Sustainable Housing and Green Building News: In Defense of LEED

Sustainable Housing and Green Building News: In Defense of LEED
 
The national standard for green building by the US Green Building Council has recently been scrutinized because of a law suit that generally claims the LEED label falsely advertises energy savings without proper evidence. The article above explains the positive results of the USGBC efforts even though it may have short-comings.

The LEED label has expanded to commercial property and is venturing into multifamily rental properties. LEED is known primarily for new residential and commercial builds, but also has a credential for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance. Typically applied to larger commercial properties, the LEED EB rating seeks to maximize efficiency while reducing the environmental impact. The time and cost intensive rating will be cost-efficient and applicable for few multifamily rental properties in the United States. Among the criteria, residential building must have 4 or more habitable stories.

The USGBC is trying, and has succeeded, to change the building design of the future towards green, efficient and conscious buildings. The problem is that our existing stock of rental property is out-dated, costly and diverse. What we need now is cost-efficient green advice that owners of all rental properties across America can use to lessen the inefficiencies of the rental market. Landlords can save money, tenants can have less utility bills and improved living conditions while reducing our impact on the environment. Engaging all owners is the next step.