LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized certification system for green buildings. It is administered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to promote resource efficiency and sustainability in the built environment. LEED certification can provide several benefits, including lower operating costs, increased asset value, and a more sustainable building overall. To earn this prestigious credential, you must follow one of these three paths to become LEED certified:

1. LEED Green Associate Credential

One of the first steps towards becoming LEED certified is earning the LEED Green Associate credential. As an entry-level accreditation, it demonstrates a solid understanding of green building principles and practices. To attain this credential, you must:

  – Study for the exam: You can begin by reviewing the USGBC’s LEED Green Associate Study Guide or participating in a comprehensive course from an approved education provider.

– Pass the exam: You must achieve a minimum score of 170 out of 200 to become a certified LEED Green Associate.

– Maintain your credential: To keep your certification active in good standing, you will need to acquire 15 continuing education hours every two years.

2. LEED Accredited Professional (AP) Credential

The next step after completing your Green Associate certification is to specialize further by seeking the advanced-level LEED AP designation. There are five areas of specialization based on different types of buildings and projects:

– Building Design and Construction (BD+C)

– Operations and Maintenance (O+M)

– Interior Design and Construction (ID+C)

– Neighborhood Development (ND)

– Homes

Choose a specialty that aligns with your career goals or expertise. To attain the LEED AP credential, you must:

  – Fulfill prerequisites: You are required to have previous work experience on a LEED-registered project as either a project team member or project owner.

– Prepare for the exam: Study the required materials, and enroll in a relevant course if necessary.

– Pass the specialty exam: Achieve a minimum score of 170 out of 200 on your chosen specialty exam.

– Keep your credential active: You must complete 30 continuing education hours every two years to maintain your LEED AP status.

3. Certify a Building or Project

To achieve LEED certification for a building or project, work alongside a team to meet specific prerequisites and earn credits across different categories. There are five rating systems to choose from:

– Building Design and Construction (BD+C)

– Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance (O+M)

– Interior Design and Construction (ID+C)

– Neighborhood Development (ND)

– Homes

To certify a building or project:

– Register your project: Join LEED Online, submit documentation, and select your desired rating system.

– Acquire credits and prerequisites: Complete the requirements set by the chosen rating system, followed by submitting the necessary documentation to USGBC for review.

– Receive certification: Based on the number of earned points, projects can be awarded one of four levels – Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.

In summary, becoming LEED certified requires dedication and ongoing learning. By following these three steps – earning the Green Associate credential, specializing with an AP credential, and certifying a project – you will be well on your way toward becoming an expert in sustainable building design and contributing to the green future of our planet.