“When there’s a will, there’s a way.” - Charlie Cichetti

Sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a commitment to a better future. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with Charlie Cichetti, LEED Fellow + WELL AP, CEO + Co-Founder of Skema.AI, a leading expert in green building to discuss the latest updates in sustainability and how they impact industries worldwide. 

From energy efficiency to new LEED requirements, Charlie breaks down what professionals need to know about the latest green building innovations. Whether you’re a facilities manager, an industrial water treatment expert, or just passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with valuable insights, actionable advice, and a roadmap to making buildings greener and more efficient.

What’s New in Green Building?

Green building standards are evolving, and LEED Version 5 is on the horizon. Learn how new prerequisites like electric vehicle charging stations and community impact considerations are shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure.

LEED vs. WELL Certification: What’s the Difference?

LEED focuses on building performance and environmental impact, while WELL centers around health and well-being. Charlie breaks down how these certifications complement each other and why they matter in today’s workplace.

Energy Efficiency & Decarbonization Strategies

How can companies reduce their carbon footprint and operating costs? Learn about smart buildings, microgrids, battery storage, and HVAC optimization—essential tools for cutting energy consumption while improving efficiency.

Green Financing: How to Fund Sustainability Initiatives

Many professionals assume sustainability upgrades are costly, but green financing, tax deductions, and government incentives make it easier than ever to fund energy and water-saving projects. Charlie shares how to access these opportunities.

The Role of Water Treatment in Green Buildings

The water-energy nexus is critical in sustainability efforts. Learn how industrial water treatment, cooling tower optimization, and HVAC efficiency contribute to green building goals and LEED certification points.

Bottom Line

Green buildings aren’t just about reducing environmental impact—they’re also about saving money, increasing efficiency, and creating healthier spaces. Tune in to discover practical ways you can implement sustainable practices in your facilities.

Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! 

 

Timestamps 

02:12 - Trace Blackmore shares the Intro & Reflections on AI and Skynet

07:40 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

09:38 - Water You Know with James McDonald 

11:29 - Interview with Charlie Cichetti about the latest on green building 

25:31 - LEED vs. WELL: Understanding the Difference 

31:50 - How to Get Started with Green Buildings 

33:01 - Future of Green Building

 

Quotes

"Sustainability isn’t just about being green; it’s about reducing costs, improving efficiency, and creating a healthier work environment." – Charlie Cichetti 

"Benchmarking is the first step to making any building greener—know where you stand so you can improve." – Charlie Cichetti 

"LEED is still the most recognized green building certification globally." – Charlie Cichetti 

 

Connect with Charlie Cichetti 

Phone: (706) 633-6689 

Email: [email protected] 

Website: https://gbes.com/ 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/  

Click HERE to Download Episode’s Discussion Guide 

 

Guest Resources Mentioned  

Green Building Education Services (GBES)

Green Building Matters Podcast

Trello

Skema AI

LEED Version 4

WELL (Certification) 

 

Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned 

AWT (Association of Water Technologies) 

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses 

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Water You Know with James McDonald  

Question: What scaling index was developed in 1936 to predict the scaling potential of calcium carbonate in drinking water systems? 

 

2025 Events for Water Professionals 

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.