, among others, are all going to the landfills. By setting up recycle containers in your buildings, the tenants have the opportunity to bring their recyables from home. It benefits them and improves your carbon footprint.

Recyclables can now be commingled in the same container which includes glass, paper, plastic, and cans. It doesn't have to be separated any more as long as the recyclables are not contaminated with food products.

Being GREEN takes commitment and time at every level including the building owners, managers, engineers, tenants and all of the companies that provide services to the building.

The GREEN Committee will be providing a monthly Newsletter article to help educate our membership on LEED, BEEP and the 7 Point Challenge as well as identifying low cost and effective methods/programs to start becoming GREEN!

Be a good citizen and start looking for ways to implement the NEW three R's.