Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a voluntary process whereby a building can be granted “green” status. This means that it manages resources in an environmentally friendly manner. Since the inception of the program in 1998, nearly 15,000 buildings have been certified. Current estimates are that at least ten percent of new construction during 2010 will seek certification.

Certifications are categorized as Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. The requirements increase as the levels rise from the lowest, Certified, to the highest, Platinum. Each category has a level of points that must be earned to receive the designation. Points are earned in several different areas, including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environment, and innovation and design.

Points are earned in the category of sustainable sites for various reasons. These include habitat protection, utilization of open space, and light pollution. Access to alternative transportation, such as public transportation access, bicycle storage, and utilizing low emission vehicles, also falls within this category. Parking capacity and design of storm water drainage are included as well.

As the name implies, water efficiency measures how efficiently a building uses water. Landscaping and waste water are two of the items included. Energy and atmosphere addresses such issues as the control of refrigerants, the use of wind or solar power, and overall efficiency in energy use. Materials and resources focuses on whether any materials used are from recycled sources, including existing roofs or walls. Waste while construction is under way is also rated.

Indoor environmental quality points require meeting indoor air quality standards and controlling tobacco smoke as prerequisites. Next, outside air delivery must be monitored, ventilation systems must be excellent, and materials such as glues and paints must be low fume types. Ratings also are based on temperature comfort, employee views, and daylight.

Innovation in design applies to the architecture and engineering of the structure. It is applied based on how the building controls its usage of fossil fuels, its emission of greenhouse gases, and what its carbon footprint is. Additional points can be earned in this category if the designer is accredited by LEED.

Different criteria are used depending on the building type. These include commercial construction, retail renovations, new retail construction, schools, and homes. Entire neighborhoods and existing buildings undergoing renovation also have separate categories.

It is not at all compulsory to seek LEED certification. Should a building owner wish to do so, he submits an application which details why the structure is eligible. This requires the payment of a fee for the registration and for the certification.

Having a LEED certification will be a great way to expand your opportunities in fields related to the environment. It’s easy to learn more about the steps you can take to begin achieving your LEED goals today!