WASHINGTON, June 5, 2013 — (PRNewswire) —  In an effort to accelerate sustainable development around the world, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), creators of the LEED green building program, announced today—World Environment Day—a new campaign offering free LEED certification to the first green building projects to certify in the 112 countries where LEED has yet to take root.

Coined "LEED Earth," this campaign aims to bring LEED certification and thereby better-performing buildings into new markets. All building types are welcome to participate across the suite of LEED rating systems.

"LEED is a global language and can become a catalyst for incremental change toward a sustainable future. USGBC is committed to bringing LEED to every country in the world while continuing to foster innovation and achievement in existing global markets," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC. "Buildings are the single greatest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions of any sector, and the least costly way to alleviate the environmental stresses of our changing planet. LEED is the tool to get the job done."

With LEED projects in 140 countries and territories, 1.5 million square feet of construction space earn LEED certification each day, the equivalent of nearly four Empire State Buildings a week. To participate in the program and register a project, contact us at Email Contact. For the campaign's rules and regulations click here. Share your involvement in the campaign or follow updates on Twitter with hashtag #LEEDEarth.

U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building certification program, robust educational offerings, a network of chapters and affiliates, the annual  Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org, and connect on Weibo and  LinkedIn.

SOURCE U.S. Green Building Council