What is a LEED-accredited professional?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

A Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professional is an individual that is qualified in one or several green building specializations that apply to sustainable energy use in the building of structures, their interiors, and any related systems throughout.

LEED is the most respected and widely used green building rating system in the whole world. It has seven areas of concentration:

Sustainable sites
Water efficiency
Energy and atmosphere
Materials and resources
Indoor environmental quality
Innovation in design process
Regional priority

Currently, LEED offers three main tiers of LEED professional credentials:

LEED Green Associate
The LEED Green Associate credential is for professionals who want to demonstrate green building knowledge and expertise in non-technical fields of practice, to denote basic knowledge of green design, construction, and operations. LEED Green Associates have a proven, and current understanding of green building principles, protocols, and procedures.
LEED-Accredited Professional with Specialty
The LEED AP with specialty credential is designed for professionals that have advanced knowledge in green building practices and with specialization in a particular LEED rating system. The LEED AP credential is divided into different types of specializations. Each credential is designed to show core knowledge of a specific LEED rating system.
Here is the list of all LEED AP specialties:
- LEED AP Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
- LEED AP Interior Design and Construction (LEED AP ID+C)
- LEED AP Operations and Maintenance (LEED AP O+M)
- LEED AP Neighborhood Development (LEED AP ND)
- LEED AP Homes
Professionals might pursue one, several, or all of these credentials depending on the specific role they hold.
LEED Fellow
A LEED Fellow credential signifies the most exceptional professionals in the industry of green building. This is the most prestigious designation that can be awarded. LEE Fellows often boast these qualities and credentials:
- Mastery of technical knowledge and skills in green building
- Significant contributions to green building research
- Have acted in a mentor or teaching capacity within the industry
- Display exceptional leadership qualities
- Have demonstrated impact service, commitment, and advocacy for green building and sustainability