Build your expertise in regenerative design and demonstrate your leadership in transforming the built environment with the Living Future Accreditation (LFA). This self-paced, 20-hour program from the International Living Future Institute introduces the foundational principles behind Living Future’s visionary programs, including Declare®, Just®, the Living Building Challenge®, the Living Product Challenge®, Zero Carbon Certification™, and Zero Energy Certification™.
Individual Enrollment
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LFA for Teams
LIVING FUTURE ACCREDITATION
Earn the leading credential for regenerative design professionals.
The world doesn't change on its own - it needs people willing to lead. Earn your official LFA credential, gain professional recognition, and let's show the world what good looks like, together.
You are ready for LFA if...
✔ You want to signal alliance & commitment to the Living Future mission✔ You need to stand out to employers, clients, and collaborators for advanced sustainability knowledge
✔ You want to lead projects that push beyond sustainability to net-positive outcomes
Are you ready for LFA? Of course you are!
What is the LFA advantage?
Living Future Accreditation (LFA) is the professional credential that proves your commitment to regenerative design. This 20-hour, self-paced program equips you with the tools, knowledge, and credibility to lead projects and organizations toward better performance - financial, environmental, and social.
With LFA, you’ll:
✓ Strengthen your ability to win projects and clients by demonstrating advanced expertise in regenerative strategies, project examples, and certification frameworks
✓ Equip yourself to meet rising market demand for climate, health, and equity outcomes in design and development
✓ Gain a credential that signals leadership, innovation, and measurable impact to employers, investors, and peers
✓ Expand your influence within a global network of professionals shaping the built environment
What You'll Learn
LFA offers a comprehensive review of regenerative design, whether you're working on a Living Building now or hoping to in the future.
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The Living Future Accreditation Curriculum
The 5-module curriculum was developed by our creative instructional design team alongside Living Future staff, board members, and expert contributors.
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Discover the essential principles of a Living Future, including our theory of change that translates philosophy into action through certification, advocacy, education.
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Get to know Living Future building certification programs, including the Living Building Challenge, along with strategies for affordable housing and biophilic design.
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Learn industry-transforming building product programs and standards, including Declare and the Living Product Challenge, the promote human health and net-positive impact.
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Learn about the purpose, requirements, and processes of Living Future’s organizational equity program, Just, which serves as a dynamic tool for workplace transformation.
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Identify ways to contribute your unique experiences, knowledge, and perspective to a Living Future, while building the skills to confidently lead change.
What's Included
The Living Future Accreditation Curriculum
- 20 hours of self-paced online courses with expert-led videos, quizzes, and interactive exercises
- One year of access to online courses
- 20 LU|HSW with the American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- Learning plan tips and examples for successful completion
Access to Special Resources
- Downloadable resource & guides throughout LFA experience
- In depth, up to date, real-world case study reviews
Professional Marketing Kit
- Digital certificate of completion
- LFA post-nominal designation
- LFA identifier in the Living Future Member Directory
High Quality Professional Network
- Association with over 2,000 LFA professionals worldwide who are advancing regenerative solutions
Join over 2,000 LFA professionals
The LFA network spans more than 50 countries and top AEC organizations, manufacturers, sustainability consultants, and real estate developers worldwide.
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Arup
Glumac
HKS
Stantec
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Mithun
Corgan
Buro Happold
Rawn Architects
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HED
Mortenson
Mahlum
Grimshaw
...and many more!
Common Questions
Do you offer discounts on courses?
Yes! Professional Living Future Members and teams of 3 or more enrolling together receive discounted enrollment on Living Future Accreditation (LFA). International participants may qualify for free or reduced pricing under our international pricing policy. Email us or book a time to explore your options.
Is LFA right for me?
Do you feel a responsibility towards reconciling, restoring, or reimagining our relationship with the natural world? Can you envision a future where the built environment has a net positive impact on climate, health, and equity? If you answered yes, then LFA is right for you! No prerequisites are required to begin learning.
Is there a final exam for LFA?
There’s no final exam, no hidden fees, and no ongoing requirements.
Living Future Accreditation is a one-time investment designed to support deep, flexible learning. Your understanding is assessed through knowledge checks and multiple-choice quizzes, which can be retaken as needed. There are no scheduled exams to pay for or stress over—this approach emphasizes real comprehension, not rote memorization. Exercises are ungraded, but you’re encouraged to engage with other learners by sharing and receiving feedback on your work.
Does LFA require renewal or continuing education?
No, the Living Future Accreditation (LFA) credential does not expire and does not require renewal or continuing education to remain valid.
LFA course content evolves alongside Living Future’s programs and priorities, so we encourage you to stay up to date by exploring new courses and topics as they are released. Many of these learning opportunities are free or discounted with a Living Future membership.
Unlike many credentials, LFA has no additional fees for exams, renewals, or CEUs—making it a long-term, low-maintenance investment in your professional growth.
How long do I have to complete my LFA?
You will have access to LFA course content for one year from your enrollment date. Most participants complete their LFA within three months.
Do I need to be a Living Future Member to enroll in LFA?
No, our courses are open to everyone! However, Professional Living Future Membership offers complimentary access to introductory courses and bundles, 20% off LFA and advanced courses, and additional continuing education opportunities, like live webinars and the chance to connect with a passionate, values-aligned community of regenerative design leaders.
Become a member! Join our community today to receive your member discount code and apply it at checkout.
Do courses count toward continuing education credits?
Yes! LFA is AIA CES approved for 20 AIA LU|HSW. Program approval expires March 25, 2028. You may earn other credits by self-reporting your course completion to your credentialing program using the provided certificate.
AIA CES Provider Statement
International Living Future Institute is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number R306. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3). This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Will I receive a certificate of completion?
Yes! Once you’ve completed all course requirements, you’ll be able to claim a certificate of completion to download and share on LinkedIn and other profiles. You’ll also be eligible to use the ‘LFA’ designation after your name as a professional credential.
Can I enroll my team?
Yes! We offer group enrollment with special pricing and flexible options to meet your needs. Email us or book a time to explore your options.
How does my course purchase support Living Future?
Your course purchase helps advance Living Future’s mission and supports the development of our educational programs. If you'd like to deepen your impact, consider making an additional one-time or recurring donation to further support our work.
The International Living Future Institute (EIN #27-1791162) is a public charity recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS under Section 501(c)(3).
Can I be exempt from any LFA courses?
No. To earn the LFA credential, all courses in the curriculum must be completed in full—regardless of prior experience or expertise.
What is your refund policy?
We want you to have a great learning experience! Please review our refund policy or reach out to us if you have questions.
How can I get support if I have further questions or experience technical issues?
Reach out to us anytime or visit our Support Center for helpful resources.
