LEED V3 The LEED green building certification program’s greatest strength lies in its consensus-based, transparent, ongoing development cycle. On April 27, 2009, the next version of LEED will launch. The ability to be flexible allows LEED to evolve, taking advantage of new technologies and advancements in building science while prioritizing energy efficiency and CO2 emissions reductions. LEED AP New Credentialing System In the new tiered system: There will be three tiers of excellence for a professional to pursue. This improves upon the current exam system by providing a mechanism to recognize knowledge and expertise beyond a basic understanding of green building practices. A tiered credentialing system allows the marketplace to distinguish among practitioners with fundamental, advanced, and extraordinary levels of knowledge. There will be eligibility requirements and credentialing maintenance requirements for all tiers of the new system. As sustainable technologies advance and the LEED Rating System evolves, LEED credentialing needs a mechanism to ensure that LEED Professionals have the latest knowledge and understanding of green building practices. Tier I: LEED Green Associate: As the first step in the LEED professional’s career pathway, the Green Associate credential attests to the candidate’s knowledge of good environmental practice and skill, and reflects understanding and support of green design, construction, and operations. There are no specialties within the LEED Green Associate tier. Tier II: LEED AP+: The LEED AP+ credential signifies an advanced depth of knowledge of green building practices.  LEED AP+s will earn their credentials in one (or more) of the following five specialties: Building Design & Construction (BD&C) Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Interior Design & Construction (ID&C) Homes Neighborhood Development (ND) Tier III: LEED AP Fellow: Although the application process is currently under development, this tier will distinguish an elite class of leading professionals. Fellows contribute to the standards of practice and body of knowledge for achieving continuous improvement in the green building field.