In previous posts, 2nd Green Revolution has written about a number of projects involving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. LEED certification, of which there are several levels (Silver, Gold, and Platinum – the highest level, as well as the base certification), is the standard for “green buildings” set forth by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Due to the unique nature and variety of building projects, there is not a single set of guidelines that covers all types of buildings. LEED certification standards vary by project (i.e. residential vs. commercial) and are grouped into the following categories:

• New Construction
• Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance
• Commercial Interiors
• Homes
• Schools
• Retail
• Healthcare

On May 1st, USGBC opened up the second round of commenting for its newest designation, LEED for Neighborhood Development, with the period for comments closing on June 14th. One of the unique features of the US Green Building Council is its “consensus-based process that drives the development of the LEED rating systems [which] is key to ensuring LEED encourages the very best in building, design and development practices.” The LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system “integrates the principles of smart growth, new urbanism and green building into the first national rating system for neighborhood design.” In his book Necessary Revolution, Peter Senge details the formation of the USGBC, which began as a collaboration of architects, developers, builders, and other members in construction circa 1993. The founding of the USGBC still informs the collaborative process at the heart of developing LEED standards.

As mentioned in an earlier story on Vauban, Germany, a suburb of Freiburg, many cities and towns across the world have moved toward carless, pedestrian-oriented planning. What will the final LEED certification for neighborhood development look like? This remains to be seen, but there are a number of features, such as walkable spaces and mixed use planning, that are essential for sustainable development.

- Eric Wilson

[image source: Tacara-Texas.com]