The Songdo International Business District (IBD) in South Korea is proving to be one of the most ambitious green developments anywhere in the world. According to the USGBC, “Korea was reached another green building milestone and now totals 19.5 million square feet of LEED-certified space” all in this major business district. With a number of energy efficient buildings being constructed within the 13 million square foot area, it is setting a precedent on what can be achieved in Asia.

Among these buildings is the first exhibition center on the continent to be granted LEED certification, as well as a school, residential tower and hotel, which have all been granted the prestigious award. Rick Fedrizzi, president, chief executive officer and founding chair of the US Green Building Council, said: “With the recent certification of its ninth LEED project, Songdo IBD is making its vision of high-performance, energy-efficient, healthy green buildings a reality. These include energy and water efficiency, a sustainable site and building materials brought from local and recycled sources.

We commend Songdo for its extraordinary, inspirational accomplishments. Way to go!