The Golden Arches Have Gone Green

The most readily recognized universal symbol – the infamous golden arches of McDonald’s – now represents a rise in major corporations’ attempt to greenify themselves. On April 22, McDonald’s headquarters in Chicago received the platinum level certification from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Surprisingly, this face lift only cost them $150,000 which is considered chump change in the McDonald’s kingdom.

There are only 126 buildings worldwide that have been recognized with this highest level of certification and there are a number of factors that are examined. Energy and water consumption, environmental impact and indoor conditions are just a few.

So, the next time you gorge on that biggie-sized Big Mac and fries, eat happy knowing that you’re involved with a company that takes environmental conservation seriously. However, you may need to jog five miles to have your heart and blood vessels happy again. For more details on McDonald’s LEED certification, visit Business Week.