Rankings for the LEED program are based on the level of compliance, with an established minimum score for certification. Higher levels of compliance earn higher rankings, from silver to gold to platinum.
Because this rating is from a third-party source, your commitment to a cleaner environment is not an empty statement, but a verified fact. By taking the LEED, your facility has proven its commitment to greener practices, which can be an important public relations asset.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is an independent certification program developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The USGBC is made up of building and construction professionals who believe that greener buildings are viable and sustainable. The members of the USGBC develop strategies for building construction, use and maintenance that are more environmentally friendly. The LEED program is used by many painting and coating manufacturers such as Sherwin-Williams to develop products that are more environmentally sound.
Participation in the program is not mandatory. If you are interested in presenting an environmentally conscious identity, you contact the USGBC and initiate a third party review of your building practices. Once the review is complete, your building is assigned a rating based on how well your building or operating practices stack up against industry suggested criteria.
If you want to build or maintain a greener building, you may want to take the LEED.
