LEED: Why Is It So Vital?

Created by the US Green Building Council in 1998, LEED, (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a structured certification program, a set of building guidelines. But it is the green building standard of today.  It defines standards for energy efficiency, site sustainability, the use of ecologically healthy and recyclable materials, and the reduction of new construction’s impact on the environment.  It suggests that we be responsible for building healthier, more environmentally-sound structures. And in the end, through sustainable practices, it allows us to leave more resources for our children and their children.

Summary of the LEED credits: 

(1) Sustainable site credits- given for maximizing open space to promote biodiversity, for decreasing stormwater run-off and pollution contaminants thru vegetated bioswales or pervious surfaces, for reduction of the heat-island effect thru use of high-reflectance materials and vegetated surfaces for hardscape and roofs.

(2) Water Efficiency credits- given for drought tolerant landscaping, drip irrigation, climate-based controllers, recycled irrigation water, recycled greywater, efficient appliances (low-flow toilets, tankless water-heaters) and plumbing fixtures.

(3) Materials and Resources credits- given for the reuse of on-site or salvaged materials, use of recycled materials to reduce construction waste, the diversion of construction waste from disposal, the use of locally produced materials to reduce transportation/energy costs, the use of rapidly renewable materials (plants typically harvested within a 10-year cycle- e.g. bamboo, cork), and the use of certified forest products to encourage environmentally responsible forest management.

(4) Energy and Atmosphere credits- given for renewable energy sources (solar, wind or geothermal generated power) and to reduce environmental impact and dependence on fossil fuel energy use.

(5)  Indoor Environmental Quality credits- given for a design to maximize interior daylighting, ventilation, use of low-emitting wood materials, adhesives, sealants, VOC paint and  carpeting to reduce the amount of indoor air contaminants, low VOC paint and flooring, and (my favorite) prohibit smoking!

(6) Innovation in Design Process – credit given for Creativity in Application.     Thinking outside the box to promote the improvement of interior or exterior environmental site parameters.

Therefore, the answer to the question, “Why is LEED so vital?” is that through the advent of LEED guidelines, we have the ability to become more responsible stewards of our land.  Climate change and the ensuing clamor have focused a significant emphasis on our limited environmental resources. The USGBS and the Sustainable Sites Initiative have advocated a sensible plan of action. We should listen.

For more complete information, visit  www.usgbc.com