Introduction

Green building practices are essential for creating environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient, and resource-conscious structures that promote occupant health and reduce environmental impact. The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is a globally recognized standard for green buildings, providing a framework for sustainability and best practices in design, construction, and operations.

This 5-day training course equips participants with the knowledge and skills to implement green building practices and navigate the LEED certification process. Participants will learn about sustainable design principles, energy and water efficiency, materials selection, and strategies to achieve LEED certification for new and existing buildings.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the principles and benefits of green building practices.
2. Gain a detailed understanding of the LEED certification system and its requirements.
3. Learn strategies to optimize energy, water, and resource efficiency in buildings.
4. Develop skills for implementing sustainable materials and waste management practices.
5. Explore methods to improve indoor environmental quality (IEQ).
6. Learn how to document and manage the LEED certification process effectively.
7. Build a framework for integrating sustainability into building operations and maintenance.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• Facilities Managers and Sustainability Officers
• Architects and Designers
• Construction Project Managers
• Engineers and Building Professionals
• Real Estate Developers and Property Managers
• Anyone involved in the design, construction, or operation of green buildings

Course Outline

Day 1: Introduction to Green Building and LEED Certification

Session 1: Principles of Green Building

• What is Green Building?
• Environmental, Social, and Economic Benefits of Green Building Practices
• Key Components of Green Buildings

Session 2: Overview of the LEED Certification System

• LEED Rating Systems: New Construction, Existing Buildings, Interior Design, and More
• Understanding LEED Certification Levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum
• Categories and Points in the LEED Scoring System

Session 3: LEED Certification Process

• Steps to Achieve LEED Certification
• Registering a Project with the US Green Building Council (USGBC)
• Managing Documentation and Submissions for LEED Certification

Activity: Group Exercise – Reviewing the LEED Scoring System and Identifying Project Opportunities

Day 2: Energy and Water Efficiency in Green Buildings

Session 1: Energy Efficiency Strategies

• Optimizing HVAC Systems and Building Envelope Design
• Implementing Renewable Energy Solutions (e.g., Solar, Wind)
• Using Energy Modeling and Simulation Tools

Session 2: Water Efficiency Strategies

• Designing Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures and Efficient Irrigation Systems
• Implementing Water Reuse and Rainwater Harvesting Systems
• Monitoring and Reducing Water Usage in Buildings

Session 3: Energy and Water Performance Monitoring

• Using Building Management Systems (BMS) for Energy and Water Monitoring
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Energy and Water Efficiency
• Tracking Progress Toward LEED Energy and Water Goals

Activity: Practical Exercise – Creating an Energy and Water Efficiency Plan for a Building

Day 3: Sustainable Materials and Waste Management

Session 1: Selecting Sustainable Materials

• Identifying Eco-Friendly Materials for Construction and Operations
• Understanding Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) of Materials
• Procuring Materials Locally to Reduce Environmental Impact

Session 2: Waste Reduction and Management

• Construction Waste Management Best Practices
• Recycling and Reuse Strategies in Building Operations
• Aligning Waste Management Practices with LEED Requirements

Session 3: Green Supply Chain Management

• Engaging Vendors and Suppliers in Sustainability Goals
• Managing Certifications and Labels for Sustainable Products
• Reducing Embodied Carbon in Building Materials

Activity: Case Study – Developing a Sustainable Materials and Waste Management Plan

Day 4: Indoor Environmental Quality and Sustainable Site Development

Session 1: Improving Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

• Optimizing Ventilation and Air Quality in Buildings
• Selecting Low-Emitting Materials for Healthy Indoor Environments
• Managing Lighting and Thermal Comfort for Occupant Well-Being

Session 2: Sustainable Site Development

• Designing Green Roofs, Urban Landscaping, and Open Spaces
• Reducing Heat Island Effects with Cool Roofs and Reflective Materials
• Managing Stormwater and Erosion Control on Construction Sites

Session 3: Transportation and Connectivity

• Promoting Alternative Transportation Options for Occupants
• Incorporating EV Charging Stations and Bike Parking
• Enhancing Walkability and Access to Public Transportation

Activity: Workshop – Developing an IEQ Improvement and Sustainable Site Plan

Day 5: LEED Certification and Future Trends in Green Building

Session 1: Documenting and Managing the LEED Process

• Preparing and Submitting LEED Documentation
• Managing the LEED Online Platform and Working with Consultants
• Conducting Final Reviews and Preparing for Certification

Session 2: Continuous Improvement in Green Building Practices

• Monitoring Building Performance Post-Certification
• Implementing Continuous Commissioning for Long-Term Efficiency
• Achieving Recertification for Existing Buildings

Session 3: Future Trends in Green Building and Sustainability

• Emerging Technologies: Smart Buildings, IoT, and AI for Green Buildings
• Advancing ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Goals in Real Estate
• Preparing for New Regulations and Market Trends in Sustainability

Activity: Group Exercise – Developing a Strategic Plan for Achieving LEED Certification for a Sample Project

Course Delivery Methods

• Interactive Lectures: Delivered by green building and LEED-certified professionals.
• Workshops and Practical Exercises: Hands-on activities for energy, water, and material planning.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful green building and LEED certification projects.
• Simulations: Scenarios for managing LEED documentation and addressing certification challenges.
• Collaborative Group Discussions: Peer learning to explore sustainability challenges and solutions.