Many of you were aware that LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership. Have you ever seen the LEED symbol on a building materials product page and wondered what it is? You might also be confused that LEED certification is awarded to projects and buildings, but why do some manufacturers claim their products are LEED building materials.     

LEED provides a framework for healthy, efficient, carbon and cost-saving green buildings. According to USGBC's official website, LEED is a holistic system that looks at the big picture factoring in all of the critical elements that work together to create the best building possible. 35% of the credits in LEED are related to climate change, 20% of the credits directly impact human health, 15% of the credits impact water resources, 10% of the credits affect biodiversity, 10% of the credits relate to the green economy, 5% of the credits impact community and 5% of the credits impact natural resources. 

To achieve LEED certification, a project needs to earn 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: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points), and Platinum (80+ points).   

USGBC does not certify, promote, or endorse products and services of individual companies. Products and services play an important role in the construction and can help projects with credit achievement. 

USGBC does not award credits based on the use of particular products but rather upon meeting the performance standards outlined in our rating systems. It is up to project teams to determine which products are more appropriate for credits achievements and program requirements. You and your company can definitely learn about the LEED Rating system and find out how your product or service can help advance green building and achieve projects' environmental and economic goals. 

Reference Link: https://www.usgbc.org/help/can-i-get-my-product-or-service-leed-certified 

Reference Link: https://www.usgbc.org/articles/role-leed-climate-change-mitigation