Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation can be a requirement for certain professions. However, it can also be a good way to learn more about sustainability and green building design.

Here, the Real Property Association of Canada’s (REALpac) Julia St. Michael explains why she decided to become accredited despite it not being a mandatory prerequisite for her position.

Why did you decide to pursue the LEED Accredited Professional (AP) program?

I came into real estate from a science background as I did my first degree in biology followed by a post-graduate program in applied biotechnology. It was while studying for my MBA that I was exposed to real estate and sustainability, and was inspired to pursue a career along that path.

My professor, and the previous CEO at REALpac, Michael Brooks, encouraged me to study for and take the LEED AP exam as I was working on a number of projects related to green buildings, and it was a good way to gain exposure to green building rating systems and best practices. As I learned more about sustainability and green buildings, my passion for this area of real estate grew and, thus, my interest in learning more and becoming more involved grew as well.

How has the program helped you in your career?

My current role does not require me to have this accreditation as I am not a consultant, project manager or architect that works directly on green buildings. But having the LEED AP accreditation has helped give me a foundation of knowledge as well as a structure through which to continue to learn and progress. I also feel that becoming involved in the green building community, through accreditation and becoming a member of supporting organizations such as my local chapter of the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC), has opened new doors for my career. Opportunities for networking, furthering education, and becoming more involved in new programs and initiatives are offered regularly.

Also, through learning about LEED – and becoming more familiar with other rating systems from around the world (for example, BOMA BESt, BREEAM and Green Star) – I have been able to use many of the core concepts and principles to inform my work.

Most of the sustainability activities and initiatives I am involved in touch upon the key performance areas within human health and environment that are the common focus of green building rating systems around the world, in addition to other topics such as governance and reporting. Tasks such as engaging in discussions with members and stakeholders about upcoming issues, developing national energy and water benchmarking programs, and writing technical guidelines are often aligned with the holistic approach to sustainable buildings that is promoted by LEED.

Why have you continued to renew your accreditation?

I am continuing to maintain my credentials because I believe there is value not only in the public declaration and recognition of achieving a certain level of knowledge but in the maintenance and continuing education process itself. As the green building industry changes, rating systems as well as standards, guidance, policies and best practices will also change, thus, necessitating a process for professionals to update their knowledge and understanding.

Do you have advice for someone thinking about pursuing the LEED education program?

For someone who is passionate about the environment and sustainability, whether or not he/she is currently working in the real estate industry, the educational opportunities offered through the LEED AP accreditation or Green Building Councils are invaluable for increasing both knowledge and passion for greening the built environment.

There is a wealth of information online about the LEED rating system, the accreditation paths and the organizations that administer the programs such as the U.S. Green Building Council, the Green Building Certification Institute and the CaGBC.

Julia St. Michael is the manager of research and environmental programs at the Real Property Association of Canada (REALpac). Since joining REALpac in 2009, Julia spearheaded the development of the REALpac energy normalization methodology and managed the growth and implementation of the REALpac Energy Benchmarking program.