definitions
- Climate Change:
- Greenhouse gases (CO2, methane, nitrous oxide) occur naturally and help trap the heat that keeps the earth warm. With the rise of electricity generation and fossil fuel-powered transportation, the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has grown exponentially, causing more heat to get trapped in the atmosphere and temperatures on the planet to rise. Temperatures are expected to continue rising unless the use of fossil fuels is curbed.
- VOCs:
- Volatile Organic Compounds are able to turn into vapor and enter the atmosphere. Aldehydes, ketones and hydrocarbons are all examples of VOCs. These compounds may pollute soil and groundwater and can create air pollution. Products containing VOCs include paint thinners, cleaning products, paint, gasoline and wood preservatives.
- LEED:
- The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The standard seeks to certify aspects of environmentally friendly buildings. There are four levels of certification — LEED Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum — and buildings are rated in accordance with the following criteria: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. Buildings may also achieve points based on environmental innovation.