The Hyatt hotel chain just opened it’s first LEED-built hotel in Wyoming, Michigan. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and if you’re in the commercial building business or subcontract to a general contractor in commercial building, take note.
In a nutshell, the LEED program is a series of credits you earn by choosing environmentally friendly alternatives in the building process. Most of the credits go toward energy-related items, but you can rack up significant points by recycling asphalt and construction debris, and using things like porous pavements and biodiesel.
The points aren’t just for feel-good purposes. With them your clients may be able to lower their building operating costs and reap tax advantages and preferential treatment in bids. We anticipate the requirement for LEED design to grow significantly in future government work. For more on how the LEED program works check out the website of the U.S. Green Building Council.
