While “green” certainly has its place in landscaping circles, the term continues to permeate the world of construction and commercial real estate development. As “green” became more common, everyone began hearing the term L.E.E.D. certification, requirements, and examination. So, just what is L.E.E.D. and how does it factor into your commercial landscape planning?
What is L.E.E.D.?
L.E.E.D., the acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, was formed in the year 2000 and quickly became the standard for buildings and environmental concerns in an endeavor to recycle, preserve, and eliminate natural resource waste. What was a small group of concerned developers and contractors who sought to deliver premium quality work while saving energy and improving communities quickly caught the attention of consumers nationwide.
With the goal to ensure “the performance of each building meets the environmental needs of the community, as well as, the building, itself, maintaining eco-friendlier design.” Today, there is L.E.E.D. certification, requirements, and exam carrying forward the goal and mandated by cities, states, and even the federal government for bringing the green standard to new builds as well as remodels and renovations.
L.E.E.D. certification requirements include the reuse of existing materials, reducing waste, using recycled materials, utilizing natural resources without the destruction of the ecological balance. Projects certified by L.E.E.D. are positive for communities and the world.
Is It Important for Your Commercial Landscape Plan?
The short answer is yes, it is important. L.E.E.D. is a trend that isn’t going away; it is the future of the industry. L.E.E.D. certification signifies the environmental friendliness of your property, measuring the overall impact your property has on the environment. As a property owner it highlights your social responsibility, but also offers financial benefits over time.
The major part of L.E.E.D. certification deals with infrastructure like the appropriate utilization of resources, energy, and water, but your business’ landscaping also plays a significant role. Your commercial landscaper’s expertise in L.E.E.D. certification requirements can help you gain points and a higher level of certification for your business.
Gaining L.E.E.D. Points Through Your Commercial Landscaping
Here are some ways your commercial landscaping can improve your L.E.E.D. score while increasing your property value and curb appeal as well as reducing your overall costs.
- Choose Native Plants
Native plants meet one of L.E.E.D.’s primary goals – the efficient use of water. Native plants flourish without the watering and maintenance needed for more exotic varieties. On top of that, native plants naturally repel pests and fight disease while providing a known habitat for native birds.
- Develop a Green Corridor
Asphalt and cement retain heat, while planting native plants, trees, and grasses along your building’s walls reduce heat, naturally cooling the area.
- Lower Chemical Usage
Rather than using chemicals, pesticides, and fungicides to maintain your landscaping, use natural methods which are not only sustainable but help you maintain healthy soil and turf without harming the environment.
- Harvest Rainwater
Harvesting rainwater by preventing storm water runoff results in environmentally friendly water conservation. Install retention ponds, cisterns, detention ponds, bioswales, and replace your hard surfaces with permeable options like interlocking pavers to accomplish the task.
Xtreme Landscaping can help you achieve social responsibility and environmentally friendly choices in your commercial landscaping by implementing L.E.E.D. requirements. Call today and explore the difference.