simplification

"This is a start to LEED being not just 'one size fits all,'" while eliminating the potential of hundreds of possible standards, Horst said. Under the new system, projects earning 40 to 49 points would be certified. Projects earning 50 to 59 points would achieve silver status. Projects with 60 to 79 credits would achieve Gold status, with 80 points and above earning Platinum status.

The updated system now being considered also weights various categories differently, with energy and atmospheric options, transportation and water issues gaining more prominence as concerns about ozone depletion--now slowly rectifying itself--subside. It applies to all sectors except homes and neighborhood development, which currently are excluded from this revision, Horst said.

"One of the really interesting things this allows us to do is say, 'Let's look at how we as a public deal with environmental issues,'" Horst said. "Ultimately, they're still somewhat subjective. We've discussed it and are now passing it on."

The proposed new scorecard is open to public comment until June 22. A revised scorecard will once again be released for a second round of public comment in August, with voting by USGBC members only in September. "We can [then] launch in January 2009 with all the supporting infrastructure," including a new LEED web site, Horst said. "We can have green buildings for everyone within a generation."

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Revised LEED To Simplify, Regionalize Certification

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