leed construction air quality school building

Given reports on climate change, more businesses are transitioning to LEED construction buildings. This is a great move because it saves money on energy, offers cleaner air and a greener environment. 

If you're looking to make your school a LEED building, it's helpful to know the process and expectations. To help you learn more, this is everything you need to know when it comes to LEED construction and new school buildings. 

What Is LEED? 

LEED stands for leadership in energy and environmental design. A LEED-certified building means that it meets all the requirements to be labeled as LEED. 

LEED is recognized across the world as a green building rating system. It provides independent certification of a building's green features. If a building becomes LEED-certified, it means that it's designed to allow for a resource-efficient building that benefits the planet and people. 

How Does a School Become a LEED Certified School?

To become LEED-certified, buildings must satisfy the LEED requirements through a point system. LEED projects earn points in various categories, including the integrative process, location and transportation, sustainable sites, water efficiency, and energy and atmosphere. 

You'll also get points for materials and resources used, indoor environmental quality, innovation, and regional priority.

Buildings are graded across each of these areas and can receive different LEED awards. Buildings can receive LEED platinum, LEED gold, LEED silver, or LEED-certified awards. 

To submit your school for certification, you'll need to register on the LEED website and submit an application. The application will be reviewed, and then you will receive your certification if your school qualifies. 

Benefits of LEED Construction in Schools 

In the United States, standard buildings account for 40% of all GHG emissions and 73% of all U.S. electricity consumption. LEED buildings divert 80 million tons of waste from landfills. This generates massive savings in lowering greenhouse gases. 

LEED buildings can also improve the health of people. LEED creates spaces for clean air and limits harmful chemicals found in paints and finishings. 

You can also save money on your electricity bills with LEED. In prior studies of LEED buildings, LEED has saved $1.2 billion in energy savings and $149.5 million in water savings.

This is great news for schools because money is saved on school supplies and student learning. 

You can look here for more information on building a LEED school in your district.  

Now You Know What to Expect if Your School Becomes LEED Certified 

These are the basics of LEED construction and how it can benefit your school. These benefits are why it's becoming increasingly popular across various sectors around the country. 

There's a minimal downside to LEED construction, and it can save your district a ton of money.

So, why not begin budgeting for the process now? Your students and teachers will love you for it! 

And for more cool topics like this, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. We have a bunch of other articles on construction and energy efficiency that you're sure to love! Visit the Real Estate section of our site to learn more!