Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a well-known certification program that is used for environmentally friendly construction projects all over the world. In the U.S., the LEED certification is required by local, state and federal governments to construct public buildings. This program includes a series of rating systems for the design and construction of green buildings. Learn more the effects that the LEED certification program has on the environment.
Background of the LEED Certification
Managed by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), the LEED certification process is the verification of a company’s compliance with LEED rules and regulations. The company wanting to get certified has to pay fees and submit two separate applications for the building’s design and construction.
The types of rating systems include building design and construction, operations and maintenance, neighborhood development and home design. Credits are added up and counted in a rating system.
Benefits to the Environment
The LEED sets credits that are based on the level of damage to the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets the rules and regulations that all LEED-certified builders must follow. This organization collects data about the effects of human activities on environmental and human health.
Each credit is given points in different categories and measures. The rating system involves considering the different factors that increase or decrease the consumption of energy, such as geographic location and building occupancy. The number of points in each credit is connected to the reduction rate in energy costs.
An example of one LEED credit is to improve thermal comfort, improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption. Another type of credit involves building construction on a site that protects and conserves the environment. Another credit is the increase of renewable energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
The LEED certification is the process that many buildings have undergone to meet environmentally friendly standards. Since its beginning, the program continues to adapt to innovative changes in green design and construction. Studies are continually being made about the performance of LEED buildings versus non-LEED ones. Overall, many agencies and businesses believe that this system is reliable and efficient. If you’re interested in green building, call us at 408-295-2182 so we’ll tell you more details about the process.