Buildings are estimated to gobble up around 40% of the total energy used in the United States.  Efficient and innovative technologies can be used to reduce this energy load, while providing a healthier work and learning environment. 

Reflective of these principles, a prominent theme in the recent building history at UMD has been incorporating sustainable aspects into new buildings.  Sustainable buildings result in reduced energy usage, efficient use of water resources (both indoors and landscaping), and take advantage of recycled-content materials and regionally produced products. 

Why LEED?

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a "green building" rating system established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).   According to the USGBC, LEED enables project teams to deliver certified performance for their buildings. Third-party certification through the independent Green Building Certification Institute assures that LEED buildings are constructed and operated as intended. 

Participation in the voluntary and technically rigorous LEED process demonstrates leadership, innovation and environmental stewardship at UMD.  LEED points are assigned in five categories that reflect both the environmental and societal benefits of sustainable buildings:  Sustainable Site Development , Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality.

The UMD campus has two LEED-certified buildings; the Labovitz School of Business and Economics, (certified Gold), and Life Sciences (certified Silver).  Two current projects under construction will also seek LEED ratings: Civil Engineering and Bagley Nature Area Outdoor Classroom.

This is the first installment of a mini-series featuring LEED at UMD. In the upcoming weeks, we will explore the LEED buildings on campus and their features.