There isn’t a legal definition of sustainability which can lead to ambiguous comments about what is and isn’t sustainable. That’s why we were glad to learn about LEED certification. LEED is a rating system based on points used for measuring building sustainability. LEED certification focuses on building sustainability. According to winery owners who have or are seeking LEED certification, the rules for meeting LEED certification are stringent. New construction and existing structures can qualify for LEED certification.

If you’d like to learn more about LEED certification, visit the U.S. Green Building Council website. Are you interested in visiting wineries that have achieved certification? Visit Wine Trail Traveler’s website and read about Southbrook Vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Read the article in the Wine Trail Traveler September newsletter about Black Ankle Vineyards in Maryland. What buildings have you visited that have LEED certification? Discover a winery that has bales of straw for insulation and plants growing on a roof to provide insulation and reduces air conditioning costs. What LEED certified buildings have you visited?