What's New on LEED v4.1- Part 1 / by Admin

Why does the LEED rating system matter in the market?

Looking at the global greenhouse gas emissions by sector, we can tell the building industry is responsible for about one-third of global emissions.

LEED is a voluntary certification, unlike building codes or local regulations focusing on building's minimum compliances. LEED's goal is to improve the industry's sustainable practice. With more projects and participants joining the movement, LEED's sustainable metrics could transform the building market and further reach zero environmental impact in the future.

For enhanced learning experience, can check this course to see how USGBC’s original vision to transform the building industry by promoting the LEED rating system.

 
 

What is LEED v4.1?

USGBC launched LEED v4 rating system in 2013. After reviewing years of sustainable project proposals, in January 2019, USGBC continued to publish LEED v4.1, an update to the LEED version 4 rating system. LEED v4.1 raises the bar on building standards by emphasizing performance monitoring, integrated design, social equity, and human health factors. At the same time, USGBC also made changes to credit requirements to be more achievable and more marketable for measuring sustainable performance.

What's new in LEED v4.1?

There are currently three ways to participate in LEED v4.1 during the transition phase:

  • Register a LEED v4.1 project

  • Upgrade a LEED v.4 project

  • Substitute LEED v4.1 credits

Here is the summary of the adjusted credits and updates.


Notes and reference:

  • “With LEED v4.1, USGBC made changes to credit requirements that intend to ensure leadership, increase achievability, expand the market for LEED and measure performance.” How LEEDv4.1 addresses embodied carbon, USGBC (May 2019)