Studio4 LEEDga StudyGuide 20091102

SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
We do not inherit the earth

from our ancestors
...we borrow it from our
children
LEED Illustrated
Green Associate Study Guide
A Study Guide for
Green Building and LEED Core Concepts
and the LEED Green Associate Exam Process
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
iii
Studio4 | LEED Illustrated
LEED Green Associate Study Guide
2009 Studio4, LLC All Rights Reserved 2009 Studio4, LLC All Rights Reserved
Chapter 1 |
LEED Illustrated
2009 Edition
Addenda: 02 November, 2009
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SUSTAINABLEIDEALS SUSTAINABLEIDEALS SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Table of Contents
Notice
Disclaimer
Copyright
C H A P T E R | 1 1
Introductory conversations into sustainable design and construction and the
associated benefts of the roles of the LEED AP and LEED rating sysems
Introduction 1
About this Study Guide 2
Commentaries: the Value of LEED 2
Why Bother with LEED Certifcation? 3
LEED vs Green 4
Integrated Design Process 5
Green Trend Forecasting 6
C H A P T E R | 2 7
An analysis between conventional construction techniques versus green building
strategies and the environmental impacts associated with each
Green Building 7
Why Green Building 8
Green Buildings 9
Green Building Core Principles 9
Life Cycle Assessment 10
Integrative Design Approach 10
Green Building Costs 11
Hard Costs 11
Soft Costs 11
Life Cycle Costs 11
Green Building Benefts 12
Economic Benefts 12
Health and Community Benefts 12
Environmental Benefts 12
Harvard University Ofce of Sustainability Green Building Resource 12
C H A P T E R | 3 15
A review of the U.S. Green Building Council, Green Building Certifcation
Institute, LEED and the processes required for, and associated with, LEED
certifcation
USGBC and its Programs 15
USGBCs Mission 16
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) 16
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) 16
The Triple Bottom Line 16
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Table of Contents
Green Building Certifcation Institute (GBCI) 17
LEED Accreditation 17
LEED Certifcation 17
LEED Green Building Rating Systems: Project Types 18
LEED Rating Systems: Overview 18
LEED Reference Guides 20
Application and Certifcation Process 21
GBCI 21
LEED Online 21
Credit Scorecard 21
Credit Forms and Calculators 22
Charrette 22
Project Administrator 22
LEED AP 22
Rating System Structure 23
Prerequisite and Credit Structure 23
LEED 2009 25
Credit Harmonization 25
Credit Weightings 25
Carbon Overlay 25
Credit Interpretation Request (CIRs) 26
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) 27
Certifcation Process 28
Certifcation Process: General 28
Timeline and Project Design Phases 29
Certifcation Process: Overview 29
Certifcation Process: Detailed 30
Certifcation Process: LEED for Homes 33
USGBC/GBCI Logo Policies 33
The Appendix 34
Chapter Summary 35
Studio4 Ofce Project: the Program Narrative 38
C H A P T E R | 4 41
The goals of the Sustainable Sites credit category are to promote the following
measures: select and develop a site wisely, reduce emissions associated with
transportation, plant sustainable landscapes, protection of surrounding habitats,
manage stormwater runof, reduce heat island efects and eliminate light
pollution
Sustainable Sites (SS) 41
Credit Matrix 42
Site Related Boundaries 42
Building Footprint 42
Development Footprint 42
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Table of Contents
Property Boundary 42
Project Boundary 42
LEED Project Boundary 42
Introduction 43
Transportation 43
Site Selection 45
Site Design and Management 46
Low Impact Development (LID) 48
Stormwater Management 48
Heat Island Efect 50
Light Pollution Reduction 52
Development Density and Community Connectivity 53
Full Time Equivalents (FTEs) 55
Chapter Summary 56
Studio4 Ofce Project: Sustainable Sites 58
C H A P T E R | 5 69
The goals of the Water Efciency credit category are to promote the following
measures: monitor water consumption performance, reduce indoor potable
water consumption, reduce water consumption to save energy and improve
environmental well being, practice water efcient landscaping and, in Schools,
use water efcient processes as a teaching tool
Water Efciency (WE) 69
Credit Matrix 70
Introduction 70
Water Type Defnitions 70
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption 71
Reducing Water to Save Energy and Improve Environmental Well Being 71
Practicing Water Efcient Landscaping 71
In Schools, Use Water efcient Processed as a Teaching Tool 71
Water Efcient Strategies 71
Chapter Summary 74
Studio4 Ofce Project: Water Efciency 75
C H A P T E R | 6 79
The goals of the Energy & Atmosphere credit category are to promote three
kinds of activities: tracking a buildings energy performance through design,
commissioning and monitoring, managing refrigerants to eliminate CFCs and using
renewable energy
Energy and Atmosphere (EA) 79
Credit Matrix 80
Introduction 80
Energy Demand 81
Energy Efciency 82
Energy Simulation 83
Table of Contents
Managing Refrigerants to Eliminate CFCs 84
Renewable Energy 85
Ongoing Energy Performance 87
Building Commissioning 87
Monitoring and Verifcation 88
Chapter Summary 89
Studio4 Ofce Project: Energy and Atmosphere 90
C H A P T E R | 7 97
The goals of the Materials and Resources credit category are to promote the
following measures: select sustainable materials, practice waste reduction, reduce
waste at its source and the reuse and recycling of materials
Materials and Resources (MR) 97
Credit Matrix 98
Introduction 98
Sustainable Materials Selection 98
Waste Reduction Practices 99
Waste Reduction at its Source 99
Reuse and Recycling 99
Waste Management 99
Calculating Material Costs 100
Materials and Resources Credit Metrics 100
Sustainable Material Selection Strategies 100
Storage and Collection of Recyclables: 100
Building Reuse: Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof 100
Building Reuse: Maintain Interior Nonstructural Elements 100
Materials Reuse 100
Recycled Content 101
Regional Materials 101
Rapidly Renewable Materials 101
Certifed Wood 101
Consider purchasing third party certifcation sustainable products 101
Life Cycle Impacts 101
Chapter Summary 102
Studio4 Ofce Project: Materials and Resources 103
C H A P T E R | 8 107
The goals of the Indoor Environmental Quality credit category are to promote
the following measures: improving ventilation, managing air contaminants,
specifying less harmful materials, allowing occupants to control desired settings
and to provide daylight and views
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) 107
Credit Matrix 108
Introduction 108
Table of Contents
Ventilation Improvement 109
Air Contaminant Management 109
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) 109
Carbon Dioxide (CO
2
) 109
Particulate Matter 110
Material Selection Decisions 110
Occupant Control of Systems 110
Daylight and Views 110
Core & Shell (CS) 110
Schools 110
Chapter Summary 111
Studio4 Ofce Project: Indoor Environmental Quality 113
C H A P T E R | 9 121
The Innovation in Design credit category awards bonus points for projects
that use new and innovative technologies and strategies to improve a buildings
performance and for including a LEED Accredited Professional on the team
Innovation in Design (ID) 121
Credit Matrix 122
Introduction 122
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design 123
Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance) 123
Exemplary Performance 123
Rating System ID Points 124
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design 124
Path 1: Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance) 124
Path 2: Exemplary Performance 124
ID Credit 2: LEED Accredited Professional 124
ID Credit 3: The School as a Teaching Tool 124
Studio4 Ofce Project: Innovation in Design 125
C H A P T E R | 1 0 127
USGBC has identifed environmental concerns that are important for every
region of the country and ofers bonus points for credits that address those
regional priorities
Regional Priority (RP) 127
Credit Matrix 128
Regional Priority Credits 128
Studio4 Ofce Project: Regional Priority 129
Studio4 Ofce Project: Certifcation Summary 131
Table of Contents
C H A P T E R | 1 1 133
The LEED Green Associate accreditation is for professionals who want to
demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical felds of practice denoting
basic knowledge of green design, construction, and operations
LEED Green Associate Exam 133
Study Materials 134
Getting Started 135
Examination Eligibility Requirements 135
Applying for the Exam 135
Registration and Scheduling 136
LEED Green Associate Application and Exam Fees 136
Testing Rules & Regulations 136
One Month Before Your Exam 137
One Week Before Your Exam 137
The Day of Your Exam 137
Examination Format 137
Miscellaneous 137
Passing the Exam 138
Failing the Exam 138
Certifcates 138
Exam Specifcations 138
LEED Credentialing 140
5 Things Every Candidate Should Know 141
Examination Question Format 141
C H A P T E R | 1 2 143
A directory of the seven primary areas of study recommended for preparation of
the Green Associate examination
The Seven Domains 143
1. Synergistic Opportunities and LEED Application Process 144
2. Project Site Factors 146
3. Water Management 146
4. Project Systems and Energy Impacts 146
5. Acquisition, Installation, and Management of Project Materials 147
6. Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation 147
7. Project Surroundings and Public Outreach 147
C H A P T E R | 1 3 149
Acronyms, abbreviations and defnitions that may be unfamiliar or have specifc
meanings in the context of sustainability and green building
Acronyms & Glossary of Terms 149
Acronyms & Abbreviations 150
Glossary of Terms 154
Table of Contents
C H A P T E R | 1 4 181
Green resource links, charts, processes, fees, credit interactions, referenced
standards and miscellaneous support information
Appendix 181
Green Resources 182
Websites 182
Publications 182
Blogs 182
USGBC & GBCI Responsibilities 183
Six Steps to Certifcation 184
Project Checklist Sample 185
Credit Form Sample 186
Project Certifcation Fees 187
Application Submittal Process 188
Split Review 188
Combined Review and Appeal Process 189
Commissioning Process 190
Commissioning Authority 190
Tasks and Responsibilities 191
Referenced Standards 192
Credit Interactions 202
Reference Guides 212
LEED Rating Systems: Detailed 213
LEED for New Construction (NC) 213
LEED for Core & Shell (CS) 213
LEED for Commercial Interiors (CI) 214
LEED for Schools 214
LEED for Healthcare 214
LEED for Retail 215
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance (EB O&M) 215
LEED for Homes 216
LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND) 216
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
1
Introduction
P
ersonal involvement with sustainable ideals
is a noble cause, regardless the philosophical
diferences we may have with regard to the issues at
hand and how these issues are best addressed. Being
committed to our sustainable goals in a responsible
manner can deliver a process of educated dialog
that will help safeguard the environment for this
generation and beyond.
