If you are at all interested in modern architecture, you might be aware of LEED-certified buildings. Maybe you’ve heard LEED mentioned, but have been too embarrassed to ask what it is? Let’s sort out what LEED means, once and for all.
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is a world-leading standard for the verification of green buildings. Did you know that around 1.85 million square feet are LEED-certified every day, all over the world? LEED is the most widely used third-party verification for environmentally-friendly buildings and is changing the way we think about how buildings and communities are planned, constructed, maintained, and operated.
All kinds of buildings can be LEED-certified, from your own home to major corporate headquarters. The idea is to earn sustainability points in the design. Based on the number of points achieved, a project then receives one of four LEED rating levels.
But earning points is not the most important part – LEED is all about building a more sustainable society. LEED-certified buildings are resource-efficient, use less water and energy and reduce CO2 emissions. Hopefully, as an added bonus, they save money.