Laura Chenel's Chèvre has been awarded LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for its new Sonoma creamery, which was completed in 2011. This is the first cheese production facility in the U.S. to achieve the status. The Gold certification is based on green design and construction elements, which have a positive impact on the areas of water efficiency, energy use, lighting, and waste treatment. The facility will continue to ensure the quality of the company’s cheese, while improving cost efficiency. Charles Willard, Senior Project Engineer, states, “By using less energy and water we save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to healthier working and living conditions for our employees and community.”
