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GREEN

A term now extensively used to describe buildings designed and constructed with a minimum negative impact to the environment, with an emphasis on conservation of resources, energy efficiency, and healthful interior spaces.

SUSTAINABILITY

The concept that new development must meet the needs of the present without compromising those of the future. Sustainability is measured in three interdependent dimensions: environment, economics, and society—often referred to as the “triple bottom line.”


LEEDsearch for term

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED is a point-based rating system developed by the US Green Building Council that evaluates the environmental performance from a “whole building” perspective over the building’s life cycle, providing a definitive standard for what constitutes a green building according to six categories. Buildings are rated as either Silver, Gold, or Platinum, in ascending order of performance quality.

Copyright 2009 Chicago Community Loan Fund