In recent times, many building owners pride themselves on being environmentally friendly. Not only is it a rising trend in the housing industry, but construction and remodeling projects are also able to receive recognition for being “green”. LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, thus a certification that many hope to acquire. It was developed by the U.S. Green Building council and is recognized as the official Green Building Rating System. It is not a new system, but was in actuality developed back in 1998. The reason for this system was to raise environmental awareness in the construction industry. The LEED certification is awarded to construction projects or buildings that employ environmentally friendly practices during either construction or remodeling of a building.
There are four different levels that this particular certification can be achieved. The levels consist of Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, which can be determined through a rating system. There are separate rating systems for the various types of buildings and projects. In order for a construction project or a building to receive the LEED certification, an application must be submitted. The application states that the project or building is, in fact, in compliance with all of the listed requirements that are in the rating system. There must be proof or documentation of the statements in the application. Parties that are seeking LEED certification need to also be aware of the fees that they will incur through this application. LEED certifications are awarded after a review made by the Green Building Council. They must approve that the application does meet all requirements and verify their compliance.
There are four different levels that this particular certification can be achieved. The levels consist of Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, which can be determined through a rating system. There are separate rating systems for the various types of buildings and projects. In order for a construction project or a building to receive the LEED certification, an application must be submitted. The application states that the project or building is, in fact, in compliance with all of the listed requirements that are in the rating system. There must be proof or documentation of the statements in the application. Parties that are seeking LEED certification need to also be aware of the fees that they will incur through this application. LEED certifications are awarded after a review made by the Green Building Council. They must approve that the application does meet all requirements and verify their compliance.
This certification was put in place to create a general standard for buildings. Although building construction and design have usually been environmentally friendly, the LEED certification allowed for a set standard of guidelines that could be followed by the entire industry. The government is advocating sustainable green buildings and desire to receive this certification for several state buildings. They have gone as far as offering incentives to others in the construction industry, such as grant funding and tax breaks, in hopes that they will work towards receiving the LEED certification.
LEED certification promotes a universal adoption of environmentally friendly spaces and buildings. It is making an incredible impact on global sustainability, and encourages all parties in the construction and building industry to take a “green” look at the work they do.
