LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a certification program that recognises buildings, homes, and communities that have been designed and constructed in an environmentally sustainable manner.

For all Project Management companies, it’s essential to understand the LEED certification process and what it means for the projects that we manage. By incorporating sustainable design and construction practices, not only we will be able to contribute to a healthier environment but also ensure the buildings we manage are efficient and healthy for their occupants.

Achieving LEED certification for a building is a rigorous process that requires meeting specific standards in several areas, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and materials selection. The process is divided into several stages: pre-certification, registration, and certification. 

Pre-certification is the first stage, in which the design and construction teams work together to develop a plan that meets the LEED requirements. This includes identifying the specific credits that the project will aim to achieve, and developing a strategy for achieving them. 

Registration is the second stage, in which the project is officially entered into the LEED certification process. This typically involves submitting documentation to verify that the project meets the necessary requirements. 

At Lafferty one of our key responsibilities is to ensure that the projects we manage meet the necessary requirements for LEED certification. This means working closely with the design and construction teams, monitoring progress, and providing guidance and support throughout the process. In Ireland specifically, the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) is an independent organisation who take the role of certifying the building or development. 
Incorporating sustainable design and construction practices not only benefit the environment but also can improve the health, comfort, and productivity of building occupants and it is a win-win situation. Additionally, it can also help attract tenants, and increase the value of the building. 

Overall, the LEED standard is an important benchmark for environmentally sustainable design and construction. As a project management company in Ireland, understanding and working towards this standard is not only a responsible decision but also a way to create more sustainable and valuable assets for the communities we serve.