Military Facilities Reap Huge Benefits From Using LEED, Says Independent Study

Words: Bronzella Cleveland, Cory Sekine-pettite, David Bolt, Ken Wilson, Diana Horvat, Edward Sullivan, Matthew Bell

The Department of Defense has released the findings of an independent report on energy efficiency and sustainability standards used by the Pentagon for military construction. The report affirmed the value of LEED-certified, high-performing buildings to America's military and U.S. taxpayers.

"LEED has played a significant role in reducing energy and water bills in public sector buildings across the country, saving taxpayers money and contributing to the nation's security," said Roger Platt, senior VP of Global Policy and Law, U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). "This important, new, independent study from the National Research Council concludes that the LEED green building certification program should continue to be used in Defense Department buildings to advance energy efficiency in construction and reduce operational costs.

"Using LEED at Pentagon installations is a win-win proposition for the country and for the military personnel these buildings serve," Platt continued. "While the study looked only at energy efficiency, LEED is a proven tool for also saving water, reducing waste and improving indoor environmental quality, benefitting the health and well being of building occupants, and certainly our military personnel deserve no less."

The full report can found online here. For more information on LEED-Certified buildings in the public sector, visit the USGBC’s website.

The Cornerstone of Success: Safety and Documentation in Masonry
April 2025

The masonry industry plays a vital role in constructing our homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Yet, beneath the enduring beauty of brick and stone lies a complex and often hazardous work environment. Ensuring the safety of workers and maintaining docu

How It's Made: Natural Stone Veneer
April 2025

Natural stone veneer is a durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing building material that has been used for centuries. It adds timeless beauty to masonry projects while offering structural integrity and resilience. But how does natural stone veneer

Vibing Masonry #5 - The Evolution of Concrete Masonry Units: From Ancient Foundations to Modern Innovations
April 2025

Early Development: The Genesis of Concrete Blocks (early Rome to 1900s) The history of concrete masonry units (CMUs) or concrete blocks begins with humanity’s earliest binding materials, notably the Romans’ remarkable concrete. Around AD 125, structures l

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 18 Recap: Jeff Tew, Westlake Royal Stone Solutions
April 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jeff Tew joins the show, along with MCAA President Jeff Buczkiewicz, to talk about where his passion for this industry started and what it's been like working on the Supplier side of the industry. An Excitin