RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ Virginia ranks number 4 in the nation when it comes to “green” buildings. The U.S. Green Building Council released its annual rankings on Wednesday, placing Virginia behind only Illinois, Colorado and Maryland. The rankings are aimed at highlighting states that are making strides in sustainable building design and construction. These buildings use less energy and water resources. The council found that Virginia had 150 projects certified in 2014. They represent 18.6 million square feet. Some of the green buildings cited by the council include the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech, primary and elementary schools in Buckingham County and Oak Grove Elementary in Richmond.
