LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) that provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the sustainability of buildings.
LEED certification demonstrates a building's commitment to energy efficiency, environmental impact reduction, and occupant well-being.
LEED v5 (2025 Release)
The latest version emphasizes decarbonization, resilience, and equity, reflecting the industry's increased focus on climate action and social justice.
The new scorecard reorganizes around three global goals expressed through five principles
Worth 50% of certification points - emphasis on embodied and operational carbon reduction
Worth 25% of points - inclusive design and air quality standards for underserved communities
Worth 25% of points - ecosystem preservation and ecological restoration
New credits for natural disaster preparedness, grid reliability, and climate adaptability
Commitment to sustainability through energy efficiency, water conservation, and responsible material use
Higher sustainability performance across multiple categories
Significant achievement in sustainable building practices
Exceptional leadership in sustainability and environmental performance
Total of 110 points available across all credit categories. The more points earned, the higher the certification level achieved.
Early analysis of interrelationships among systems
Encourage development in areas with existing infrastructure, reduce vehicle distance traveled
Minimize development impact on ecosystems and waterways
Reduce potable water consumption, monitor performance
Reduce energy use, utilize renewable energy, commission systems
Minimize waste, use sustainable materials, plan for end of life
Improve indoor air quality, thermal and lighting conditions
Reward exceptional or innovative performance
Address specific local environmental priorities
Choose the appropriate LEED rating system and version (LEED v5, v4.1, or v4) for your project type
Review minimum program requirements and prerequisites for all credit categories
Choose credits that align with your project goals using the LEED credit library
Register your project with USGBC and begin documentation
Submit documentation for certification review (typically 20-25 business days)
If documentation meets criteria, project receives LEED certification at appropriate level
Access official documentation and certification requirements
Official U.S. Green Building Council LEED certification portal
Complete database of all LEED credits and requirements
Official guide to the latest LEED v5 (2025) requirements
Information on becoming a LEED AP or LEED Green Associate