LDS (Mormon Church) Goes 'Green'

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, commonly known as the "Mormon" church in popular culture, has taken strides in the last few years to become more sustainable.  In 2009 the new state-of-the-art Church History Library achieved one of the highest standards (LEED Silver) for certification as a “green” construction facility.  And in 2010 the Presiding Bishopric of the church introduced its first solar powered meetinghouse in the Northern Hemisphere.  The array will generate enouph power to completely power the structure by itself.  This first solar stake center is one prototype among others in Eagle Mountain, Apache Junction, Logandale, and Pahrump.  (See the reference links below for actual articles.)

It’s about creating a place of worship that works in harmony with the environment,” said H. David Burton, Presiding Bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and responsible for the physical facilities of the Church. “For decades we have looked for innovative ways to use natural resources in our meetinghouses that reflect our commitment as wise stewards of God’s creations.”

The Church’s commitment to attaining LEED certification for the Church History Library is a reflection of their long-term vision, and it underscores the leadership role the Church plays on so many levels in the community,” said Jim Bradburn, director of Sustainable Services at The RMH Group, a sustainable engineering services firm in Denver.