USGBC Impact Report 2024

USGBC

Impact Report

Accelerating Green Buildings to Improve Lives and Livelihoods

Chemonics HQ | LEED Gold | Washington, DC | Photo: © Connie Zhou

To Our Community

In 1993, a small group of volunteers came together with a shared dream of transforming how we build. They gave their evenings, weekends, and lunch breaks to create something remarkable.

Today, thirty years later, thousands of volunteers carry that same spirit forward. You review technical standards late into the night. You travel miles to teach sustainability workshops. You welcome conference attendees with warm smiles at dawn. You share your expertise in committee meetings and mentor newcomers to our community.

The depth of your technical expertise shapes every aspect of our work. Through economic cycles, changing policies, and evolving technologies, you’ve remained focused on the mission. You’ve adapted LEED to meet new challenges, expanded its reach to new sectors, and maintained its diligence while making it more accessible. Your technical insights have helped transform LEED from an idea into the world’s most widely used green building rating system.

This report tells the story of what you helped create. Every certification, every innovation, every life changed for the better began with people giving their time because they believed in building a better world.

To every volunteer who has contributed to our mission over these thirty years: Thank you.

Together, let’s continue building the future.

A Message from Our CEO

Peter Templeton

President and Chief Executive Officer

“Importantly, this is not only USGBC’s work, but the impact of a wide and passionate community of more than 5,000 member organizations and a global network of professionals and volunteers. This impact belongs to the generations of inspired individuals that have made up our movement.”

The U.S Green Building Council’s vision has always been that buildings and communities will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life. Our goal is to accelerate and scale transformation of the built environment to minimize climate impacts and enhance the well-being of people, the environment, and communities worldwide.

As this impact report shows, we have made remarkable progress in the green building community, and our progress has impacted the world in extraordinary ways.

We have reshaped the building industry by raising standards and driving market transformation worldwide. We have inspired widespread adoption of best practices, and advocated for their inclusion in nearly 500 state, local, and federal government policies in the United States.

We have shifted market demand toward more sustainable and healthy buildings by demonstrating their value and fostering innovation in building technology, materials, and processes. This report estimates that the cumulative value of sustainable and healthy materials specified in LEED projects exceeds $100 billion—just one piece of a $2.5 trillion green building industry.

Critically, we have shown that new and existing buildings are a necessary pathway to achieving global sustainability goals such as the Paris Agreement and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. LEEDcertified commercial projects have been designed to reduce carbon emissions by more than 120 million metric tons to date, demonstrating that the path to global decarbonization runs through our sector.

We have shown that any building can be part of a more sustainable and healthy future—from 500-year-old structures to the tallest buildings in the world—and we have defined what makes buildings healthy, equitable, and resilient.

Importantly, this is not only USGBC’s work, but the impact of a wide and passionate community of more than 5,000 member organizations and a global network of professionals and volunteers. This impact belongs to the generations of inspired individuals that have made up our movement.

We are proud of this progress and the market transformation we have achieved to date. However, we know that significant work remains, and we recommit our efforts to achieving impact at scale.

We will continue to define green building leadership through LEED version 5, which will further align the built environment to the critical priorities of today, including decarbonization, ecosystem conservation and restoration, and enhanced quality of life.

We have developed PERFORM, a new program designed to provide guidance, tools, and third-party verification of performance improvement across entire portfolios, to help organizations meet sustainability goals and achieve lasting impact.

Going forward, we will continue to track, share, and learn from our impact as an organization and as part of a global community. We will share a closer look at our influence on policy, our financial impact, and more of the many ways in which we have inspired market transformation.

I am proud to share this report on our collective impact. It is an energizing reminder of the critical role our community plays in creating a better world.

With deepest respect,

Peter Templeton President and CEO

U.S. Green Building Council and Green Business Certification, Inc.

Table of Contents

Buildings as Catalysts for Change

USGBC Members Leading Innovation

Collective Leadership for Lasting Impact

Global Events Inspiring Action

Behind the Scenes at USGBC

Our Journey Toward a Resilient Future Appendix

About this Report

Our Mission

To transform how buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated to create thriving, healthy, equitable, and resilent places that advance human and environmental well-being.

Our Goal

To accelerate positive impact in the global built environment, working to create spaces that mitigate climate change, promote health, and support resilient communities.

A Snapshot of Our Impact

197,000+ LEED Projects Built by

205,000 LEED professionals in 186 countries

Impact on People

15.4 million metric tons of carbon

Cumulatively designed to save a total of in first year of certification

Economic Impact

Greenbuild attendees

9.3 million students impacted through the Center for Green Schools

Accelerating Positive Impact Through Market Transformation

At USGBC, market transformation drives our mission. We go beyond individual projects—shaping policies, promoting collaboration, and advancing innovation to create buildings that support people and restore our planet.

We collaborate with industry leaders, governments, and communities to develop policies that drive innovation in building products and construction practices. Our flagship program, LEED, has established green buildings as a global standard, transforming how buildings are designed, built, and operated.

Scientific research consistently shows that green buildings deliver benefits beyond environmental impact. They create healthier spaces for occupants, improve energy efficiency, and may increase property values. Through LEED, we ensure buildings are sustainable, economically viable, and support human well-being.

Here’s how we are pursuing market transformation:

Raising Industry Standards

We continually raise industry benchmarks in the built environment.

Driving Widespread Adoption

By redefining and implementing best practices, we transform the built environment, making sustainability fundamental to its future.

Influencing Policy and Regulations

We advocate for sustainable building principles to be embedded in policies, building codes, and zoning laws.

Shifting Market Demand

Green buildings certified by LEED and our other programs deliver environmental, economic, and health benefits.

Empowering Industry Professionals

Through education and credentials, we prepare architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants to lead sustainability initiatives.

Fostering Innovation

We celebrate teams that push boundaries in building technology, materials, and processes.

Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals

Our efforts align with global goals, such as the Paris Agreement and U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, to accelerate climate action.

Buildings as Catalysts for Change

How We Build Today Shapes

How We Live

Tomorrow

As climate change intensifies, buildings are central to protecting our planet and its people. Through LEED, we advance energy efficiency, resilience, and healthier indoor spaces. Our certifications reduce carbon emissions and pollution while safeguarding human well-being.

The Global Sustainability Movement

The green building movement began to take root long before USGBC was established. In the 1960s, concepts like passive design and natureintegrated environmental design gained momentum, setting the stage for the following decades. The 1970s marked key developments, with the first Earth Day in 1970 and the energy crisis of 1973, events that heightened awareness of environmental responsibility. This momentum continued in the 1980s, with the Brundtland Report in 1987 formally introducing the idea of sustainable development and establishing a foundation for ongoing efforts. Concepts such as the “zero energy house” emerged, serving as a precursor to today’s net zero building standards.

USGBC was established in 1993, at a time when environmental responsibility in the built environment was becoming more essential. Building on decades of progress in sustainable design, our vision for buildings balanced people’s well-being, planetary health, and economic prosperity.

In 2002, the formation of the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), the adoption of the Millennium Development Goals, and the signing of the Kyoto Protocol were pivotal in accelerating our mission. Later, the 2015 Paris Agreement and alignment with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) strengthened our efforts, influencing the development of LEED versions 4 and 4.1.

Today, LEED v5 looks toward the future—centering on decarbonization, quality of life, and ecological conservation.

Bioclimatic Architecture

Focused on efficient lighting through deepset windows, retractable awnings, and sunshades.

Environmental Architecture

Integrated nature into design by using materials in their natural state, efficiently managing resources (including water), and separating industrial zones from residential areas with green belts.

Sustainable Architecture

A holistic design approach that addressed land use, energy, air, water, and materials.

History of USGBC

1993

The early years

The 1990s saw a growing awareness of the need to optimize building systems with people and nature in mind to create better buildings.

1998

LEED v1.0

By 1998, USGBC had developed LEED 1.0 and began pilot testing with 19 projects.

2001

LEED v2.0

2002

New sectors and a Greenbuild debut

In March 2001, drawing on lessons from the pilot program, USGBC launched LEED 2.0.

2009

LEED v2009

LEED v2009 introduced new credit weightings based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s TRACI and standards set by the National Institute of Standards.

2007–2008

Launch of GBCI

USGBC launched GBCI as an independent organization to manage LEED certification and professional credentialing, ensuring quality and integrity across programs.

2003

In November 2002, Third Creek Elementary in Statesville, NC became the first elementary school to achieve LEED Gold, marking the expansion of green building practices into new sectors.

A green building explosion

2003 saw significant developments for LEED. USGBC had grown from a fledgling non-profit into an organization with expanded resources, a streamlined mission, and a successful launch of LEED v2.1.

2010

Center for Green Schools

USGBC launched the Center for Green Schools to support transforming all schools into sustainable, healthy learning environments.

2013

Health and green building

USGBC hosted its first Summit on Green Building and Human Health, a platform to discuss how building design can support a healthier society by promoting health in green buildings.

2023

Celebrating 30 years

In April 2023, USGBC celebrated its 30th anniversary. For three decades, the USGBC community has envisioned buildings and communities that regenerate and sustain human and environmental health.

2022

Green building going strong

2015

LEED v4

LEED v4 introduced significant improvements, including a performance-based, smart grid approach; a greater focus on materials and resources; a comprehensive approach to water; and streamlined documentation.

“Doing well by doing good” is very important to USGBC —and this catchphrase is even more relevant today. We are responsible for designing a healthier, more sustainable and resilient future.

2019

LEED v4.1

LEED v4.1 is more inclusive, with updated referenced standards and new options for performance monitoring to help projects meet LEED requirements.

The Birth of LEED

In April 1993, a meeting at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) brought Rick Fedrizzi, David Gottfried, Mike Italiano, and leaders from 60 firms and non-profits together with a shared goal: to reshape the way we build. Their vision was clear— unite the industry under a common standard for sustainable building.

That day, LEED was born, putting sustainability at the center of building practices.

This meeting sparked a movement that has transformed how buildings are designed, built, and operated. At USGBC, we have proudly carried this mission forward, growing LEED into a defining force for the industry.

This progress is the work of thousands of professionals, volunteers, and advocates—all driven to create a more sustainable future.

Early USGBC Board Meeting (1994) | San Francisco, CA | Photo: © Bill Browning

Reshaping the Building Industry

LEED has become the gold standard for buildings worldwide, providing a framework for high-performance, healthy, and resilient spaces.

From skyscrapers to single-family homes, LEED’s flexible system adapts to every project, enabling sustainable practices across all sectors and scales.

Through LEED, we’ve brought green building practices into the mainstream, reshaping global real estate and construction industries. While proud of this progress, we know significant work remains, and we’re committed to continue moving forward with our dedicated community.

From skyscrapers to single-family homes, LEED’s flexible system adapts to every project, enabling sustainable practices across all sectors and scales.

Together, we’ve set a higher standard for green building design and construction. While buildings may be made of bricks and beams, they play an active role in our shared commitment to a healthier planet. Today, decarbonization leads our agenda. Through the collective efforts of our members, volunteers, and project teams, LEED drives carbon reduction in the built environment. Each LEEDcertified project advances this goal through energy efficiency, water conservation, and low-carbon materials.

LEED also enhances biodiversity and indoor environmental quality, creating spaces that serve people while restoring natural balance. Through green roofs and sustainable site development, we create spaces where nature and buildings can truly coexist in harmony.

800 W Fulton Market | LEED Platinum | Chicago, IL | Photo: © SOM

Buildings as the Frontline Against Climate Change

At the core of our work is the understanding that buildings are about people. Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s here, influencing every moment of today.

Climate change manifests through extreme weather, rising temperatures, and public health crises, impacting millions worldwide. The most affected are those least equipped to respond: under-resourced communities, elderly residents, children, and people in developing regions.

At USGBC, we recognize buildings as critical infrastructure protecting people from the worst of climate impacts. Through LEED, we ensure buildings are resilient, sustainable, and designed to safeguard vulnerable populations. Our decarbonization efforts extend beyond energy efficiency to include renewable energy, reduced transportation emissions, and lower-carbon building materials. By incorporating biodiversity strategies like green roofs and rain gardens, LEED also restores local ecosystems and reduces flood risks, improving overall environmental performance.

Heat Waves: Protecting Communities from Rising Temperatures

As global temperatures rise, heat waves intensify and occur more frequently. Dense city centers and historically underserved communities face increased risks. LEED-certified buildings maintain thermal comfort through energy-efficient HVAC systems, natural ventilation, and passive cooling techniques.

By 2050, global temperatures are projected to rise by 2.7°F (1.5°C), intensifying heat wave impacts. WHO reports that between 2000 and 2019, 489,000 people died annually from heatrelated causes. From 2030–2050, heat stress alone could cause 250,000 additional deaths yearly through heat-related illnesses, malnutrition, and disease.

Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (2023). Climate Change: Global Temperature. https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climatechange-global-temperature

Storms and Flooding: Building Resilience Against Extreme Weather

Coastal regions and flood-prone areas increasingly face threats from hurricanes, storms, and rising sea levels. Floods and storms amplify public health risks by spreading waterborne diseases, contaminating water supplies, and disrupting access to essential health care services. According to the World Meteorological Organization, extreme weather events, including hurricanes, floods, and storms, have increased by 83% since 2000.

LEED emphasizes resilience by integrating design strategies that protect buildings from storm surges, reinforce structural integrity, and manage stormwater effectively. Our goal is to ensure buildings serve as protective barriers for communities, helping them withstand extreme weather events and recover quickly.

Air Quality: Creating Healthy Indoor Environments

As wildfires, urban pollution, and rising heat contribute to worsening air quality, especially in low-income urban areas, indoor environments can threaten public health.

LEED-certified buildings use advanced air filtration systems, lowemission materials, and optimized ventilation. These features protect occupants from pollution and allergens, critical in areas with poor outdoor air quality.

Storms and flooding have caused

$2.978 trillion

economic

• Deaths Due to Air Pollution

Air pollution ranks fourth among the leading causes of death worldwide (WHO).

• Rising Urban Pollution

Urban air pollution levels have risen 8% over five years, mostly affecting low-income urban areas.

• Wildfires and Air Quality

Climate-driven wildfires increasingly degrade air quality, raising rates of respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems.

Turner Construction HQ and NY Office

New York, NY

Photo: © Rafael Gamo

Source: United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). (2023). Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction. https://www.undrr.org/media/80490/ download

Source: Health Effects Institute. (2023). State of Global Air 2023: A special report on global exposure to air pollution and its disease burden. https://www.stateofglobalair. org/health

damage since 2000

Impacts of Air Pollution

Why LEED Matters

Green buildings should be the standard, not the exception. Through measurable metrics—such as energy efficiency, water conservation, material selection, and indoor air quality—we enable every project to reduce environmental impact. However, LEED’s influence extends far beyond individual buildings: it has reshaped entire industries, influenced building codes, and driven policy changes that accelerate global markets toward sustainability.

LEED has become the global standard for green building, offering a framework for designing, constructing, and operating high-performance, healthy, and resilient spaces. From skyscrapers to single-family homes, LEED’s flexible system applies to projects of any scale or sector, making sustainable practices accessible to all.

Climate Change and Buildings

Buildings stand at the center of the climate challenge. According to the UNEP Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction (2022):

Climate Change and Public Health

The connection between climate change and public health is clear.

Approximately

400,000

people die annually due to climate change.

Source: Climate Vulnerability Monitor: A Guide to the Cold Calculus of a Hot Planet, 2nd Edition (n.d.). https://daraint.org/ wp-content/uploads/2012/09/CVM2ndEd-FrontMatter.pdf

of time is spent indoors. of global energy-related carbon emissions come from buildings. of extracted materials worldwide are used in construction. of global power consumption is from buildings.

