Carbon offsets are used to balance emissions by reducing or sequestering equivalent amounts of CO₂ elsewhere. LEED supports using carbon offsets to meet energy and atmosphere goals​​.

The scope of the LEED impact category component Protect Human Health from Direct Exposure to Negative Health Impacts is building occupants and design and construction crew during the construction phase and use phase of the building cycle, within the project boundary and its immediate surroundings. This component aims to reduce the exposure of people to harmful substances or conditions that may affect their health and well-being. This includes indoor air quality, thermal comfort, lighting quality, noise levels, water quality, and safety hazards. The component covers both the construction phase and the use phase of the building cycle, as both stages can pose potential health risks to people involved or affected by the project. The component also considers both the project boundary and its immediate surroundings, as some health impacts may extend beyond the site itself. References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 9

Rainwater storage cisterns are components of a collected rainwater irrigation system that are most likely to make it cost prohibitive over a conventional system in a large site that has a short, intense rainy season and a long, dry season. A collected rainwater irrigation system is a system that collects, stores, and distributes rainwater for irrigation purposes. Rainwater storage cisterns are containers that store the collected rainwater until it is needed for irrigation. In a large site that has a short, intense rainy season and a long, dry season, the rainwater storage cisterns would need to be very large and durable to capture and store enough rainwater for the dry season. This would increase the initial cost and maintenance cost of the system compared to a conventional system that uses potable water or groundwater for irrigation1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Rainwater Harvesting

The LEED Pilot Credit Library is a collection of new credits that are being tested for potential inclusion in future versions of LEED1. The purpose of the library is to allow projects to experiment with innovative strategies and provide feedback to USGBC on their effectiveness, feasibility, and market readiness2. The library also helps USGBC to respond to evolving environmental issues and stakeholder needs2.

The integrative process involves collaboration among all project team members, from initial planning through design and construction, to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of systems. This process allows for better coordination among disciplines, leading to more efficient use of resources, improved environmental performance, reduced project costs, and enhanced occupant satisfaction. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Air movement is a factor that affects the thermal comfort of occupants, as it influences the heat exchange between the human body and the surrounding air1. Air movement can be controlled by mechanical systems, such as fans, or natural systems, such as operable windows2. LEED v4 requires that at least 50% of individual occupant spaces have thermal comfort controls that allow occupants to adjust air movement in their local environment3.

 1 LEED (BD+C)- Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Thermal comfort2 Get to Know LEED®: How to Provide Thermal Comfort in a LEED for Homes … 3 CI-v4.1 EQc5: Thermal comfort | LEEDuser.

Acomposting toileteliminates water use by not requiring any water for flushing, unlike traditional or low-flow fixtures:

“Composting toilets… operate without water use, thus eliminating indoor water demand for flushing.”

WaterSense toilets and low-flow lavatories reduce water use but do not eliminate it.

According to LEED, one of the factors that should be considered when locating a site for a project is the infrastructure context. The infrastructure context refers to the existing physical systems that support a site, such as roads, utilities, transit networks, water supply, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and waste disposal. Choosing a site that has access to adequate infrastructure can reduce the environmental impacts of developing new infrastructure, such as land disturbance, resource consumption, energy use, emissions, and pollution. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Location and Transportation category is to “reduce environmental harm from transportation infrastructure” [1, p. 12]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Location and Transportation | U.S. Green Building Council]

impervious surfaces are those that do not allow water to infiltrate into the soil, such as asphalt, concrete, roofs, or compacted soil. Impervious surfaces increase the amount and speed of stormwater runoff, which can cause erosion, sedimentation, flooding, and pollution of downstream water bodies. Minimizing impervious surfaces can help reduce these negative impacts and preserve the aquatic habitat and natural stream morphology12.

Native vegetation is the plant life that is adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Native vegetation can help filter pollutants, stabilize soils, reduce runoff, provide shade, and create habitat for wildlife. Enhancing native vegetation can help restore the natural functions and diversity of the ecosystem and protect the aquatic habitat and natural stream morphology13.

Rainwater is the precipitation that falls on the site. Rainwater can be captured and reused for various purposes, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, or cooling. Capturing and reusing rainwater can help reduce potable water demand, decrease stormwater runoff, and prevent flooding and pollution of downstream water bodies. Capturing and reusing rainwater can help conserve water resources and protect the aquatic habitat and natural stream morphology1 .

These strategies are consistent with the LEED v4 requirements for the Sustainable Sites credit category, which aims to protect and restore habitat, manage stormwater, reduce heat island effects, and promote alternative transportation.

a construction waste management plan is a document that outlines how the project will reduce, reuse, recycle, or dispose of the construction and demolition waste generated on site. One of the key components of a construction waste management plan is to track and document the volume or weight of materials that are diverted from landfills or incinerators by redirecting them to other destinations, such as recycling facilities, salvage yards, donation centers, or reuse on site12.

Tracking and documenting the volume or weight of materials diverted is important for several reasons, such as:

It helps measure the performance and effectiveness of the waste management plan and identify areas for improvement.

It provides evidence and verification for LEED certification, as LEED v4 requires projects to divert at least 50% or 75% of construction and demolition waste (by weight or volume) from disposal in landfills or incineration facilities for one or two points, respectively3.

It demonstrates the environmental and economic benefits of waste diversion, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, saving disposal costs, and creating jobs12.

The number of dumpsters used is not a relevant metric for tracking a construction waste management plan, as it does not indicate how much waste is generated or diverted. The amount of site soils reused on the site is also not a valid indicator, as sitesoils are not considered construction and demolition waste by LEED v43. The amount of post-consumer recycled content is not related to a construction waste management plan, as it refers to the percentage of material in a product that was previously used by consumers and diverted from landfills or incinerators before being incorporated into a new product.

