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This page is dedicated to answering those most important questions commonly asked by our users. If you do not find the question or the answer posted here, use our contact page. For those who are interested in joining USGBC Central Texas - Balcones Chapter, click here. | |||
LEED FAQ |
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i. What is LEED?  |
The LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System™ is a voluntary, consensus-based standard to support and certify successful green building design, construction, and operations. LEED is transforming the marketplace by providing a nationally recognized certification system to promote integrated, whole-building design practices in the building industry. The LEED Green Building Rating System™ encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development practices through the creation and implementation of universally understood and accepted tools and performance criteria. | |||
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ii. Which LEED track (NC, EB, or CI) should I take? |
The nature of your work in the building industry should decide which test you take. If you primarily work on new construction projects, then you should take the New Construction version. If you primarily work on building operation and maintenance, then the Existing Building version is the more logical one for you. If you focus on commercial interior design, then Commercial Interiors is the most appropriate option. One should know that, regardless of which version of the test you take, the credential as a LEED Accredited Professional is all the same. You need not take more than one exam to become LEED AP. | |||
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iii. What LEED workshops does USGBC offer? |
USGBC offers a variety of LEED training workshops and online educational webinars including a basic introduction, technical reviews, and advanced application oriented sessions. Workshops are available nationally in conjunction with local chapters, at industry tradeshows, and at Greenbuild. Private workshops can also be scheduled for your company. Upcoming LEED workshops and more details are posted on National’s website. | |||
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iv. I want to host a private LEED workshop at my company. How do I do this? |
Private workshops are an exclusive benefit for USGBC members and are available for groups of 20 or more. Choose from any of our full-day or half-day sessions. USGBC also offers private workshops for students-only groups at colleges and universities. Learn more. | |||
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v. What is a LEED Accredited Professional and how do I become one? |
LEED Professional Accreditation distinguishes building professionals with the knowledge and skills to successfully steward the LEED certification process. LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles and the LEED Rating System. More than 43,000 people have earned the credential since the Professional Accreditation program was launched in 2001. In 2008, administration of the Professional Accreditation program transitioned to the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The Green Building Certification Institute, established with the support of the U.S. Green Building Council, handles exam development and delivery to allow for objective, balanced management of the credentialing program. LEED Accredited Professionals are experienced building industry practitioners who have demonstrated their knowledge of integrated design and their capacity to facilitate the LEED certification process. To become an Accredited Professional you must take the exam. The exam tests an individual’s understanding of green building practices and principles, and familiarity with LEED requirements, resources, and processes. See http://www.gbci.org for more information. |
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vi. What is the process for getting a building LEED certified? What types of buildings can use LEED? |
LEED certification is available for all building types including new construction and major renovation; existing buildings; commercial interiors; core & shell; schools and homes. LEED systems for neighborhood development and retail are currently in pilot test and a rating system for healthcare is currently under development and will begin pilot testing in 2008. To date, the LEED system covers over 3 billion square feet of construction space. | |||
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vii. How does LEED work? |
LEED is a point based system where projects earn LEED points for satisfying specific green building criteria. Within each of the six LEED credit categories, projects must satisfy particular prerequisites and earn points. The six categories include Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality and Innovation in Design (projects can earn ID points for green building innovations). The number of points the project earns determines the level of LEED Certification the project receives. LEED certification is available in four progressive levels: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. | |||
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viii. Can products be certified under LEED? |
No, LEED applies to green building projects. Individual products can contribute to points under the rating system; LEED criteria are performance-based. In attempting to meet these requirements, LEED practitioners identify products that have desired attributes. However, some LEED criteria do require specific product data as a part of a successful submittal. | |||
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ix. How much does it cost to register a project? |
The registration fee for a project is $450 for USGBC members and $600 for nonmembers. | |||
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x. What is the average LEED certification fee? |
LEED certification fees vary by project size but the average certification cost is $2000. | |||
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xi. Does green building cost more? |
No, green buildings do not have to cost a penny more. LEED certified projects to date demonstrate that you can achieve LEED certification and reap its many benefits with a common-sense approach to design with no additional dollars. Depending on your green building strategy and the level of certification your project is targeting, there may be mid- and long-term ROI associated with additional green features that merits an investment in first costs. | |||
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xii. What are the benefits of LEED certification? |
LEED certification is third-party validation of a building’s performance. LEED certified projects blend environmental, economic, and occupant-oriented performance. They cost less to operate and maintain; are energy- and water-efficient; have higher lease up rates than conventional buildings in their markets; are healthier and safer for occupants; and are a physical demonstration of the values of the organizations that own and occupy them. Visit http://www.gbci.org for more details. | |||
SPONSORSHIP FAQ |
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I. How do I become a Sponsor of the USGBC CT-B Chapter? |
The CT-B Chapter has numerous tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities available for businesses and individuals. You can become a Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze Sponsor for one year or sponsor an individual event, workshop or seminar. In-Kind Sponsorships are also considered. Exposure varies depending on the level of sponsorship. Please click here to view our available sponsorships. Questions regarding sponsorships may be directed the Sponsorship Committee These donations allow the CT-B Chapter to provide first-rate educational programs, events, member benefits, website development, staff and educational resources. |
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| The Vision and Mission of the Central Texas - Balcones Chapter Buildings and communities will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life. Accelerate the transformation toward sustainable building and land development practices in Central Texas through innovation, advocacy and partnerships. |
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