About this Study Guide
Commentaries: the Value of LEED
Why Bother with LEED Certifcation
LEED vs Green
Integrated Design Process
Green Trend Forecasting
C H A P T E R | 1
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
2
Chapter 1 |
Introduction
About this Study Guide
It is important to become familiar with the information available on the USGBC and GBCI websites
and take advantage of information that cannot be thoroughly covered by third party study
materials. Throughout this guide are references and links to specifc areas on the USGBC and
GBCI websites where current and pertinent information can be located. The USGBC has made
a commitment to see that LEED processes and information highway are frequently updated to
meet ever changing demands. As such, it is important for us to be connected in order to be
current. The frst page of the Appendix has a listing of USGBC and GBCI websites as well as links
to additional green information and resource sites.
The Seven Domains chapter addresses each of the specifc subject matter outlined in the Green
Associate Candidate Handbook as being required areas for study.
To assist in understanding green building and LEEDs relationship with sustainability, a project was
developed that progressively builds at the end of each of the sustainable category chapters. The
intent of creating a project from site selection to credit selection is to present a broad overview
of the integrated design approach for achieving credits in order to produce a cost efective, high
performance building. This project will address many of the sustainable items discussed in the
related chapter and provide an illustrated and expanded explanation of strategies and how they
are implemented. The Studio4 Ofce Project is introduced at the conclusion of the USGBC and its
Programs chapter and continues at the conclusion of each LEED category chapter.
Commentaries: the Value of LEED
Most likely, we will continue for many years the debate as to the extents of global warming and
carbon footprints or the efects of population and development growth on the environment.
Consider the environmental consequences of an owners decision as to the location of a new
facility for their business. What if the owner decides to build in a location remote of any existing
supporting infrastructures such as housing, mass transportation and community services like
restaurants, gas stations, churches, post ofces and grocery stores? The negative impact to
natural resources such as forestry, fossil fuels and fresh water supplies could be profound. But
what if the owner decided, instead, to relocate to an existing facility or construct a new building
in a densely populated area? Housing, mass transportation and community services already in
place would substantially reduce the burden on our natural resources.
Even on a personal level, with minimal efort or initial cost, we can make a diference in helping
to preserve our natural resources. Recycling, automobile efciency and travel habits along with
water efcient landscaping and fxtures alone are easy and efective places to begin.
There can be no argument that we must become more educated in our understanding how
everyone can make a diference contributing both individually and collectively to the conservation
of our natural resources, while providing more efcient and healthier places to work, live and
play. Regardless our position, we all must realize the consequences of standing by the wayside
and doing nothing.
The following four pages in this chapter are commentaries by professionals in the feld of
sustainability and are presented here to ofer a precursor to understanding the world of
sustainability and the contribution of LEED to the delivery of high performance buildings.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Chapter 1 | 3
Introduction
Why Bother with LEED Certifcation?
Part one: Intrinsic Benefts
Building owners often question the additional time and expense involved with registering a building
for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED (Registered)) certifcation through the United
States Green Building Council (USGBC), versus just simply including green features in a project. There
are several reasons why owners choose to have their buildings certifed through the various LEED Rating
Systems. Some building owners feel that environmentally, it is the right thing to do. Others make the
decision to pursue LEED due to requirements of their own governing body. Still other building owners
pursue a fnancial incentive ofered through their local government or parent organization. Essentially,
there are three general reasons why building owners should seek Certifcation: commitment, legitimacy,
and marketability.
Commitment. By registering your project with the USGBC you are committing to design and construct
your building to the standards and requirements outlined by the LEED Rating System. Your design
team and your buildings contractor are then committed to integrating those design features to ensure
that your building is more durable, healthy and more energy efcient. Through the rigors of budget,
programming, or other project challenges, these green features will remain because you and your
team decided to produce a building that merits LEED Certifcation and national recognition for its
sustainability.
Legitimacy. In the face of widespread green washing (i.e.: the attempt by businesses or individuals
to mislead consumers as to the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefts
of a product or service), LEED Certifcation tells your peers, clients and customers, that your buildings
sustainable features have been verifed by a third party to promote energy conservation, to ensure a
healthier indoor environment and to reduce its impact on the environment. LEED is a consensus-based
system, meaning one that was commented and voted upon by the USGBCs diverse membership. It
ensures that your project team didnt just invent the green requirements on your own or design your
project to some arbitrary defnition of sustainability. Instead, thousands of professionals (there are over
100,000 LEED Accredited Professionals within the USGBC) collaborated, discussed and agreed upon
these requirements.
