Some states provide that public schools must reach certain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.[v] LEED standards for new public education facilities do not extend to reach private institutions. However, in order to stay competitive, private institutions may institute their own sustainability standards. It is almost as if having LEED standards has become a marketing tool for higher education institutions.
Many private institutions have already sought to have environmental standards that match LEED standards. Stanford University is one of those private higher education institution attempting to match LEED environmental standards. However, Stanford University has taken LEED standards and tailored them to meet its institution’s goals and needs.[vi] California does not have a statute requiring LEED standards in higher education, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. Private higher education institutions must compete with their public counterparts across the country and not just within their state. If students are interested in sustainability, all higher education institutions should be as well.
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[v] See D.C. Code § 6-1451.03 in regards to a privately-owned building or project needing to reach certain LEED standards for public schools and see Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 39.35D.040 (West) also in regards to public schools needing to meet certain LEED standards on new projects/construction.
[vi] “The Role of the LEED Green Building Rating System in Higher Education: Recent Trends and Status” by Brooks Dougherty, from September 25, 2010.
