LEED Certification for Green Associates: Gaining LEED Points Through Collaboration with LEED-Accredited Experts
In the world of sustainable building design, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a highly respected benchmark. One way to earn points under the Innovation category is by having key members of the project team hold the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) designation.
The LEED AP designation, regardless of specialty, only earns the Innovation point. However, the specialty credential must match the rating system of the project. This means that the energy modeler, civil engineer, and general contractor, each with their respective LEED AP credentials, would qualify for the Innovation point if their roles align with the project's rating system.
Principal participants, who are involved in many aspects of the project, such as the owner, architect, engineer, landscape architect, or contractor, can contribute to this Innovation point. Having at least three principal project team members with LEED AP credentials can earn 1 point under the Innovation in Design category.
It's important to note that the LEED AP designation does not contribute points under other specific credit categories like Sustainable Sites or Energy & Atmosphere. Instead, the Innovation category rewards sustainable design strategies and measures not covered under the five main LEED credit categories.
For those preparing for the LEED Green Associate certification exam, practice questions and answers are available online to help candidates prepare. Obtaining this certification can be a stepping stone towards earning the LEED AP designation and contributing to the Innovation points in a project.
In conclusion, having a project team with three LEED Accredited Professionals contributing points through their certifications likely falls under the Innovation category. This not only demonstrates the team's commitment to sustainable design but also helps the project to earn valuable LEED points.
