In 2006, USGBC challenged the building industry to earn LEED certification for 100,000 commercial buildings and 1 million homes by 2010. This challenge represents the level at which the building industry must adopt green building practices in order to do its part in stabilizing greenhouse emissions.
In order to support this challenge, USGBC developed the Portfolio Program, which enables companies and building owners to integrate LEED into their new and existing building projects using a cost-effective, streamlined certification process.
Background
Every year, buildings are responsible for 39% of U.S. CO2 emissions, use 71% of the nation’s electricity, and account for 70% of all landfill waste. Green buildings – both commercial and residential – are an immediate and measurable part of the solution to climate change. They use less energy, water, and natural resources; create less waste; and are more comfortable for their occupants. Ultimately, green buildings can significantly reduce greenhouse emissions and energy dependence while improving the health and productivity of their occupants.
Program Goals
The primary goals of USGBC’s Portfolio Program are to:
- Assist participants in integrating green building design, construction, and operations into their standard business practices using LEED technical standards and guidance;
- Provide a cost-effective path to achieving LEED certification on a volume scale;
- Recognize companies for significant green building commitments and achievements;
- Foster a network of investors, developers, owners, and managers committed to systemically greening their building portfolios; and
- Support participating organizations in fulfilling their sustainability commitments by providing solid performance metrics that can be given to stakeholders.
Pilot Program
The Portfolio Program pilot was launched in November 2006. The pilot includes 40 participating companies and institutions and covers 1700 buildings and approximately 135 million square feet of building space. The Pilot is currently closed to additional participants.
Pilot participants represent a cross section of market sectors, including institutional investors, financial institutions, hoteliers, retailers, higher education, and corporations. USGBC is working with pilot participants to develop volume certification submittal documentation, quality control and education plans, policy language, and other resources that will help integrate the adoption of LEED into the standard design, construction, and operations practices of participating organizations.
To express interest in participating in the USGBC's Portfolio Program please fill out this form and e-mail it to portfolioprogram@usgbc.org