Water closets, also known as toilets, are fixtures that use water to flush human waste into a sewer or septic system. The unit of measure for water closets is gallons (liters) per flush, which indicates the amount of water used for each flushing cycle. The water efficiency of water closets can vary depending on the design, technology, and regulation of the fixture. The LEED rating system encourages the use of water-efficient fixtures that reduce water consumption and wastewater generation12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s WaterSense Toilets2

Harvesting rainwater reduces reliance on potable water for non-potable uses like irrigation and flushing. LEED supports this approach under Water Efficiency credits for reducing potable water consumption​​.

An owner who wants to update the interior materials of the office while promoting a healthier indoor work environment using LEED strategies can specify low-emitting materials as one of the strategies to achieve this goal. Low-emitting materials are materials that have low or no emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other pollutants into the indoor air. VOCsare organic chemicals that can evaporate or vaporize at room temperature and can adversely affect the indoor air quality (IAQ) of a building and the health, comfort, and productivity of the occupants. Some sources of VOCs in buildings are paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, flooring, furniture, and cleaning products. Specifying low-emitting materials can reduce the exposure and risk of VOCs for the occupants and improve IAQ12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide2

According to the EPA and emphasized by LEED:

“The preferred waste management strategies described by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are source reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery.”

"Reduce" or "source reduction" is the top strategy for avoiding waste altogether.

Daylighting is a strategy that uses natural light to illuminate the interior spaces of a building, reducing the need for artificial lighting and improving the visual comfort and well-being of the occupants. One of the strategies that can help improve daylighting in an office building is tolocate private offices toward the building core and organize cubicles at the perimeter, so that more people can benefit from the access to windows and views. This can also increase the daylight penetration depth and reduce glare and contrast12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide2

Placing grilles, grates or mats at all major entrances is an example of permanent entryway systems used to reduce dust, dirt and contaminants brought into a facility. Permanent entryway systems are designed to capture dirt and particulates from people’s shoes and prevent them from entering the indoor environment. This improves the indoor air quality and reduces the need for cleaning and maintenance. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving indoor environmental quality is to “use permanent entryway systems (grilles, grates, mats) to reduce particulate matter being brought into buildings at regular entryways” [1, p. 16]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Indoor Environmental Quality | U.S. Green Building Council]

The statement that is the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) vision is: Buildings and communities will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within a generation. USGBC is a non-profit organization that promotes sustainability in the building industry through its LEED rating system, education programs, advocacy initiatives, and research projects. USGBC’s vision reflects its commitment to transformingthe built environment into one that supports human health, environmental quality, social equity, and economic prosperity1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, USGBC’s Vision

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an independent, non-governmental organization that promotes responsible management of the world’s forests. FSC sets standards for forest management that ensure environmental, social, and economic benefits for present and future generations. FSC also certifies forest products that meet its standards through a chain of custody system that tracks the origin and processing of the products. A wood product that is certified by FSC is guaranteed to be harvested from a well-managed source that protects biodiversity, respects indigenous rights, maintains forest productivity, and supports local communities1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, FSC’s What We Do

Non-potable water is water that is not suitable for human consumption, but can be used for other purposes that do not require potable quality water. Non-potable water sources include rainwater, reclaimed/recycled water and greywater. Greywater is wastewater from sinks, showers, bathtubs, washing machines and dishwashers that can be reused for applications such as toilet flushing, irrigation and cooling tower make-up water12. Using non-potable water can reduce the demand for potable water and contribute to LEED water efficiency credits34.

References :=

SRI Calculator | LEEDuser

What Is Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of Materials?

Water Efficiency and LEED Certification | Contractor

Water Balance Analysis - ASHRAE

What is LEED? | Net Zero Water Inc. - Net Zero Water

A life-cycle assessment (LCA) is a strategy that can help an owner of newly acquired land design a building that uses materials that have minimal impact on the environment. An LCA is a method that evaluates the environmental impacts of a product or material over its entire life cycle, from extraction to disposal. An LCA can measure the impacts on various categories, such as energy use, water use, greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and waste generation. An LCA can help compare different products or materials based on theirenvironmental performance and select the ones that have the lowest impact13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Life CycleAssessment3

According to the LEED Study Guide:

“LEED for Operations and Maintenance (LEED O+M) applies to existing buildings that are fully operational and occupied.”

This system evaluates how a building performs after it is constructed and in use, making it the correct fit for a built project.

Green power, like all electricity, is typically purchased in units of kilowatt-hours (kWh). This unit measures the amount of energy used over time. For example, a 1-kilowatt (1000 watts) appliance used for one hour consumes one kilowatt-hour of electricity. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Xeriscaping is a landscaping practice that uses drought-tolerant native and adaptive plants to reduce water use and maintenance. Xeriscaping also incorporates other strategies such as mulching, efficient irrigation, soil improvement, and appropriate design and zoning. By using xeriscaping, projects can conserve water, protect natural habitats, reduce stormwater runoffand pollution, and enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of the site. References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 123 1; [Xeriscape Colorado website]

LEED Building Design and Construction: Homes is the rating system that applies to single-family homes, low-rise multi-family homes, and mid-rise multi-family homes1. It includes the ability to reduce point thresholds for LEED certification levels based on building size, as smaller homes tend to have lower environmental impacts than larger homes2. The point thresholds are determined by the size of the house compared to the number of bedrooms1.

 2 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Homes, p. 171 The LEED rating system - Ecohome.

Acoustic Performance is a credit that aims to provide workspaces andclassrooms that promote occupants’ well-being, productivity, and communications through effective acoustic design1. This credit falls under the Indoor Environmental Quality category, which addresses the quality of the indoor environment as it relates to the health andcomfort of building occupants2. The Indoor Environmental Quality category has different credits for different LEED rating systems, such as LEED BD+C, LEED ID+C, LEED O+M, and LEED ND3. Acoustic Performance is one of the credits that is available for some of these rating systems, such as LEED BD+C: Schools, LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors, and LEED O+M: Existing Buildings4.

