India Ranks Second Globally in LEED-Certified Building Space in 2025

India Strengthens Global Standing in Green Building Adoption

India has consolidated its position as a major player in sustainable construction by securing the second rank worldwide—outside the United States—in terms of LEED-certified building space in 2025. The assessment released by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) highlights the country’s accelerating transition toward environmentally responsible real estate amid expanding urbanisation and infrastructure growth.

Global LEED Performance and Comparative Rankings

The United States continued to lead global green building adoption with more than 50 million gross square metres (GSM) of LEED-certified space. Among countries outside the U.S., China remained at the top with approximately 26 million GSM, while India followed with around 16 million GSM. The latest rankings also noted Vietnam’s entry into the global top ten, indicating wider acceptance of sustainable construction standards across developing economies.

Rising Focus on Existing Building Efficiency

India’s growth trajectory was driven largely by an increase in LEED Operations and Maintenance (O+M) certifications. This trend reflects a strategic emphasis on improving the environmental performance of existing structures rather than relying solely on new green developments. Upgrading operational efficiency helps reduce energy consumption, lower maintenance costs, and improve long-term sustainability outcomes.

Expansion of Global Green Certification Efforts

Across the world, more than 7,500 commercial projects received LEED certification during 2025, collectively covering over 147 million GSM. Property owners and developers increasingly sought certification for operational assets to manage rising energy expenses and enhance climate resilience. The annual ranking was jointly published by USGBC and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), which administers the certification process internationally.

Broader Adoption Across India’s Real Estate Segments

Green certification in India is no longer confined to premium office complexes. Industrial parks, logistics warehouses, hotels, shopping centres, educational campuses, and institutional facilities are increasingly integrating LEED standards. This cross-sector expansion demonstrates that sustainable construction practices are becoming embedded in mainstream real estate development across the country.

Exam-Focused Points

• LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design .

• The LEED framework was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) .

• India ranked second globally outside the United States in LEED-certified space in 2025.

• LEED O+M certification emphasises performance improvement of existing buildings.

• Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) administers and validates LEED certifications worldwide.