December 4, 2007

Two Department of Environmental Quality district offices were recently given the ENERGY STAR award, recognizing their efforts to protect the environment through energy efficiency. The award was given to the DEQ's Southeast Michigan district office in Warren, and the Upper Peninsula district office in Gwinn.

"We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to energy conservation," said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester. "Both at work and at home, everyone can help make Michigan a leader in energy efficiency."

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S Department of Energy that awards buildings operating in the top 25% of nationwide energy efficiency standards. These facilities expend 35% less energy than similar buildings and generate one-third less carbon dioxide. ENERGY STAR buildings protect the environment, prevent the release of greenhouse gases, and reduce energy expenditures.

In addition to meeting ENERGY STAR goals for efficient use of energy, the DEQ office in Warren is also certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). LEED certification meets the national standards for ‘green' buildings in both construction and operation to create an environmentally friendly building.

Profiles of the buildings will soon be posted online at www.energystar.gov/buildinglist.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised December 4, 2007 by Pat Watson