Many of Conco’s Projects have LEED Certification

Many of the projects that The Conco Companies are involved with incorporate energy efficient and “green” sustainable features to not only construct better buildings but also to achieve LEED certification.  So what is LEED and why would the construction industry try to achieve a higher LEED rating?  To start with, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely recognized green building rating system in the world. 

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) started LEED in 1998 with the intent to provide third-party guidelines for the building industry to design, construct, and operate buildings that provide the most optimal environment as possible.  The standards used by LEED are reviewed and publically updated periodically by the USGBC that has almost 20,000 members.  LEED is important as it promotes and rewards energy efficiency along with the protection of renewable resources. 

USGBC explains that for new construction, achieving a higher LEED certification can improve the market demand for the building over non-LEED certified buildings.  Furthermore, the occupants of a LEED rated building benefit by being in a healthier environment.

The LEED system uses certifications based on the organization’s guidelines to recognize buildings that achieve these goals.  Certifications include Silver, Gold, and Platinum (the highest achievement).  At each level, the following five categories determine how points are awarded:  Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. 

Certification levels are improved by such things as installing heating and cooling systems as well as energy-efficient appliances.  Ratings are also improved with the use of recycled materials.  Additional recognition may be achieved in other categories such as Innovation in Design or Regional Priorities.  Points in Regional Priorities are earned when a builder is recognized for going to great lengths to lessen or eliminate the harmful impact on an area’s sensitive environment.  LEED endorsements are used for commercial and industrial buildings, residential homes and whole neighborhood projects.  

 

The Conco Companies is one of the leading concrete contractors in the Western U.S. and offer a wide range of quality services and products.  While we tackle projects both big and small, our experience includes providing the complete concrete package for the Levi’s Stadium along with other notable projects.  We serve California, Washington State, Oregon, Colorado and Nevada.