In addition to implementing interior modern office design, workplaces committed to environmental sustainability may choose to lease or own buildings that are LEED certified. Although becoming LEED certified isn’t the right path for every business or building owner, seeking this certification may be advantageous if your company places a high priority on energy efficiency and sustainability. Interested in learning more about LEED certification? We share the details here.
What is LEED Certification?
The acronym LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. This certification program is sponsored by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is a multifaceted program and its primary goals are to improve the energy efficiency of buildings to improve human health and reduce waste.
According to the USGBC, buildings are responsible for 41% of all energy consumption, 13.6% of all potable water usage, and 73% of all electricity consumption in the United States. The LEED program seeks to reimagine how buildings and communities are designed, constructed, and maintained in order to secure a sustainable future.
LEED certification covers a broad range of possibilities, from new construction to existing buildings, and the certification operates on a rating system, in which green building techniques are awarded points across several categories. To become certified, your building must earn a minimum of 40 points. Earning additional points by meeting more green building criteria will boost your project to one of the higher rating levels. The rating levels and points needed are:
- Platinum: 80+ points
- Gold: 60-79 points
- Silver: 50-59 points
- Certified: 40-49 points
What Are the Benefits of LEED Certification?
If you’re a business owner, it may be beneficial to obtain LEED certification to demonstrate your commitment to sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. This is especially important if these attributes are essential to your company’s core values.
If you’re a real estate investor, the economic benefits may be an appealing factor for you. LEED certified buildings tend to command higher rent, attract tenants more quickly, and help you qualify for tax incentives.
LEED certification is the international gold standard of sustainable building design and construction. Even if you don’t plan to seek this certification, you can upgrade your company’s image simply by investing in modern office design. To make your vision of the ideal workplace come to life, consider working with a team of design professionals. Our team has the expertise necessary to handle any project you have in mind, from space planning and design to move management and beyond. To learn more about how we can help achieve your goals, please contact us.
