Learning About LEED

When thinking about green building choices, the term LEED often comes to mind. But what does LEED stand for and how does a person or organization become LEED certified?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is an internationally recognized certification system for building sustainable structures. LEED was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and according to the organization, using sustainable building practices LEED certified buildings are measured by efficiency in energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.

Many resources are available, simply by completing a simple web search on LEED. One useful resource is LEED.net. Learn more about the U.S. Green Building Council here. Search for LEED certified buildings and structures at http://www.urbangreencouncil.org/resources/green-buildings/.

Interested in building a LEED certified home or structure? The process could take a while but is well worth the time and effort. The USGBC provides resources for the certification process, including checklists and reference guides, a calendar of green building events and conferences and information on training workshops. Since LEED certification requires third party verification that a project is sustainable in all of the areas listed above, the USGBC also provides a list of LEED certified projects and accredited professionals.

A majority of individuals and businesses are now recognizing that it is everyone's responsibility to do their part in protecting the environment and the subsequent health of the people living on the planet. Even if it is not a viable option to build a LEED certified structure, it is within all individuals rights to learn more about LEED and how to build an environmentally sound, sustainable building. There are a multitude of green construction and planning organizations available to builders allowing them to educate themselves and get started. Every step in that direction is one step forward in the health and well-being of our Mother Earth.