I just completed an article that summarizes the many ways Wyndham Worldwide has greened up its new headquarters in Parsippany, N.J. Opened to its 800-plus employees in April, the two-building complex should earn LEED for Commercial Interiors certification from the U.S. Green Building Council sometime next year. Here are just a few examples of the complex's green features: 83,000 square feet of white roofing material to help keep the building cool in the summer; motion sensors to turn lights off when they are not needed; low-flow toilets and faucets; and an on-site green dry cleaner (Green Apple Organic Dry Cleaning).
When I spoke with Faith Taylor, vice president, sustainability and innovation for Wyndham Worldwide, she said Wyndham really wanted to walk its green talk by building a LEED-worthy office complex. Wyndham's Wyndham Green program has been gaining momentum lately with energy conservation, water conservation, education, recycling, and destination/local conservation at its core.
Wyndham Worldwide's leaders should be commended for their decision to build to LEED standards. Taylor says the company is already reaping financial benefits from installing efficient building systems. Employee morale has also improved; they have access to an on-site gym, credit union, and gift shop where they can purchase items such as milk and eggs. These amenities will help reduce the amount of miles employees will have to drive to and from work.
Wyndham is not alone in its quest to green one's headquarters. Marriott International is also pursuing LEED certification for its headquarters in Bethesda, Md. Marriott should also be congratulated for its environmental commitment.
What is your company doing to green up its home? Write to editor@greenlodgingnews.com to let me know. And, watch for the article about Wyndham's new headquarters on Green Lodging News.
No comments:
Post a Comment