Daniel Lambraia Discusses The Basics of LEED Certification

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a leading global green building certification program that is built around rating systems for the construction, design, and operation of green buildings and homes. A LEED certification offers independent verification that a building or community's features allow for energy-efficient and high-performance use. The purpose of the program is to make buildings more efficient than those that are simply built to existing code.

Benefits of LEED Certification
Achieving LEED certification comes with many perks for building owners:

• Improves recruitment and retention of employees with an improved indoor environmental quality
• Attracts tenants with lease-up rates that are 20% higher than average and higher rental rates
• Lowers operating costs with an energy-efficient design and materials Provides benefits to the community and improves public relations

How LEED Certification Works
A LEED building or project can earn points across 9 areas, such as innovation, indoor environmental quality, resources and materials, location, energy and water efficiency. More points are awarded for choices that have the least environmental impact with the most human benefit. For example, transportation and location points can be awarded if the building is near public transit, has bike facilities, or offers electric vehicle charging stations. Based on how many points are achieved, a project can receive one of four LEED levels: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59), Gold (60-79), or Platinum (80+).

LEED works at all phases of development, including existing buildings and new construction. All types of buildings can become LEED certified, including schools, warehouses, healthcare, hospitality, multi-family homes, and private homes. Even neighborhood development projects can be LEED certified with designs that include green spaces, walkability and more.

To become certified, a project must first register with LEED by submitting important information then paying a certification registration fee. The building owner will need to assemble a project team that is responsible for complying with various LEED credits. During the next phase, the project manager and owner will identify which credits to pursue through the LEED online interface. The project is reviewed by GBCI, a third-party, in multiple phases such as during the building's design and construction. Finally, the project is certified after its performance is measured and credits are verified.

Although there are some minor criticisms for LEED certification, the foundation of this program is geared toward cultivating a generation of more environmentally responsible buildings, leading to a greener planet. The fact that there are financial benefits is just a plus.

Daniel Lambraia is a Trade Project Manager with Plaza Construction. He has been with the company since graduating with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering in 2015.