DC Metrocentric

It was only a matter of time, but the US Green Building Council is changing the standards for it’s Leadership in Environmental Design Certification for the first time since 2000 when it was introduced.

The new standards will reorganize the commercial rating systems by consolidating, aligning and updating them into one system. Points are awarded for specific practices in each area and are verified by an independent third party. Depending on the number of points earned, a building is awarded a certified, silver, gold or platinum ranking.

However the most significant changes are to the points system which currently is very ridged and not weighted realistically. For example, projects are awarded one point for installing a bike rack, and the same amount for installing a costly green roof, not exactly the same.

With technology changing so fast, this revamp is way over due. This is going to have more of an effect on our city than many others since all new buildings are required to strive for LEED certification. The public comment period just ended last month and the changes are being incorporated it shouldn’t be long until the new standards are formally released.