Marketability. A LEED Certifed headquarters, branch ofce, retail location, or elementary school is a strong
marketing tool to show the community that your organization is committed to something greater than
itself. It demonstrates that you were willing to make the extra efort to not only include those features,
but also to have them confrmed - better yet Certifed - by a nationally and internationally recognized
leader in the feld. The LEED Rating System is a tool that can help create a space that will enhance your
employees, clients, or students everyday environment while reducing operating and maintenance
costs as well as decreasing its impact on the environment. LEED Certifcation demonstrates how it was
accomplished.
Michael Senger, LEED AP, is a Mechanical Engineer with Heapy Engineering. Involved in over 100 LEED projects
and with +50 LEED Accredited Professional on staf, Heapy Engineering is one of the leading sustainable design
frms in the country. Michael is also a Board Member of the Cincinnati Regional Chapter of the USGBC.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
4
Chapter 1 |
Introduction
LEED vs Green
Three years ago, my team of graduate engineering students was presenting the energy, environmental,
and economic analysis for the construction of a net-zero energy building. The client patiently listened,
asked questions, and then dictated a verdict... we had the fnancial green light. Years of analysis, research,
and calculations had paid of.
Next, we assembled a professional design team to take the project from concept to concrete. The house
would have it all: net-zero energy use, a sustainable project site, low water use, and sustainable materials.
The idea of LEED certifcation was brought up and immediately dismissed by the team. Why would our
building need such a stamp of approval when we knew just how good the design was? No one knew just
how wrong we were. Throughout the various stages of design, our student team lamented as the green
features were removed. Once completed, the building would retain its net-zero energy status, but had
lost all other important green features.
My current projects are larger and more expensive than that small house. But, the values of the lessons
learned during my fnal years as a graduate student are greater than any that I have learned. I have come
to realize the true value of the LEED rating system as a necessity to truly attain sustainable (green)
design.
During my career, I have seen project teams make 70% of the design decisions while spending just
the frst 1% of the design budget. Thus, it becomes a daunting task to retroactively set project goals ...
specifcally sustainability goals. The less prominent the goal, the more likely the feature necessary to
attain that goal will fall by the wayside or be value-engineered from the project.
The LEED Rating System is a tool that a design team uses in order to insure that a projects green features
are properly designed, constructed, and accounted for. Human error pervades the construction process.
Examples of such errors include ordering the wrong product, calculation mistakes, or forgetting a step
in a process. The LEED process, by no means ensures a perfect building. However, many portions of
the LEED process act to signifcantly decrease such errors. One of the most prominent examples is the
Commissioning process, which is a service that all owners will beneft from, regardless of project scope,
size, or cost.
Once the entire project has been completed, the owner asks, What insures that I now own and operate
a green building? If the project has achieved LEED Certifcation, the team can be certain of their answer.
The entire project team knows which goals have been successfully achieved, how much energy and
water the building should save, and what type of indoor environment has been created for the building
occupants.
A holistic perspective is necessary to grasp the true impact of a third-party rating system such as
LEED. The LEED Rating system has two major components. First, LEED promotes general sustainability
oriented features such as bike racks and daylighting. Second, LEED is a group of best-practice codes
and standards compiled to infuence the construction industry. When projects pursue LEED Certifcation,
the market is driven to provide goods and services that attain the standards that have been chosen.
Each LEED-Certifed project strengthens the green building movement, pushes for products that are less
impactful on people and the environment, and enables property owners to truly know just how green
their building is.
Greg Rafo, LEED AP, is with Heapy Engineering
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Chapter 1 | 5
Introduction
Integrated Design Process
The built and natural environments are inextricably and vitally linked. To create a high performance /
sustainable facility, a collaborative design approach is essential for a successful outcome. The Integrated
Design Process fosters knowledge-sharing among signifcant stakeholders during the development of a
holistic design and leads to increased project value.
These stakeholders should be comprised of the owner group, key users, facilities directors, programmers,
real estate managers, architects, commissioning agents, civil engineers, planners, mechanical engineers,
interior designers, structural engineers, construction managers, electrical engineers, plumbing designers,
landscape architects, and / or key specialty consultants. The General Contractor and / or the Construction
Manager should also be included in this process to encourage the sharing of cost, scheduling and
construction knowledge. This will also familiarize the contractor with the construction intent resulting in
a more accurate bid and more efcient construction period.
During the traditional approach, design and construction professionals work somewhat independently
on their respective area of expertise. One of two things can happen when consultants are added to the
design process midstream. The new team member shares expertise that changes the project late in the
process, requiring more time, efort and money to back track; or more commonly, the team decides
not to pursue the new approach. In either case, the project and the owner sufer a consequence. Value
Engineering during design and construction becomes the norm, which leads to value loss.
The Integrated Design Process deviates from this traditional approach as it leverages the collective
expertise as early as the pre-design phase, where the highest potentials and greatest values are realized.
Value engineering tends to generate project cuts, which successfully lessen the construction costs, but
usually lessen the true value. The Integrated Design Process is vital to a successful work process, which
can lessen the damages of value engineering.
