Established by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), the LEED system offers project certification and professional accreditation. The system was originally put into place to transform the methods in which buildings were designed, constructed, and even remodeled. The USGBC promotes and awards buildings which protect the natural habitat and decrease environmental impact without sacrificing occupancy happiness or health.
For more about the USGBC visit their homepage.
The building certification system promotes universally accepted sustainable technology and building techniques. By considering the whole building as a project, the system encourages environmental and human health through consideration of: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. Areas of LEED certification includes: home, neighborhood development, commercial interiors, core and shell, schools, healthcare, retail and new construction projects. All of these areas have separate guidelines and rating systems that must be carefully followed in order to reach the highest level of certification, platinum.
For more about the LEED building certification process and rating system.
By striving for LEED certification, we must consider every aspect of the project and its environmental and human health impacts. If we were to ultimately reach our goal of LEED certification, not only would we qualify for tax rebates, zoning allowances and other incentives, but we would be constructing a building that promotes exactly what we teach. LEED certification is a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate to the community the possibilities of green architecture and the commitment towards
environmental stewardship.