Professional Market Radicals

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  • Title: Professional Market Radicals: LEED Certified Buildings and Accredited Professionals in the Commercial Green Building Industry
  • Author(s): Beth Duckles
  • Publisher: Common Ground Research Networks
  • Collection: Common Ground Research Networks
  • Series: Common Ground Open
  • Journal Title: The International Journal of the Constructed Environment
  • Keywords: Accreditation, Certification, Green Building, Professions, Voluntary Standard
  • Volume: 9
  • Issue: 3
  • Date: August 27, 2018
  • ISSN: 2154-8587 (Print)
  • ISSN: 2154-8595 (Online)
  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.18848/2154-8587/CGP/v09i03/27-43
  • Citation: Duckles, Beth. 2018. "Professional Market Radicals: LEED Certified Buildings and Accredited Professionals in the Commercial Green Building Industry." The International Journal of the Constructed Environment 9 (3): 27-43. doi:10.18848/2154-8587/CGP/v09i03/27-43.
  • Extent: 17 pages

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Abstract

The relationship between industry-based product certification and professional accreditation in moving social movement ideals into the market needs further exploration. Using qualitative data on the use of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) commercial green building standard and individuals who became LEED Accredited Professionals, this article addresses the interplay between product and professional standards in translating social movement ideals into economic value in order to influence market activity and the work of professionals. As a voluntary green building standard, LEED created a usable metric and a bridging language to counter cost arguments. The LEED AP professional standard cultivated a professional green identity, trained professionals in cross-disciplinary knowledge, and created professional market radicals. Professional market radicals work as advocates for sustainability, professionals who understand the building certification, and market actors who integrate sustainable ideals into the industry.