By bringing all the stakeholders to the design process early, intensive analysis and in-depth investigations
can discover complementary and innovative project goals and design strategies when change costs less.
This Integrated Design Team establishes project goals together while engaging in a productive exchange
of ideas. The team understands, applies and tests these goals throughout the design process.
Stakeholders share their knowledge in multi-day charrette (brainstorming) formats; trade-ofs and
connections are recognized. Problems are reframed and better solutions are generated by creating an
innovative and collaborative environment where each opinion matters. The entire team establishes and
meets the project goals, objectives and major solutions. These charrettes frequently become rather lively
and informal without jurisdiction. They are investigatory by nature, thoughtfully critiqued and leverage
the expertise and resources of the team. Connections are made that typically are not immediately
understood, such as how paint color impacts the mechanical load or how building orientation afects
human productivity. Sometimes the most efective solutions have the lowest construction cost
implications and might be undiscovered in a traditional design process.
By utilizing the Integrated Design Process, deep curiosity, thorough analysis and strategic, technical
problem solving prevail, leading to a more comprehensive, cost efective and sustainable facility.
Chad Edwards, RA, LEED AP, is an Associate at Emersion Design (www.emersiondesign.com) and serves on the
USGBC Cincinnati Regional Chapter Board of Directors.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
6
Chapter 1 |
Introduction
Green Trend Forecasting
Over the course of the last 8 years, Green talk has infltrated everything. The number of Green Building
articles in newspapers has jumped from around 1,000 per year in 2000 to more than 9,000 in 2007. More
cities and states are adopting green building incentives and policies (like Cincinnati and Ohio). Much of
this has been attributed to the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED Rating system and its success. The
USGBC has had a huge impact on the building industry as membership in the organization has grown
by 50% every year for the last ten years. But there is something much larger at work in our world than
the impact of LEED. Companies ranging from Wal-Mart to Starbucks are touting their sustainability
initiatives, and it isnt just limited to the United States. There are now Green Building Councils in twelve
countries on fve continents. Somewhere along the way, green has crossed the line between a fad and
a movement.
Motivations for companies going green vary widely, and aside from the obvious motivation of saving
the planet, many organizations have gone green to save money, or even to simply improve their public
image. Still others have started talking green just to ride the wave of dollars following as customers seek
greener products, vehicles, homes, and ofces. So whats next? Amidst the green buzz, here are several
trends in the green movement that visionary businesses should be preparing for.
The frst green trend and the reason LEED has been successful, is third party verifcation. In a time when
Chevron and BP make commercials about their sustainability missions, and green-washing claims like
all natural are everywhere, it is important to have verifable defnitions for what green really is. For
buildings, that is LEED, but there are many other important third party verifcations for the rest of our lives
and businesses. The International Organization for Standardization is developing the 14000 series of ISO
standards to defne vocabulary and validate processes for product manufacturing and environmental
impact management.
The second trend related to going green is rising energy costs. This should go without saying, but energy
will only get more expensive before and if it ever gets cheaper. A comparison between investing the same
amount of money in the S&P 500 or in energy efciency for your building puts it all in perspective. Over
the last ten years, the S&P 500 Index Fund has increased 36.8% while energy costs have risen 300%.
The phrase Blue collar jobs to Green collar jobs is one of the hottest topics for politicians, and represents
the third trend. With the global push for sustainability, the need for solar panel manufacturing and
installing, wind turbine manufacturing, green product manufacturing, and an endless list of sustainable
business opportunities justifes the name the Next Industrial Revolution.
Finally, savvy businesses recognize that by embracing sustainability at their core, employees will be
proud to work there. When your job and your company is about more than just making widgets, a sense
of loyalty and pride is inevitable, and as Generation Y takes hold in the workforce, with their notorious
job-hopping tendencies, it is even more important for employers to recognize the recruitment potential
of going green before their competitors do.
Shawn Hesse, of Emersion Design, is the 2008 Chair of the USGBC Cincinnati Chapter
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
7
Green Building
C H A P T E R | 2
Annually, buildings consume more than 30% of the
total energy and more than 60% of the electricity
used in the U.S. Each day 5 billion gallons of potable
water are used to fush toilets. Green building
practices can substantially reduce negative
environmental impacts through high performance,
market leading design, construction and operations
practices. Green operations and management
reduces operating costs and increases workers
productivity by improving indoor air quality.
Why Green Building
Green Building Core Principles
Green Buildings
Life Cycle Assessment
Green Building Costs
Green Building Benefts
Harvard University
Ofce for Sustainability
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Chapter 2 | 8
Green Building
Why Green Building
Legitimate question! Or, perhaps, better to ask Why not Green Building? Often an answer to a
question is better understood when presented in the reverse. Simply, conventional building
methods are not sustainable. They use too much energy, create too much waste and are not
conducive to acceptable levels of satisfactory occupant health and comfort.
