As the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) LEED version 4 opens up to voting by its members, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) encourages its stakeholders to vote yes on the standard, but also encourages the USGBC to "initiate a dialogue about a small but significant part of the standard, the meaning of USGBC-approved equivalent," in a press release sent today.
LEED version 3 awards points for the use of FSC-certified wood as well as any "USGBC-approved equivalent." FSC argues that a certification system should have to be rigorous, comprehensive, consensus-based, verifiable and more.
"Leadership standards go well beyond what is required by law and must require on-the-ground performance as opposed to just plans. And they are managed by open, member-based organizations with member-elected boards of directors. A true leadership standard has all key interests represented, and prevents any one interest from exerting undue influence," the release read.
To vote on the LEED v4 standard, stakeholders must have opted in back in April. Members may cast their ballots here.