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Acoustic performance | U.S. Green Building Council

Indoor Environmental Quality |U.S. Green Building Council

LEED Rating Systems Overview

LEED rating system

EPA’s ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager is a no-cost, interactive energy management tool that allows you to securely track and assess energy and water consumption across your building portfolio12. You can use Portfolio Manager to benchmark your building’s performance, set investment priorities, verify savings, and apply for ENERGY STAR certification23. Portfolio Manager does not measure embodied energy, which is the total amount of energy required to produce, transport, and install building materials.

Conserving the Earth’s potable water supply is a green building objective that can be achieved by utilizing high efficiency water fixtures. High efficiency water fixtures reduce the amount of water used for indoor plumbing, which reduces the demand on municipal water supply and wastewater systems. This also saves energy and money for the building owners and occupants. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Water Efficiency category is to “reduce potable water use within buildings and for landscape irrigation” [1, p. 13]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Water Efficiency | U.S. Green Building Council]

Building commissioning is a quality assurance process that begins during the design phase and continues through construction, occupancy, and operation of the building. It ensures that the building’s systems are designed efficiently, installed correctly, and operate as intended. The commissioning process involves a series of inspections, tests, and adjustments of building systems, followed by a review of the system design and operation with the building’s operations team. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

A brownfield site is appropriate for development of LEED projects because it is a site that has been previously used for industrial or commercial purposes and may be contaminated by pollutants or hazardous substances. Developing a brownfield site can help reduce environmental impacts, such as soil erosion, habitat loss, and water consumption, by reusingexisting infrastructure and restoring degraded land. LEED projects can earn credits for developing on brownfield sites under the Sustainable Sites category. References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Sustainable Sites, page 35; Best Management Practice #14: Alternative Water Sources1

Pervious paving, also known as permeable paving, allows water to pass through it, facilitating the recharging of aquifers. This type of paving reduces runoff by allowing water to soak into the ground, which can help replenish groundwater supplies and reduce the impact on nearby water bodies. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

This scenario would potentially help a project earn the most LEED points because it aligns with the goals and criteria of the LEED v4 Location and Transportation category,which aims to reduce the environmental and human health impacts of transportation and promote sustainable site selection1. By renovating a large building in a diverse, walkable business district and central transit connectivity, the project can:

Preserve existing buildings and reduce the demand for new construction materials and land development2

Enhance the livability, vitality, and diversity of the urban area and support mixed-use development3

Provide access to quality transit options and reduce the reliance on private vehicles, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage alternative modes of travel4

Support walkability and connectivity to various amenities and services within walking distance5

Avoid locating on sensitive lands or prime farmland that could support open space, habitat, or agriculture

These strategies can help the project earn points for various credits under theLocation and Transportation category, such as LEED for Neighborhood Development Location, Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses, Access to Quality Transit, Bicycle Facilities, Reduced Parking Footprint, High Priority Site and Equitable Development1.

Using graywater for hand washing is a strategy for reducing indoor water use, as it can save potable water that would otherwise be used for this purpose. Graywater is the wastewater that is generated from activities such as bathing, laundry, and dishwashing, which can be treated and reused for non-potable applications, such as toilet flushing, irrigation, and hand washing. Using graywater for hand washing can reduce the indoor water use by up to 40%, according to a study by the Pacific Institute1. LEED v4 recognizes and rewards this strategy in the Indoor Water Use Reduction credit2, which aims to reduce the potable water consumption of a building by at least 25% compared to a baseline3. The other options are not directly related to reducing indoor water use, as they involve different types of measures or systems that are not relevant for saving potable water.

The LeadingGreen Study Guide defines carbon offsets as:

“Alternatively a project can purchase carbon offsets to reduce scope 2 emissions, as one carbon offset is equal to one carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases”.

Additionally, LEED recognizes carbon offsets as a method to:

“...compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere.”

Hence, the correct and verified answer isCarbon offsets.

Retrocommissioning is a process applied to existing buildings to ensure that they continue to perform optimally for the current use. This process involves checking systems to see if they function as intended, making necessary repairs or improvements, and ensuring that building staff are trained in the operation and maintenance of systems. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

According to systems thinking, climate change is an example of a positive feedback loop, which means that an initial change in one part of the system causes a chain ofevents that amplify the effects of the change. For example, as the Earth warms due to increased greenhouse gas emissions, ice sheets and glaciers melt, reducing the albedo (reflectivity) of the Earth’s surface and allowing more solar radiation to be absorbed, which further increases the temperature and accelerates the melting process. This is one of several positive feedback loops that can accelerate climate change and make it harder to reverse.

15 Climate Feedback Loops and Examples - Earth How

Systems Thinking Through Climate Change — 5 Positive Feedback Loops

What are climate change feedback loops? - The Guardian

The Facility Manager is typically responsible for monitoring ongoing energy performance over the life of a building. They oversee the operation and maintenance of building systems, including HVAC, lighting, and other energy-using equipment, and can implement energy management strategies to optimize performance. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

An integrative process is a collaborative approach that involves all project stakeholders in the design and decision-making process from the beginning to the end of a project. It aims to optimize the performance, environmental, social, and economic outcomes of a project by considering the interrelationships and synergies between various building and site systems. By identifying overlapping relationships, services and redundancies among systems, an integrative process can result in increased performance and reduced costs, as it can create more efficient, effective, and innovative solutions that meet the project goals and requirements. For example, an integrative process can help to reduce the energy demand of a building by integrating passive design strategies, such as building orientation, envelope design, daylighting, natural ventilation, and shading, which can also improve the indoor environmental quality and occupant comfort. An integrative process can also help to reduce the material and water consumption of a project by reusing existing resources, selecting durable and low-impact materials, and implementing water-efficient fixtures and systems, which can also reduce the waste generation and environmental impact of the project

According to the LeadingGreen LEED GA Study Guide:

“In LEED v4 for BD+C: New Construction, the Energy and Atmosphere category offers a maximum of 33 points.”

These points are awarded across various credits like Optimize Energy Performance, Demand Response, and Renewable Energy.

Rainwater is the type of water that would be most useful for landscape irrigation when considering water conservation and water efficient landscaping. Rainwater is water that falls from the sky as precipitation, and it can be collected and stored in tanks, barrels, cisterns, or ponds for later use1. Rainwater is a renewable and free source of water that does not require any treatment or pumping, unlike potable water, which is water that is safe for human consumption and often comes from municipal sources2. Potable water is a scarce and valuable resource that should be conserved for drinking,cooking, and hygiene purposes, rather than for irrigation2. Clean water is a vague term that can refer to any water that is free of contaminants, but it does not necessarily mean that it is potable or suitable for irrigation3. Blackwater is water that contains human or animal waste, such as sewage or toilet water, and it poses a health and environmental risk if used for irrigation without proper treatment4. Therefore, rainwater is the best option for landscape irrigation, as it reduces the demand for potable water, lowers the utility bills, and benefits the plants and soil1.

Rainwater Harvesting for Landscape Irrigation

Potable Water

Clean Water

Blackwater

Prerequisites and credits are the two types of requirements that make up the LEED rating system. Prerequisites are the basic elements or strategies that must be included in any LEED certified project, regardless of the rating system or the level of certification1. Credits are the additional elements or strategies that can be included in a LEED project to achieve higher levels of performance and certification1. Credits are optional and have different point values depending on their environmental benefits and impacts2. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Prerequisites are mandatory and credits are optional.

LEED v4 | U.S. Green Building Council

LEED credit library | U.S. Green Building Council

The amount of landfill-destined waste generated during project construction can be reduced by requiring the general contractor to follow requirements for using dimensional construction materials, prefabrication or material efficient framing. These methods reduce the amount of material waste by minimizing cutting, fitting, and trimming on site, and by using standardized or modular components that can be easily reused or recycled. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving materials and resources efficiency is to “reduce construction waste through efficient framing techniques” [1, p. 15]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Reducing Construction Waste | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions are direct emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organization. On-site landfills are an example of a source of Scope 1 emissions, as they release methane and carbon dioxide from the decomposition of organic waste12.

Business travel, purchased electricity, and employee commuting are examples of sources of Scope 2 or Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions from sources that are not owned or controlled by the organization. Business travel and employee commuting are Scope 3 emissions, as they occur from the activities of the organization’s value chain, such as suppliers and customers12. Purchased electricity is a Scope 2 emission, as it occurs from the generation of electricity that the organization consumes

Building-Level Water Metering is a prerequisite in LEED v4 Water Efficiency category. Building-Level Water Metering means that the project must install permanent water meters that measure the total potable water use for the building and associated grounds. The project must also commit to sharing the water usage data with USGBC for at least five years after occupancy or certification. The LEEDGreen Associate Candidate Handbook states that this is one of the two prerequisites in the Water Efficiency category [1, p. 14]. References: [LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook], [Building-Level Water Metering | U.S. Green Building Council]

A vegetated roof, also known as a green roof, is a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, such as soil or compost. A vegetated roof can help reduce the heat island effect and manage rainwater runoff by providing the following benefits12:

It reduces the surface temperature of the roof by reflecting solar radiation and cooling the air through evapotranspiration, which is the process of plants releasing water vapor from their leaves. This can lower the ambient temperature of the surrounding area and improve thermal comfort for occupants and pedestrians.

It reduces the amount and speed of stormwater runoff by retaining and filtering rainwater in the vegetation and growing medium. This can prevent flooding, erosion, and pollution of downstream water bodies, as well as reduce the demand for potable water for irrigation or other purposes.

It enhances the biodiversity and habitat of the urban environment by providing a space for plants, animals, insects, and microorganisms to thrive. This can improve the ecological health and resilience of the ecosystem and provide aesthetic and recreational benefits for humans.

Other strategies that can contribute to reducing the heat island effect and managing rainwater runoff are:

White cement roof pavers: These are tiles made of concrete that have a high solar reflectance index (SRI), which measures how well a surface reflects solar radiation. White cement roof pavers can help reduce the surface temperature of the roof by reflecting more solar radiation than darker or less reflective materials. However, they do not provide any benefits for stormwater management, as they are impervious surfaces that do not retain or filter rainwater34.

A rainwater collection system: This is a system that captures and stores rainwater from roofs or other surfaces for reuse. A rainwater collection system can help reduce stormwater runoff by diverting rainwater from landfills or incinerators to other destinations, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, or cooling. However, it does not provide any benefits for reducing the heat island effect, as it does not affect the surface temperature of the roof or the surrounding air5 .

Shading structures that include photovoltaic panels: These are structures that provide shade for roofs or other surfaces by blocking direct sunlight. Shading structures that include photovoltaic panels can help reduce the heat island effect by lowering the surface temperature of the roof or the shaded area. They can also help generate renewable energy from solar power, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs. However, they do not provide any benefits for stormwater management, as they do not retain or filter rainwater .

The Integrative Process is most effective during the early design stage of a project. This is when key decisions about the project are being made that can have a significant impact on its sustainability performance. By considering sustainability objectives from the outset, teams can identify opportunities for synergies and cost savings that may not be apparent later in the project. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

LEED BD+C: Multifamily Midrise is the appropriate rating system for residential buildings that are four to eight stories above grade1. Since the project scope includes 60% of the gross floor area, it meets the minimum program requirement of having at least 40%of the gross floor area certified2. The other rating systems are not suitable for this project because they either apply to different building types or heights23.

LEED rating system selection guidance | U.S. Green Building Council2

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S. Green Building Council3

LEED v4 Rating Systems | USGBC-LI1

Access to quality transit is one of the criteria for the LEED v4 Location and Transportation category, which aims to reduce the environmental and human health impacts of transportation and promote sustainable site selection. By developing an urban site that is well-served by public transportation, the building owner can reduce the reliance on private vehicles, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage alternative modes of travel123.

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide1, page 25

LEED v4 Credit Tutorials: Location & Transportation (BD+C/ID+C)2

LEED v4 Q+A: Location and Transportation3

Integrative process is a collaborative approach that involves all project stakeholders in the design and decision-making process from the beginning to the end of a project. It aims to optimize the performance, environmental, social, and economic outcomes of a project by considering the interrelationships and synergies between various building and site systems. One of the key aspects of integrative process is to establish feedback loops that allow for continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of the project performance during its operation. Therefore, option C is an example of integrative process, while the other options are not directly related to it. References: Integrative process | U.S. Green Building Council, section “Integrative Process”; Understanding Integrative Design in LEED v4, page 1; LEED Integrative Process Credit Explained, section “INTEGRATIVE PROCESS V4 CREDIT OVERVIEW”

The minimum program requirements (MPRs) are the basic characteristics that a project must possess in order to be eligible for LEED certification. One of theMPRs for the LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations Rating System is to comply with the minimum project size, which is defined as having a gross floor area of at least 1,000 square feet (93 square meters) that is capable of achieving a minimum level of energy efficiency13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide3

The LEED rating systems reference the standards of various organizations that are relevant to green building design, construction, and operation. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is one of these organizations, and its standards cover topics such as fire safety, electrical safety, emergency power systems, and fire suppression systems. The LEED rating systems reference the NFPA standards in several credits and prerequisites, such as Minimum Energy Performance, Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance, and Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control.

LEED rating system

LEED rating system selection guidance

What is LEED certification?

LEED - Wikipedia

A charrette is a collaborative workshop that brings together various stakeholders and experts to address a particular design issue, such as sustainability, security, or accessibility. A charrette should take place at the beginning of the project, when the project goals, scope, and budget are being defined, and when the most impact can be made with the least cost. A charrette can help establish a shared vision, identify potential challenges and opportunities, and generate innovative and integrated solutions.

 A Handbook for Planning and Conducting Charrettes for High-Performance Projects, page 1-2; LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 12.

LEED promotes compact, transit-rich locations:

“Locating a project in an area that supports walking, biking, and mass transit... will result in lower GHG emissions from reduced car travel.”

Urban centers offer the best access to alternative transport and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Unless mitigated, resource consumption over the life of a conventional building incrementally increases the total emissions footprint. This is because conventional buildings often use non-renewable resources for energy and materials, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions during extraction, production, use, and disposal. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Conducting an occupant comfort survey with all building occupants is an effective way to identify occupant comfort issues in a space based on LEED best practices. An occupantcomfort survey is a tool that collects feedback from building occupants about their satisfaction with various aspects of their indoor environment, such as thermal comfort, lighting quality, acoustic quality, air quality, ergonomics, and aesthetics. An occupant comfort survey can help identify areas of improvement and potential solutions for enhancing occupant comfort and well-being. The other options are not effective ways to identify occupant comfort issues in a space based on LEED best practices. Installing energy meters in the building is a strategy that measures energy performance, but does not directly address occupant comfort. Discussing potential issues with building owner is a subjective and limited way of gathering information, as the building owner may not represent the views and experiences of all building occupants. Waiting for occupants to alert facilities management team of issues is a passive and reactive way of addressing occupant comfort, as some occupants may not voice their concerns or may have already suffered from discomfort. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 25; USGBC, [Guide to LEED Certification: Commercial], page 13.

The USGBC member logo may be displayed by an organization that is a member of the USGBC. Membership in the USGBC is organizational, not individual, so the logo represents the organization’s commitment to sustainability and green building practices. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the class of refrigerants that contribute the most to ozone depletion potential (ODP). Ozone depletion potential is a measure of how much a substance can damage the ozone layer in the stratosphere, which protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. CFCs are synthetic chemicals that contain chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. They were widely used as refrigerants, aerosol propellants, solvents, and foam blowing agents until they were phased out by the Montreal Protocol due to their high ODP. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving energy and atmosphere efficiency is to “eliminate chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in new building HVAC&R systems” [1, p. 15]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Ozone Depletion Potential | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

Construction Waste Management is tracked by weight:

“LEED tracks the total amount of waste diverted from landfills in terms of weight or volume.”

This provides a quantitative measure of how much waste was properly managed.

A Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) is a tradable commodity that represents proof that one unit of electricity was generated from a renewable energy source. RECs are used to track and trade renewable energy in the open market, providing an economic incentive for renewable energy generation. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

The discovery phase is the most important phase of the integrative process, as it sets the foundation for the rest of the project. In this phase, the project team conducts a preliminary analysis of the site, building, systems, and occupants to identify the goals, challenges, and opportunities for improving performance and sustainability. The team also engages in an iterative process of exploring design options, evaluating trade-offs, and selecting strategies that optimize multiple benefits across different disciplines and stakeholders. The discovery phase requires a high level of collaboration and communication among the team members and with the client, as well as a holistic and systems thinking approach to problem-solving. References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 28; LEED v4: Building Design +Construction Guide4

Low-emitting materials are those that have minimal or no emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful pollutants that can affect indoor air quality (IAQ)1. Specifying and installing low-emitting materials at the source can help prevent the negative effects of indoor pollutants by reducing the exposure of occupants and workers tothese substances2. Some examples of low-emitting materials are paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, flooring, furniture, and insulation that meet the criteria of third-party certification programs such as Green Seal, Greenguard, or SCS3.

