New Document Outlines Backing and LEED Points

Dalton, GA, May 28, 2008--BioCel and EnviroCel have developed a new document that describes how their products contribute to points in the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification program.

Studies show that energy-efficient LEED buildings cost less to operate, have higher occupancy rates, enhance occupant health and well-being and increase investment returns compared to their non-LEED counterparts.

However, the LEED certification process, with its complex formulas and calculations, takes considerable commitment and planning on the part of architects and designers.

One common misconception about LEED is that building materials themselves qualify for LEED certification, when in fact it is only a project’s total LEED point score that determines whether the project qualifies for LEED, and if so, which of the three levels of certification it will achieve. Out of a possible 69 elective points, buildings that earn 26 qualify for the standard LEED certification. Silver level requires 33 points, 39 are needed for Gold, and Platinum projects must earn at least 52 points.

The document limits itself to credit categories listed in the LEED for New Construction & Major Renovations protocol, version, 2.2. Other LEED protocols, such as LEED CI for Commercial Interiors, and the still developing LEED for Homes differ somewhat in their requirements for credit.

BioCel and EnviroCel carpet backing products can contribute points in six different LEED categories, including recycled and regional materials, as well as low emitting materials.