LEED needs your suggestions

The USGBC recently released a second draft of LEED 2012 and is now accepting public comments from August 1 to September 14. This is our chance to influence the rating system we use in our projects! USGBC members plan to approve the final version of LEED 2012 next year and release the document in November 2012, just in time for GreenBuild.



LEED 2012 includes changes to all major LEED rating systems: New Construction, Design & Construction systems, Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, Neighborhood Developments, and Homes. A summary of changes from LEED 2009 and from LEED 2012 1st Public Comment can be found on the USGBC website. The Materials & Resources section has undergone many changes with the intent of adding emphasis on transparency from manufacturers and life-cycle assessment. For example, a new credit called “Avoidance of Chemicals of Concern” requires reporting product ingredients and avoiding chemicals listed under California’s Proposition 65.


The five new LEED 2012 Rating System Drafts can be downloaded from USGBC, and everyone is encouraged to join the Public Comment discussion. You can also participate in many public forums or ask your sustainability leaders to organize an office discussion.