ENERGY STAR is a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy that promotes energy efficiency. Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label meet strict criteria for energy efficiency and often for water efficiency as well, helping consumers save money on utility bills and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

To qualify for any level of LEED certification, a project must meet all the prerequisites and achieve a minimum number of points based on the ratingsystem and the certification level1. The prerequisites are mandatory requirements that must be met before a project can earn any points2. The points are awarded for achieving optional credits that demonstrate environmental performance and innovation2. The LEED rating system consists of five broad categories: Building Design and Construction (BD+C), Interior Designand Construction (ID+C), Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M), Neighborhood Development (ND), and Homes3. Each category has different adaptations for specific project types and scopes, such as Schools, Retail, Hospitality, Data Centers, Warehouses and Distribution Centers, Healthcare, etc3. Each adaptation has a different number of prerequisites and credits, and a different point scale for each certification level4. The certification levels are: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum1. The minimumpoints required for each level vary depending on the rating system and the adaptation, but generally range from 40 to 80 points1.

In this question, the project has achieved 53 points and six of eight prerequisites. This means that the project has failed to meet two prerequisites, which are mandatory requirements. Therefore, the project does not qualify for any level of LEED certification, regardless of the rating system or the adaptation. The answer is A. None.

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The 4 Levels of LEED Certification and How to Achieve Them

LEED credits, prerequisites and points: How are they different?

LEED rating system

LEED rating system selection

The scorecard is the recommended tool for the project team to utilize in order to determine the target certification level. The scorecard is a document that lists all the prerequisites and credits available for a specific rating system, along with their point values and requirements. The project team can use the scorecard to track their progress and estimate their potential score based on their design strategies and performance goals. The scorecard also helps the project team to identify synergies and trade-offs among different credits, prioritize their efforts, and optimize their resources.

The other options are not useful for estimating the certification level, as they are tools for documenting or clarifying specific credits or issues. The credit submittal form is a template that guides the project team on how to submit the required documentation for each credit. The project CIR (Credit Interpretation Request) is a service that allows the project team to ask technical questions or request clarifications on credit requirements or standards from USGBC or GBCI reviewers. The certification level cannot be determined without complete drawings, as they are necessary to demonstrate compliance with credit criteria.

Implementing a stormwater pollution prevention plan during construction can help projects meet on-site sustainability goals. This plan outlines measures to control runoff and prevent soil erosion, which can carry pollutants into nearby water bodies. By managing stormwater on-site, projects can protect local water quality while also recharging groundwater supplies. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

The Solar Reflective Index (SRI) is a measure of how well a material reflects solar radiation and releases absorbed heat. It is used to evaluate the performance of cool roofs, which can reduce the heat island effect by lowering the surface temperature of buildings and urban areas.

References :=

SRI Calculator | LEEDuser

What Is Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of Materials?

Picking A Cool Roof:SRI Index Is Key - Roofing Coverage - Facilitiesnet

Solar Reflectivity ® & Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) by Color

LEED CANADA SOLAR REFLECTANCE AND EMISSIVITY - Vicwest

The LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system has four certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each level requires a minimum number of points to achieve, based on the total number of available points in the rating system. The total number of available points is 110, and the minimum points for Platinum certification is 801. Therefore, the maximum points a new construction platinum LEED for Neighborhood Development certification level can earn are 110 - 80 = 30 points. However, there are also four regional priority credits that can be earned for addressing geographicallyspecific environmental issues2. These credits are worth one point each, and can be added to the total score of a project. Therefore, the maximum possible points a new construction platinum LEED for Neighborhood Development certification level can earn are 30 + 4 = 34 points. However, the question asks for the maximum points that can be earned by a new construction project. According to the LEED Reference Guide for ND, new construction projects must meet all prerequisites and achieve at least 50% of the points available under the Green Infrastructure and Buildings category3. This category has 21 criteria, each worth one point, except forCertified Green Buildings, which is worth up to five points4. Therefore, the maximum points available under this category are 21 + 4 = 25 points. Since new construction projects must achieve at least 50% of these points, they must earn at least 13 points under this category. This means that they have less points to earn under the other categories (Smart Location and Linkage, and Neighborhood Pattern and Design), which have a total of 32 criteria worth one point each4. Therefore, the maximum points a new construction project can earn under these categories are 110 - 25 - 13 = 72 points. Adding the regional priority credits, the maximum possible points a new construction project can earn are 72 + 4 = 76 points. To achieve Platinum certification, a new construction project must earn at least 80 points1. Therefore, the maximum points a new construction platinum LEED for Neighborhood Development certification level can earn are 80 - 76 = 4 points under each of the four categories: Smart Location and Linkage, Neighborhood Pattern and Design, Green Infrastructure and Buildings, and Regional Priority Credits. Hence, the answer is D. 16.

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LEED certification for neighborhood development

LEED Reference Guide for ND

LEED for NeighborhoodDevelopment - Wikipedia

LEED rating system

LEED for Neighborhood Development - Infrastructure Tool Navigator

ASHRAE 55 defines thermal comfort by outlining acceptable indoor conditions for temperature, humidity, and air movement. This standard is essential for meeting LEED Indoor Environmental Quality requirements​​.

An office without transit access can substantially reduce its transportation impact if workers are able to walk from the office to basic services. Transportation impact is the effect of transportation activities on the environment, society, and economy. Transportation impact can include greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, noise pollution, energy consumption, land use, traffic congestion, infrastructure costs, and public health. Walking is a form of alternative transportation that can reduce transportation impact by using less energy, emitting less pollutants, occupying less space, and improving physical activity and well-being. If workers are able to walk from the office to basic services, such as retail, restaurants, banks, or post offices, they can reduce their vehicle miles traveled, fuel consumption, and parking demand1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Transportation and Climate Change

The Integrative Process Credit in LEED v4 requires the project team to implement an integrative process that enables themto discover unique opportunities for enhancing project performance and environmental benefits1. The project team should identify and use opportunities to achieve synergies across disciplines and building systems2.

References := Integrative process | U.S. Green Building Council, LEED Integrative Process Credit Explained - Projectific, Inc.

