Comparative Analysis of LEED-NCv3.0 with LEED-NCv2.2

Energy crisis and environmental awareness in the society has forced the construction industry to rethink the current design and construction practices, and adopt more sustainable approaches. To build sustainable environment and achieve optimum comfort, the construction industry utilizes various sustainability rating systems. Among the available rating systems, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has emerged as one of the most adopted in United States. Since the initial launch in 1998, LEED has evolved over the years. This study presents a comparative analysis of the requirements for the credits/ prerequisites and measurement approach of the most recent LEED v3.0 in respect to the preceding LEED v2.2. Results indicate that requirements for majority of the credits have remained unchanged in LEED v3.0. A shift toward system based approach in LEED v3.0 was noticed in comparison to the preceding version. Finally, some recommendations have been offered for future version of LEED.