LEED Certification: The Sustainable Business Benefits
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification programme is a pioneering initiative administered by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) to promote sustainability in the realm of building design, construction and operation.
Since its inception in 1993, USGBC has become an influential global entity in the green building sector.
With a vast network that includes architects, engineers and contractors, USGBC collaborates closely with Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI). This partnership ensures rigorous oversight during the LEED certification process.
GBCI plays a crucial role in reviewing applications and awarding the prestigious LEED certification to projects that meet the stringent criteria.
What are LEED certifications for?
The core ambition of LEED is to revolutionise the construction industry by endorsing sustainable building methods.
This certification endeavours to guide the design, construction and management of buildings that are environmentally sound and resource-efficient.
By providing a comprehensive framework, LEED certification assists in constructing buildings that are not only energy-efficient and cost-effective but also health-enhancing environments for occupants.
Spanning aspects from site selection to materials usage and indoor environmental quality, the programme's overarching goal is to minimise the ecological footprint of buildings and enhance occupant wellbeing.
This certification is recognised globally as a standard for sustainable construction.
Since its establishment in 2000, LEED has made a big impact, certifying more than 100,000 projects across 180 countries.
Buildings with LEED certification are known to use less energy and water, emit fewer greenhouse gases, and generate less waste during both construction and operation phases. Notable multinational construction firms, like Skanska, have executed myriad projects under LEED’s standards globally.
Moreover, the ripple effects of LEED have extended to building codes and policies in numerous countries, where governments have embedded LEED standards into regulatory frameworks to bolster sustainable building.
How LEED certifications are awarded
LEED certification is orchestrated through a points-based system where projects accumulate points by fulfilling certain sustainability criteria across various categories.
These include energy efficiency, water conservation, and enhancing indoor environmental quality.
The journey towards certification starts with project registration via the LEED Online platform.
Project teams then compile and submit requisite documentation that evidences compliance with the standards set by LEED.
Upon evaluation, GBCI awards points that reflect the project's performance in each category.
The total points accrued determine the certification level awarded—Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.
LEED's flexible structure features different rating systems tailored for diverse project types such as new constructions, existing buildings, homes, and neighbourhood developments, each with its prerequisites and credit opportunities.
Red Sea Global's LEED certifications
Red Sea Global achieved seven LEED certifications in 2024, five Platinum and two Gold.
Resorts, including its St. Regis Red Sea and Six Senses Southern Dunes properties, are connected to the destinations' renewable infrastructure and operate entirely on solar energy.
Peter Templeton, CEO at the USGBC, says: “Achieving LEED certification is more than just implementing sustainable practices. It represents a commitment to making the world a better place and influencing others to do better.
"Given the extraordinary importance of climate protection and the central role buildings play in that effort, Red Sea Global is creating a path forward through their LEED certification.”
The business case for LEED Certification
For companies in the construction sector, LEED certification translates into multiple advantages.
It can lead to substantial cost reductions through lower energy and water usage and decreased maintenance costs throughout the lifecycle of a building.
Properties that are LEED-certified enjoy higher rental rates and property values and tend to attract tenants who prioritise sustainable living and working spaces, thus ensuring higher occupancy rates.
Adopting LEED showcases a company's dedication to sustainability and social responsibility, enhancing its brand reputation and appealing to eco-conscious clients and employees.
It also provides a competitive edge in markets where green building is increasingly preferred and can aid in adhering to stringent environmental regulations.
To further their commitment to sustainable practices, companies encourage staff to acquire LEED professional credentials.
Supported by employer-provided resources such as study materials and exam fee coverage, employees can attain credentials ranging from the LEED Green Associate for novices to more specialised LEED Accredited Professional certifications.
Ongoing education and active participation in green projects are essential for maintaining these credentials, ensuring professionals remain current with sustainable construction trends.
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