LEED v4.1 is quickly gaining traction within the industry as more projects are certified under the LEED v4.1 beta version. LEED v4.1 integrates performance outcomes supported by new methodologies and data-driven paths to measure performance. The latest project to be certified under LEED v4.1 is the Alliance Center in Colorado.

The Alliance Center is a nonprofit collaborative working space located in downtown Denver. The Alliance Center is a place where non-profit organizations, businesses, government agencies, academic institutions and community members collaborate to create sustainability-focused solutions. The Alliance Center has become a living laboratory to study energy efficiency, water efficiency, waste diversion, and workplace wellness.

The Alliance Center was recertified as a LEED Platinum facility under LEED v4.1 Operations and Maintenance (LEED v4.1 O+M). “Recertification has allowed them to fully quantify their investments and contributions in making this planet a better place and ensure their building is providing benefits to their occupants and local community,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC.

The Alliance Center reduces energy consumption by using high-efficiency and smart heating and cooling systems with integrated controls. In addition, the walled offices and conference rooms utilize natural light whenever possible. All equipment and appliances are Energy-Star certified.

To reduce water consumption, the LEED v4.1 project uses ultra-low-flow, including waterless urinals. Additional sustainable features include using recycled materials, certified wood, and no-VOC materials. The Alliance Center has diverted 80% of waste from the facility. Finally, the facility offers yoga and meditation classes to promote wellness.

In a previous blog, How Can Building Product Manufacturers Improve LEED v4.1? , we discussed how manufacturers can participate in LEED v4.1. Companies that develop Health Product Declarations (HPDs)  and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) can contribute to LEED v4.1. HPDs and EPDs contribute points under LEED v4 and may contribute even more points under the final version of the latest system.

Many building product manufacturers offer outdated LEED product sheets on their websites. LEED v4 was launched in 2013, yet many companies still have old LEED sheets posted online and in their brochures. Manufacturers who wish to participate in LEED v4.1 projects, would be wise to update their LEED documentation and develop HPDs.

Has your company prepared for LEED v4.1? Has your team developed LEED v4 product documentation, HPDs, and EPDs?