250,000 Source:

The World Health Organization (WHO) projects additional deaths could occur yearly by 2050.

LEED is Better for the Environment

LEED-certified buildings lead the way in the fight against climate change by promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. Our data shows measurable results.

C6 Bank | LEED Gold | São Paulo, Brazil | Photo: © Rogério Albuquerque

CBF Phillip Merrill Environmental Center | LEED Platinum | Annapolis, MD Photo: © Chesapeake Bay Foundation

VB Parks + Recreation | LEED Certified | Virginia Beach, VA Photo: Yuzhu Zheng Photography

Source: Fowler, Kimberly, et al. Re-Assessing Green Building Performance: A Post Occupancy Evaluation of 22 GSA Buildings. Sept. 2011.

Source: Fowler, Kimberly, et al. Re-Assessing Green Building Performance: A Post Occupancy Evaluation of 22 GSA Buildings. Sept. 2011.

LEED is Better for People

Climate change impacts fall heaviest on those least equipped to handle them. Low-income communities, rural populations, and developing regions face the harshest effects of extreme weather, pollution, and resource scarcity. LEED creates buildings that prioritize human health and social equity, ensuring vulnerable populations access safer, healthier spaces.

Affordable Housing

Many LEED projects focus on affordable housing. These buildings reduce energy costs through efficiency measures and renewable energy, ensuring long-term affordability for residents.

Schools and Community Centers

In climate-vulnerable areas, LEED-certified schools and community centers often serve as safe havens, designed to withstand storms, floods, and heat waves. These buildings provide essential services while educating communities about sustainability and climate resilience.

Public Health

LEED buildings are designed to improve indoor environmental quality, protecting people from pollutants, allergens, and toxins. Through improved air quality, natural daylight, and healthier materials, LEED-certified spaces reduce respiratory risks, support mental well-being, and boost productivity—critical benefits for vulnerable groups, especially children and elderly residents.

Community Health

LEED projects strengthen communities by supporting biodiversity, creating green spaces, and encouraging civic engagement. Research shows that integrating nature and community participation in urban planning increases social connection and overall well-being.

Kaiaulu O’ Kupuohi | LEED Gold | Lahaina, HI | Photo: @ikaikaohana

Portland Community College | LEED Silver | Photo: PCC Sustainability

Ten at Clarendon | LEED Platinum | Arlington, VA Photo: © Judy Davis, Architectural Photographer

From an Idea to a Movement

The early 1990s marked a turning point for the building industry. We faced urgent environmental challenges—mounting concerns about resource consumption, climate impact, and our industry’s effect on the planet. Despite these pressing issues, we had no holistic standards or framework to guide sustainable building practices.

In April 1993, sixty industry leaders came together at AIA, driven by a shared belief that buildings could better serve people and our planet. This gathering planted the seeds for LEED, establishing practical ways to reduce environmental impact, enhance human health, and address climate change.

Thanks to an important grant from the Natural Resources Defense Council, LEED’s development began in earnest in 1993. What followed was unprecedented in our industry. Architects, engineers, builders, product manufacturers, and leaders from government and non-profits stepped forward, volunteering their expertise. These professionals, typically separated by industry boundaries, came together in a truly collaborative, consensus-driven effort. Their dedication and willingness to bridge traditional divides created LEED’s foundation.

By 1998, LEED v1.0 was ready for its first test—19 pilot projects that would shape green building’s future. This led to the public launch of LEED for New Construction in March 2000. From 1996 to 2001, the LEED Pilot Committee refined and expanded these initial standards, learning from each project and adapting to real-world needs. The launch of LEED v2.0 in March 2001 incorporated these valuable lessons, beginning a journey of continuous improvement through versions 3 and 4, and now LEED v5.

What began with six dedicated volunteers back in 1993 has grown into a vibrant community of more than 205,000 professionals, volunteers, and advocates leading today’s green building movement.

CBF Phillip Merrill Environmental Center | LEED Platinum | Annapolis, MD

Photo: © Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Kandalama Hotel | LEED Certified | Damulla, Sri Lanka | Photo: © Latitude Photography

The Journey of LEED

Key Milestones in the Development of LEED

1998

LEED Pilot Program Launched

USGBC introduces the LEED rating system as a voluntary standard for sustainable building design and construction.

2004

LEED v2.1 Released

LEED expands with updated guidelines for Building Design and Construction (BD+C), introducing new performance standards and credits for water and energy efficiency.

2009

LEED v3 and the Introduction of LEED AP Specialties

LEED v3 launches, enhancing energy optimization credits and integrating regional priorities.

The new LEED AP credential specialties (e.g., BD+C, O+M, ID+C) empower professionals to focus on specific sectors.

2013

LEED v4 Released

LEED v4 emphasizes performance monitoring and introduces new categories, such as Materials and Resources (MR), with a focus on lifecycle analysis and transparency.

2017

LEED for Cities and Communities

LEED scales to the city level with LEED for Cities and Communities, allowing cities to achieve certification based on sustainability metrics like carbon emissions, water use, and quality of life.

2023

LEED for Cities and Communities

LEED for Cities and Communities continues to expand, allowing cities to achieve certification based on sustainability metrics like carbon emissions, water use, and quality of life.

1993

USGBC Founded

USGBC is established, marking the start of the modern green building movement.

2000

First LEED Certification

The first LEED-certified building, the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, receives LEED Platinum status, setting the benchmark for future green projects.

2006

LEED for Existing Buildings (O+M)

LEED begins certifying existing buildings through its Operations and Maintenance (O+M) rating system, helping property owners improve energy efficiency and sustainability over a building’s life cycle.

2011

LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED ND)

LEED expands beyond individual buildings, introducing LEED ND to promote sustainable community-scale projects and improve energy efficiency and sustainability over a building’s life cycle.

2014–2015

LEED Earth Initiative Launched

USGBC launches the LEED Earth initiative to bring LEED certification to emerging markets and the first LEED-certified projects in new countries, offering free certification for the first project in each country.

2019

LEED v4.1 Introduced

LEED v4.1 focuses on performancebased metrics, making it easier to apply to both new construction and existing buildings. LEED v4.1 emphasizes carbon reduction and encourages innovation in green building practices.

2024–2025

Full Rollout of LEED v5

LEED v5 is scheduled to complete ballot and be fully available for use in 2025.

The Broader Impact of LEED

LEED’s influence reaches far beyond single buildings. Its advancement of proven practices has transformed entire industries, shaped modern building codes, and driven policy changes—all supporting our shift toward a sustainable built environment.

Measurable Outcomes

Lower Operating Costs: LEED-certified buildings consistently show reduced operational expenses due to energy and water efficiency.

LEED buildings report lower maintenance costs than typical commercial buildings, and green building retrofits typically show decreased operation costs in just one year.

Source: Richman, E. E., Dittmer, A. L., & Keller, J. M. (2012). The cost-effectiveness of commercial buildings commissioning: A meta-analysis of energy and non-energy impacts in existing buildings and new construction in the United States. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Minimized Environmental Impact: LEED projects actively contribute to reducing carbon footprints, supporting global efforts to combat climate change.

Healthier Spaces: People thrive in LEED buildings. Better air quality and environmental design lead to healthier, more productive occupants.

LEED also plays a crucial role in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting, offering organizations a trusted tool to measure their sustainability performance in alignment with global climate goals.

LEED Lab Students | Photo: © UC Merced

Photo: © GBCI Europe Circle

Source: U.S. Green Building Council (2018, July). Employee survey: Office workers and green building practices.

Source: Fowler, Kimberly, et al. Re-Assessing Green Building Performance: A Post Occupancy Evaluation of 22 GSA Buildings. Sept. 2011.

Decarbonization

Decarbonization, defined as the removal of greenhouse gas (GHG) production from the global economy, has become an imperative, with buildings identified as a critical sector to address.

At USGBC, we bring together our tools and resources to meet this challenge, alongside nations, companies, and green building professionals and advocates.

LEED BD+C NC: ECI Baseline Evolution

Since inception, LEED has led energy performance improvements. Through various iterations, LEED has aligned with and exceeded ASHRAE standards. LEED v5 adopts ASHRAE 90.1-2019/2022 as a baseline, focusing on source energy use intensity (EUI) to drive reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Key milestones in this evolution include:

• LEED Version 2.2

Used ASHRAE 90.1-2004 as a baseline for energy costs, setting energy efficiency foundations.

• LEED Version 3 (v3)

Introduced 10% energy cost improvement over ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

• LEED Version 4 (v4)

Enhanced requirements with 5% improvement over ASHRAE 90.12010.

• LEED Version 4.1 (v4.1) Adopted ASHRAE 90.1-2016 for more rigorous energy savings.

• LEED Version 5 draft (v5) Focuses on source EUI with ASHRAE 90.1-2019/2022 as a baseline, emphasizing source energy consumption reduction.

LEED BD+C NC: ECI Baseline Evolution

Evolution of LEED with ASHRAE 90.1 Baseline for Offices

Key Strategies in LEED for Carbon Reduction

Reducing Transportation Emissions

• Promoting compact development.

• Encouraging active transit: biking, walking, and public transport.

• Supporting clean-energy vehicles and installing EV charging stations.

Reducing Operational Emissions

• Developing carbon management plans.

• Designing energy-efficient buildings (heating, cooling, lighting).

• Prioritizing on-site renewable energy (solar, wind).

• Reducing potable water consumption to lower energy use.

Reducing Refrigerant Emissions

• Using low-global warming potential refrigerants.

• Minimizing refrigerant leaks.

Reducing Embodied Carbon

• Conducting life-cycle assessments and reusing materials.

• Procuring low-carbon materials.

• Implementing innovative waste recovery processes (e.g., recycling carpet, and gypsum board).

Sustainable Sites and Water Efficiency

• Reducing heat islands with green roofs and reflective materials.

• Lowering potable water consumption and promoting reclaimed water use.

• Encouraging rainwater harvesting and gray water reuse.

Phipps Center for Sustainable Landscapes | LEED Platinum | Pittsburgh, PA

Photo: Paul G. Wiegman

The Carbon Impact of LEED-Certified Buildings

Decarbonizing buildings, including during the construction and operations phases, is essential to meeting our climate goals.

Project teams working to decarbonize a project apply LEED as a holistic framework, helping not only to develop an integrated approach for climate, but also to ensure baseline consideration of human health, clean water, and other vital outcomes.

Projects certified under LEED for Building Design and Construction (BD+C) and LEED for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C) have been strategically designed to contribute significantly to emissions reduction.

Why is this important?

The built environment is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and addressing this through thoughtful design and construction practices is crucial. LEED-certified projects demonstrate that sustainable design is not just a choice but a necessity for a resilient future. By integrating energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and renewable energy strategies, these buildings set a precedent for others to follow.

The journey toward widespread decarbonization is ongoing, and LEED projects exemplify how innovation and responsibility can drive impactful change.

Carbon Savings: At a Glance

Immediate Impact

In their first year after certification, LEED BD+C and LEED ID+C commercial certified projects were designed to save a cumulative

Long-Term Impact

To date, since certification, these projects have been designed to achieve a total cumulative carbon savings of

15.4 million metric tons of carbon 120 million metric tons of carbon

What Does 15.4 Million Metric Tons of Carbon Savings Mean?

Trees and Oxygen

Equivalent to the carbon captured by 255 million tree seedlings growing for 10 years.

Those trees could provide enough oxygen for 510 million people for a year.

Homes Powered

Equal to the yearly carbon emissions from electricity use in 3 million homes.

This is like powering all the homes in Chicago, Madrid, and Vancouver combined.

Cars Taken Off the Road

Equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions of 3.7 million gasoline cars driven for a year.

This is like removing all of the cars in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal for a year.

What Does 120 Million Metric Tons of Carbon Savings Mean?

Trees and Oxygen

Equivalent to the carbon captured by nearly 2 billion tree seedlings growing for 10 years. Those trees could provide enough oxygen for 4 billion people for a year. That’s half the world’s population!

Homes Powered

Equal to the yearly carbon emissions from electricity use in 24 million homes.

This is like powering every home in Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay combined.

Cars Taken Off the Road

Equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions of 29 million gasoline cars driven for a year.

This is like removing all of the cars in Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam for a year.

Carbon Impact of LEED: Building Type Breakdown

These graphs display the annual GHG emission savings per square foot for different LEED BD+C New Construction building types (in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per square foot [kgCO2e/sqft]). These savings are categorized by LEED certification levels—Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—showcasing the growing impact of higher certification levels in reducing emissions.

Significant savings are observed with higher LEED certifications, with LEED Platinum offices leading in GHG emission intensity reduction.

Multifamily residential LEED projects play a vital role in decarbonizing urban housing. Sustainable residential development not only lowers carbon footprints but also improves the quality of living environments for residents, driving long-term environmental and social benefits.

The savings grow steadily with each certification tier, reflecting the decarbonization potential of sustainable retail spaces.

Schools and universities demonstrate measurable emission reductions, particularly at the LEED Platinum level, supporting the decarbonization of educational facilities.

Warehouses

LEED-certified warehouse projects also contribute significantly to reducing emissions. With larger footprints and high energy usage, decarbonization in this sector is essential.

Health care facilities, due to their energy-intensive operations, present a major opportunity for emission reductions. LEED-certified health care buildings have been instrumental in cutting carbon emissions, with higher certification levels yielding greater annual GHG emission intensity savings.

Office Buildings

Retail Buildings

Educational Buildings

Health Care Facilities

Multifamily Residential Buildings

A Clear Path for Decarbonization

Low-Carbon Design for New Buildings

If new buildings follow traditional construction methods, they are projected to account for

of global CO2 emissions by 2050.

Cumulative Emissions Savings Across LEED-Certified Buildings

Decarbonization in LEED v5

According to the 2022 Global Status Report by the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP), the buildings sector must halve its emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 to meet Paris Agreement targets.

With LEED v5, we aim to support this by offering strategies that address carbon emissions across three critical areas:

• Operational Carbon Emissions generated from daily building operations.

• Embodied Carbon Emissions produced during material sourcing, production, and construction.

• Transportation Carbon Emissions from commuting and logistics tied to building use.

Source: United Nations Environment Programme. (2022). 2022 global status report for buildings and construction. United Nations Environment Programme. https://www.unep. org/resources/publication/2022-global-status-report-buildings-and-construction

Decarbonizing Existing Buildings

Future-Ready Carbon Projections

LEED v5 enhances carbon literacy across the industry. All certified buildings will be provided with an operational greenhouse gas emissions projection of their business-as-usual emissions through 2050, helping teams understand the future carbon impacts of their decisions. Additionally, buildings are required to report on refrigerant use and leaks to reduce further emissions.

Source: World Green Building Council. (n.d.). Advancing net zero: Embodied carbon. Retrieved from https://worldgbc.org/advancing-net-zero/embodied-carbon/

LEED v5 continues to reward efficient, low-carbon buildings, especially those that get it right from the start. New buildings that implement energyefficient designs and aim for low-carbon operations are recognized, helping meet modern GHG emission standards and contributing to longterm sustainability goals.

of buildings that will be occupied in 2050 already exist, meaning decarbonizing existing stock is a major priority.

Source: UK Green Building Council. (n.d.). Climate change mitigation. https://ukgbc.org/ our-work/climate-change-mitigation/

Reducing carbon emissions of existing buildings is a long-term, complex process. LEED v5 supports this journey by rewarding projects that establish decarbonization pathways and create five-year capital plans, encouraging gradual progress toward ultra-low carbon.

Biodiversity in LEED Projects

Biodiversity is vital to the health of ecosystems and the long-term resilience of urban environments. LEED has always emphasized biodiversity, and with LEED v5, this focus is stronger than ever.

At USGBC, our approach to biodiversity aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Diversity Framework, which sets critical global targets for biodiversity by 2050. This framework outlines four overarching goals: halting humaninduced species extinction, ensuring the sustainable use of biodiversity, promoting equitable sharing of its benefits, and addressing the biodiversity finance gap of $700 billion annually. These goals are foundational to LEED v5.

Direct Exploitation of Natural Resources

• Protect sensitive land.

• Manage rainwater.

• Reduce water use.

• Implement integrative design processes.

• Protect and restore biodiverse habitats.

• Minimize site disturbance.

• Plan for zero waste operations.

• Reuse materials in building projects.

• Use products with environmentally preferable impact.

• Divert construction and demolition waste.

Climate Change

• Conduct climate resilience assessments.

• Design resilient and enhanced resilient sites.

• Reduce heat island effects.

• Implement refrigerant management.

LEED (LEED v5 BD+C) contributes toward meeting 12 global biodiversity targets

of the prerequisites/credits help in meeting at least one of the 12 global biodiversity targets.

LEED and the Five Drivers of Biodiversity Loss 15% 80%

The U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) has identified five primary drivers of biodiversity loss, and LEED directly addresses them through strategic interventions. Below are key strategies that demonstrate this alignment, though they represent only a portion of LEED’s comprehensive approach.

Changes in Land and Sea Use

• Minimize site disturbance.

• Protect and restore biodiverse habitats.

• Protect sensitive land.

• Remediate brownfield sites to promote ecological health.

• Implement resilient site design.

• Provide vegetated outdoor open space.

Invasive Species

• Minimize site disturbance.

• Ensure outdoor water use efficiency.

• Protect and restore biodiverse habitats.

• Provide accessible open space.

• Promote water- and energy-efficient infrastructure.

• Plan for zero waste operations.

• Optimize building products.

• Assess embodied carbon in materials.

• Encourage and recognize renewable energy use.

Pollution

• Reuse water.

• Minimize light pollution and bird collisions.

• Plan for zero waste operations.

• Implement integrated pest management.

• Promote compact and connected development.

• Encourage the use of electric vehicles.

• Provide accessible open space.

• Increase energy and water efficiency.

• Manage refrigerants.

• Encourage the use of renewable energy.

• Optimize building products.

• Divert construction and demolition waste.

LEED v5 BD+C (public comment version 1) supports 12 of the 23 biodiversity targets outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. These contributions focus on critical areas such as habitat protection, sustainable land use, and ecosystem health.

Benefits of Biodiversity

more carbon can be sequestered by biodiverse landscaping compared to monoculture lawns.

9 Billion Gallons

9 billion gallons of daily water consumption from lawn irrigation in the U.S. during summer, stressing water resources.

Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Start Saving | US EPA. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Retrieved September 20, 2024, from https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving

643 Million Tons

643 million tons of carbon is stored in U.S. urban trees, highlighting the power of urban greenery.

Source: Yang et al. (2019). “Soil carbon sequestration accelerated by restoration of grassland biodiversity.” Nature Communications, 10:718.

Source: Nowak, D. J., Greenfield, E. J., Hoehn, R. E., & Lapoint, E. (2013). Carbon storage and sequestration by trees in urban and community areas of the United States. Environmental Pollution, 178, 229-236.

Transforming the Building Industry

For more than 30 years, we have shared a vision of market transformation— defining and recognizing spaces that benefit both people and the environment.

Here’s how LEED has led this transformation:

Raising Industry Standards

Setting measurable criteria for energy efficiency, water conservation, and human health establishes a higher baseline for best practices in the built environment.

Driving Widespread Adoption

From commercial real estate to public infrastructure, we work to make sustainability accessible across all sectors, regardless of size, location, or budget. Market transformation takes shape when green building practices become widely available, and LEED plays a key role in building capacity and expertise. As architects, designers, contractors, and facilities staff work on LEED-certified projects, they gain the skills and knowledge to bring high-performance, sustainable practices to other projects they engage with. This groundwork supports broader adoption of these practices, even in buildings that may not seek certification.

Influencing Policy and Regulations

By working with governments and aligning policies with green building principles, we help embed sustainability into building codes, zoning laws, and incentives.

Shifting Market Demand

Through LEED certification and other programs, we make the business case for green buildings, showing how they deliver operational savings, healthier environments, and higher market value. As investors, developers, and consumers recognize these benefits, demand for green building practices grows naturally.

Encouraging Innovation and Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is dynamic. LEED encourages creative solutions and forward-thinking projects by awarding additional points to those that push boundaries. By promoting continuous improvement, we drive innovation in technologies, materials, and processes that support sustainable development. Our work continuously evolves, and we welcome opportunities to learn and advance in the industry.

Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals

Our commitment goes beyond individual buildings. We align our efforts with global sustainability objectives like climate action, resilience, and social equity. By integrating LEED with international goals, we help shape global markets and contribute to achieving sustainability on a broader scale.

Transforming Products and Practices

Through LEED, we’ve seen a significant impact on both building products and practices.

By setting standards that reward sustainability, we’ve driven innovation and influenced the way buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. Many of these products, once difficult to find or unavailable, are now commonplace in various markets, showcasing the shift toward more sustainable options.

Transforming Building Products

• Low-VOC Paints and Coatings

Our Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) credits incentivized the development of low- and zero-VOC paints, improving indoor air quality.

• Sustainable Flooring and Carpets

We’ve inspired manufacturers to create modular carpet tiles made from recycled materials, supporting the circular economy and reducing waste.

• Energy-Efficient Lighting

Thanks to LEED’s emphasis on energy performance, LED lighting has become the go-to option for green projects. Manufacturers now design fixtures that meet LEED energy requirements, saving energy while offering advanced features like daylight sensors and dimming capabilities.

• Water-Efficient Fixtures

Manufacturers have driven innovations in low-flow plumbing fixtures, making sustainable water use more common in both commercial and residential buildings.

• Sustainable Insulation

LEED’s focus on environmentally responsible materials has popularized the use of eco-friendly insulation, offering healthier alternatives to traditional insulation products.

Transforming Building Practices

• Integrated Design Process

LEED has popularized the integrated design approach, bringing together architects, engineers, and contractors early in the process to prioritize sustainability from the very beginning of the design process.

• Commissioning and Performance Verification

LEED’s requirement for commissioning has standardized the practice of thorough performance testing for building systems, ensuring that projects meet their energy efficiency and resource goals.

• Material Transparency

LEED’s focus on environmental product declarations (EPDs) and health product declarations (HPDs) has driven greater transparency in material sourcing, leading manufacturers to disclose life-cycle impacts and encouraging more responsible material selection.

• Water Management

LEED has promoted rainwater harvesting, green roofs, and permeable pavements to improve stormwater control and reduce runoff, contributing to better water conservation in urban developments.

• Enhanced Building Envelope Design

LEED’s requirements for energy-efficient building envelopes has improved the way buildings are designed, focusing on better insulation, air barriers, and high-performance windows to minimize heat loss and reduce energy use.

• Post-Occupancy Evaluation

LEED encourages continuous monitoring of building performance, ensuring that buildings maintain efficiency and adapt to new sustainability challenges over time.

LEED for Every Project

The evolution of LEED reflects our commitment to addressing the diverse needs of sustainable building projects. As the green building movement has grown, LEED has expanded to include specialized programs that address the unique characteristics of different building types and sectors. With a focus ranging from new construction to existing buildings, neighborhoods, and entire cities, these targeted LEED programs ensure that every aspect of the built environment can meet high standards of sustainability and contribute meaningfully to a healthier future for all.

LEED for Building Design and Construction (LEED BD+C)

Prioritizing sustainable strategies for new construction and major renovations.

LEED for Interior Design and Construction (LEED ID+C)

Focusing on sustainable solutions for interior fit-outs and commercial spaces.

LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance (LEED O+M)

Enhancing the efficiency of existing buildings throughout their life cycle.

LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED ND)

Creating smart, sustainable communities for improved quality of life.

LEED for Cities and Communities

Evaluating sustainability, resilience, and quality of life at the city and community levels.

LEED Residential

Tailoring sustainability benchmarks to single-family, multifamily, and mixed-use residential projects.

Beyond LEED

While LEED remains our primary tool for driving change, our work has expanded to explore broader opportunities beyond individual buildings, addressing critical aspects of land use, energy, and waste:

• SITES

Promoting sustainable land use through collaboration with landscape architects and ecologists.

• TRUE

Pursuing zero waste goals in partnership with waste management specialists.

Maria Weston Chapman Middle School | LEED Gold | Weymouth, MA | Photo: © Ed Wonsek

Perkins&Will Washington, DC, Studio | LEED Gold | Washington, DC

Photo: © Eric Laignel Photography

LEED is Flexible

We recognize that no two projects are alike. Whether constructing a skyscraper, renovating a historic building, or planning an entire community, LEED provides a framework that is flexible, adaptable, and scalable across various project types. This flexibility is possible through the collaboration of numerous volunteers, industry experts, and organizations over the years.

What makes LEED a dynamic, evolving tool is the active involvement of our community. Each question about adapting LEED to a new climate or project type contributes to refining the system. Volunteers from technical advisory groups (TAGs), steering committees, and working groups play a crucial role in ensuring that LEED evolves with emerging technologies, changing environmental challenges, and current industry standards. Their commitment keeps LEED at the forefront, ensuring that green building practices remain relevant and impactful across all sectors and regions.

For spaces that are not new builds but instead focus on interior fitouts, LEED ID+C provides a way to certify sustainability within existing structures.

for Building Design and Construction (BD+C)

For projects involving new construction or significant renovations, LEED BD+C covers a broad range of building types.

LEED

LEED for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C)

Children’s Support Center of Atlanta | LEED Silver | Photo: © Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Cambria on Q | LEED Gold | Washington, DC | Photo: © Donohoe Development Company

TTE Innovation Center | LEED Gold | Tsukuba Mirai City, Japan | Photo: © Shigeo Ogawa

LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M)

Existing buildings account for a significant portion of carbon emissions. LEED O+M offers a pathway for these buildings to improve sustainability through better energy, water, and waste management practices.

Portobello Jardim Shop Social | LEED Platinum | Curitiba, Brazil | Photo: © Petinelli

Live Aqua Urban Resort | LEED Gold | San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

| Photo: © FibraHotel

Menara UOA Bangsar, Tower B | LEED Gold | Bangsar Utama, Malaysia | Photo: © Azrul Kevin Abdullah

LEED for Residential BD+C

This applies to single-family homes as well as multifamily housing.

With support from urban planners and public officials, LEED has expanded to include entire cities and communities. This system addresses energy and water use, as well as metrics for social equity, resilience, and governance.

LEED for Cities and Communities

The Crest | LEED Platinum | Haryana, India | Photo: © DLF Limited

City of Coral Gables| LEED Gold | Photo: © City of Coral Gables

Pahler-Simon Residence | LEED Platinum | Kahuku, HI | Photo: © Adam Taylor

Strengthening the Business Case for LEED

Since 2000, Cushman and Wakefield, a USGBC member, has led the conversation on the benefits of LEED certification. Their research shows that LEED-certified buildings often achieve higher resale values, command increased rents, and maintain stronger long-term investment potential.

In 2021, they released a series of reports that provided key insights into LEED’s impact.

LEED in China

Outside of the U.S., China leads the world in LEED certification, with 1,583 projects across 264 million square feet certified in 2023 alone, marking its third consecutive year at the top. Currently, China has nearly 9,000 certifications, covering over 3 billion square feet.

China’s focus on eco-friendly building aligns with its rapid urbanization, especially across major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen in Guangdong Province, where existing buildings are increasingly being greened as enterprises aim for net zero emissions.

8,949

Like much of the world, China is pursuing a decarbonization strategy through subsidies and government policy. This includes tighter requirements in key sectors such as infrastructure, transportation, and industrial parks, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality nationwide by 2060. certifications

3 billion square feet

LEED Certifications by Rating System

Case Study

In 2018, McDonald’s China became the first company in China to commit to a LEED Volume program.

Since that pledge, the company has earned 1,700 LEED certifications, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable practices within the fast-food industry.

Today, 95% of McDonald’s new outlets in China are built to LEED standards, reflecting the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting green building practices across its portfolio. By integrating these features, the project provides a comfortable environment and achieves significant energy savings.

Key Project Features

LEED Volume Certifications

McDonald’s has 1,700 certified restaurants, representing 95% of all new store openings.

Carbon Emission Reduction

These certifications contribute to reducing carbon emissions by approximately 60,000 tons annually.

Supply Chain Sustainability

By sourcing 95% of ingredients locally and optimizing logistics, McDonald’s further reduces its supply chain carbon footprint.

Sustainable Packaging

The company uses 100% sustainably certified virgin paper for packaging, replacing approximately 400 tons of plastic per year.

Green Restaurant Locator

McDonald’s app now highlights LEED-certified stores, helping 200 million registered customers locate their nearest green restaurant.

McDonald’s China | Beijing, China | Photo: © McDonald’s China

LEED in Europe

In Europe, where energy efficiency and climate goals are a top priority, LEED certification complements regional standards and regulations, offering a flexible approach that supports carbon reduction and resource conservation.

Europe boasts over 6,400 LEED-certified projects, covering over 116 million gross square feet. Major projects, from office buildings to retail and infrastructure, have embraced LEED to showcase leadership in sustainability and attract investors and tenants. This has helped elevate Europe’s reputation as a hub for green innovation while aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

6,437

certifications

116 million square feet

LEED Certifications by Rating System

Case Study

In 2019, the Olympic House, the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, set a new benchmark for sustainability by becoming the highest-scoring LEED v4 BD+C project globally.

The Olympic House demonstrates how architecture can embody the principles of sustainability, unity, and operational excellence. It integrates innovative green building strategies, promotes user wellness, and minimizes its environmental footprint. The project was recertified in 2024, earning LEED Platinum certification, this time focusing on the building’s operations and management.

Key Project Features

Energy-Efficient Envelope

Enhanced insulation, high-performance sealants, and an advanced HVAC system reduces energy consumption by 35%.

Daylighting

90% of regularly occupied spaces have access to natural light and outdoor views.

Renewable Energy Integration

Solar panels and heat pumps utilizing Lake Geneva water supply renewable energy.

Circular Economy in Design

97% of materials from the former building were reused or recycled.

Rainwater Harvesting

A 300 m³ rainwater harvesting system reducesmunicipal water use by 60%.

Wellness-Focused Design

Low-VOC materials, flexible office spaces, a fitness center, and lush terraces promote employee health and well-being.

Olympic House | LEED Platinum | Lausanne, Switzerland | Photo: © IOC/Adam Mork

LEED in India

In recent years, India has consistently ranked among the top three countries for LEED adoption, showcasing its commitment to the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. This ranking highlights India’s dedication to addressing climate change through green development and promoting environmentally responsible practices.

Today, India’s commercial LEED projects include over 2,800 projects, covering more than 1.5 billion square feet. India is also a global leader in net zero, with the highest number of LEED Zero certifications worldwide.

2,800

certifications

1.5 billion square feet

LEED Certifications by Rating System

Case Study

Infosys Crescent SEZ, Ecity

Ph-1, is a high-performance building that sets a benchmark in sustainable design.

This pre-cast office building, which accomodates 7,000 occupants, is LEED-certified and stands out for its emphasis on energy efficiency, daylighting, and sustainable design. These features create a comfortable environment and deliver substantial energy savings.

Key Project Features

Energy-Efficient Envelope

Double-glazed windows with a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.2, along with a super-insulated roof, help reduce heat gain.

Daylighting

77% of spaces benefit from natural light, enhanced by vision glazing and light shelves.

Low Lighting Power Density

The building achieves 4.84 W/m² in offices and outdoor areas, aided by sensors and time switches.

Efficient Cooling

A centralized air-conditioning system with radiant baffle systems conserves 51% more energy compared to the ASHRAE baseline.

Renewable Energy

A 248 kW rooftop solar PV system contributes to meeting the building’s energy requirements.

Infosys Crescent SEZ, Ecity Ph-1 | LEED Platinum | Bengaluru, India | Photo: © Infosys Limited

LEED in USA

The U.S. continues to lead the world in LEED certifications, with 2,189 new certifications representing over 556 million gross square feet in 2023. Gold certifications remain the most pursued, comprising 60.3% of the total. This reflects a strong commitment to high sustainability standards in construction projects.

The increase in LEED adoption in the U.S. highlights the progress made by both public and private sectors toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing health impacts, and lowering operating costs in buildings. Among the most common types of LEED projects nationwide are office buildings (both private and public), warehouses, and educational facilities (K–12 and higher education).

certifications

89,512 8.3 billion square feet

LEED Certifications by Rating System

Case Study

Wheeling High School earned LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance: Existing Buildings (LEED O+M: Existing Buildings) certification in May 2021, demonstrating leadership in improving indoor air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Located in Wheeling, Illinois, the school is part of a district serving seven high schools and 1,700 students.

The school’s proactive approach during the pandemic and focus on air quality paved the way for a successful LEED Safety First pilot credit achievement.

Wheeling High School’s maintenance team worked diligently to modify the HVAC system in response to the pandemic. The team increased ventilation rates and upgraded the filtration system, creating a safer environment for the school’s occupants.

Key Project Features

Upgraded MERV Filtration

Duct filters were upgraded from MERV 8 to MERV 14 and are replaced every three months, at minimum. The school continues to use a webbased maintenance management program, in conjunction with the building automation system (BAS), to track maintenance schedules.

Supply Chain Strategies

The project faced challenges in outdoor air delivery, particularly during cold and humid months. Higher MERV-rated filters required more frequent replacements, but the team managed supply chain issues through bulk ordering, ensuring the maintenance schedule was unaffected. The district’s building management team oversaw logistics for filter replacements.

Ventilation Enhancements

The school increased the rate of outside air (OA) delivery to as much as 100% during favorable weather conditions. Ventilation rates were set to six air changes per hour (ACH) to improve air circulation.

Pre-Occupancy Ventilation

The air-handling units start up one hour before occupancy. Previously, the building team started the systems 30 minutes before occupancy. This change was made to increase the effects of dilution ventilation.

Wheeling High School | LEED Certified | Wheeling, IL | Photo: © D214

Oldest LEED-Certified Buildings

and over 560 years old

Sede Centrale at Università Ca’ Foscari | LEED Silver | Venice, Italy

Photo: ©Università Ca’ Foscari Venezia U.S.

Building

LEED Gold

Washington, DC | Photo: © AdobeStock

Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento | LEED Platinum | Mexico City, Mexico

Photo: Tania Victoria/Secretaría de Cultura CDMX

Fay House | LEED Gold | Cambridge, MA | Photo: ©Kevin Grady

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Fay House | The oldest LEED-certified building in the U.S.

Venice, Italy

Sede Centrale at Università Ca’ Foscari Built in 1453

Ciy, Mexico

Antiguo Palacio | Built in 1527, it is Latin America’s first certified historic building

Tall LEED Projects

Taipei 101 | Three-time LEED Platinum tower and the world’s first building over 500 meters tall

Photo: © Andy To

Photo: © Joe Woolhead

Taiwan, China

Seoul, South Korea

Lotte World Tower | The sixth tallest building in the world

Shenzhen, China

Ping An Finance Center | The fifth tallest building in the world

One World Trade Center | One of the world’s top 10 tallest buildings and the tallest building in North America

New York, New York

Photo: © Andy To Shanghai, China

Shanghai Tower | The third tallest building in the world

Photo: © Andy To

Some of the world’s most iconic buildings are LEED-certified. This includes Merdeka 118 in Malaysia—the second tallest building in the world—certified LEED Platinum in March 2024, as well as the buildings featured here.

A Resilient Future for the Built Environment

Since 1993, we have made incredible strides together, transforming the way we build and the way we live. This impact report captures just a glimpse of what we’ve achieved as a community—but the reality is that there’s so much more. These pages can only highlight a fraction of the progress we’ve made and the powerful change driven by our collective efforts. Every day, this community of change-makers is creating ripples of impact that extend far beyond what can be documented in one report.

As we reflect on the transformative impact our community has already had on the built environment, it’s crucial to recognize that our mission is far from complete.

Climate change remains the greatest challenge of our time, affecting every aspect of life for people worldwide. The building sector alone consumes half of all materials and contributes 40% of global carbon emissions. With people spending 90% of their lives indoors—and with over half of the buildings that will exist by 2050 yet to be constructed—the choices we make today will profoundly impact quality of life for current and future generations.

A resilient future starts with LEED-certified buildings leading the fight against climate change. LEED v5 embraces market demands for greater accountability and champions solutions to align the built environment with critical imperatives, including decarbonization, ecosystem conservation and restoration, equity, health, and resilience.

“

Buildings that are designed with resilience in mind not only better endure natural disasters, they are also able to recover more swiftly from adverse events. They offer a safe haven for occupants, support business continuity, and ease the burden on emergency services. With LEED v5’s resilience prerequisites and credits, the green building community is proactively addressing climate resilience and adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.”

Melissa Baker SVP, Technical Development, USGBC

Thoroughgood Elementary School | LEED Silver | Virginia Beach, VA | Photo: Yuzhu Zheng

Resiliency in Action

How a LEED-Certified Community

Endured Two Back-to-Back Hurricanes

In 2024, as Florida faced the severe impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, communities across the state experienced extensive flooding, damaging winds, and prolonged power outages. However, the LEEDcertified Hunters Point community in Cortez, Florida, stood resilient, demonstrating how sustainable design can protect the people who live in these areas from climate events.

Developed by Pearl Homes, the 86-home Hunters Point community is built to withstand Category 5 hurricanes, the highest rating on the Saffir-Simpson scale. This community exemplifies the LEED commitment to resilience and sustainability, generating 98% of its energy on-site. Hunters Point shows how LEED-certified developments, when thoughtfully designed for specific climate risks, can protect both residents and their homes. Its ability to stay operational during Hurricanes Milton and Helene underscores the essential role of resilient, sustainable infrastructure in addressing today’s climate challenges.

• Net Zero Energy

Residents enjoy peace of mind, knowing their homes are equipped with intelligent backup power systems that provide clean, carbon-neutral energy during emergencies. Solar panels and battery storage ensure homes stay powered during widespread outages

• Flood Management

The ground floor of each three-story home functions as a garage equipped with flood vents to safely drain rising water, while the living spaces are elevated, starting 16 feet above sea level, providing critical protection from storm surges.

• Storm-Proof Design

From roof to foundation, steel straps secure the entire structure. Hurricane-proof windows, reinforced walls, and robust materials protect homes and residents from extreme winds. Solar panels are attached to the roofs’ raised vertical seams, preventing them from dislodging during storms.

• September 15, 2024

• Category 4

• Wind speed of 140 mph (220 km/h)

• Storm surge of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Widespread flooding in coastal areas

• Category 5 at landfall, weakened to Category 3

• Wind speed of 120 mph (193 km/h)

• Over 18 inches (45 cm) of rainfall in St. Petersburg, Florida

• Caused 45 tornadoes across the state

Our Commitment to Resilience

At USGBC, we believe that sustainability and resilience must go hand in hand. As climate challenges intensify, LEED-certified developments like Hunters Point are showing the world that green building practices offer a path toward safer, healthier, and more resilient futures for all.

Marshall Gobuty Founder and President of the Pearl Homes development (CNN, October 2024) “

Everybody around us was completely dark at like five in the morning, and you see the lights on in our houses. So, it really was a test of why we did this.”

Hurricane Helene

Key Features of Hunters Point

Hurricane Milton

Hunters Point | Cortez, FL | Photo: Pearl Homes

A Commitment to Equity

We believe that addressing climate change must be grounded in equity. The communities most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change are often the least equipped to adapt. Our commitment is to prioritize social equity in all that we do, ensuring no one is left behind in the pursuit of a sustainable future. This focus is a key consideration in LEED v5 and will continue to be integrated across all our products, programs, and services.

Whether by promoting strategies that improve public health, providing access to cleaner air and water, or creating spaces that enhance wellbeing, we recognize that climate action must be inclusive to truly succeed.

Ursuline Academy East Campus Building | LEED Certified | Dallas, TX Photo: © Charles Davis Smith, LLC

Oyster River Middle School | LEED Gold | Durham, NH | Photo: © Siri Blanchette Blind Dog Photo

Doss Elementary School | LEED Gold | Austin, TX | Photo: © Phoebe Beierle

Lakeview Elementary School | LEED Silver | Lakeland, TX | Photo: © Shaulin Hon

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Advancing Equity Through LEED

Our commitment to equity is shown through initiatives like LEED Earth and Project Haiti. These programs highlight how sustainable building practices can be developed collaboratively and applied in various contexts, bringing social benefits to communities where access to resources is limited. Working closely with local leaders and experts, these projects strengthen resilience and support long-term sustainability.

LEED Earth aims to make green building accessible to economies worldwide, offering free certification for each country’s first LEED project in selected categories.

Through LEED Earth, more communities have the opportunity to embrace sustainable practices and strengthen their resilience to climate change. This initiative supports regions that are most exposed to climate risks, working with them to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Project Haiti

Project Haiti demonstrates how LEED can enhance social equity and community resilience in response to environmental challenges. After the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, USGBC and its partners launched Project Haiti to build a LEED Platinum orphanage and children’s center in Port-au-Prince. This center, designed to improve living conditions for children in a disasteraffected area, marks a crucial intersection of sustainability, social justice, and climate resilience.

Project Haiti applies core LEED strategies that focus on resource efficiency and human health, including renewable energy, water conservation, and materials with minimal environmental impact. The building provides a safe space for the community, offering protection from future natural disasters while supporting the health and well-being of its occupants.

LEED Earth

1771 N Street NW | LEED Gold | Washington, DC | Photo: © Alan Karchmer

William Jefferson Clinton Children’s Center | LEED Platinum | Port-au-Prince, Haiti Photo: © Al Skodowski

Evoke Luminary | LEED Gold | Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania | Photo: © Architect Russell

Looking to the Future with LEED v5

A Framework for Global Impact

As we look ahead to the 2030 and 2050 targets set by the Paris Climate Accord, it’s clear there is still much to accomplish. LEED v5 is our path forward, designed to advance the built environment toward a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.

LEED v5 is built around three core impact areas: decarbonization, quality of life, and ecosystem conservation and restoration. Together, these areas create a practical, adaptable framework that enables project teams to implement sustainable design, construction, and operational strategies with real-world impact. Each credit and prerequisite supports at least one of these impact areas, empowering our community of project teams to address pressing challenges with measurable results.

Decarbonization

As part of our commitment to a low-carbon future, decarbonization is central to LEED v5. The framework focuses on carbon reduction through strategies targeting energy efficiency, renewable energy, and low-carbon materials, making these reductions more achievable and impactful.

Quality of Life

The quality of life impact area in LEED v5 places people at the center of design, advancing resilience, health, equity, and well-being. This impact area reflects our commitment to creating supportive, inclusive, and healthy spaces that serve the people who live, work, and gather within them.

• Health and Well-Being

With a renewed focus on indoor air quality, ventilation, and biophilic design, LEED v5 enhances the occupant experience. These human-centered features ensure that LEED-certified buildings foster positive environments that support physical and mental health.

• Resilience and Equity

LEED v5’s commitment to resilience includes strategies that protect occupants from environmental risks and ensure that building designs support the diverse needs of communities. By emphasizing equity and inclusion, LEED v5 ensures that buildings are safe, accessible, and adaptable for all.

Ecosystem Conservation and Restoration

• Operational Carbon

LEED v5 encourages rigorous energy performance standards to minimize the carbon footprint of daily building operations, supporting the use of renewable energy sources and efficient energy systems.

• Embodied Carbon

Recognizing the importance of materials, LEED v5 promotes the use of low-carbon materials, life-cycle assessments, and material reuse to minimize emissions across the entire building life cycle.

• Transportation and Refrigerant Emissions

By supporting clean transportation options, encouraging electric vehicle infrastructure, and reducing refrigerant emissions, LEED v5 takes a comprehensive approach to addressing all major sources of emissions associated with buildings.

LEED v5 also addresses the critical need for ecosystem preservation, recognizing the interconnectedness of natural systems and the built environment. By promoting biodiversity and ecological restoration, LEED v5 helps projects limit environmental degradation and actively support ecosystem health.

• Sustainable Land Use and Biodiversity

LEED v5 encourages project teams to integrate native landscapes, green roofs, and rain gardens to promote biodiversity and reduce habitat disruption.

• Ecosystem Restoration

Beyond preservation, LEED v5 advocates for proactive restoration efforts that rehabilitate degraded ecosystems and restore ecological functions. Through strategies like soil restoration, habitat creation, and water management, LEED v5 helps to bridge the gap between urban development and nature.

Raising Standards for a Sustainable Future Through LEED v5

LEED v5 reflects a strategic evolution that responds to both industry needs and pressing global priorities.

Starting in 2025, we will move to a five-year development cycle with the release of the balloted LEED v5 rating systems, providing greater stability and predictability for the industry. This cycle allows us to incorporate the latest best practices, technological advancements, and emerging industry needs. Key updates in LEED v5 include:

• Enhanced Standards for Platinum Certification

Projects pursuing Platinum certification must now meet more stringent requirements for energy efficiency, carbon emissions reduction, and renewable energy use, raising the bar for sustainable building excellence.

• Digital Transformation

Our new digital platform streamlines the LEED certification process, offering project teams a user-friendly experience with improved access to tools and resources that support decision-making and project management.

• Continuity Across the Building Life Cycle

LEED v5 aligns performance indicators and data needs across the entire building life cycle, from design and construction to operations and maintenance. This alignment, coupled with performance monitoring, ensures that buildings meet sustainability targets at every stage.

• Future-Proofing with Emissions Projections

LEED v5 helps project teams estimate their project’s greenhouse gas emissions projections through 2050, helping them anticipate and plan for future carbon impacts. This aligns with the Paris Agreement targets, ensuring that projects contribute meaningfully to global emissions reduction goals.

• Comprehensive Reporting and Accountability

We have introduced robust reporting on refrigerant use and leakages, reinforcing accountability in projects’ carbon reduction targets for both materials and operations.

At its core, LEED v5 is a comprehensive framework for the global building industry. By addressing decarbonization, quality of life, and ecosystem conservation and restoration, LEED v5 enables project teams to implement transformative solutions that meet the needs of today’s communities and ecosystems.

The Power of Community

This evolution reflects the relentless dedication of our LEED community. Volunteers, industry experts, and project teams continue to share their knowledge, passion, and commitment to sustainability, driving LEED forward. Today, over 200,000 LEED professionals and thousands of volunteers invest their time and expertise to advance green building across more than 180 countries and territories—a powerful testament to the universal need for sustainable practices.

NRDC SF | LEED Gold | San Francisco, CA

Photo: © Jasper Sanidad Photography

PERFORM

Our new program, PERFORM, is designed to empower organizations to transform real estate portfolios into sustainability success stories by providing guidance, tools, and third-party verification from GBCI to meet sustainability goals and drive lasting impact. This program enables organizations to set clear sustainability goals, access tools to track progress, and gain third-party verification through GBCI, ensuring that milestones are recognized and continuous improvement is rewarded.

PERFORM supports a broad range of portfolio-level metrics— from emissions, water, waste, and energy to social impact, biodiversity, and health—providing a comprehensive approach to sustainability management. The program is built to engage entire portfolios, including those that may not have previously participated in green building efforts, to ensure every building has a pathway to meet sustainability commitments.

“

Organizations with ambitious portfolio-level sustainability goals are increasingly seeking reliable pathways to demonstrate real, measurable progress. With PERFORM, we bring USGBC’s legacy of accelerating market transformation to empower our partners worldwide, helping them fulfill stakeholder expectations, meet public commitments, and navigate evolving regulatory demands.”

Jeff Benavides Director of Performance at Scale and Portfolios, USGBC

• Scale impact by leveraging building portfolios to reach thousands of buildings, spaces, and communities.

• Offer vital support to the majority in real estate, adopting a “no asset left behind” approach to sustainability.

• Drive long-term, meaningful customer engagement that supports ongoing improvement.

• Welcome new markets/users into the USGBC/ GBCI umbrella with a low barrier to entry.

Guiding Principles

San Pedro Garza García | LEED Gold | Nuevo León, México

Photo: © Cesar Rubio

The People Behind LEED

Behind LEED’s success is a dedicated community of technical advisory groups (TAGs), volunteers, and industry experts who bring their expertise to shape and refine LEED standards.

The Role of Volunteers in LEED’s Evolution

The LEED system is shaped by a diverse network of over 190 volunteers who serve on committees, including TAGs, consensus committees, and working groups. These volunteers represent a wide array of industries and regions, bringing valuable insights that help LEED meet the needs of varied communities and building types.

Committees play a vital role in LEED’s evolution. For example, during LEED v4’s development, TAGs processed over 23,000 public comments, helping to refine new credits and performance requirements, and highlighting the system’s collaborative nature.

The individuals developing the LEED certification have significantly influenced sustainable building practices worldwide. Leveraging their expertise, TAG members have expanded LEED’s reach to over 180 countries, allowing the system to address regional environmental challenges while upholding its global applicability. Through advancements in energy efficiency and low-emission building materials, TAGs have set new sustainability benchmarks across the construction industry.

What Are TAGs?

Technical advisory groups (TAGs) are specialized committees that provide essential technical guidance for LEED. Composed of industry leaders, architects, engineers, scientists, and sustainability experts, TAGs support the development, maintenance, and improvement of LEED rating systems. Their work ensures that LEED credits are scientifically robust, adaptable to different building sectors, and aligned with the latest sustainability practices.

Contributions to Global Market Transformation

In regions like India and China, TAG-led innovations have adapted LEED to suit local climates and energy systems. This adaptability has made LEED an effective tool for reducing emissions and improving air quality in some of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Steering Committees and LEED v5 Development

In addition to TAGs, the LEED Steering Committee guides the overall direction of LEED, ensuring that new developments, like LEED v5, align with evolving environmental priorities. LEED v5 emphasizes decarbonization, resilience, and equity. Through the contributions of TAG members and volunteers, LEED v5’s first public comment period generated nearly 6,000 comments, shaping the future of green building standards.

across TAGs and committees

180+ countries

190+ volunteers with LEED-certified projects

23,000+

public comments processed during LEED v4 development

6,000

comments received for LEED v5’s first public review

Sustainability Beyond LEED

While LEED remains central to green building efforts, our additional programs address broader sustainability challenges. Complementary certifications—TRUE and SITES—provide frameworks to extend sustainable practices beyond buildings, covering energy systems, waste management, and land use. Developed through a collaborative process, these certifications represent the collective expertise and evolving needs of the global sustainability community.

Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE)

TRUE is a zero waste certification program, helping facilities to manage waste more effectively. The program guides businesses in redesigning their processes to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and divert waste from landfills. TRUE certification also supports adopting sustainable materials management and promoting circular economy principles by diverting a significant portion of waste from disposal.

Key features of TRUE:

• Zero waste strategies for reducing and reusing materials.

• Emphasis on diverting at least 90% of waste from landfills, incineration, or the environment.

• Support for the circular economy by encouraging the redesign of products and processes for sustainable use.

The Sustainable SITES Initiative

SITES addresses land use and sustainable landscaping practices, guiding development projects to improve their ecological impact. It promotes biodiversity, responsible water use, and natural habitat restoration while reducing carbon footprints associated with land development. This certification is ideal for landscapes, parks, and open spaces and is used for any project seeking to demonstrate sustainable land practices.

Key features of SITES:

• Focuses on sustainable land development and ecosystem protection.

• Promotes water conservation, soil restoration, and habitat enhancement.

• Enhances biodiversity while reducing environmental impact.

Stradivarius - Inditex | TRUE Platinum | Barcelona, Spain | Photo: © Nicholas

Kingsbury Commons | SITES Gold | Austin, TX | Photo: © Pease Park Conservancy

The Backbone of the Green Building Revolution

USGBC members are the backbone of the green building revolution, advancing sustainability across industries worldwide. From local innovators to global corporations, our members embody the highest standards in green building practices.

United by a commitment to environmental progress, these organizations drive the adoption of LEED standards globally. Their influence reaches beyond construction, shaping policies, guiding product development, and integrating sustainable practices into daily operations— ultimately transforming the built environment.

USGBC members vary in size, industry, and mission. They range from small local firms to major corporations, each playing a role in advancing sustainable transformation. Whether motivated by mission or market needs, they are setting new standards for greener, healthier spaces. Their combined efforts reflect the power of a united community to confront climate challenges and secure a sustainable future for building practices.

Chemonics HQ | LEED Gold | Washington, DC | Photo: © Connie Zhou

Powering Global Growth and Sustainability

USGBC members are at the forefront of both environmental innovation and economic growth.

By pushing for environmental responsibility, they align business success with climate action.

Their leadership has elevated green building to a global standard, advancing sustainability across sectors. Together, they contribute to environmental progress and support a thriving economy, generating $2.5 trillion in annual revenue and sustaining millions of jobs worldwide. These members—from architects and engineers to policy influencers—are reshaping how we design, build, and operate spaces, ensuring a sustainable future for all.

“Stantec is home to the Carbon Impact Team, one of the largest dedicated sustainability and building performance practices with specialized teams located across North America. Members of this team are specialists who focus on sustainability and provide an integrated, long-term approach to projects.

In 2024 Corporate Knights ranked Stantec within the top ten, and number one in the firm’s industry peer group, in the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World. Stantec achieved their goal of being a carbon neutral organization in 2022, and are on track to achieve net zero operations by 2030.”

Beth Tomlinson Stantec, USGBC

member since 2002

City Heights Residence Hall, University of Colorado Denver | LEED Gold | Denver, CO | Photo: © Stantec Architecture Inc.

Pioneers of Green Building

For USGBC members, integrating LEED across their portfolios brings benefits that go beyond certification. It provides a competitive edge by embedding sustainability into corporate culture, streamlining operations, and advancing green practices. By applying LEED to multiple assets, members demonstrate how sustainability fuels both business success and industry-wide transformation.

Pioneering Sustainability in Tech

Since becoming a member in 2017, Meta has embraced LEED to elevate sustainability in its offices and data centers. The LEED Platinum MPK 21 building in Menlo Park serves as a leading example of how large tech companies can use life-cycle assessments to minimize environmental impact.

Meta’s rapid growth is paired with its commitment to sustainability. Instead of building new facilities, Meta prioritizes retrofitting existing structures wherever possible. Currently, Meta has 49 LEED-certified office buildings, with more in development, including LEED Platinum facilities in every region where the company operates.

Meta focuses on reducing operational carbon, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing occupant well-being—setting a high standard for the technology sector. This commitment extends to its data centers, all certified LEED Gold or higher, ensuring that the global digital infrastructure aligns with the highest sustainability standards.

MPK21 | LEED Platinum | Menlo Park, CA | Photo: © Meta

MPK21 | LEED Platinum | Menlo Park, CA | Photo: © Meta

MPK21 | LEED Platinum | Menlo Park, CA | Photo: © Meta

A Sustainable Future in Multifamily Housing

In 2006, AMLI Residential committed to certifying all new developments under LEED. Today, AMLI has 50 LEED-certified apartment communities, which comprise over 60% of their portfolio. The company’s first project, AMLI 900 in Chicago, achieved LEED certification in 2010, establishing a foundation for its sustainability leadership. By integrating LEED throughout development, AMLI scales green building across multifamily housing, creating healthier living environments and preparing for future investor interest. In 2022, 80% of AMLI’s residents reported health benefits from green features, highlighting how green design brings real-world value.

Scaling Sustainability Across Regions

Over a decade ago, Kilroy Realty Corporation began its LEED journey, now encompassing over 11.8 million square feet of LEED-certified space—representing 73% of their portfolio. Operating across major cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco, Kilroy addressed challenges in navigating diverse building codes and materials. They introduced innovations such as infrared inspections and LED lighting retrofits, achieving a 9% energy reduction at their Sunset Media Center in Hollywood. Kilroy’s large-scale project management, combined with LEED’s impact, has made the company a leader in green real estate, aligning its tenants’ goals with sustainability.

350 Mission | LEED Platinum | San Francisco, CA | Photo: © Lawrence Anderson

Members Driving Market Transformation

Our members drive the momentum needed to bring green building into the mainstream, spanning small local projects to large-scale developments. Over the past three decades, our members have:

• Led innovation in green building products and practices.

• Helped shape policies to make sustainability more accessible.

• Expanded access to LEED benefits for underrepresented and vulnerable communities.

Here’s how USGBC members have been key drivers of innovation in the green building industry:

Low-VOC Paints and Coatings

Responding to LEED’s Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) credits, USGBC members, especially paint manufacturers, pioneered lowand zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) options. These products notably enhance indoor air quality and limit exposure to harmful chemicals.

Energy-Efficient LED Lighting

With LEED v3, the emphasis on energy performance required the use of more efficient lighting solutions. Members led the development of energy-efficient fixtures with features like daylight sensors and dimming and have made them standard in LEED-certified buildings.

Modular and Sustainable Flooring

Members introduced modular, sustainable flooring made with recycled content and cradle-to-cradle designs. These innovations contribute to LEED credits in the MR category, reducing waste and supporting the circular economy.

High-Efficiency Chillers

USGBC members have advanced energy-efficient chillers to meet LEED’s Energy and Atmosphere (EA) credits. By setting higher standards in cooling, they drove innovations like magnetic bearing compressors and variable speed drives, offering precise temperature control and significant energy savings.

Low-Embodied-Carbon Cement

USGBC members have pioneered low-embodied-carbon cement production. Traditional cement production is energy-intensive and a large contributor to global carbon emissions. By integrating alternative materials like fly ash and slag, members are developing solutions that meet LEED’s MR credits and reduce concrete’s carbon footprint without compromising structural integrity.

Advanced Building Controls

As LEED’s Materials and Resources (MR) category advanced, members developed more sustainable insulation options, moving away from traditional materials that often contained harmful chemicals.

Water-Efficient Fixtures

LEED v4’s Water Efficiency (WE) credits underscored the importance of advanced water conservation technology. USGBC members responded with innovations like low-flow toilets, faucets, and shower heads, effectively reducing water usage while maintaining performance.

USGBC members continue to lead in integrating smart technologies in building controls, enhancing HVAC, lighting, and water systems. Advanced building automation systems (BAs) enable real-time monitoring and automatically adjust energy usage, minimizing energy consumption during non-peak hours. This innovation enhances both operational efficiency and occupant comfort, supporting LEED’s EA credits and promoting sustainable practices across industries.

“

Cemex achieved a notable milestone in 2023 by reducing CO2 emissions in cement production to 506 kilos per ton, exceeding the industry target by 14 kilos, seven years ahead of schedule. This achievement was possible through methods like substituting 43% of fossil fuels with non-recyclable waste for energy.”

Jessica Burgueno

Cemex, USGBC member since 2017

Southwest Library | LEED Platinum | Washington, DC

Photo: © James Steinkamp Photography

Sustainable Insulation Materials

A Global Network of Change-Makers

USGBC membership offers a platform for shaping the building industry’s future. Members actively contribute to LEED updates, participate in ballots and committees, and gain exclusive access to resources that empower their organizations to lead market transformation.

When an organization joins USGBC, they become part of a global network dedicated to advancing green building practices. Membership provides opportunities to:

• Shape the Future of Sustainability

Members can influence the evolution of LEED through participation in working groups and technical advisory groups (TAGs).

• Access Exclusive Tools and Resources

LEED courses and insider insights on sustainability trends equip members with resources to drive market transformation.

• Join the Conversation

USGBC members participate in ballots, committees, and working groups, supporting the future of green building and amplifying voices from all sectors.

Our Membership Options

We offer a range of organizational membership levels:

1. Organizational Membership

For companies ready to access USGBC’s resources, tools, and community, including discounts on LEED publications, credentials and events like Greenbuild. Includes access to key USGBC committees.

2. Silver Membership

Builds on organizational membership with free education hours and added discounts on LEED registration, certification and other GBCI rating systems.

3. Gold Membership

Provides deeper engagement opportunities and specialized promotion and recognition.

4. Platinum Membership

Our highest membership level, offering exclusive leadership opportunities, increased visibility in the green building community, and unlimited education access.

For local engagement, individual membership offers pathways to participate in local initiatives, advocacy, and education that align with USGBC’s mission.

“

JLL has been a leader in promoting sustainable building practices, setting industry standards, and encouraging broader adoption. As a supporter of the LEED certification system, JLL has helped clients achieve LEED certification for their buildings by offering expertise in sustainable design, construction, and operation, advancing the use of LEED standards in the industry.”

Annalise Dum

JLL, USGBC member since 2002

USGBC HQ | LEED Platinum | Washington, DC |

Photo: © Halkin Mason Photography

Collective Leadership for Lasting Impact People at the Heart of the Movement

We believe sustainability is a lifelong journey. Whether you’re a student exploring environmental concepts, a professional building your expertise, or an experienced leader driving industry change, there’s a place for you in the green building movement.

Empowering Generations for Market Transformation

We believe true market transformation begins by empowering people with the knowledge and skills to lead. Through education, training, and credentialing programs, we are building a diverse workforce—educators, maintenance staff, landscape architects, sustainability directors, architects, designers, engineers, contractors, and consultants—who are deeply committed to advancing the green building movement.

We understand that lasting change comes from every part of the industry, and our role is to create pathways for everyone—from classrooms to boardrooms— to contribute in unique ways. It’s the small, steady actions of many that create a ripple effect, driving transformation across the built environment.

Our work and the green building movement are powered by over 205,000 people and dedicated volunteers worldwide. Together, we are transforming the built environment—project by project, building by building—with a shared mission of advancing sustainability and tackling climate change. This is not the work of any single person, organization, or country, but a collective commitment to a healthier future.

Educational Journey in Sustainability

Wherever you are in your career or life, our credentials and programs empower you to play a role in creating a sustainable and equitable future:

Maria Weston Chapman Middle School | LEED Gold | Weymouth, MA | Photo: © Ed Wonsek

Center for Green Schools

We established the Center for Green Schools in 2010 with a clear mission: making green schools accessible to every student. Building on the momentum of the National Green Schools Campaign, launched in 2007 at the Clinton Global Initiative, and with the introduction of the LEED for Schools rating system, we’ve led a global push toward creating sustainable, healthy, and equitable schools.

The guiding vision for the center is for all schools to be integrated models of sustainability for their students, teachers, and community. When we move toward this vision, communities and individuals, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to be healthy and thrive—physically, socially, and economically. Modeling sustainability through green schools encourages collective action to regenerate natural resources and protect the well-being of all people.

