USGBC President Fedrizzi Elected Chair of World Green Building Council

WASHINGTON, October 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- Fedrizzi steps up in organization's tenth year, with plans to strengthen and grow local councils, raise voice and visibility of global coalition

Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has been elected chair of the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), a coalition of green building councils from 89 countries.  

"I've watched in awe as the green building movement has grown on a global scale-as people from widely different backgrounds, countries and industries have united under a common commitment to building a healthier, more sustainable world," said Fedrizzi. "I'm humbled to be a part of this massive movement, and honored to serve the WorldGBC and its global members."

"We will invite diverse multinational stakeholders to support WorldGBC and have a voice in its development," continued Fedrizzi, who noted that he wants to be able to grow, mentor and nurture the individual green building councils across the globe.

"Now with 89 countries, the WorldGBC has reached a critical mass, demonstrating that industry leadership in collaboration with government provides a very positive and progressive method of change," said Jane Henley, CEO, WorldGBC. "Rick has been empowering leaders to start GBCs in their own countries since the beginning and it is fitting that he takes the helm in our tenth year."

Fedrizzi, who was USGBC's founding chair, was appointed President and CEO in 2004 following a 25-year career as a Fortune 500 executive.  Under his leadership, USGBC has tripled its membership, broadened its influence and cemented its role as a leadership voice in the global sustainability movement through efforts such as its LEED green building program, the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo and the LEED Professional Credential program.  

"During my chairmanship, I hope to build on the strong work of my predecessor Tony Arnel by establishing a mentorship program, helping newly founded councils get off the ground, and expanding and strengthening the current committee structure," added Fedrizzi who will take the reins from Arnel in January 2012. Arnel has served as WGBC chair for the past three years and is also chair of the Green Building Council of Australia.  

About USGBC

USGBC is committed to making green building available to everyone within a generation. For more information, visit usgbc.org.

Contact: Ashley Katz
Communications Manager, USGBC
+1-202-742-3738
akatz@usgbc.org