This month, the total footprint of commercial projects certified under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Green Building Rating System surpassed one billion square feet. Another six billion square feet of projects are registered and currently working toward LEED certification around the world.

“This traction demonstrates the transformation of the way we design, build and operate buildings,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC.  “Not only does green building contribute to saving energy, water and money, it also creates green jobs that will grow and energize our economy.”

The milestone is a testament to the global effort to meet USGBC’s vision that buildings and communities will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within this generation. LEED is the preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings.   

“The impact of these one billion square feet can be seen in communities around the world,” said Peter Templeton, President of the Green Building Certification Institute, the certifying body for LEED projects. “The use of LEED represents a growing global commitment to improving our built environment for future generations.”

Since it was first introduced to the marketplace in 2000, over 36,000 commercial projects and 38,000 single-family homes have participated in LEED. By consuming less energy, LEED-certified buildings save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to healthier environments for residents, workers and the community.