What does the acronym LEED stand for?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. This widely recognized certification program, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is designed to promote green building practices and assess the environmental performance of a building. The emphasis on "leadership" reflects the program's goal of encouraging innovations in sustainable design and construction that help protect the environment while providing a healthy and efficient indoor space for occupants.

The term "Energy and Environmental Design" within the acronym signifies that the certification focuses on improving energy efficiency and reducing the ecological impact of construction and building operations. This covers various aspects, including energy performance, water resource management, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site development. As a result, LEED serves as an essential framework for achieving sustainability in the built environment.