A snapshot of USGBC

To really understand what underpins a rating system as well as what that system is intended to achieve , we need solid information abouyt the organization that has developed and is promoting the system . That is as true of green building guidelines as it would be of any system , product , or process , lest we risk putting our faith blindly in a faceless organization . So let's take a look inside USGBC' organization function .

  Nationallyt , USGBC is an organization of organizations . This may seem a little odd until you get your mind around it . Member companies , such as your firm or business , can join USVGBC for an annual fee that is scaled based on the firm's gross annual revenua . USGBC's membership categories are wide -ranging : a broad spectrum of industry scectors and a diverse array of USGBC's membership ranks . More than likely , your oranization will fit within one of USGBC's membership categories ( as listed on the USGBC's  Website ) .

• Contractors and Builders
• Corporate and Retails
• Educational Institutions ( K-12 , Universities and Research Institutions ) .
• Federal Government and Government-Owned Organizations
• Insurance Companies and Financial Institutions
• Nonprofit and Environmental Organizzation
• Product Manufacturers , Building Controls , Service Contrctors and Distributors .

- Professional FIrms ( Architects , Accountants , Engineers , Planners , Press , etc )
Professional Societies and Trade Associations .
-Real Estate and Real Estate Service Providers
-State and Local Governments
- Utilities and Energy Service Companies .

When a firm becomes a USGBC member a the national elvel , that membership allows all of the members organizations's employees to receive discounts on member services through USGBC's web site . It also allows the member company's employees to serve on UYSGBC committees , including the LEED development committees and local chapter boards . Additioonal financial benefits include discounts to attend USG- BC's national conference and local workshop and to purchase reference materials such as the LEED Reference Guides .