LEED, an abbreviation for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a non-compulsory program which allows a building to achieve recognition as a \”green\” structure. To do so, it must manage its resources in a way that is friendly to the environment. The program began in 1998, and since then almost fifteen thousand buildings have been so recognized. Current predictions are that 10 percent or more new construction projects in 2010 will seek to be certified.
Categories of certification, from lowest to highest, are Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each designation requires earning more points as the levels increase. To earn points, items in different areas must be met. These areas are innovation and design, indoor environment, water efficiency, materials and resources, energy and atmosphere, and sustainable sites.
Points are earned in the category of sustainable sites for various reasons. These include habitat protection, utilization of open space, and light pollution. Access to alternative transportation, such as public transportation access, bicycle storage, and utilizing low emission vehicles, also falls within this category. Parking capacity and design of storm water drainage are included as well.
Water efficiency relates to the issue of how well a building controls its water usage. Evaluations include landscaping water use, waste water handling, and overall reductions in water requirements. Energy and atmosphere involves the control of refrigerants, the use of renewable energy, such as wind and solar, and efficient energy consumption. Materials and resources covers the control of waste during construction, the percentage of recycled materials used, and reusing walls or other building elements that already exist.
There are prerequisites that must be met in the category of indoor environment. These are the control of tobacco smoke and meeting minimum air quality requirements. Then, evaluations are based on the monitoring of outside air admitted, and the quality of the ventilation. Materials used, like paints and glues, must be those types classified as low fume. Employee comfort is also rated, with points for daylight, temperature, and views.
The architect or engineer are the ones who garner points for innovation in design, and bonus points may be awarded if he or she is LEED accredited. Standards are based on a building\’s carbon footprint, and how it controls its greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel use.
Each type of building has different standards applied. Certification can be obtained for homes and schools as well as retail construction and renovation and commercial new construction. Buildings being renovated are judged under different criteria. Entire housing developments also have a category.
It is not at all compulsory to seek LEED certification. Should a building owner wish to do so, he submits an application which details why the structure is eligible. This requires the payment of a fee for the registration and for the certification.
Having a LEED certification will be a great way to expand your opportunities in fields related to the environment. It\’s easy to learn more about the steps you can take to begin achieving your LEED goals today!
