LEEDing Edge

U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), founded the organization Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) in 2000 to help meet the growing demand for an ongoing definition and standard for "green" buildings.  While there are many ways to "go green", LEED certification seems to hold the most consistent, credible, and recognized standards, particularly in commercial real estate.  Determining what, if any, certification you want to achieve is one of the earliest steps of a sustainable project. While many of the expectations are the same across different certifications usch as EnergyStar and NAHB, the fact that the government has chosen LEED certification for its buildings gives it an added level of integrity.  One of the most important considerations when undertaking a sustainable project is having all of the many parties involved in the construction or retrofit project ready and able to communicate.  LEED Associated Professionals are educated in terminology and standards that are cutting edge in the industry.

 Beyond training, accreditation, and certification, the USGBC offers the important element of community.  The annual GREENBUILD conference allows professionals the opportunity to learn and teach their peers on the ever-expanding green initiative while spending time with people who share a common goal: sustanability.