The cumulative impact of the design, construction and operation of built environments has
profound implications for human health, the environment and the economy. With conventional
development and construction practices:
Clearing of land for development often destroys wildlife habitat
Extracting, manufacturing and transportation materials contribute to the pollution of water
and air, the release of toxic chemicals and the emission of greenhouse gases
Building related transportation contributes to a wide range of impacts associated with
vehicle use, energy consumption and harmful environmental efects
In the U.S., conventional buildings account for a high portion of resource use and waste
generation:
14% of potable water consumption
30% of waste output
38% of carbon dioxide emissions
40% of raw material use
24% to 50% of energy use
72% of electrical consumption
By defnition, sustainability is the ability of the current generation to meet its own needs
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. With the projected
population growth coupled with the vast amount of resources that our buildings consume, we
are going to have to get a lot smarter about how we build.
The goal of sustainable design, or green design, is to create high performance buildings that
result in minimal environmental impact, reduced infrastructure and efcient building operations.
Green buildings lead to increased facility assets, increased worker productivity and reduction in
risk management.
Federal, state and local governments are adopting more sustainable building practices.
Government agencies, utility companies and manufacturers increasingly ofer fnancial incentives
to developers and owners to enhance the environmental performance of their buildings.
Studies on green building performance have shown substantial average savings and
Improvements:
13% lower maintenance costs
26% less energy usage
27% higher levels of occupant satisfaction
33% lower carbon dioxide emissions
Now, Why Green Building?
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Green Building
Green Buildings
Green building is an integrative efort to transform the way built environments are designed,
constructed and operated. The scope of green building reaches from the earliest stages of planning
to beyond the end of a structures life. Utilizing a holistic, or whole building, approach to the
design and construction, green building produces high performance by focusing on sustainable
categories as defned by LEED. With an integrated and holistic approach, the interaction, or
synergies and trade-ofs, between construction strategies is managed to provide maximum
performance results. LEED channels green design through sustainable categories as determined
by the environmental issues being addressed.
The seven categories of LEED:
Sustainable Sites (SS)
Water Efciency (WE)
Energy and Atmosphere (EA)
Materials and Resources (MR)
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Innovation in Design (ID)
Regional Priority (RP)
The sustainable Categories of LEED
Optimize site selection to preserve green space and minimize transportation impacts
Orient building to take maximum advantage of sunlight and micro-climate
Use energy as efciently as possible
Maximize the use of renewable energy
Use water as efciently as possible
Minimize waste water and run-of
Minimize materials impacts by using green products
Design for a healthy indoor environment
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Green Building
Life Cycle Assessment
Sustainability is a process of continuing improvement that begins at the inception of an idea and
continues until the project reaches the end of its life, is dismantled and its parts recycled. The
study of this process, known as life cycle assessment, encompasses planning, design, construction,
operations and ultimately retirement and renewal. The analysis considers the building along
with its materials and components, from their extraction, manufacture and transport, to their
use, reuse, recycling and disposal. Life cycle assessment informs the choice of building materials
and systems and minimizes the negative impacts of the building and land use on people and
the environment. In simpler terms: Product A may cost less and have a life expectancy of 5 years
whereas Product B may cost a little more but have a life expectancy of 15 years, making Product
B a better choice due to it having a better life cycle cost.
Sustainable design requires an analysis of a building over its entire life. Life cycle cost analysis
identifes which high performance building systems will save money over the life of the building.
All of the building expenses that can be calculated are included in the analysis:
I nitial costs (design and construction)
Operating costs (energy, water, other utilities and personnel)
Maintenance, repair and replacement costs
Salvage value at the end of the buildings life
Integrative Design Approach
The building design process begins when the basic programmatic requirements for the project
have been determined. A schematic design follows, formulating the basic theme that will be
used to meet the project goals. During design development, the scheme is further refned into
a design which is used for preparing the construction documents.
Conventionally, the architect, engineers, contractors and others work independently of each
other, with little or no coordination and communication between the diferent disciplines. This
type of segregated design and communication limits integration and synergy opportunities,
often leading to under/over designed systems.
In an integrative design approach, all stakeholders, such as owners and facility managers, and
design team members are brought into the project at the earliest stage to discuss the project
goals and requirements. At various stages of the design process, reviews are conducted to verify
that the owners requirements and goals are being met. Integrative design allows the stakeholders
and design team to coordinate the design process so that each member is aware of all decisions
made. This is critical as most decisions made relative to one discipline will have an efect on
other disciplines. If the owner decides to omit day lighting controls, this will most likely cause
a change to the building heat gain, requiring additional cooling capacity while also increasing
the electrical loads and energy consumption. Likewise, a change to a vegetated roof will require
the involvement of the architect, structural engineer, civil engineer, landscape architect and
mechanical engineers. Integrative and holistic design and understanding synergies are essential
to meeting the sustainable goals of a green building. All interested parties must be gathered
early, communicate often and coordinate their eforts collectively to ensure success.
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Green Building
Green Building Costs
The general belief that green buildings add costs to new construction projects is often
misunderstood. It is possible to design and construct green buildings with little or no extra cost.
