Governments and private owners are increasingly requiring that projects be built to meet one of the standards of the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Green Building Rating Systems for the purpose of building a project which is environmentally responsible, profitable, conserves energy, reduces waste, and is a healthy place to live and work. LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the internationally recognized distinction that a project meets these eco-friendly goals.
Outside of LEED certification being a requirement for many new projects, there are both environmental and financial benefits to building to a LEED standard including:
- Lowering utility and operating costs to increase a properties’ value.
- Reducing waste.
- Conserving energy and water.
- Developing healthier and safer buildings for occupants.
- Creating compact and walkable communities with good access to neighborhood amenities and transit
- Protecting natural resources and farmland by encouraging growth to be located in areas with existing infrastructure.
- Reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
- Qualifying for tax rebates, zoning allowances, and other government incentives.
- Demonstrating an owner’s commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Third party organizations such as The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) provide independent oversight of professional credentialing and project certification programs related to green building. These organizations are committed to ensuring precision in the design, development, and implementation of measurement processes for green building performance (through project certification) and green building practice (through professional credentials and certificates).
For a quick response to your questions regarding Green Building Codes, contact Timothy Leahy below: