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 provides building owners and operators with the tools they need to have an immediate and measurable impact on their buildings'performance.

LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a building project is environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work. Read more at www.usgbc.org

Green Building & LEED In the United States alone, buildings account for:

• 65% of electricity consumption,
• 36% of energy use,
• 30% of greenhouse gas emissions,
• 30% of raw materials use,
• 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and
• 12% of potable water consumption.

Health and community benefits:

• Improve air, thermal, and acoustic environments
• Enhance occupant comfort and health
• Minimize strain on local infrastructure
• Contribute to the overall quality of life

Breakthroughs in building science, technology, and operations are available to designers, builders, and owners who want to build green and maximize both economic and environmental performance.

Source: www.usgbc.org Benefits of Green BuildingEnvironmental benefits:

• Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
• Improve air and water quality
• Reduce solid waste
• Conserve natural resources