What is LEED Certification?
LEED-certified buildings are becoming more and more common in the Midwest. LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It’s a rating system devised by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) that evaluates the environmental performance and sustainable (green) design of buildings. The aim of LEED certified buildings is to reduce energy and water usage, promote better indoor air quality and overall quality of life for the building’s occupants. LEED certifications have four levels: from lowest to highest, they are: certified, silver, gold and platinum. Although LEED certifications are primarily sought in new builds, the process can also be applied to existing buildings that are undergoing improvements. How Does it Work? In terms of commercial building, the prerequisites include: Compliance with all relevant environmental laws and
