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How LEED works

To achieve LEED certification, a project earns points by adhering to prerequisites and credits that address carbon, energy, water, waste, transportation, materials, health and indoor environmental quality. Projects go through a verification and review process by GBCI and are awarded points that correspond to a level of LEED certification:

 

Better for business, people and the environment.

Better for business and the bottom line

LEED buildings have a higher resale value and lower operational costs than non-LEED buildings. LEED is an essential strategy for achieving ESG, decarbonization and equity goals. LEED-certified buildings are a solid asset for investors, occupiers, and communities. They've proven to be top-performing commercial real estate investments.

Better for people

LEED-certified buildings focus on occupant well-being, offering a healthier and more satisfying indoor space while addressing community and public health. The rating system focuses on strategies like banning smoking and reducing toxic exposure from materials to improve air quality. Active design and supporting the production of local, sustainable foods promote physical activity and healthy eating.

Better for the environment

LEED buildings use less energy and water, utilize renewable energy and fewer resources, create less waste, and preserve land and habitat. LEED certification is a global solution for cities, communities and neighborhoods. Through sustainable design, construction and operations, LEED can help new and existing buildings to reduce carbon emissions, energy and waste, conserve water, prioritize safer materials, and lower our exposure to toxins.

Highlighted LEED Certificated Buildings

LEED system goals

LEED-certified buildings are critical to addressing climate change and meeting ESG goals, enhancing resilience, and supporting more equitable communities. LEED is a holistic system that doesn’t simply focus on one building element, such as energy, water or health. Instead, it looks at the big picture, factoring in all critical elements that work together to create the best building possible.

The goal of LEED is to create better buildings that: