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o encourage this market transformation, the USGBC worked to develop the LEED green building rating system. This program was created primarily through a coordinated volunteer effort of industry professionals across the nation. The USGBC used groups focused on specific technology areas, known as Technical Advisory Groups, or TAGs. While the specific requirements may differ, all green building programs, rating systems (like LEED) and standards cover five core areas of concern: the building site, water, energy, indoor environmental quality and the materials and resources
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used. Some programs expand their focus to include aspects such as: the process for designing the building; building construction; and even how the building will be operated and maintained once occupancy begins. LEED accounts for these items to some extent, such as with the building commissioning process, as well as measurement and verification of the system operations. LEED encourages green design through a point based system. It defines key items of focus called LEED credit areas. The project design/management team chooses the individual credits on which to focus,
and attempt to earn points for each credit. Before any points are earned in a topical area (such as energy), the project must meet minimum prerequisites in that area. If the building project earns enough points, it can be awarded LEED certification. Meeting the criteria for additional points beyond the minimum level for LEED certification can, depending on the total number of points earned, allow the project to earn a LEED certified, silver, gold or platinum designation. Recognition for earning LEED certification is given (in one way) through a plaque that often is displayed in a prominent place in a