USGBC Upgrades Green Building Certification Process

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced a series of changes to its Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system.

The documentation has been streamlined and the certification process can be done entirely online, according to a press release from the USGBC. The USGBC hopes the changes will reduce the time and cost of seeking LEED certification.

Additional changes include:

• Design and Construction Phase Submittals—Project teams will have the option to submit documentation in two separate phases for new construction projects: first for the design phase, and then the construction phase. This two-part submission gives the team an interim opportunity to ensure that the project is on track for its certification goals.
• Instruments of Service—Documentation requirements have been aligned with existing instruments of service.
• Building in a Feedback Loop—In addition to improved customer service throughout the LEED process, USGBC is taking steps to make customer feedback and interaction an integral part of that process.