The U.S. Green Building Council recently released its annual list of the top 10 states for new LEED certifications in 2012, on which Colorado ranks No. 3. The per-capita list, which recognizes states that are leading the way in transforming their buildings and communities and includes Washington, D.C., is based on 2010 U.S. Census data and reflects certifications for commercial and institutional buildings.

With 62,180,180 total sq ft of LEED-certified space through 2012, Colorado certified 2.10 sq ft per resident last year, standing behind Virginia, with 3.71 sq ft, and in front of Massachusetts, with 2.05 sq ft.

“Securing a spot on this list is a remarkable achievement for everyone involved in the green building movement in Colorado,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO & founding chair, USGBC. “From architects and designers to local chapter advocates, their collective efforts have brought sustainable building design and use to the forefront of Colorado’s discussion on the environment, and I applaud their efforts to create a healthier present and future for the people of Colorado.”

“The level of commitment and talent among Colorado’s green building community is demonstrated in this accomplishment,” said Angie Fyfe, executive director, USGBC Colorado Chapter. “2013 marks the state’s 10th anniversary of its first LEED-certified building. We congratulate the dedicated building owners, managers, developers and industry experts who continue to take a position of leadership in transforming our built environment.”

Notable projects that certified in 2012 in Colorado include:

• Denver Animal Shelter, LEED Platinum

• University of Colorado Boulder Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building, LEED Platinum

• Denver Police Crime Lab, LEED Gold

• U.S. Dept. of Energy National Renewable Energy Laboratory Research Support Facility in Golden, LEED Platinum

• Xcel Energy Headquarters in Denver, LEED Platinum

• Red Hawk Elementary School in Erie, LEED for Schools Gold

• Vail Fire Station, LEED Gold.