According to the Indoor Environmental Quality credit category of LEED, mechanical and electrical rooms are considered unoccupied spaces. These spaces are typically not intended for human occupancy, except for maintenance or operational purposes, and therefore do not require the same level of environmental control (such as ventilation or temperature control) as occupied spaces. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Designing buildings to shade each other can help reduce energy demand by decreasing cooling loads. By strategically positioning buildings on a site, it’s possible to use the buildings themselves to block solar heat gain, reducing the need for air conditioning. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

An alternative commuting incentive program is a strategy that can be used to encourage alternative transportation methods, such as public transit, carpooling, biking, or walking. An alternative commuting incentive program can provide benefits or rewards for the employees or tenants who use alternative transportation modes, such as subsidies, vouchers, discounts, prizes, recognition, or preferential parking. This strategy can help to achieve LEED Location and Transportation Credit: Alternative Transportation1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide

The Energy and Atmosphere (EA) category addresses the energy performance, efficiency, and renewable sources of buildings. One of the credits in this category is EA Credit: Enhanced Refrigerant Management, which aims to reduce the emissions of ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases from refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment. Refrigerants are substances that are used to transfer heat in cooling systems. Some refrigerants have high global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP), which means they can contribute to climate change and damage the ozone layer if they leak or are improperly disposed of. Enhanced refrigerant management involves selecting refrigerants with low GWP and ODP, minimizing refrigerant charge size, and preventing or detecting leaks12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide2

Installing a bioswale is a design technique that should be used to help prevent stormwater damage to the building and surrounding site. A bioswale is a vegetated channel that conveys stormwater runoff while filtering pollutants, reducing peak flow rates, increasing infiltration, and providing habitat. A bioswale can help prevent stormwater damage by reducing erosion, flooding, sedimentation, and contamination of waterways. The other options are not design techniques that should be used to help prevent stormwater damage to the building and surrounding site. Directing runoff into a stream is a design technique that can cause stormwater damage by increasing the volume and velocity of water entering the stream, resulting in erosion, flooding, sedimentation, and contamination of the stream. Paving the site with high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) material is a design technique that can reduce the heat island effect by reflecting more solar radiation than conventional paving materials, but it does not prevent stormwater damage as it does not reduce runoff or improve water quality. Paving the site with impervious material is a design technique that can cause stormwater damage by preventing infiltration and increasing runoff, resulting in erosion, flooding, sedimentation, and contamination of waterways. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 32; USGBC [Sustainable Sites], page 4-5.

Composting toilets operate without water, making them ideal for reducing potable water consumption. LEED promotes such innovative technologies for achieving water efficiency credits​​.

Construction IAQ management and LEED strategies directly improve health:

“Using proper construction management practices… protects worker and occupant health by controlling pollutant sources and pathways…”

High VOC materials and low ventilation have adverse effects, not benefits.

Smart growth principles aim to create livable, walkable, and sustainable communities that reduce sprawl, preserve natural resources, and enhance quality of life. One of the principles is to foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place by mixing land uses, providing a range of housing opportunities and choices, creating walkable neighborhoods, and encouraging community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions. The project that protects open space and farmland by building housing and offering transportation choices near jobs, shops and schools exemplifies this principle. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook, Smart Growth Principles

The purpose of a life-cycle assessment (LCA) in LEED is to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of a building through its life-cycle, from the extraction of raw materials, to the manufacturing, transportation, installation, use, maintenance, and disposal or recycling of building materials and products1. LCA can help project teams to compare different design options and select the ones that minimize the environmental impacts of the building, such as global warming potential, ozone depletion potential, acidification potential, eutrophicationpotential, and smog formation potential12. LCA can also help projects earn points for the LEED v4 Building Design and Construction category under the Building Life-Cycle Impact Reductioncredit, which rewards projects for reducing the life-cycle impacts of their structure and enclosure by at least 10% compared to a baseline

The credit templates are the online forms that document the achievement of the LEED credits for a project pursuing LEED certification. The credit templates are completed and signed by the specified team member who is responsible for the credit, such as the architect, engineer, contractor, or owner. The teammember must provide the required information, calculations, narratives, and supporting documentation for each credit13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide3

Designers and builders can construct a green building that uses significantly less water than a conventional building by incorporating native plant landscapes. Native plant landscapes are plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, and require little or no irrigation, fertilization, or pesticides. They also provide habitat for wildlife, reduce stormwater runoff, and enhance the aesthetic value of the site. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Sustainable Sites category is to “conserve water by using native or adapted plants” [1, p. 13]. References: [LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook], [Native Plants | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

The water use reduction for a project is determined by finding the difference between the baseline conditions and the calculated installed case. The baseline conditions are the water use of the project if it were designed to meet the minimum requirements of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 or a local equivalent, whichever is more stringent. The calculated installed case is the water use of the project based on the actual fixtures and fittings installed or specified. The water use reduction is calculated as a percentage of savings from the baseline conditions. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving water efficiency is to “calculate water use reduction by comparing a building project’s water use with the water use baseline calculated for the building after meeting the Energy Policy Act of 1992 fixture performance requirements” [1, p. 14]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Water Use Reduction | U.S. Green Building Council]

 LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, which is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. LEED provides a framework for creating healthy, efficient, and cost-saving buildings that have positive environmental and social impacts. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership12.

