Both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
Sample Question
Why Different Organizations Use Different LEED Implementation Guides
The USACE and AGC, while both involved in the construction industry, have distinct goals and priorities that influence their approach to LEED certification.
USACE's Perspective:
As a government agency, USACE has specific requirements and standards for its projects. 1 The USACE LEED Implementation Guide is tailored to these requirements, ensuring that USACE projects meet federal sustainability goals and regulations. This guide provides detailed guidance on how to achieve LEED certification within the context of USACE projects. 2
AGC's Perspective:
The AGC, as an association representing general contractors, focuses on providing practical guidance and tools to help its members navigate the LEED certification process. Their guides and resources are designed to be more flexible and adaptable to a wider range of projects and organizations.
Why Not Just Use the USGBC LEED Publication?
While the USGBC LEED publication provides comprehensive guidance on LEED certification, it may not always address the specific needs and requirements of particular organizations. For example, USACE has unique sustainability goals and regulations that need to be incorporated into its projects. Additionally, AGC members may have different project types and scales, requiring more tailored guidance.
Specific Example:
- USACE: The USACE guide provides specific guidance on how to achieve LEED certification for military facilities, including considerations for security, durability, and energy efficiency.
- AGC: The AGC's guide offers more general guidance on LEED certification, including tips on project planning, team building, and documentation.
By tailoring their guidance to their specific needs and priorities, both USACE and AGC can help their members achieve LEED certification while meeting their organizational goals.