Plenty of ideas to improve the eco-friendliness and health of your facility—and save some greenbacks, too

For more than three decades, environmental advocates have used Earth Day to broaden support for eco-friendly programs and rekindle public interest.

Though, arguably, we could all stand to live a little greener every day. It's not only a moral imperative; for many recreation managers it has become a fiscal one as well.

Soaring energy costs have led to increased interest in so-called green building, structures designed to be energy-efficient, water-conserving and protective of air quality, among other things.

Several facility managers nationwide have turned to the LEED—Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design—Green Building Rating System to help them achieve their eco goals. The voluntary standards and certification program recognize structures that are more environmentally responsible, healthier and profitable.