The quest for higher sustainability standards in the Construction Industry is still incipient. This research study aims to analyze the application of the LEED TM certification to Brazilian buildings, understanding the restrictions for its use in a reality that is different from the original American context, and to disseminate the analyzed results of two national case studies. The results obtained confirm that (a) obtaining a LEED TM certificate is not an easy task, and in Brazil it means a leap from a total lack of references to following North American standards; and (b) even in developed construction communities in Brazil, the market is not yet ready for international green certification. There are huge obstacles to be overcome, but the introduction of green certification in the Brazilian market opens up the discussion on issues that had not yet been approached. Certifications, voluntary schemes and other market pull instruments play a fundamental role in the transformation of the market towards sustainability. However, that depends on prior foundations - comprised of research and development, and technology and knowledge transfer to the market. The quest for certification without adequate preparation of the market should be avoided, as that may put at risk the transforming role of building certification.
Sustainable Buildings; LEED Certification; Building Projects