LEED certified buildings save money and resources and have a positive impact on the health of occupants, while promoting renewable, clean energy.
Photo: Courtesy of US Green Building Council

US Green Building Council announced that it would extend the life of LEED 2009. Projects can still register under the 2009 version until October 31, 2016. The original cut-off date was set to be June 15, 2015, but resounding feedback from LEED users led to the decision.

LEED stands for green building leadership. Its goal is to transform the way we think about how buildings and communities are designed, constructed, maintained and operated across the globe.

Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. To receive LEED certification, building projects satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels of certification. Prerequisites and credits differ for each rating system. Teams choose the best fit for their project.

LEED is flexible enough to apply to all project types. Each rating system groups requirements that address the unique needs of building and project types on their path towards LEED certification. Once a project team chooses a rating system, they'll use the appropriate credits to guide design and operational decisions. For more information go to www.USGBC.org.