There is green certification available for people, products, and buildings. In regards to green certification for individuals, the U.S. Green Building Council can certify you as a LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional). You don’t necessarily have to be a contractor, architect, or designer, but you have to possess a familiarity and fluency with the terms and technical aspects of green building and design. Therefore, anyone who’s an interior designer, appraiser, subcontractor, or business professional can attain a LEED Accredited Professional credential. NARI and NAHB are both national contractor organizations that hold weekend seminars which offer exposure to green building and provide another form of certification.
There are a variety of accredited universities that are offering a formal education in green business and sustainability, including Bachelors and MBA programs. There are 3 campuses in the San Francisco area that offer Green MBA programs, and Sonoma State University offers a Green Bachelors program. Eugene, Oregon offers the only accredited architecture program that has the green theme integrated across to curriculum. A university education in green business offers a more expanded knowledge base and repertoire. When combined with a LEED AP certification and a variety of green building seminars, it’s an excellent expansion of experience and offers additional credibility in the world of green business.
This article was written on 11/11/2008