What does it mean to build sustainably?
Sustainability and green building are terms that are often used but not always defined. What does it mean if a building or project is green? In an effort to determine and measure this, different rating systems and standards have formed over the past few decades, along with version updates as new information and technology has developed. Some standards focus on the built environment holistically, while others focus on specific aspects such as equity, energy, health and wellbeing, or the natural spaces around buildings.
Buildings or projects that achieve metrics as outlined in a respective standard are designated as being certified in that standard. WIth most rating systems, individuals can become credentialed to designate their expertise in the system and certification process.
At Green Building United, we provide education on all these rating systems and standards, and support the value each brings to advancing our vision of a sustainable, healthy, and resilient built environment for all. Below is an overview of standards and certification/credentialing bodies. If you think one is missing from the list, please contact Marjorie Alexander so we can continue to grow our resource library.
