Building group and the ecology

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) recently announced that its newest version of the LEED green building program, LEED v4.1, is open for registration. This applies to both new construction projects, as well as interior spaces with LEED v4.1 BD+C and LEED v4.1 ID+C, according to an article on the LEED website.

According to Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC, LEED v4.1 is set to raise the bar by focusing on improving energy performance to emphasizing human health and integrative building design.

The goal of LEED v4.1 is to make the rating system more accessible to more projects based on lessons learned from LEED v4 project teams. This newest beta version updates performance thresholds and referenced standards to ensure LEED remains the global leadership standard for green buildings and continues to expand the marketplace for LEED. The changes also advocate for improved performance throughout the life of buildings, rewards leaders based on their performance and incorporates performance reporting to enable building owners to track progress towards environmental, social and governance goals. Currently, there are more than 96,200 commercial projects participating in LEED in 167 countries and territories.

To participate, users can register using LEED Online, review the LEED v4.1 Beta Guide and download the LEED v4.1 rating system. The latest education videos and live online webinars featuring USGBC subject matter experts are also available. USGBC staff will be available to meet in person at any of the 2019 Greenbuild and regional events.

Visit the USGBC for more information.