LEED Projects Doubled in 2008

USGBC is optimistic that the growth in LEED projects will continue in spite of the recent economic upheaval. “We’re feeling confident that this truly represents a shift in the market,” said Rachel Gutter, senior manager for the education sector at USGBC. Gutter noted that despite, or even because of, the slowdown in new construction, property owners are looking for ways to upgrade existing facilities.

With the LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance program recently revamped and the launch of a LEED portfolio program on the horizon in late 2009, USGBC is ready to manage a surge in greening existing facilities, Gutter said. “We could double registration overnight if a few key retailers signed on” to the portfolio program, she said.