WASHINGTON — Metro's headquarters building at L'Enfant Plaza has been certified as LEED Platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council for its sustainability. This is the highest LEED certification there is.
The process to become LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified requires thorough documentation demonstrating compliance with detailed standards in the following areas:
- Site sustainability
- Water efficiency
- Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
- Materials and natural resources
- Indoor environmental quality
- Overall carbon footprint
LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world.
From the materials used to the ways a building manages waste, everything done during a building project adds up to a point system that helps you earn a certification.
The more points, the better the sustainability of the building.
There are four levels of LEED certification, with Platinum at the top:
- Certified
- Silver
- Gold
- Platinum
Metro earned Platinum for its new headquarters building at L'Enfant Plaza.
The building design and construction were both certified under LEED Version 4.
It is one of only two Version 4 projects to receive this certification in Washington, D.C., and one of only 13 projects to receive LEED Platinum certification for Building Design and Construction in Washington, D.C.
Through LEED certification, buildings can earn tax credits, save money on operational costs, and make an impact on all who live, work, and visit their building.
A flat upfront fee is required to get registered, and then another fee is required on the completion of a project.
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