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Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) was formally developed by the U.S. Green Building Council in 1998. The organization not only created a standard for green building development, but also for housing and real estate professionals. Authorities who receive LEED accreditations have a higher level of knowledge as it relates to environmentally sound design and construction practices. However, the process is not just limited to those who participate in the design phase. Lending officers, real estate agents and government officials can also become LEED certified. Though accredited professionals may perform very different tasks, their knowledge of sustainability is critical to the continued growth of eco-conscious construction.
While LEED accreditation for professionals is great, ultimately it's what they do with the information that makes the difference. Constructing buildings that are LEED certified is the ultimate goal. These structures receive building ratings based on their energy efficiency, use of sustainable materials and limited construction site waste. LEED accredited professionals bring their intimate knowledge of environmental impacts to the process and can guide homeowners, corporations or local municipalities in the design and implementation of eco-efficient development.
Becoming a LEED accredited professional may not be in the cards for you, but there are ways you can do a quick check of your home's sustainability level. Here are five points you can examine in just five minutes. Each item listed can decrease air pollution and increase air quality inside your home.
- Do you have exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens?
- Do you have a humidity control system?
- Do you have ventilators for fireplaces and stoves?
- Is your attached garage properly sealed with weather stripping?
- Do you have air filters or purifiers located in key places around the home?
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