The U.S. Green Building Council is formalizing its commitment to net zero projects with a new LEED Zero certification program that encourages a holistic approach to building operations and resources.

LEED Zero is open to all LEED projects certified under the BD+C, ID+C or O+M rating systems, or projects registered to pursue LEED O+M certification. LEED projects can achieve LEED Zero certification when they demonstrate any or one of the following:

• net zero carbon emissions;
• net zero energy use;
• net zero water use; or
• net zero waste.

LEED Zero is part of the USGBC’s lead-up to LEED Positive, in which buildings will be recognized for generating more energy than they use and removing more carbon than they produce.