A new set of Global Alternative Compliance Paths (Global ACPs) are now available for commercial projects pursuing LEED green building certification using the 2009 versions of the rating systems. Global ACPs offer a flexible method for projects around the world to demonstrate compliance with the LEED credits that are traditionally more challenging for projects outside of the United States.
“Global consistency and a regional approach mean providing flexibility in referenced standards while ensuring that LEED certification signifies the same level of excellence worldwide,” says Scot Horst, senior vice president, LEED, USGBC. “By focusing on global standards and solutions, these ACPs make LEED increasingly flexible and ensure a common language for all green buildings.”
With a growing stock of existing buildings throughout Europe, members of the LEED International Roundtable including Finland, France, Norway, Poland, Romania, Spain, Sweden and Turkey, led by Green Building Council Italia, are working to address the growing needs of their area by developing LEED credit options that address geographic and regional issues.
Additionally, new Regional Priority Credits have been released for projects using the 2009 versions of LEED for New Construction, and are for use in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Turkey.
If project teams achieve a Regional Priority Credit, they receive a bonus point in addition to their project’s total points. The additional LEED points available encourage projects to pursue credits that address unique regional environmental priorities.
To learn more about the Global and Regional ACPs, visit www.usgbc.org/leed.
