the Past:

The green|spaces initiative began in 2008. In March of 2011, green|spaces was awarded a 501(c)(3)and has evolved into a community keystone for sustainable building. To date, green|spaces has advocated for, incentivized and consulted on 17 LEED Certified projects, as well as, 8 projects that are currently tracking for certification; 25 LEED projects in total. In addition, 17 solar array installations and 10 green roofs have been actualized in Chattanooga due to green|spaces’ efforts. green|spaces has also assisted 120 community members achieve a LEED professional credential.

the Purpose:

green|spaces’ mission is to work towards regional sustainability by progressing the way we live, work and build.

the Plan:

The impetus of green|spaces is to address the lack of awareness and application of sustainable best practices in Chattanooga and the surrounding region. As a community resource center, green|spaces serves as a forum in which people are always welcome to gather and discuss all things ecologically sound. Educational and technical classes, informal lunch and learns and a materials and methods library are all accessible to the public.

green|spaces also works with commercial and residential builders to encourage and educate them to make construction less wasteful and more environmentally responsible. Today's design and building best practices can do away with unnecessary waste and improve performance. Living green, working green and building green will benefit the triple bottom line; improving Chattanooga’s environment, economy and social equity.

Environmentally preferred best practices for sustainable living, business operations and building bring practical benefits to owners, developers, and occupants. We want to change the way that we look at construction and operations in Chattanooga. We want buildings that are “green|spaces”.