LEED Points Now Given for Carbon Neutral Materials

Washington, DC, August 15, 200--Projects seeking certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program can now earn points for carbon neutral materials, according to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

(USGBC) said that projects can now earn an "Innovation in Design" point by using building products and materials that have been certified as “carbon neutral” by a reputable, independent third-party certifier. The product’s entire line of supply and manufacture must also be climate neutral.

Innovation in Design points are awarded to LEED projects that develop new solutions, employ new technologies, educate, or realize exemplary performance in another area. USGBC will publish all Innovation in Design points that have been awarded to LEED certified projects at www.usgbc.org. 

“Reducing and off-setting the greenhouse gas emissions created by the manufacture and use of building materials is critical,” noted Scot Horst, chair of the LEED Steering Committee.

  "This Innovation and Design point rewards proactive suppliers who take a climate leadership position with their products and ensure that climate benefits can be delivered on a credible, measurable and transparent basis.”

Products and materials are climate neutral when there are zero net greenhouse gases (GHG), such as C02, from the entire life cycle of the product.