Penn State has developed and implemented a University policy that guides sustainable elements in the design and construction of University facilities in accordance with USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). All new buildings at Penn State will be, at a minimum, LEED certified.

LEED is a rating system for sustainable building development. LEED-certified buildings must meet high standards for indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and water conservation. They must also feature recycled, renewable, or locally-sourced materials. LEED is administered by the U.S. Green Building Council, a nonprofit coalition of building industry leaders headquartered in Washington, DC. There are four levels of certification: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Certified.