Although the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) was co-founded in 1993, it wasn’t until recently that the non-profit organization became well renowned. In fact, membership alone has increased immensely during the last few years. In addition, USGBC members are a diversified community of leaders from every walk of life. Likewise, each member contributes to improving and advancing the awareness for a more sustainable built environment.
USGBC Partners and Associations
USGBC is mostly recognized for the development of LEED or the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The LEED rating system is a renowned green building program that is utilized internationally. USGBC is also well-known for their annual Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. In fact, it is the world’s biggest expo and conference gathering devoted to green building. Moreover, out of eight national councils, the USGBC was one of the councils that helped establish the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC).
The USGBC is also partnered with the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI). They provide a group of LEED experts that serve as the third party that verifies LEED projects meet the stringent USGBC standards. As an extra incentive, the USGBC rewards certification points to building projects that are completed with a LEED certified (LEED AP) expert on staff.
The Basics of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
No matter how big or small a project, a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified building is a great accomplishment in green building and is recognized internationally. Being LEED certified signifies that a building or community has stayed within the “green” guidelines of construction, design, maintenance and procedures of sustainability. Levels of certification include Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. The levels are based on requirements and number of credits achieved. Moreover, the LEED staff does their best to ensure that prerequisites stay technically demanding, innovative and applicable to the current market. To assure that high standards are constantly met, LEED frequently goes through evaluations and other improvements. For instance, LEED often improves versions of the current rating system and a description of certain credit’s language.
Furthermore, the USGBC has alternate compliance paths to LEED credits. That way there are additional options for unique situations. Plus, the expansions in technology and science can be better accommodated.
Sustainable Investment Group (SIG)
Sustainable Investment Group (SIG) is a pioneering firm whose main goal is to improve the environment by encouraging the conservation and preservation of the natural environment. SIGs main objective is to cultivate inspiring relations, celebrate the success of others, help make leaders in resource accountability and create a more sustainable world.
SIG has three main services that are comprised of LEED Consulting, LEED Exam Prep Training and Engineering Services. As a renowned consultant and LEED Proven Provider, SIG makes it easier for businesses to earn LEED certifications with their expertise, proven methods of documentation, and flexibility to meet client needs and goals. In fact, SIG helps businesses accomplish their highest sustainable goals, especially with LEED standards. Quite frankly, SIG methods have been honored by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Actually, Sustainable Investment Group is the only USGBC consultant that has their own program for LEED Volume.
SIG also offers LEED consulting and engineering services. These services come in handy for some of the credits and requirements for all LEED projects. Having both services with one company can save a lot of time and finances. Generally, a business specializes in only one of the two services. In fact, it is a rare occurrence to have a company offer both types of services.
Moreover, SIG has numerous years of knowledge and experience in training professionals on how to pass the LEED exams and how to reduce the energy costs of your property. Further, SIG will go the distance. They are willing to travel internationally and have even taught classes in Hawaii.
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