Volkswagen AG, like most automakers today, strives to build not only environmentally friendly cars but also environmentally friendly car factories.
At its new 1,400-acre site in Chattanooga, Tenn., the German automaker has adopted sophisticated technology as well as simple measures to conserve energy and water. For instance, it uses rainwater collected on the roof to cool welding equipment and flush toilets.
On Thursday, the U.S. Green Building Council rated the $1 billion plant the cleanest and most energy efficient car-manufacturing facility not only in North America but in the world. It awarded the Tennessee plant a platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, the only auto manufacturing site to receive that honor.
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