-By Stacy Straczynski

UC Berkeley is turning green—in a smart way. The college today (Feb. 4) announced that its UC Berkeley Extension continuing education courses on sustainability have been approved by the U.S. Green Build Council to provide credit toward the organization’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program.

The courses, which were created to satisfy growing demand, are all part of UC Berkeley Extension's Sustainability Studies program, which offers over 60 courses for professionals including advanced studies in solar, sustainable, construction, renewable energy, transportation, clean technology, and sustainability leadership and management.

"Education Providers play a pivotal role by working with USGBC to provide green building professionals with the diverse continuing education they need to grow their knowledge and their careers," says Rebecca Flora, USGBC's senior vice president for education and research. "Anyone interested in broadening and deepening their understanding of green building theory, techniques and trends will benefit from the diverse and quality course offerings from USGBC and its Education Providers."