The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a private, membership-based nonprofit organization that promotes sustainability in building design, construction, and operation worldwide.  Based in Washington, D.C., the USGBC created Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for rating design and construction practices.

Its LEED rating system is for new construction, existing buildings and neighborhood development projects and used globally.  The USGBC incentivizes LEED certification by awarding certification points to building projects completed through an independent LEED-certified professional.

The vision of USGBC is that buildings and communities regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within a generation.