You have seen the headlines and hear about it all the time. Congratulations to Blah, Blah, Blah for they were awarded Platinum LEED certification. Yeah, I know what you are thinking, it sounds impressive! You’re almost proud for them and then you realize you don’t even know what the heck LEED is about.
What is LEED? 
What is “LEED” you ask? LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design building rating system. It is a bunch of guidelines established by the U.S. Green Building Council. The purpose is to give architects, builders, and designers a framework that outlines obtainable and measureable environmental objectives.
Why should I give a care?
LEED-certified buildings are designed to:
- · Lower operating costs and increase asset value
- · Reduce waste sent to landfills
- · Conserve energy and water
- · Be healthier and safer for occupants
- · Reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions
- · Qualify for tax rebates, zoning allowances and other incentives in hundreds of cities
First, I don’t know about you, but I am down with saving a buck or two. Second, Conservation is what’s hot in the streetz right now. Third, it proves that you’re not a selfish S.O.B. and you actually care about your planet, community, neighbors, and future generations. Not to mention most LEED projects are pretty cool to look at. You may also be considered socially responsible by your peers. Working toward a LEED certification helps to address many issues including global climate change, dependence on non sustainable and expensive sources of energy, and threats to human health.
How does it work?
Well you must determine if your project falls into one of the categories listed below: If it does there is a different set of guidelines and requirements depending of what rating system you fall into.
- · New Construction (NC) Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance (EB: O&M)
- · Commercial Interiors (CI)
- · Core & Shell (CS)
- · Schools (SCH)
- · Retail
- · Healthcare (HC)
- · Homes
- · Neighborhood Development (ND)
Each rating system has sub-categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation in Design.
In each subcategory there is a list of objectives that must be met. The more points you accrue determines the rating that your project receives: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Anyone who helps a project obtains LEED certification should be saluted and congratulated for their efforts at Good Stewardship.