WASHINGTON, D.C. - The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) have signed a memorandum of intent outlining collaborative efforts to promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible building operations.

The memorandum establishes a cooperative relationship between USGBC and IFMA and acknowledges voluntary measures as the desired goal. It also calls for an open dialogue between the organizations on legislative and regulatory initiatives that embrace best practices in green construction and sustainable operations.

The agreement encourages cooperative activities in the development of educational initiatives - such as USGBC workshops and IFMA core competency courses - and the cross-promotion of continuing education units (CEUs) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® AP exam. IFMA and USGBC will also collaborate at each organization’s annual conference.

“IFMA members are always looking for ways to fine tune their facility assets by maximizing their bottom lines and minimizing their carbon footprints,” said David Brady, IFMA president and CEO. “Working with USGBC to promote sustainable practices encourages healthier and more productive workplace environments and creates a tremendous potential for energy savings and reduced emissions.”

IFMA will work with USGBC as a Greenbuild Top-Tier Partner - a group that recognizes the need for moving the building industry toward a more sustainable design approach. Other Top-Tier Partners include the American Institute of Architects and the Urban Land Institute.

“Sharing best practices among professionals in our arena will drive the industry to build and operate more sustainable buildings,” said Rick Fedrizzi, USGBC president, CEO, and founding chair. “We are thrilled to be working with IFMA to help develop better understanding and more tools that further green building practices. Both organizations will help deliver buildings that are healthier, more environmentally responsible, and profitable.”

For more information, visit www.usgbc.org or www.ifma.org.

Publication Date: 01/28/2008