WELL, LEED, & USGBC: The Importance of Health in Buildings
Well-being and healthy lifestyles have always been of importance, but like many other things our ideas and research on healthy living has changed and developed over time. In recent years, this development has led to health in relation to the buildings we spend so much time in. There are so many different ways our health and well-being are affected by our buildings, whether it be from the actual construction of the building to the furnishings and the fumes their finishes can give off. Because of these health concerns, various certifications and councils have been created to bring awareness and standards to our cities and urban structures. The U.S. Green Building Council is one of these groups committed to a healthier and more sustainable norm of building. They have many different programs dedicated to this idea, one of which is LEED. LEED certification is not only for buildings but also for professionals. Through courses and an exam, professionals and even non-professionals can become...