To advance toward this vision, the center supports and trains those implementing sustainability within school systems to be the most effective change agents they can be, through professional development, peer networks, research, and advocacy. By focusing on these high-impact individuals, we’ve transformed schools into hubs of environmental innovation—reducing environmental impact, enhancing the well-being of students and teachers, and nurturing a culture of sustainability that extends beyond the classroom.

Our Commitment to Equity

We are deeply committed to ensuring that underserved communities benefit from green schools. Approximately 69% of the schools in the school districts we work with have a high proportion of lowincome students (approximately 60% of schools are in this category, nationally). The center’s existing programs assist school district professionals who serve communities where student poverty is above the U.S. national average.

LEED-certified and registered schools

Green Apple Day of Service

(Data from 2012 to 2020)

Online and in-person courses reach people students impacted countries volunteers people every year 5,000+ 177 million 3.6 million+ students served 9.3 million in our school district networks 300 members 73 1.1 million+ 2,000 Served by

In 2023, media campaigns reached

DC International Public Charter School | LEED Gold | Washington, DC

Photo: © Andrew Rugge/Perkins Eastman

LEED Lab

LEED Lab is a hands-on course that immerses university students in real-world sustainability projects. Established in 2013, it empowers students to assess and improve campus buildings, equipping them with essential skills in energy management, water efficiency, and sustainable operations.

Institutions worldwide, including SUNY Polytechnic Institute and the Saudi Green Building Forum, offer LEED Lab to prepare the next generation of sustainability leaders. LEED Lab bridges classroom theory with practical application, providing students with critical skills and knowledge. This training develops them into effective communicators, project managers, critical thinkers, problem solvers, proactive leaders, and collaborative team players.

As sustainability becomes a key skill across industries, LEED Lab plays an essential role in preparing future leaders. During the course, students analyze building performance and guide projects through the LEED O+M certification process. This hands-on learning approach allows students to turn theoretical knowledge into real-world expertise, addressing sustainability challenges and implementing meaningful environmental improvements. By the end of the semester, students are prepared to sit for the LEED AP O+M professional credential exam.

“

Completing

the real LEED certification process rather than a hypothetical lab project was eye-opening. There were no step-by-step instructions... This lab gave me a renewed sense of confidence as an aspiring green building professional.”

Sydney Miyasaki LEED Lab student at UC Santa Barbara

Catholic University of America | LEED Certified | Washington, DC | Photo: © Ryan Smith

Credentials for Every Career Stage

Obtaining my LEED credential was almost a must to work in the engineering firm in Philadelphia in 2010, while being a LEED AP in 2012 in Italy was key for career advancement. Now my commitment is focused on Fiumicino Airport and I find a lot more support than in the past from colleagues and professionals involved.”

Cristina Parenti

Design Engineer Specialist, LEED 0+M

Top Credentials

205,000+ 150+

professionals countries

As the demand for green building and LEED certification rises, so does the need for specialized knowledge and skills. Professionals in the field have elevated their qualifications by earning LEED credentials, empowering them at every stage of their careers.

These credentials equip professionals with the tools and knowledge to create healthier communities, drive meaningful change, and contribute to a more resilient future. From the foundational LEED Green Associate to the specialized LEED AP tracks, each credential reflects a commitment to sustainability, preparing professionals to lead in green building.

As sustainable construction practices evolve, the need for skilled professionals to implement new technologies and methods grows. Through LEED, new career paths are emerging, such as energy consultants, sustainability managers, and green building specialists. Higher education institutions are also incorporating sustainability and green building into their programs, preparing the next generation to lead the way.

We’re proud to witness the impact of our work on workforce development across the building industry. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, the need for knowledgeable professionals has never been greater. Together, we’re shaping the industry’s approach to sustainability, paving the way for career advancement and professional growth.

Perkins&Will Washington, DC Studio | LEED Gold | Washington, DC | Photo: © Eric Laignel Photography

The LEED Green Associate credential is ideal for professionals entering the field of green building. It provides foundational knowledge in sustainable practices and the LEED rating system. Whether new to sustainability or already in a related field, this credential offers a gateway to more specialized roles.

For those ready to advance their expertise, LEED AP credentials empower professionals to manage LEED certification projects, apply advanced knowledge in sustainable building practices, and lead high-level sustainability initiatives. LEED AP professionals are instrumental in designing and managing LEED-certified projects.

The LEED AP credential offers specialized tracks to deepen your impact:

Focuses on sustainable building principles for new construction.

Tailored for professionals overseeing the sustainable operations of existing buildings.

Serves professionals in the design, construction, and improvement of commercial interiors and tenant spaces.

Specializes in sustainable design and construction for residential projects, including single-family and multifamily homes.

Focuses on sustainable planning for neighborhoods, integrating smart growth and green infrastructure.

“

LEED

had a great positive impact on my career... It always caught the attention of employers and hiring managers, and all of them praised the LEED credential that I have. LEED has a great positive impact with regards to networking, as it puts us within a great network of peers and passionate green building professionals.”

Samer Alhmdan Senior Project Manager, LEED AP BD+C

LEED-credentialed professionals drive innovation in the green building industry. From designing energy-efficient skyscrapers to retrofitting schools and hospitals for optimized water management, they are expanding what’s possible in building sustainability. By integrating sustainability at each stage of the building life cycle, these professionals deliver meaningful reductions in carbon emissions, conserve resources, and create healthier spaces.

LEED professionals are essential advocates for a culture of sustainability, advancing green practices, and inspiring organizations to adopt sustainable methods. Their role in evolving LEED standards ensures that green building remains the benchmark for resilient, climateresponsive construction.

LEED Green Associate

LEED Credentials in Action

USGBC HQ Renovation | LEED Platinum | Photo: © Halkin Mason Photography

LEED AP BD+C (Building Design + Construction)

LEED AP O+M (Operations + Maintenance)

LEED AP ID+C (Interior Design + Construction)

LEED AP Homes

LEED AP ND (Neighborhood Development)

LEED Fellows

The LEED Fellow designation is the highest honor awarded by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI). This distinction recognizes outstanding LEED APs who have made exceptional LEED-related contributions for at least ten years.

These individuals represent the pinnacle of leadership in green building, continually advancing the boundaries of design and innovation. Their achievements reflect both personal excellence and a deep commitment to LEED’s mission of creating a healthier, more resilient, and sustainable world—while also inspiring and guiding the next generation of leaders to carry this vision forward.

Together, we proudly celebrate these leaders, knowing that our progress relies on their vision and dedication.

Photo: © U.S. Green Building Council

LEED Fellow Gautami Palanki | Photo: © Francisco Paramos

LEED Fellow Mick Dalrymple | Photo: © Gus Ruelas/USC Yale 2 Science Park | LEED Silver | New Haven, CT | © Svigals + Partners

Impacting Design, Industry, and Policy

LEED Fellows are recognized for their capacity to drive meaningful change. Their efforts have redefined how buildings are designed and operated, from energy-efficient skyscrapers to community-centered developments. Their impact reaches beyond individual projects, shaping entire markets, industries, and policies.

Greg Acker

John Albrecht

Keith Amann

William Amann

John Amatruda

John Ambert

April Ambrose

Kjell Anderson

Bahar Armaghani

Michael Arny

Amanda Atkinson

Elaine Aye

Jamy Bacchus

Mara Baum

Diego Fernando Bello Pachon

Anderson Benite

E.V. Bennett

Stephen Benz

Liana Berberidou-Kallivoka

Anthony Bernheim

Michael Berning

Jennifer Berthelot-Jelovic

Ralph Bicknese

Alessandro Bisagni

Gina Bocra

John Boecker

Robert Bolin

“

Becoming a LEED Fellow has been an incredibly rewarding journey that deepened my commitment to advancing sustainability in the built environment. My career began with hands-on construction and evolved into a passion for energy efficiency and sustainable design... Being part of this global community of professionals has allowed me to contribute to the ongoing development of LEED standards and advocate for green building solutions across diverse projects and regions.

The recognition as a LEED Fellow has enhanced my ability to educate and consult globally... For those aspiring to become a LEED Fellow, remember that it’s about contributing beyond your role— it’s about making lasting impacts through passion and perseverance.”

Daniel Huard

United States, Class of 2017

Global Reach

LEED Fellows have led green building projects and shaped policies around the world, showcasing the adaptability of LEED standards across diverse climates, economies, and cultural contexts. Their influence crosses borders, making sustainable building practices more accessible and effective.

Charlie Cichetti

Nancy Clanton

Sue Clark

Teresa Coady

Carlotta Cocco

Fiona Cousins

Heidi Creighton

Allison Cunningham

Michael Dalrymple

John Dalzell

Mary Davidge

Lance Davis

Steve Davis

Dustin Davis

Michael Deane

Heather DeGrella

Michelle DeLora

Aalok Deshmukh

Peter Doo

Chad Dorgan

David Douek

Robyn Dowsey

Brian Dunbar

Bryna Dunn

Elizabeth Eason

Rand Ekman

Ghaleb El Mheirat

Jay Enck

Lawrence Enyart

Dagmar Epsten

States

Marni Evans

Camila Faccioni Mendes Nagay

Karim Farah

Patrick Field

Kenneth J. Filarski

Kevin Flynn

Andrea Fornasiero

Christopher Forney

Russell Fortmeyer

Mark Frankel

Greg Franta

Eric Corey Freed

Kristen Fritsch

Francesca Galati

Gavin Gardi

Miranda Gardiner

Francesco Gasperi

Nathan Gauthier

Mark Gelfo

Charalampos Giannikopoulos

Barry Giles

Marija Golubovic

Harry Gordon

Matt Grace

Stephanie Graham

Sharon Grant

Bonita Tice Gray

Sara Greenwood

Bert Gregory

Sarah Gudeman

Robin Guenther

Avneet Gujral

Steven Guttmann

Emilie Hagen

Jason Hainline

Michelle Halle Stern

James Hambright

Gail Hampsmire

Jean Hansen

Kimberly Hardy Lombard

Anne Harney

Robert Harris

John Harrison

Carrie Havey

Beth Heider

Susan Heinking

Holley Henderson

Julie Hendricks

Hasitha Herath

Michael Hess

Rob Hink

Hiroki Hiramatsu

Theresa Hogerheide

Heather Holdridge

Donald Horn

Scot Horst

Daniele Horton

Lance Hosey

Kimberly Hosken

Daniel Huard

Over my 15 years of experience, I have learned that sustainability is the reason to do responsible construction, and LEED has been the means to accomplish my professional goals... Since being recognized as a LEED Fellow, I have been conducting interviews, podcasts, and articles to share my experience, while training and motivating others to pursue and grow their LEED careers.”

Tatiana Carreño Martínez

Mentorship and Advocacy

Many LEED Fellows serve as educators and mentors, guiding the next generation of sustainability professionals. Their dedication to sharing knowledge and promoting growth ensures that the future of green building continues to evolve with innovative solutions to the environmental challenges we face today. They understand that progress is achieved not alone, but through collective learning and support.

Patricia

Ashley

Jorge

Colombia, Class of 2023 Joyce

Andrea

Leadership Across Sectors

LEED Fellows work across various sectors, including public policy, academia, and private enterprise. They apply their expertise to shape decisions that support sustainable cities, healthier communities, and resilient infrastructure.

Jason McLennan

Wendy Meguro

Sandy Mendler

Jack Robert Meredith

Paul Todd Merrill

Gabriela Mesquita

Paul Meyer

Summer Minchew

Renato Miranda

John Mlade

Marc Mondor

Brenda Morawa

Paola Moschini

Chris Mundell

Tim Murray

Anand Muthukrishnan

Noriko Nagazumi

Daniel Nall

Sara Neff

Thomas Nelson

Jim Nicolow

Martha Norbeck

Sara O Mara

Jeff Oberdorfer

Jim Ogden

Pia Ohrling

Gary Olp

Stacey Olson

Lennie Chun Yin Ong

Angelica M. Ospina Alvarado

Daniel Overbey

Mercedes Oviedo

Brendan Owens

Jason Packer

Diana Paez

Gautami Palanki

Mark Palmer

Lili Pan

Amy Pastor

Michael Pavelsky

Brad Pease

Doug

Asa Posner

Thomas

Angela Rivera

David Rodriguez

Colin Rohlfing

Neil Rosen

Jeff Ross-Bain Katie Rothenberg

Ruiz

Megan Ritchie Saffitz Maria de Lourdes Salinas

Lisa M. San Filippo Eddy Santosa

“

The path to becoming a LEED Fellow has been both demanding and immensely gratifying... The LEED Fellow designation, symbolizing the pinnacle of achievement in green building, stands as one of the most significant milestones in my career. I am honored to be part of this exceptional community of professionals, united in our collective effort to promote LEED on a global scale.

Being recognized as a LEED Fellow has allowed me to be a better advocate for green building solutions... This recognition assures clients that my global experience in executing LEED projects will guide their ventures towards achieving unparalleled sustainability standards.”

Alessandro Bisagni China, Class of 2020

As we honor our LEED Fellows, we recognize their achievements as part of a larger collective effort. Their contributions reach across industries and communities, laying a foundation for a sustainable future. LEED Fellows exemplify leadership, pushing boundaries and advancing green building principles in ways that will influence generations.

Together, we celebrate their impact and look toward the future, knowing the work to address climate change and support the well-being of people, the environment, and communities continues. Their leadership inspires us, and we are proud to stand alongside them to drive bold solutions and build a healthier, more sustainable world for all.

Deepa Sathiaram

Brad Schaap

Christopher Schaffner

Dana Robbins Schneider

Rachelle Schoessler Lynn

Rafal Schurma

Michelle Robinson Schwarting

Leonard Sciarra

Alan Scott

Cady Scott Seabaugh

M Selvarasu

Mario

Lauren

Susie

Patrick Thibaudeau

Jefferson Thomas

Andrea Traber

Alan Traugott Cesar Ulises Trevino

Paul Tseng

Jason Twill

Alicia Daniels Uhlig

Amy Upton

Shigeru Urashima

Prasad Vaidya

Vessela Valtcheva-McGee

Francine Vaz

Alfred Vick

Stevan Vinci

Lois Vitt Sale

Gail Vittori

Tate Walker

Lauren M. Wallace

Kristy Walson

Ying Wang

Robert Watson

Will Weaver

Christopher Webb

Erica Weeks

James Weiner

Jonathan Weiss

Megan White

Kath Williams

Sally Wilson

Kendall Wilson

Keith Winn

Robert Winstead

Michaella Wittmann

Jacquelynn (Henke) Wolff

Bill Worthen

Cemil Yaman

Lauren Yarmuth

Daniel Young Dixon

Jerry Yudelson

Giuseppe Zaffino

Max Zahniser

Qiang Zhang

Xinhe Zhang

Yan Zhou Wenmin Zhu

Alex Zimmerman

John Zinner

Continuing Education

We understand building a better world starts with equipping professionals with the skills they need.

We are committed to keeping professionals at the forefront of sustainable building by offering courses, education, and insights on new technologies, best practices, and innovations. Our accessible educational platform provides diverse learning opportunities, equipping green building professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change in their communities and industries.

From foundational courses covering topics like water efficiency, integrative design, and energy performance to advanced training focused on performance-based outcomes, our curriculum ensures that professionals stay current with the latest green building trends and best practices. As building codes and standards evolve, ongoing professional development is crucial for career advancement and to ensure that projects meet the highest sustainability standards. Key Learning Opportunities

Online Courses

Flexible, self-paced courses covering foundational to advanced green building practices.

Webinars

Live, interactive sessions with experts, addressing topics from energy efficiency to social equity in sustainability.

Workshops and Partner-Led Sessions

Hands-on learning in virtual and in-person workshops that encourages collaboration across industries.

