Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center recently received its first-ever LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The 35-year-old building is being recognized for its sustainability, maintenance and operational efforts, with the U.S. Green Building Council awarding the highest version of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold for its documented building standards.

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GRB previously achieved LEED Silver in 2011, with recertification in 2017. These certifications examine areas including energy conservation, waste reduction, indoor air quality improvement and water conservation.

“Our industry-leading entertainment and convention venues are constantly evolving to exceed expectation, and this latest accolade further solidifies our commitment to healthy and sustainable practices,” said Michael Heckman, president and CEO, Houston First, the management company behind George R. Brown Convention Center. “We are fortunate to have partners like Levy Restaurants and TDIndustries who work alongside us providing support and assistance so that we continue making improvements that protect and benefit our community, and our future.”

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Various processes decreased the convention center’s carbon footprint, like utilizing compostable utensils, installing refillable bottle stations and creating a hydro garden program. The management company also works with local non-profits to deliver unserved food from GRB events to more than 90 shelters, soup kitchens and charities.

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“Transforming our buildings and spaces happens one project at a time. The George R. Brown Convention Center understands the value of LEED and has shown extraordinary leadership in reshaping the market,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, U.S. Green Building Council. “The success of LEED is due to the partnership and support of those committed to advancing green buildings and sustainability. Each new LEED certification brings us one step closer to revolutionizing the spaces where we live, learn, work, and play.”