How TRUE works
TRUE certification rates how well facilities perform in minimizing their non-hazardous, solid wastes and maximizing their efficiency in the use of resources.
TRUE certified projects aim to divert all solid waste from the landfill, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment. Buildings achieve certification by providing required project information, meeting prerequisites and achieving credits (points) from the TRUE rating system standard
Define your goal. Scale your impact.
TRUE offers four certification levels based on your level of achievement towards 100 total points available.
Certified
40-49 points
Silver
50–59 points
Gold
60–79 points
Platinum
80+ points
Applicable project types
TRUE can be applied to a variety of project types. Choose the application that matches your project to see what's required.
The TRUE certification process
Four stages take a project from its first registration through ongoing recertification.
Registration
Register your facility or event by completing the TRUE registration form.
Precertification
TRUE Precertification is an optional, incremental pathway to TRUE certification that prioritizes the core actions essential to getting a successful start toward zero waste.
Certification
Once you're ready to pursue for certification, you'll submit information, performance analyses, completed narratives, photos, and documentation demonstrating your achievements of the selected credits for GBCI review and approval.
Recertification
TRUE certified projects can recertify by providing annual performance data demonstrating that the project continues to meet zero waste requirements. Projects may also recertify and pursue additional points to upgrade their previous certification level to gain increased recognition.
TRUE for Portfolios
The TRUE Portfolio Program offers an alternate, streamlined documentation submittal and certification process that leverages the similarities between multiple buildings to recognize their zero waste accomplishments.
Getting started
Everything you need to price, plan and document a TRUE project.
Join the USGBC membership community
Take advantage of discounts for USGBC programs, including TRUE and LEED registration and certification, plus access to technical guidance and local chapters.