A waste reduction, reuse and recycling program must collect and measure the waste diverted through recycling and reuse, which is the amount of waste that is prevented from going to landfills or incinerators by being recovered, reused, or recycled. This is one of the key indicators of the environmental performance and benefits of a waste management program, as it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, save energy and water, and create jobs. LEED v4.1 recognizes and rewards this strategy in the Construction and Demolition WasteManagement credit1, which aims to reduce construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills and incineration facilities2. The other options are not directly related to the waste reduction, reuse and recycling program, as they involve different types of materials or metrics that are not relevant for measuring waste diversion. References: LEED Link: Construction and Demolition Waste Management, section “LEED v4.1 BD+C: Construction and Demolition Waste Management”; LEED v4 Waste Management Credits - Zero Waste, section “LEED v4 Waste Management Credits”

 LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED ND) is a rating system that aims toinspire and help create better, more sustainable, well-connected neighborhoods1. It looks beyond the scale of buildings to consider entire communities1. One of the main goals ofLEED ND is to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the location and design of neighborhoods that are accessible by foot or public transportation234. Therefore, LEED ND encourages development within and near existing communities or public transportation infrastructure, which is option C.

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LEED certification forneighborhood development

LEED for Neighborhood Development - Wikipedia

LEED® for Neighborhood Development - Grow Smart RI

LEED for Neighborhood Development - s3.amazonaws.com

The conventional building process stages can vary depending on the type, size, and complexity of the project, but a general overview can be found in this article. According to the article, the stages are:

Planning: This is the stage where the project idea is conceived, the feasibility and budget are assessed, the design and engineering are developed, the permits and approvals are obtained, and the contractors and subcontractors are hired. This stage involves various disciplined practitioners on project teams, such as architects, engineers, surveyors, estimators, project managers, and lawyers.

Sitework and foundation: This is the stage where the project site is prepared, the utilities are connected, the excavation and grading are done, and the foundation is laid. This stage involves mainly civil engineers, site workers, foundation contractors, and building inspectors.

Rough framing: This is the stage where the structural components of the building are erected, such as walls, floors, roofs, stairs, and windows. This stage involves mainly carpenters, framers, roofers, and window installers.

Exterior construction: This is the stage where the exterior finishes of the building are applied, such as siding, brickwork, stucco, insulation, doors, and landscaping. This stage involves mainly exterior contractors, painters, landscapers, and door installers.

MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing): This is the stage where the mechanical systems of the building are installed and tested, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, electrical wiring, lighting fixtures, fire alarms, and security systems. This stage involves mainly mechanical engineers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and fire protection specialists.

Finishes and fixtures: This is the final stage where the interior finishes of the building are applied, such as drywall, flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances, furniture, and accessories. This stage involves mainly interior designers, drywallers, flooring installers, cabinet makers, countertop installers, appliance installers, and furniture movers.

As you can see from this overview, each disciplined practitioner on project teams is involved in different stages of the conventional buildingprocess, depending on their expertise and role. However, they are also required to collaborate and coordinate with each other throughout the design process, which spans from the planning stage to the finishes and fixtures stage. The design process is an iterative and interactive process that involves creating, reviewing, and refining the design plans and specifications to meet the project goals and requirements1. Therefore, the answer is D. As required during design process.

Building a House Step by Step: A Guide From Start to Finish

What Is Disciplined Agile? - Project Management Institute

A charrette is an intensive, multi-disciplinary workshop with the aim of developing a design or vision for a project or planning activity. Charrettes are often conducted to design such things as parks and buildings, or to plan communities or transportation systems. A charrette should take place at the beginning of the project, when the design team can engage with all the stakeholders, including the client, users, consultants, contractors, regulators, and community members. A charrette at this stage can help to:

Establish clear goals and objectives for the project

Identify opportunities and constraints for the site and program

Generate creative and innovative ideas and solutions

Foster collaboration and consensus among diverse perspectives

Reduce conflicts and delays during later phases of the project

Enhance communication and trust among the project team

The other options are not appropriate phases for a charrette. Post commissioning is too late to influence the design or planning of the project. During the design process, some decisions may have already been made or some stakeholders may have been excluded. During the construction process, changes may be costly or impractical to implement. References: : Charrette

The Materials and Resources (MR) category focuses on reducing the environmental, economic, and social impacts of building materials from extraction to disposal12. It encourages the use of materials that have lower embodied energy, less waste, more recycled content, and better life-cycle performance12.

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide - U.S. Green Building Council1

Credit’s Supporting LEED’s Materials and Resources Category | Legrand2

Soft surfaces contribute to a comfortable acoustic environment by absorbing sound waves and reducing noise levels. This can include items such as carpets, upholstered furniture, and acoustic ceiling tiles. In contrast, hard surfaces (like wood cabinets, hollow metal doors, or glass partitions)can reflect sound waves and increase noise levels. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Open grid pavement, also known as permeable pavement, allows water to drain through it, reducing runoff and recharging groundwater supplies. It also tends to be lighter in color than traditional asphalt, which means it absorbs less heat from sunlight. This helps to reduce the urban heat island effect, which is a phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

According to the LeadingGreen Guide:

“Individual controls for lighting have a significant effect on occupants’ comfort. Meeting the unique needs of each occupant can be accomplished through effective design of lighting controls…”

LEED credits under EQc6 emphasize providing lighting comfort and energy savings through such controls.

The triple bottom line is a business concept that states firms should commit to measuring their social and environmental impact—in addition to their financial performance—rather than solely focusing on generating profit, or the standard “bottom line”1. The triple bottom line can be broken down into “three P’s”: profit, people, and the planet2. Firms can use these categories to conceptualize their environmental responsibility and determine any negative social impacts to which they might be contributing1.

Triple bottom line

LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M) is the rating system that applies to existing buildings and interior spaces that have been fully operational and occupied for at least one year1. It focuses on performance-oriented sustainable strategies and outcomes, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, indoor environmental quality, and transportation2. LEED O+M can help existing buildings reduce their environmental impacts and improve their operations1.

 2 LEED rating system | U.S. Green Building Council1 LEED for Existing Buildings (LEED-EB) | Harvard Energy & Facilities.

As per the LEED prerequisite for Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control:

“Prohibit smoking in the building and on property within 25 feet from operable windows, entries and air intakes.”

Building entrances are particularly sensitive areas where smoke can enter the ventilation system.