LEED The Way To Sustainability

Sustainability is by far the most common and on-going trend in Facilities Management.

Oh, how we love such buzz words!

Simply put, “sustainability” is the goal of meeting our current needs without compromising the abilities of future generations to meet their own needs.  It’s all about environmental science in the workplace: energy, waste and water management against environmental impact. To stand out in the industry, a facilities manager must be committed to environmental stewardship and incorporating sustainable practices into day-to-day operations through programs such as recycling, energy efficiency measures, green landscaping, custodial services, clean energy and transportation to name a few.

Most Facilities Management teams have always focused on this because let’s face it, the financial gains as well as the health and safety benefits of pursuing green space cannot be denied. Over the last few years, it’s become mainstream.  When something becomes mainstream, it results in yet another certification to acquire for credibility and proof that you know how to do your job.

LEED is an internationally recognized green building program.  Participation in the voluntary LEED process demonstrates leadership, innovation, environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

What came first The FacMan or the LEED?

There had to be people already implementing measurable programs for the consensus-based program to become market-driven.  Then the market demands a third-party verification standard for an “unbiased” evaluation, and BAM!  Facilities Managers have a necessity for more letters connected to their names.

Don’t get me wrong.  I’m not minimizing the importance of LEED programs or criticizing the certification credentials.  Such certifications have given much needed attention and credibility to a career field often under-valued, if even recognized.  But do they really confirm or deny the knowledge, efforts or initiatives currently in place for many Facilities Managers?  Not always.

The project certifications however, provide benefits beyond personal career goals and objectives in the form of tax credits, zoning allowances and other government initiatives.  Project certifications and professional credentials go hand-in-hand. This being the case, those letters have become a symbol of the trend…

Facilities Managers LEED the way to sustainability.

For more information on obtaining LEED certifications and credentials:  http://new.usgbc.org/leed