LEED Certification Overview:

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is one of the most widely recognized green building certification programs in the world. It provides a framework for building owners, designers, and operators to implement sustainable practices across various types of projects. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED certification aims to promote environmentally responsible and energy-efficient building design, construction, and operation.

LEED certifications are available in different levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, based on the number of points earned in categories such as energy efficiency, water use, air quality, and materials sustainability. Several LEED credentialing paths exist for professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in green building principles.

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with Building Design + Construction (BD+C):

The LEED AP BD+C credential is designed for professionals specializing in the design and construction of new buildings or major renovations. It covers topics such as sustainable site development, energy-efficient building systems, water use reduction, and sustainable materials. This certification is ideal for architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals involved in the building process who are seeking to deepen their expertise in sustainable building practices, specifically for commercial, institutional, and high-rise residential projects.