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LEED

What goes into LEED Platinum® certification?

(LEED® BD+C: CORE AND SHELL V3 - LEED 2009)

Zurich North America’s headquarters has been certified LEED Platinum®, the highest level of certification attainable in the LEED rating system. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council® (USGBC), LEED is the preeminent program for the design, construction, maintenance and operations of high-performance green buildings. The project emphasized a holistic, integrated approach to sustainability, involving the full project team, as well as a strong commitment from Zurich to engage employees throughout the process. Select sustainable initiatives include the following:


62% energy cost reduction

  • Received all points in the category.
  • Cogeneration facility uses a natural gas-fueled engine to generate electricity, as well as capturing waste heat for other uses in the building.
  • Efficient mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems – optimal sizing, etc.

39% domestic water use reduction

  • Water-efficient fixtures (low-flow toilets and sinks).
  • Rainwater harvesting and reuse.

High-performance enclosure

  • Tuning of facade for shading and orientation, including exterior shading and interior automated shades with daylight sensors
  • Double wall mitigates the interior/exterior temperature difference, specifically on the south wall.

Great access to daylight

  • 76% of regularly occupied spaces met the daylight criteria.

99% of construction and demolition waste diverted from landfill

  • Used as much material on site as possible, with remainder sent to recycling facilities.
  • More than 32% of materials manufactured and harvested within 500 miles of jobsite.

99% of wood used was Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified

  • Addresses sustainable forest management.

8 electric-vehicle charging stations

  • Additional prioritized parking provided for low-emitting and carpool vehicles.

Integrated transportation

  • Stops for two public bus routes and consolidated, multi-level parking on site.

Open space and native landscaping

  • Nearly 40-acre site with more than 70% open/softscape.
  • Includes more than 1 acre of green roof, 637 trees and over 13 acres of native savanna plantings.

Low usage of VOCs (volatile organic compounds)

  • Including interior paints, flooring, wood, adhesives and sealants.

Green building education

  • Multiple presentations to Zurich employees on the process and the initiatives.
Zurich North America Headquarters