LEED Credits

Each rating system is made up of a combination of credit categories.

Within each of the credit categories, there are specific prerequisites projects must satisfy and a variety of credits projects can pursue to earn points. The number of points the project earns determines its level of LEED certification.

Integrative Process

requirements, while not a credit category, promote reaching across disciplines to incorporate diverse team members during the pre-design period.

Location and transportation

credits reward projects within relatively dense areas, near diverse uses, with access to a variety of transportation options, or on sites with development constraints.

Materials and Resources

credits encourage using sustainable building materials and reducing waste. Indoor environmental quality credits promote better indoor air quality and access to daylight and views.

Water efficiency

credits promote smarter use of water, inside and out, to reduce potable water consumption.

Energy and atmosphere

credits promote better building energy performance through innovative strategies.

Sustainable sites

credits encourage strategies that minimize the impact on ecosystems and water resources.

Indoor environmental quality

credits promote better indoor air quality and access to daylight and views.

Innovation

credits address sustainable building expertise as well as design measures not covered under the five LEED credit categories.

Regional priority credits

address regional environmental priorities for buildings in different geographic regions.

LEED for Neighborhood Development additional credit categories

Smart location & linkage

credits promote walkable neighborhoods with efficient transportation options and open space.

Neighborhood pattern & design

credits emphasize compact, walkable, vibrant, mixed-use neighborhoods with good connections to nearby communities.

Green infrastructure & buildings

credits reduce the environmental consequences of the construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure.