LEED
Supporting a Green Design philosophy, precast concrete is energy-efficient, recyclable, reusable and creates minimal waste in the precast plant as well as on the jobsite. These benefits have captured the interest of architects, developers and building contractors interested in pursuing renewable sources for construction through the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System®.
The use of fly ash, slag and other waste materials aid precast’s environmental friendliness and it’s high durability produces buildings with a total service life that far outpaces other designs.
LEED is a voluntary, consensus-based national standard from the U.S. Green Building Council. Its purpose is to facilitate the development of high-performance, sustainable buildings. LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals and represents virtually every sector of the building industry. Based on well-founded scientific standards, LEED emphasizes state-of-the-art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. LEED recognizes achievements and promotes expertise in green building through a comprehensive system offering project certification, professional accreditation, training and practical resources.
LEED standards include:
- LEED-NC: New Commercial Construction And Major Renovation Projects
- LEED-EB: Existing Building Operations
- LEED-CI: Commercial Interiors Projects
- LEED-CS: Core And Shell Projects
- LEED-H: Homes
- LEED-ND: Neighborhood Development
- LEED Application Guides: Retail (currently in pilot), Multiple Buildings/Campuses, Schools, Healthcare, Laboratories, Lodging
LEED was created to:
- Define "Green Building" by establishing a common standard of measurement.
- Promote integrated, whole-building design practices.
- Recognize environmental leadership in the building industry.
- Stimulate green competition.
- Raise consumer awareness of green building benefits.
- Transform the building market.
Visit usgbc.org to learn more about the U.S. Green Building Council and LEED:
- LEED Rating Systems
- The LEED Certification Process
- Project Lists
- Publications
- And Much More
