This is an optional Innovation & Leadership (IL) credit. IL credits recognize institutions that are seeking innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and demonstrating sustainability leadership in ways that are not otherwise captured in STARS. Scoring in the Innovation and Leadership section is capped at 10 bonus points total.
Credit Language
IL 26: High-Performance Building Certification – version 3.0
Questions & Answers
How has this credit changed between STARS Version 2 and Version 3?
This is a new bonus credit in STARS. A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the STARS 3.0 Summary of changes.
What types of high-performance building certification programs qualify?
To qualify, a building must currently be certified at the highest achievable level under a green building rating system (i.e., Living, Platinum, Outstanding, or equivalent). Examples in a US context include:
- BOMA BEST Platinum
- BREEAM Outstanding
- Certified Living Building
- EDGE Level 3: Zero Carbon
- Fitwell Three Stars
- Four Green Globes Certified
- LEED Platinum
- WELL Platinum
An extensive list of green building certification and rating tools may be found on the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) website.
Suggestions for Institutions
- Work with your buildings management team(s) and similar to determine whether high-performance building certifications have been attained, and/or to consider pursuing such certifications.
- An extensive list of green building certification and rating tools may be found on the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) website.
Example Responses
Potential Data Quality Issues
- Documentation must be provided that at least one building has been certified at the highest achievable level under a green building rating system (e.g., LEED Platinum).