LEED
World's leading green building certification framework
ISO 27017
International code of practice for cloud security controls
Quick Verdict
LEED certifies sustainable buildings for energy efficiency and health, while ISO 27017 extends security controls for cloud environments. Companies adopt LEED for green credentials and market value; ISO 27017 for cloud risk management and procurement trust.
LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
Key Features
- Third-party GBCI verification for credible certification
- Weighted 110-point system prioritizing energy performance
- Tiered levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum
- Tailored rating systems for all building types
- Recertification pathways ensure continuous improvement
ISO 27017
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 Code of practice for cloud security
Key Features
- Clarifies shared responsibilities between CSPs and CSCs
- Introduces seven cloud-specific CLD security controls
- Provides guidance for 37 ISO 27002 controls in cloud
- Addresses multi-tenancy segregation and VM hardening
- Integrates seamlessly into ISO 27001 ISMS audits
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
LEED Details
What It Is
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a globally recognized green building certification framework developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It provides a performance-based rating system for sustainable design, construction, operations, and maintenance across building types and phases. The primary purpose is to reduce environmental impacts while enhancing occupant health and efficiency through verifiable outcomes.
Key Components
- Core categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere (highest weighted), Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation, Regional Priority.
- Up to 110 points from prerequisites (mandatory baselines) and elective credits.
- Rating systems like BD+C, ID+C, O+M tailored to project scope.
- Third-party verification by GBCI with tiered certification levels.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives cost savings (energy/water reductions), ESG compliance, asset value premiums, and tenant attraction. Mitigates risks from regulations and climate change while building reputation through credible signaling.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: register, scorecard development, integrated design, documentation, GBCI review. Applies to all sizes/industries globally; requires commissioning, M&V for ongoing recertification.
ISO 27017 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27017:2015 is a code of practice extending ISO/IEC 27002 with cloud-specific guidance for information security controls. It targets cloud services across IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS in public, private, or hybrid models. Its risk-based approach integrates into ISO 27001 ISMS, providing implementation advice for CSPs and CSCs.
Key Components
- Guidance on 37 ISO 27002 controls adapted for cloud contexts
- 7 additional CLD cloud-specific controls (e.g., shared responsibilities, VM segregation)
- Domains mirroring ISO 27002: access control, operations, supplier relationships
- No standalone certification; assessed within ISO 27001 audits
Why Organizations Use It
- Addresses shared responsibility and multi-tenancy risks
- Meets procurement demands and regulatory alignment (e.g., GDPR)
- Enhances risk management and stakeholder trust
- Provides competitive edge via cloud security assurance
Implementation Overview
- Integrate into existing ISO 27001 ISMS via risk assessment
- Key activities: control mapping, shared responsibility matrices, VM hardening
- Applies to CSPs/CSCs of all sizes; global applicability
- Joint audits with ISO 27001 (9-12 months typical)
Key Differences
| Aspect | LEED | ISO 27017 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Green building design, energy, water, IEQ | Cloud-specific info sec controls, multi-tenancy |
| Industry | Construction, real estate, all sectors globally | Cloud providers, customers, IT worldwide |
| Nature | Voluntary green building certification | Guidance extending ISO 27001 ISMS |
| Testing | GBCI third-party review, documentation | ISO 27001 audits include cloud controls |
| Penalties | No certification, reputational loss | No standalone penalties, audit failure |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about LEED and ISO 27017
LEED FAQ
ISO 27017 FAQ
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