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How to choose fences for a LEED-certified building?

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a certification awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Projects must meet prerequisites and earn points—the more points, the more sustainable the building is. You can find more detailed information on the official website or follow the educational courses on the official YouTube channel.

Certification levels:

  • LEED Certified: 40–49 points

  • LEED Silver: 50–59 points

  • LEED Gold: 60–79 points

  • LEED Platinum: 80+ points

Sustainable fencing systems are designed with materials, finishes, and technologies that reduce environmental impact and support the building’s long-term efficiency. Fencing systems contribute aesthetically, functionally, and can earn LEED points in the following categories:

Materials and Resources (MR)

  • Post-consumer or industrial recycled waste. Recycled aluminum, steel, and glass reduce CO₂ emissions.
  • EPD – Environmental Product Declaration (ecological footprint, energy, emissions, recycled content) and HPD – Health Product Declaration (chemical composition and impact on user health) bring additional points.
  • Local production (≤800 km from the construction site) reduces the transportation footprint.
  • Modular and durable systems allow recycling and reuse if they can be disassembled and either recycled or reinstalled on another project.
  • Responsible sourcing and supply chains—materials with certifications provide further proof of responsible production.

Sustainable fencing systems are designed with materials, finishes, and technologies that reduce environmental impact and support the long-term efficiency of the building. Fencing systems contribute aesthetically, functionally, and can earn LEED points in the following categories:

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

  • Interior fences and the materials they are made of directly affect the health, productivity, and well-being of building occupants, which LEED particularly values.
  • Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) finishes—powder coating, anodizing, and low-emission surface treatments that improve air quality.
  • Maximize daylight—glass fences allow natural light and visual connection with the outdoor space. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and contributes to a healthier and more pleasant working environment.
  • Contribution to acoustic and thermal comfort through control of noise, light, and heat. Fences with solid panels or glass can improve noise control in interior spaces, especially in atriums and open-plan offices. Reducing unwanted noise enhances indoor environmental quality.

Innovation in Design (ID)

  • Bird-friendly glass (printed, frosted, UV-coated) prevents bird collisions, which is considered an innovative environmental solution. Bird strikes are a common issue on tall buildings.
  • LED lighting in handrails—safe and energy-efficient.
  • Custom CNC panels with designs that combine aesthetics, ventilation, and energy performance.
  • Use of new, certified sustainable materials.

Criteria for selecting fences and recommendations for architects and investors

Criteria for selecting fencing systems that earn LEED points include having documentation on materials (EPD and HPD declarations), using regionally sourced materials (local manufacturers and suppliers to reduce transportation CO₂ footprint), offering the possibility of disassembly and reuse (modular systems), and supporting energy efficiency (reducing glare, optimizing natural light, and ventilation).

  • Choose materials with recycled content and proper documentation.
  • Give priority to local suppliers.
  • Use combined systems (glass + metal).
  • On tall buildings, use printed or bird-friendly glass.
  • Plan long-term maintenance and minimize interventions.

Sustainable fencing systems are not just barriers but a key part of a building’s environmental strategy. They contribute to LEED points, reduce waste, protect occupant health, and enhance the reputation of innovative architecture. By implementing these solutions, a building meets ecological standards and supports biodiversity conservation (Sustainable Sites).