LEED Projects Surpass One Billion Square Feet

This month, the total footprint of commercial projects certified under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Green Building Rating System surpassed one billion square feet.

Another six billion square feet of projects are registered and currently working toward LEED certification around the world.

“This traction demonstrates the transformation of the way we design,
build and operate buildings,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and
Founding Chair, USGBC.  “Not only does green building contribute to
saving energy, water and money, it also creates green jobs that will grow and energize our economy.”

LEED is a leading program for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings.  

Since it was first introduced to the marketplace in 2000, over 36,000
commercial projects and 38,000 single-family homes have participated in
LEED.  By consuming less energy, LEED-certified buildings save money for
families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
and contribute to healthier environments for residents, workers and the
community.

“The impact of these one billion square feet can be seen in communities around the world,” said Peter Templeton, President of the Green Building Certification Institute, the certifying body for LEED projects. “The use of LEED represents a growing global commitment to improving our built environment for future generations.”