Paula F. Downey
President's Message: Green Buildings
New AAA headquarters refelects a green commitment
Our AAA club recently moved its headquarters to a new six-story building in Walnut Creek, Calif., that has just been awarded the coveted LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
We used recycled materials in the building and low-emitting chemicals in the veneers, carpeting, and furniture. We also installed water-saving restrooms and designed our lighting system to shut off automatically when a room is not in use. The result is a main office that requires 40 percent less water and 17 percent less energy than others its size.
Having a green building complements our long campaign to help members be safer and greener drivers. All these efforts contribute to the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.
While a lot of attention is given to the energy used by cars, trucks, and other modes of transportation, buildings are responsible for 41 percent of all energy consumption nationwide, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Transportation, by contrast, accounts for 28 percent.
Research compiled by GreenRoad, a developer of Good Directions driving safety technology, indicates that driving safely uses 7 to 11 percent less fuel than high-risk driving. We encourage you to have both a safe and an environmentally responsible hand on the wheel.
You can find expert advice on saving fuel and information about greener driving and commuting options when you visit AAA.com/greenerdriving.
To help you explore emerging fuel options, our Greenlight Initiative (AAA.com/greenlight) is your one-stop resource on:
▪ alternative fuels and vehicles
▪ insurance savings for drivers of hybrid vehicles
▪ free classes on how best to drive a hybrid
▪ Show Your Card & Save green savings and discounts
With our new LEED Gold certification, we can say that being a good shepherd of the environment literally starts at home for us. AAA members should expect nothing less.
Paula F. Downey, President
Photography by Anne Hamersky
This article was first published in May 2010. Some facts may have aged gracelessly.
