Charlottesville, Va.—The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has incorporated the Cradle to Cradle certified program in the latest version of its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Version 4.
McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC) developed the program.
The endorsement of Cradle to Cradle Certified products marks USGBC’s latest commitment to material health and improving the impacts of buildings on the well being of humans and the environment. “We salute USGBC’s courageous leadership in making material health a priority in the face of immense challenge from industry,” said William McDonough, MBDC’s co-founder. “The stand it has taken will help continue its meaningful input as an agent of market transformation.”
Last year, at USGBC’s annual Greenbuild Conference, McDonough delivered the closing keynote address, focusing on material health and a future of abundance for all. He brought clients and partners to the stage with him to make this case.
In addition, USGBC announced a major grant from Google to focus on human health. This is also a milestone for MBDC as it represents a capstone of 25 years of work. Shaw Industries has also been a leader. “A decade ago, Shaw designed the world’s first Cradle to Cradle flooring product,” said Paul Murray, vice president of sustainability and environmental affairs at Shaw. “Today, more than 60% of Shaw’s sales are from Cradle to Cradle certified products.”