Overview
Third-Party Verification of Sustainability Performance
Green building certifications provide independent, third-party verification that a building has been designed, constructed, or operated to meet recognized sustainability and environmental performance standards. Two of the most widely recognized programs in North America are LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, and Green Globes®, administered by the Green Building Initiative. Both programs evaluate buildings based on factors such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, sustainable materials, and overall environmental impact.
LEED certification is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and offers certification levels of Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum based on points earned across multiple sustainability categories. Green Globes provides a flexible, assessment-based certification process that evaluates the overall performance of a building and awards ratings ranging from one to four Green Globes. Both certification systems can be applied to new construction projects, existing buildings, tenant improvements, and major renovations.
EIA can help owners, developers, and property managers navigate the certification process, identify cost-effective sustainability strategies, inclusive of public and private incentives, prepare required documentation, and maximize opportunities for certification success.