As an architect, interior designer, or project manager, you may be wondering if the next build you apply for or are assigned will include LEED Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This holistic framework for creating sustainable buildings has been around for almost 25 years now.
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and it takes environmentally-sound building practices into account.
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) assigns a score based on certain factors, including energy and water usage, the quality of indoor environments, the selection of materials, and the overall site effects.
If a project receives a certain score, the USGBC will confer a basic certification, or a silver, gold, or platinum ranking. Evaluators base the decisions on how well these eco-friendly factors are taken into consideration.
LEED Certification tells customers and employees that you have been intentional about lowering the carbon footprint of your new or renovated structure.
After two-plus decades, LEED is still widely recognized as the most important green building standard in the industry. Buildings with LEED certification can qualify for tax breaks, government grants, and expedited permitting (in some cases).
USGBC was formed in 1993 as a group of architects interested in creating a rating system for projects that take environmental responsibility seriously. They spent the next five years developing a coalition of trade groups and supporters that committed to voluntary eco-friendly building practices.
The organization serves as a neutral third party to verify if a building or larger project utilizes environmental strategies. In addition, the LEED process is meant to encourage a mutual relationship between architects, design firms, engineers, contractors, and others throughout the design and build phases.
CLICK HERE to read more about LEED in this Building Elements article
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Gary Fleisher is the Editor in Chief of Modular Home Source and Offsite Builder. Email at [email protected]
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