WASHINGTON -   U.S. Green Building Council founder and CEO Rick Fedrizzi said he will step down from the position at the end of 2016.

“As one of the founders of USGBC, I never could have imagined the sweeping global impact the organization would have, the wide-ranging work that could be accomplished, the dramatic change in our industry that we would lead, the scale of the innovation we would spark or the number of lives we would touch,” Fedrizzi said. “It’s been a humbling and gratifying experience.”

A search committee has been set up to fill the position held by Fedrizzi since 2003. “I am looking forward to working with the Board to assure a successful transition for the new CEO come 2017,” said Fedrizzi. “The organization’s executive team is seasoned and capable, assuring that USGBC’s work will continue to be executed at a high level and that USGBC’s reputation as a leading voice in the sustainability movement will continue uninterrupted. ”

Founded 22 years ago, the USGBC promotes sustainability through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. In addition to the LEED green building program the group also boasts educational offerings, a nationwide network of chapters and affiliates, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities.

“As an industry, we’ve grown and prospered because of a powerful idea that ultimately sparked a movement,” said Fiona Cousins, chair-elect of the USGBC Board of Directors. “That movement has been ably led by Rick Fedrizzi for more than two decades, and it’s that success we’ll continue to build on in the future.”