Monthly Free Course

A complimentary course each month, helping professionals stay current with sustainability practices.

Formats

Self-paced and live options to accommodate any schedule.

Community Workshops and webinars encourage collaboration across fields, driving collective action for a sustainable future. Networking Opportunities

Connect with sustainability leaders in over 170 countries, building a diverse and inclusive network.

Commitment to completion

of courses are completed on time year after year.

Edgewood Middle School | LEED Silver | Highland Park, IL | Photo: © Connor Steinkamp Photography

Global Events Inspiring Action Change Through

Community and Collaboration

Our events are designed to inspire collaborative action, encourage knowledge sharing, and create lasting connections that reshape the built environment.

We believe that change begins with people, and that transformation happens through collaboration. That’s why we create opportunities for our community to come together—from flagship events like Greenbuild to local workshops—so we can connect, get inspired, and act.

Greenbuild is our largest and most impactful event. Since its launch in 2002 in Austin, Texas, it has grown into a global conference and serves as a leading venue for discovering innovative solutions that enhance resilience, sustainability, and quality of life in our buildings, cities, and communities.

In addition to Greenbuild, we also offer key events like the Green Schools Conference and Women in Green, each tailored to specific needs within the green building movement. The Green Schools Conference, established in 2010, is the nation’s only event dedicated to creating sustainable, healthy schools. Women in Green, launched in 2012, empowers women and allies worldwide to lead, creating space for genuine connection and learning across every discipline and level of expertise.

To expand our reach, we also offer regional workshops and virtual events, creating avenues for communities everywhere to engage and participate.

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Connecting Through Events

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Photo:

Photo:

Photo: © Daniel Quat Photography

Greenbuild

The Greenbuild International Conference and Expo began in 2002 in Austin, Texas, and has since evolved into the largest and most influential event for green building professionals worldwide. From its early days, Greenbuild has been a gathering place for industry leaders, experts, and frontline professionals dedicated to advancing sustainability in the building industry.

Greenbuild’s programming, speakers, and experiences have grown over the years to cover a wide range of topics, including LEED-certified structures, sustainable cities, social equity, and emerging technologies. Over the past 22 years, Greenbuild has come to represent sustainable communities, innovative workplace design, and social equity initiatives.

“

I was inspired by the high caliber of panel sessions, expanding my knowledge of the green building industry and making me feel like I belong. As an African American woman, listening to Jacqueline Patterson, Deanna Van Buren, and Jane Fonda on the ‘Justice 40 Initiative’ was the highlight of my experience.”

Teron McGrew at Greenbuild 2022

Photo: © Moshe Zusman for U.S. Green Building Council

Events at Greenbuild

Each Greenbuild conference is thoughtfully crafted to offer something for everyone. From specialized sessions to inspiring keynotes, we cater to all segments of the green building industry, ensuring every attendee gains the knowledge and inspiration needed for meaningful change.

Educational Sessions

Led by sustainability experts and industry pioneers, these sessions cover topics from advanced building technologies to climate action and policy.

Keynotes

Our keynotes feature visionary leaders from around the globe. Previous speakers have included leaders like Al Gore in 2009, Jane Fonda in 2022, and Jacqueline Patterson in 2023.

Workshops and Certification Training

Hands-on sessions help attendees enhance their skills and earn LEED AP or LEED Green Associate credentials.

Networking Opportunities

Greenbuild encourages valuable connections through targeted events like scholarship gatherings and Women in Green, supporting professionals in finding their place in the industry.

Exhibitor Hall

The exhibitor hall is a live experience of market transformation, showcasing innovations and technologies addressing today’s most pressing sustainability challenges.

“

The exhibitions were fantastic, offering direct engagement with vendors. Given my research background, these conferences are critical to ensuring that we understand current and imminent challenges confronting communities and people around the world.”

Anwuli Okuwashi

Saint Louis University

Each conference touched on extremely relevant topics regarding materials, equipment, and human beings. As an architect, I have a duty to bring these lessons to Guatemala, so more can learn about improving the environment with techniques from around the world.”

Valentina Leal

Architect at Greenbuild 2021

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Photo:

Silver Art Photography

Photo: © Moshe Zusman for U.S. Green Building Council

Greenbuild Legacy Project

In 2023, we supported Gensler’s “Roots to Success” initiative at Kelly Miller Middle School. Located in the heart of Ward 7 of Washington, D.C., Kelly Miller Middle School serves a diverse population of students, many of whom come from families with limited resources. The school is also situated in a food desert, where access to fresh, healthy food is limited.

In 2022, the Greenbuild Legacy Project supported the California Interfaith Power and Light for a neighborhood project, providing funding to install a 20-kilowatt battery and solar panels. This upgrade transformed the church into Oakland’s first climate resilience hub, offering power, healthy air, and resources to the community during emergencies like blackouts and wildfires.

Each year, the Greenbuild conference supports a Greenbuild Legacy Project, an effort to give back to the local community in gratitude for hosting thousands of attendees. Greenbuild partners with local organizations to implement projects that enhance sustainability, equity, and resilience.

Past conferences have sponsored projects that continue to benefit their communities long after Greenbuild attendees have left. These projects include a garden supporting high school students in environmental sciences and science outreach in Chicago; a creative space in Los Angeles, where students can problem-solve using STEM curricula while repurposing safe, discarded manufacturing materials; an interactive playground in Philadelphia; a new urban food studio in Washington, D.C.; and a green building technology training program in Boston for young people exploring trades work.

Photo: © Faith Baptist Church

Photo: © Sade Dennis

Photo: © Sade Dennis

Greenbuild 2023: By the Numbers

200+

educational sessions

workshop participants

1,500+ certifications completed 400 exhibitors

300+ volunteers 128

Photos: © U.S. Green Building Council

Celebrating Leadership

Greenbuild Scholarship Program

At Greenbuild, part of the registration proceeds goes toward funding scholarships, enabling around 20 individuals each year to attend. These scholarships are specifically designed for students and emerging professionals who may otherwise face barriers to attending.

Our scholarship program focuses on equipping the next generation of change-makers with the tools, experiences, and networks necessary for their professional growth. Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary pass, granting access to four full days of immersive learning, including in-person educational sessions, hands-on workshops, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.

USGBC Leadership Awards

We proudly celebrate individuals, organizations, and projects making an outstanding impact on sustainability through the USGBC Leadership Awards.

USGBC Leadership Award

Recognizes individuals and organizations advancing green building and sustainability.

Leadership Award for Organizational Excellence

Honors organizations that significantly contribute to the green building industry.

Kate Hurst Leadership Award

Celebrates an inspirational female leader who leads by example, named in honor of Kate Hurst’s contributions to leadership and advocacy in sustainability.

Malcolm Lewis IMPACT! Award

Recognizes volunteer team members making a substantial impact in sustainable communities, named in honor of Malcolm Lewis’s significant contributions. This award program has honored over 46 teams since 2012.

The opportunity to travel and meet new people that have been in the industry for many years opened up my mindset and my definition of sustainability.”

Melissa Pérez-Saavedra Scholarship Recipient

“

The Greenbuild Digital Scholarship provided me with the opportunity to attend the 2023 USGBC Greenbuild conference remotely. As a PhD student at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, this conference provided me the opportunity to advance my knowledge and experience.”

Caleb Deborah Scholarship Recipient

Kate Hurst | Photo: © Ana Ka’ahanui

Malcolm Lewis Impact! Award Recipient | Photo: © Oscar & Associates

A Collaborative Effort

The generosity of the Greenbuild Volunteer Program to cover my conference fees and lodging allowed me to travel to attend the conference, which I would not have been able to afford otherwise. I would happily recommend the volunteer program to other students and young professionals looking to attend Greenbuild.”

Sabrina Busch University of Kansas

Behind each Greenbuild conference is a dedicated group of volunteers. Their work enables collaboration, learning, and action within the green building industry. While experts and industry leaders contribute significantly to our success, it’s the commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers that truly make Greenbuild possible. By offering their time, energy, and expertise, they create an event that drives the green building movement forward.

On-Site Volunteers

On-site volunteers are at the heart of Greenbuild’s operations. They assist with registration, logistics, and guiding attendees, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone. Volunteers also gain access to educational sessions, enhancing their own skills while giving back to the green building community.

Steering Committees

Each Greenbuild panel discussion and educational session is selected by the steering committee. Made up of industry experts who volunteer their time, expertise, and resources, the committee carefully selects key speakers and curates relevant session content. This ensures that topics remain timely, impactful, and integral to shaping the year’s industry conversations.

Women in Green

Women in Green is a global community bringing together women and allies in the green building and sustainability industries. What began as an initiative at Greenbuild has grown to reach over 5,500 participants worldwide, including in the U.S., China, India, and beyond.

Women in Green fills a critical gap—creating a safe space to amplify women’s voices. Throughout the year, participants come together to share ideas, form connections, and support each other’s professional growth. Through signature events at Greenbuild, as well as local meetups, workshops, and ongoing initiatives, Women in Green cultivates a vibrant and supportive community for women in an industry that has long struggled with gender imbalance.

This community embodies resilience and ambition, creating an environment that celebrates and advances women’s leadership. It fuels progress, innovation, and equity across the green building movement.

“

We

stand on the shoulders of generations who planted seeds they might never see grow, but they believed in our potential. Let’s carry the torch, lead boldly, and make sure our voices are heard—not hidden behind curtains.”

Kimberly Lewis Inkumsah

There is an energy, a spirit, a spark in the room when women come together to problem solve and unify around restoring people and the planet.” “

Myrrh Caplan

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Photo: © U.S. Green Building Council

Photo: © U.S. Green Building Council

Green Schools Conference

The Green Schools Conference (GSC) is the only national event in the United States bringing together a community dedicated to creating and supporting green schools. From educators and administrators to facility managers and community leaders, GSC unites people working to transform schools into healthier, more sustainable learning environments. This one-of-a-kind event amplifies the voices of those actively leading, building, operating, and teaching in green schools.

Each year, the conference offers a variety of educational sessions on the critical topics green schools face today—such as climate change impact, health and wellness, sustainability education, and building a culture of whole-school sustainability. Participants gain actionable ideas and practical tools to implement in their own schools and communities.

GSC has traveled across the country, reaching cities like Sacramento, Virginia Beach, Pittsburgh, and Denver. By offering both in-person and virtual events, we aim to extend our message to as many change-makers tas possible. So far, over 6,000 participants have attended hundreds of sessions, making GSC a hub for innovation and progress in the green schools movement.

Whether you’re an educator championing environmental learning, an administrator implementing sustainable practices, or a designer committed to healthier schools, GSC is a place to connect with a powerful community advancing whole-school sustainability.

“

The Green Schools Conference was such a great opportunity to connect and collaborate! Getting together for this event and spending time with this group in-person was like reigniting the spark and motivation toward why we do what we do, how we can do it better, and remembering that we are not alone in our struggles and efforts!”

“

sessions 390+ attendees engaged across all Center For Green Schools events 16,000+

We are still reeling from all the information we learned and the passionate people we met! Thank you for giving us the opportunity to share Shaw Contract’s sustainability goals, for your work on an awesome event, and for letting us joke around.”

2022 Sponsor

2023 Attendee

Photo: © 2024 Daniel Quat Photography

Photo: © 2024 Daniel Quat Photography

Circle

The Circle event is a uniquely tailored platform for addressing the specific sustainability challenges and opportunities facing the European region.

Serving as Europe’s LEED community reunion, it brings together green building professionals from across the region to collaborate on targeted solutions. Unlike larger conferences, Circle blends retreat-style engagement with focused learning, placing a strong emphasis on both the environmental and social value of the built environment. Now in its fourth year, the event has been hosted in Barcelona, Munich, and Athens, and will take place in Prague in 2025.

Held both in-person and virtually, this event emphasizes meaningful interaction, helping us deepen connections and share best practices. What sets Circle apart is its intimate format, which energizes participants and equips them with the tools to drive sustainable innovation across the continent. Through discussions, tours, and workshops, we aim to empower local leaders to make a lasting impact, recognizing that collective action will shape Europe’s green future.

Excellent logistics, beautiful locations, opportunity to network with friends and peers, inspirational speakers. The only conference I never miss!” “

Lilia Kouzmina

Eastnine

AB (publ)

I love that GBCI Europe Circle gathers all the stakeholders in green building in one place. It is a driver of innovation.” “

Simona Kabadova Triple Green Building Group

Photos: © GBCI Europe Circle

Local Events

We understand that addressing global challenges begins at the local level. That’s why we organize regional conferences and workshops, knowing that sustainable solutions must be adapted to meet each community’s specific needs. These events are often made possible by dedicated volunteers and committed community members who bring together stakeholders from the public and private sectors, community organizations, and academic institutions to collaborate effectively. What was once the USGBC chapter network is now fully integrated into USGBC, consisting of a dedicated group of volunteers driven to create global impact through local action.

Our regional events extend beyond traditional workshops, featuring panels led by local experts, site tours showcasing innovative projects, Women in Green gatherings, and breakout sessions tailored to address unique regional challenges. Whether you are a city planner tackling urban heat islands, a developer focused on green infrastructure, or an educator inspiring the next generation in sustainability, our regional events provide the insights, training, and connections needed to support sustainability at the local level. We are honored to support this work with the many passionate community members who make these initiatives possible.

Virtual Events

In recent years, virtual events have become a vital way for us to connect with our community members, wherever they are. In 2021, we expanded our virtual offerings and reached over 40,000 participants worldwide through educational sessions, interactive panels, and more.

We offer a range of virtual experiences, from webinars to interactive events—all of which are available on demand afterward. These platforms allow us to reach people who might not have otherwise been able to participate, whether due to distance, time constraints, or other challenges.

By expanding our virtual events, we strive to ensure that anyone with a passion for sustainability can be a part of this effort, and that everyone feels welcomed and included, wherever they may be. We are grateful for the chance to continue growing this community together, knowing that our collective strength comes from the voices of people everywhere.

Photo: © Daniel Quat Photography

Photo: © Daniel Quat Photography

Photo: © SUMe

Behind the Scenes at USGBC

Our Journey from Concept to Global Impact

Since 1993, we’ve transformed an idea into a global movement, building a framework that redefines sustainable practices in construction. This shift made sustainability a core priority, driven by the commitment of our dedicated community.

Who We Are

USGBC drives positive impact in the global built environment, focusing on decarbonization, community resilience, ecosystem restoration, and occupant well-being.

For over 30 years, our mission has been to improve the lives of people and communities by creating sustainable, resilient, and equitable spaces.

Our progress is powered by a community dedicated to the impact of collective action. Together, we are reshaping how buildings are designed and operated worldwide, reducing climate impact, promoting ecological conservation, and improving the quality of life for millions.

At the center of our work is LEED—the world’s most widely used green building certification program. LEED has become a recognized symbol of environmental stewardship, celebrated for its role in reducing emissions, enhancing community well-being, and creating economic opportunities. Through LEED, along with other programs and community-focused events like Greenbuild, we’ve created platforms that promote connection, learning, and collaboration—empowering professionals to develop practical solutions to shared environmental challenges.

With our community, we’ve sparked a global movement that places sustainability at the core of how we design and operate our buildings and communities. As we continue this work, we remain committed to ensuring the spaces we create today lead to a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future for generations to come.

Our Work at a Glance 30+ years of driving the green building movement

205,000+ LEED professionals

197,000+ LEED projects worldwide

180+ countries and territories with LEED projects

2 million+ square feet certified every day

29 billion+ total registered and certified commercial square feet

5,300+ organizational members

9.3 million+

school children impacted by the work of the Center for Green Schools

The People Behind the Scenes

Our team is made up of over 180 staff members who work closely with our community to create a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., we operate out of a LEED and WELL Platinum office, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of sustainability. Our work, however, reaches far beyond the District of Columbia, with offices in seven locations worldwide.

We are a team of innovators, thinkers, and doers, inspired every day by the collective efforts of our members and partners. Our dedicated community—professionals, building owners, architects, engineers, and advocates—works tirelessly to expand what’s possible in green building. We’re continually motivated by groundbreaking projects and innovations happening globally, from cutting-edge technologies to simple, everyday solutions that enhance sustainability on every level.

“

The work USGBC does is critical when I consider my role in creating more equitable spaces (literally and figuratively) for future generations. I am grateful for the lessons learned, ideas exchanged, and memories made with each and every stakeholder I’ve had the pleasure of working with to deliver some pretty amazing products to markets around the globe in the past 5 years. It’s been a great ride and I’m looking forward to the possibilities as I continue to support the organization’s mission and vision.”

Jaclynn Cross Project Manager

USGBC HQ Renovation | LEED Platinum | Washington, DC | Photo: Ana Ka’ahanui

We are guided by the understanding that our mission is bigger than any individual or organization.

Together, we’re pushing forward to a more sustainable, healthier built environment, but we recognize it is the collective efforts of our teams, and those we partner with, that make this movement possible. You’ll find their voices throughout this report, sharing insights into the passion and purpose that drive their work every day.

Our global reach is made possible by the tireless work of staff across various offices, creating a network that supports a shared mission. Through collaboration and shared responsibility, we are proud to carry forward a legacy of sustainability, one building and one community at a time.

Central to our work is our partnership with GBCI, our certification body. GBCI upholds the integrity of our certification processes, ensuring that every project and professional meets the highest standards. GBCI also manages additional credentialing programs, such as TRUE Zero Waste, among others.

USGBC HQ | LEED Platinum | Washington, DC | Photo: © Halkin Mason Photography

Board of Directors

The USGBC board of directors is made up of seven elected directors, and the President and CEO, who serves as an exofficio, non-voting member. They meet quarterly in person to guide the strategic direction of the organization.

Vice Chair

Anyeley

Founder, Adre Chair

Hallová

Marwa Zaatari, Ph.D.

Chief Science Officer at D ZINE Partners. Co-Chair of enVerid Systems Inc. Advisory Board

Alastair MacGregor

Senior Vice President, Property and Buildings National Business Line Executive, WSP

Peter Templeton

Ex-officio; President and CEO, U.S. Green Building Council

Karen Weigert

Director, Baumhart Center for Social Enterprise and Responsibility

Daniel Hernandez

Managing Partner and Founder, PROYECTO. Director, City of Santa Fe’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency Secretary/Treasurer

Ruth Thomas-Squance

Co-Executive Director, Build Healthy Places Network. Social Impact Fellow, UC Berkeley School of Public Health

GBCI: Maintaining Objectivity in the Certification Process

GBCI is the global leader in recognizing excellence in green business performance through independent, third-party verification. Founded in January 2008 with the support of USGBC, GBCI was established to provide oversight and integrity to the certification and credentialing processes under the LEED green building rating system.

As the only body within the green business and sustainability industry exclusively dedicated to these certifications and credentials, GBCI ensures that projects and professionals worldwide meet the highest standards.

Independent Certification for Objectivity

Although GBCI works closely with USGBC, it operates independently. This independence is essential to maintaining objectivity in the certification process. While USGBC sets the standards for green building and advocates for sustainable practices, GBCI ensures those standards are met through its certification and credentialing services.

GBCI maintains quality control on the project certification process through annual reviews by our board members. GBCI’s credentialing programs are developed, delivered, and maintained using best practices in test development. Since 2011, GBCI’s LEED credentialing programs have been ANSI-accredited under the ISO/IEC 17024:2012 standard, which is an international standard that outlines the requirements and principles for certifying people and the bodies that do so.

Sustainability Certifications

In addition to LEED, GBCI administers a diverse range of global certifications, each addressing key aspects of sustainability.

SITES (Sustainable SITES Initiative)

SITES promotes sustainable land development and management practices. It focuses on creating resilient landscapes that enhance ecosystems and reduce environmental impact.

EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)

EDGE is a green building certification system focused on improving resource efficiency. Designed primarily for developing markets, EDGE helps projects achieve measurable gains in energy, water, and materials efficiency, supporting accessible sustainability in emerging economies.

PEER (Performance Excellence in Electricity Renewal)

PEER is a certification that measures and improves power systems’ sustainability and resilience. It emphasizes smart grid practices, energy storage, and renewable energy integration, essential for projects focused on energy independence and resilience against outages.

TRUE Zero Waste

TRUE Zero Waste certification helps organizations reduce waste and improve resource efficiency by diverting waste from landfills and incineration. It recognizes businesses successfully reducing their environmental footprint through circular economy practices.

Investor

Confidence Project (ICP)

ICP is a global standard for developing and measuring energy efficiency retrofits in commercial and multifamily residential buildings.

WELL

WELL certification sets performance requirements in ten categories to improve the effects of buildings on human health.

Parksmart

Parksmart certification supports sustainable parking structure design and operations to reduce costs, increase energy efficiency, and improve lighting and ventilation.

Our Vision for the Future

We are entering a new chapter at USGBC with the launch of our 2024–2026 strategic plan. Building on the progress of the past 30 years, our strategic focus moves beyond previous successes to address the challenges and opportunities ahead. This includes the rapid decarbonization of the global built environment to align with international climate goals; prioritizing resilience, human health, and social equity within communities; advocating for bold public policies and effective government leadership; and opening pathways for the next generation of sustainability leaders within the green building community.

We have identified five strategic imperatives to guide our work:

1. Expand the global green building community of practice and its influence.

2. Accelerate the role of buildings in decarbonizing economies and promoting equitable, healthy, and resilient communities.

3. Align green building with frameworks and technologies driving equitable systems change and market transformation at scale.

4. Ensure access to green building for under-resourced populations and all communities.

5. Achieve organizational excellence and effectiveness.

“

Witnessing

USGBC’s growth and development over the past 15 years has kept my time here exciting and interesting. When I came on board in New Orleans, I was one of only a handful of remote staff outside the D.C. office, and now we are a truly global team. The scale of impact possible here and the incredibly motivated and smart people I work with are unmatched.”

Anisa Heming Director,

Center

for Green Schools

Join the Green Building Movement

No matter your role or background, there are many ways to get involved in the green building movement.

Ready to work on a LEED project?

Become a LEED AP or LEED Green Associate (GA) and start shaping the future of green building.

Driven to shape the future of LEED?

Join a technical advisory group (TAG) and play a direct role in advancing and redefining the standards that will transform our built environment.

Want to be part of a community of change-makers?

Attend our events, both in-person and online, to connect, learn, and collaborate with others driving the green building movement.

Passionate about policy change?

Get involved in an Advocacy Working Group and help push for green building policies that make a difference.

Want to be recognized as a leader in the industry?

Become a USGBC member and position yourself or your organization at the cutting edge of excellence in sustainability.

Dedicated to making schools greener?

Get involved with the Center for Green Schools and help create sustainable, healthy learning environments for children.

Ready to build a better future?

Stay ahead of the curve and learn how LEED v5 can transform your project.

Want to stay updated and inspired?

Check our website to stay informed on the latest trends, events, and ways to take action.

Photo: © Silver Art Photography

Attend Our Events

Join USGBC as a Member

the Center for Green Schools

A Community of Change-Makers

Behind the numbers in this report—the buildings certified, the emissions reduced, the communities transformed—beat the hearts of people who see possibilities in problems. You’re the dedicated professionals who see a struggling neighborhood and envision green spaces where children can play. The ones who look at an old building and picture a beacon of sustainability. The ones who approach climate challenges with the conviction that collective action yields solutions.

Your expertise is reflected in every success story in these pages. The hospital where patients heal faster because you implemented evidence-based daylighting strategies. The school where asthma rates dropped because you engineered better air systems. The affordable housing project that saves families money because you integrated energy efficiency. The community center that stayed powered during storms because you prioritized resilience.

In conference rooms and classrooms, you’ve developed ideas that evolved into innovations. On jobsites and in board rooms, you’ve demonstrated the tangible benefits of sustainable design. Across the globe, you’ve proven that dedicated professionals armed with expertise and determination can transform the built environment.

When others said green building was too expensive, you demonstrated the financial returns. When they said it was too complicated, you created streamlined solutions. When they said it couldn’t scale, you developed replicable models. You’ve consistently turned obstacles into opportunities for innovation.

Consider what you’ve achieved. Cities are healthier because you improved air quality. Students learn better because you optimized classroom design. Communities are stronger because you understood how buildings shape human interaction.

To those who’ve been here since the first LEED pilot project—thank you for believing when this was just a concept. To those who joined along the way—thank you for bringing new perspectives and expertise. To those just starting—thank you for carrying this vision forward.

The future of our planet is more livable because you chose to help build it. Thank you for showing us what’s possible when people combine technical expertise with commitment. Your dedication has redefined what we believe is achievable.

The story of USGBC continues to evolve through your contributions. It’s written not just in reports and certifications, but in the countless hours you dedicate to advancing this mission. It’s evident in the communities you improve, the buildings you transform, and the sustainable future you help create. And as long as committed professionals like you continue this work, this progress will keep building momentum.

Thank you for teaching us what it means to truly care about something bigger than ourselves. Your dedication changes what we believe is possible. And that changes everything.

Photo: © Moshe Zusman for

Appendix I: GHG Emission Calculation Methodology

Methodology for Calculating GHG Emission Savings in LEED-Certified Buildings

The emission savings figures are derived based on the energy savings reported by the project at the time of certification. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) simulation models for building energy performance across different climate zones and building types have been considered as baseline. Corresponding ASHRAE 90.1 version baseline has been considered while calculating emissions savings.

Key metrics in this analysis include:

• Energy Use Intensity (EUI): Measures energy consumed per square foot annually (kBtu/ft²/ year or kWh/m²/year).

• Energy Cost Index (ECI): Reflects the annual cost of energy per square foot ($/ft²/year).

• Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction: Compares a building’s emissions to a baseline, typically set by previous ASHRAE standards or industry norms.

This section outlines the methodology used to quantify GHG emissions savings in LEED BD+C and LEED ID+C projects.

1. Data Sources

The emissions savings are based on the optimized energy performance credit level project data from LEED-certified buildings. The credits follow ASHRAE 90.1 standards, which serve as the benchmark for energy efficiency.

2. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

The following KPIs were mapped across ASHRAE standards to track energy performance in LEED projects:

• Energy Use Intensity (EUI)

• Energy Cost Index (ECI)

• GHG Emissions Reduction

3. ASHRAE Baselines and Evolution of LEED

The table below summarizes the baseline standards for energy use and cost as per different LEED versions and corresponding ASHRAE standards:

4. Emissions Reduction Calculations

Emission reductions are based on energy savings achieved through operational efficiencies (e.g., heating, cooling, lighting) and renewable energy contributions.

The emission savings data assumes a constant rate of reduction over time, based on:

• Operational Energy Use Reductions

Enhanced building performance through improved heating, cooling, and lighting efficiency.

• Renewable Energy Integration

Contributions from renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind.

Conclusion

Through the integration of PNNL simulations, ASHRAE standards, and LEED’s evolving energy performance criteria, LEED-certified buildings contribute significantly to decarbonization. As LEED standards become more stringent, the role of these buildings in reducing operational and embodied carbon aligns with global climate goals. The GHG equivalencies were calculated using the EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator.

LEED standards for energy performance have evolved alongside the ASHRAE standards. Below is a summary of how LEED’s energy requirements have become more stringent over time:

• LEED Version 2.2

Required meeting ASHRAE 90.1-2004.

• LEED Version 3 (v3)

Set a goal of 10% improved performance over ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

• LEED Version 4 (v4) and Version 4.1 (v4.1)

Required a 5% improvement over ASHRAE 90.1-2010.

Appendix II: Glossary of Terms

This glossary includes key terms used in the USGBC Impact Report to support a clear understanding of sustainable building standards, certifications, and terminology. Terms are specific to green building practices and are presented in alphabetical order for easy reference.

Arc — Performance Tracking Platform: A digital tool for tracking and measuring the sustainability performance of LEED-certified buildings across metrics like energy, water, waste, transportation, and human experience.

Biodiversity Loss — The decline in species and ecosystems due to factors like urbanization, pollution, and climate change. See also: SITES.

Climate Resilience — The ability of buildings and communities to adapt to and withstand climate-related impacts, including extreme weather events, through sustainable design and operational strategies.

Decarbonization — Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with both the operational aspects of a building (like heating and cooling) and embodied carbon in construction materials. See also: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions.

Embodied Carbon — Total greenhouse gas emissions from building materials and construction over the entire life cycle of a building. Essential for assessing the carbon footprint in sustainable projects.

Energy Use Intensity (EUI) — A key measure of a building’s energy efficiency, calculated as the energy used per square foot per year. EUI is critical in achieving LEED’s decarbonization goals.

GBCI — Green Business Certification Inc.: Manages LEED and other certification programs related to sustainability, including SITES and TRUE. See also: LEED, TRUE, SITES.

GRESB — Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark: An assessment tool for measuring and benchmarking the sustainability of real estate and infrastructure portfolios.

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions — Emissions that contribute to climate change, primarily from fossil fuel use in buildings. LEED provides strategies to measure, manage, and reduce these emissions.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) — LEED standards that improve indoor conditions such as air quality, lighting, and acoustics, which directly affect occupant health and comfort. See also: Low-Emission Materials.

Investor Ready Energy Efficiency (IREE) — A certification that helps standardize energy efficiency improvements in buildings, making them more attractive to potential investors.

LEED — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design: A globally recognized green building certification that sets standards for sustainable building practices. LEED certifications are awarded at various levels (Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) based on performance.

LEED AP — Credential for individuals with specialized knowledge of LEED standards and sustainable building practices.

LEED BD+C — LEED for Building Design and Construction: LEED rating system for new construction and major renovations, focusing on sustainability in various project types, including commercial, residential, and institutional buildings.

LEED for Cities and Communities A LEED certification that applies to entire cities or communities, measuring sustainability across metrics such as energy efficiency, climate resilience, and governance.

LEED Green Associate — Entry-level credential: A foundational credential that recognizes knowledge in LEED and green building principles.

LEED ND — LEED Neighborhood Development: Certification aimed at sustainable neighborhood planning, supporting improved quality of life through design and resource management. See also: LEED.

LEED O+M — LEED for Operations and Maintenance: Certification designed to enhance the sustainability of existing buildings, focusing on operational aspects such as energy, water, and waste management.

LEED Zero — Net Zero Performance Certification: A program under LEED that targets net zero performance in carbon, energy, water, and waste.

Low-Emission Materials — Building materials with minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or pollutants, used to enhance indoor air quality in LEED projects. See also: Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ).

PERFORM — A GBCI program that assists organizations in setting measurable sustainability goals, tracking progress, and securing thirdparty verification for transparency.

SITES — Sustainable Sites Initiative: Certification focused on sustainable land development, promoting biodiversity, water conservation, and ecosystem restoration.

Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs) — Committees of industry experts who guide LEED standards, ensuring scientific rigor and practical relevance.

TRUE — Total Resource Use and Efficiency: A zero waste certification that promotes resource efficiency and supports circular economy practices. See also: Waste Reduction.

USGBC — U.S. Green Building Council: A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in the building industry through programs like LEED.

Waste Reduction — Strategies to minimize waste generation, maximize recycling, and promote sustainable material use in LEED projects, with a goal of significant waste diversion from landfills by 2030.

Accelerating Green Buildings to Improve Lives and Livelihoods