The LEED rating system is an internationally recognized leadership standard for the design, construction, and operation of nearly every building type. According to the US Green Building Council, there are both environmental and financial benefits to earning LEED certification.

LEED-certified buildings can:

• Lower operating costs and increase asset value.
• Reduce waste sent to landfills.
• Conserve energy and water.
• Be healthier and safer for occupants.
• Reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
• Qualify for tax rebates, zoning allowances and other incentives in hundreds of cities.
• Demonstrate an owner's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

LEED provides independent third party verification through the Green Building Certification Institute that a building meets the leadership standards in efficient performance and green design. The rating system addresses the following categories to insure performance across a broad spectrum of building impacts.

• Sustainable site development
• Water savings
• Energy efficiency
• Materials selection
• Indoor environmental quality

The rating system also incorporates innovative and regional design considerations that allow new strategies to be adopted and important regional issues to be addressed.

Within this framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals, LEED recognizes achievements with official project certifications and professional accreditations for individuals who have passed the rigorous testing requirements.

Simply put, the LEED rating system is the best quantitative process for documenting and implementing sustainable building design and construction practices.