Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)?
• Why become LEED certified?

• What is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)?

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED gives building owners and operators the tools they need to have an immediate and measurable impact on their buildings’ performance. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

LEED provides a roadmap for measuring and documenting success for every building type and phase of a building lifecycle. Specific LEED programs include:

• New commercial construction and major renovation projects;
• Existing building operations and maintenance;
• Commercial interiors projects;
• Core and shell development projects;
• Homes;
• Neighborhood development;
• Guidelines for multiple buildings and on-campus building projects;
• LEED schools; and
• LEED retail

Prince George’s County Green Building Goals include the LEED silver certification for new construction and existing County facilities.

• Why Become LEED Certified?

LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a building project meets the highest performance standards. The LEED plague is recognized nationwide as proof that a building is environmentally responsible, profitable, and a healthy place to live and work.

LEED-certified buildings:

• are leading the transformation of the built environment;
• are built as designed and perform as expected;
  
• have lower operating costs and increased asset value;
• are healthy and comfortable for their occupants;
• reduce waste sent to landfills;
• conserve energy and water;
• reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions tax rebates, zoning allowances, and
  other incentives in hundreds of cities; and
• demonstrate an owner's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility