The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED rating system), a program of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) first published in 1999, is a voluntary national standard for green buildings. LEED certification demonstrates a dedication to sustainability and energy efficiency.
Recognized certification categories and associated points in LEED, version 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations, (updated from versions 2.2, 2.1 and 2.0) include: