LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally accepted, voluntary certification program created by the United State Green Building Council. The program measures a building’s energy savings, water efficiency, CO₂ emissions, environmental indoor quality, stewardship of resources, and sensitivity when considering its environmental impact. LEED provides building owners and operators with the tools to identify how green policies can be better implemented in the areas of design, construction, operation, and maintenance. It’s main focus points are:

Site: By taking residence on previously developed land, less harm is done to the environment.

Water: More efficient appliances will reduce waste and promote smarter usage

Energy: In using renewable energy sources for lighting, etc. waste is reduced.

Resources: By recycling and reusing, the amount of waste produced can be greatly reduced.

Indoor Environment: Take measures to improve indoor air quality

Location: Homes should be built in areas not considered “environmentally sensitive” so as to prevent damage to the environment

Awareness: Homebuilders and real estate agents are encouraged to educate homeowners on how to make their homes green.

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