That becomes more challenging, however, as the bar is raised for aggressively green, super-
efcient buildings.
Many options are available to eliminate or minimize extra costs for green buildings. In many
regions, state, local and utility company incentives are available to cover costs associated with
green design services or reducing the cost of specifc energy efciency and renewable energy
technologies and products. Importantly, by incorporating a holistic design approach that takes
advantage of the interaction of building systems by optimizing systems (e.g. insulation), other
systems can shrink or be eliminated (e.g. heating systems), ofsetting the optimization costs.
Many scenarios can be formulated to determine the net cost of green buildings compared to
conventional buildings. Any efort to reduce energy consumption or improve indoor air quality
above code compliant baselines is considered an added cost. Alone, this can lead to a conclusion
that green buildings cost more than conventional buildings. However, when considering eforts
to conserve energy as part of an integrative design approach, these added costs are often ofset
by new savings. For instance, if the amount of insulation in the building is increased, the size
of the HVAC systems is reduced as is the amount of energy consumed. If windows are added
in appropriate locations, the amount of daylighting into the building is increased, reducing
the amount of artifcial lighting required. Daylighting also increases occupant satisfaction and
performance. The cost of building green can be compared to the costs of same class conventional
buildings when considering an integrative design approach.
A 2007 public opinion survey conducted by the World Business Council for Sustainable
Development found a consensus believed that green buildings add 17% to the cost of a building,
whereas a survey of 146 green buildings found an average cost increase of less than 2%.
In all types of construction projects, regardless if they are conventional or sustainable, there are
2 basic types of costs related to the project: the projects hard costs and soft costs. With LEED,
a third cost element, life cycle costs, are used for the purposes of factoring into the analysis the
true value of a building over its lifetime.
Hard Costs: These costs are the expenditures for the actual construction phases of the project
such as sitework, concrete, masonry, roofng, interior fnishes, etc. In general, these are the costs
paid to the general contractor, subcontractors or material suppliers for direct construction
related activities and materials.
Soft Costs: These are costs for services outside the realm of what is done on the construction
site. They include architectural and engineering fees, permit fees, legal and real estate fees,
interest paid for the cost of doing the project, insurance, closing costs, etc.
Life Cycle Costs: Synonymous with green building, cradle to grave costs that go beyond the
initial construction costs to include operation and maintenance of the building after occupancy,
demolition costs and reuse value at the end of the buildings life.
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Green Building
Green Building Benefts
Green buildings save energy, use less water, generate less waste and provide higher levels of
indoor quality and comfort. Studies conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) found that Americans spend, on average, 90% of their time indoors where pollutant levels
can be 2 to 100 times higher than outdoor levels. Green buildings also provide higher levels of
occupant satisfaction with regards to air quality and lighting, where studies indicate signifcant
gains with regards to occupant productivity.
Economic Benefts
Reduce operating costs
Enhance asset value and profts
Improve employee satisfaction and productivity
Optimize life cycle economic performance
Health and Community Benefts
Improve air, thermal and acoustic environments
Enhance occupant comfort and health
Minimize strain on local infrastructure
Contribute to overall quality of life
Environmental Benefts
Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
Improve air and water quality
Reduce solid waste
Conserve natural resources
Harvard University Ofce of Sustainability Green Building Resource
http://green.harvard.edu/theresource/
http://www.greencampus.harvard.edu/theresource/new-construction/integrated-design/
documents/ID_checklist.pdf
The Harvard University Ofce of Sustainability Green Building Resource website is a treasure
cove of information about sustainability. From Green Building Guidelines, the Integrated Design
Approach, Implementation Tools, Credit-by-Credit LEED Roadmap, Energy Modeling, Life Cycle
Costing, Case Studies and more, few sources ofer or share more than Harvard about their LEED
projects.
The Integrated Design Approach is so critical to the success of sustainable projects that Harvard
ofers the Integrated Design Checklist, Integrated Design 101 (10 page summary analysis) and
Roadmap for the Integrated Design Process (114 page Summary Guide and Reference Manual).
The following, taken from Harvards website, is a checklist of salient items relative to the Integrated
Design Approach and is well worth promoting.
If it is important, ask for it: Include integrated design, sustainability, occupant education &
LEED goals in RFP language, interview questions, and Owners Project Requirements.
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Green Building
Evaluate program needs: Work with building occupants and project team to assess an actual
building program with space needs, and consider opportunities to share resources through
adjacencies and providing communal amenities. By better understanding actual program
needs, team members are more likely to work towards a common goal and create a successful
project.
Establish measures for success: Set measurable sustainability targets for energy, water,
daylight, etc. and require reporting on progress towards goals as part of all design submissions.
For successful designs, consider fnancial incentives such as passing on tax credits or sharing
energy savings or coming in under GMP.
Take advantage of available expertise: Include design charettes in Concept and Schematic
Design that include representatives from all major stakeholders including members of the
owners team, design team, construction team, and possibly vendors team. See HGCI sample
agendas.
Ask why: Question decisions made during building design and construction that were done
based on rules of thumb or business as usual. Project teams should be prepared to look to
alternatives to common strategies and develop solutions appropriate for their specifc project.
Each project is unique and technologies are constantly changing, so very few decisions should
be taken for granted.
Model alternative building systems: Include energy modeling in Concept, Schematic, &
Design Development with multiple parametric runs to evaluate major design decisions.
Design for operations and maintenance: Identify & include operations representative in
charettes, design meetings, and construction meetings. Provide comprehensive preventive
maintenance plan and ensure efective training of operations and maintenance staf.
Commission throughout project: Engage a commissioning agent in Schematic Design and
include thorough verifcation of building performance and plans for continuous commissioning
throughout buildings life.
Consider life cycle costs: Identify Life Cycle Costing requirements early in design prior to
selecting systems and require LCC results before making major design decisions. Utilize life
cycle costs when evaluating systems rather than strictly frst costs.
Consider alternative funding mechanisms: Make project team aware of local utility rebates,
state and federal grant programs, power purchasing agreements and performance contracts
and take advantage of these programs as appropriate. If the team is made aware of these
opportunities early in the design process, they are more likely to suggest strategies to pursue
these monies.
Meter and verify performance: Identify measurement and verifcation requirements for the
project and include operations staf and controls vendor in design process.
Utilize lessons learned: Provide project team with access to and training for the High
Performance Building Resource. Throughout the project, collect and share documentation
including energy model fles, LCC results, evaluation of consultants and contractors, and success
stories.
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USGBC and its Programs
C H A P T E R | 3
USGBC, LEED and GBCI
LEED Green Building Rating Systems:
Summary Outline Description
LEED Application and Certifcation Process
Prerequisite and Credit Structure
LEED Certifcation Process:
Strategy: Timeline & Design Phases
Overview & Detailed
Submittal Review
USGBC/GBCI Logo Policies
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: the Program Narrative
T
he U.S. Green Building Council promotes
sustainability in how todays buildings are
designed, built and operated through an integrative
and holistic approach. The USGBC developed the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) Rating Systems and Greenbuild. LEED is a
comprehensive system of six interrelated standards
covering all aspects of the development and
construction process. Greenbuild is a green building
conference that promotes the green building
industry, including environmentally responsible
materials, sustainable architecture, techniques and
public policy.
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Chapter 3 |
U.S. Green Building Council and its Programs
USGBCs Mission
To transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an
environmentally and socially responsible, healthy and prosperous environment that improves the
quality of life
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a coalition of leaders from every sector of the
building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, proftable
and healthful places to live and work. USGBC is a nonproft organization formed in 1993 whose
members represent companies and organizations across the industry and include building
owners and users, real estate developers, facility managers, architects, designers, engineers,
general contractors, subcontractors, product and building system manufacturers, government
agencies, nonprofts. The USGBC: Provides tools and expertise; Builds community; Provides forums
for industry dialog; Educates the industry and the public; Stewards market transformation.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was formed in 1998
by the USGBC as a third party certifcation program to defne and measure green buildings. LEED
promotes a whole building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in location
and planning, sustainable site development, water savings, energy efciency, materials selection,
indoor environmental quality, innovative strategies and attention to regional priority issues.
The Triple Bottom Line
LEED measures and enhances the design and sustainability of buildings based on the triple
bottom line approach. The triple bottom line, as adopted by USGBC, establishes metrics and
rating systems to measure and recognize buildings based on their performance in the three
dimensions of sustainability: society, the environment and the economy. Projects certifed under
LEED Rating Systems demonstrate that they have addressed elements that balance and enhance
the three areas of the triple bottom line.
Triple Bottom Line (TPL) components:
Economic Prosperity : Economic bottom line that produces a long term, positive environmental
impact
Social Responsibility : Improving the lives of those with
whom the building interacts
Environmental Stewardship : Sustainable green practices
Another way to look at TPL: People, Planet, Proft
USGBC Guiding Principles:
Promote the Triple Bottom Line
Establish Leadership
Reconcile Humanity with Nature
Maintain Integrity
Endure Inclusiveness
Exhibit Transparency
Triple Bottom Line
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Green Building Certifcation Institute (GBCI)
The Green Building Certifcation Institute (GBCI) was established in 2007 with the support of
the U.S. Green Building Council to independently administer credentialing programs related to
green building practices.
GBCI manages all aspects of the LEED Professional Accreditation program, including examination
development, registration and delivery. GBCI also oversees the development and implementation
of a credential maintenance program (CMP) for LEED APs.
USGBC handles the development of the LEED Rating Systems while GBCI administers all LEED
project certifcation.
LEED Accreditation
Individuals are Accredited and become LEED Accredited Professionals by successfully testing at
the level of accreditation sought:
LEED Green Associate
LEED AP+ Building Design & Construction (BD&C)
LEED AP+ Interior Design & Construction (ID&C)
LEED AP+ Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
LEED AP+ Homes
LEED AP+ Neighborhood Development (ND)
Accreditation is available at three tier levels:
Tier I : LEED Green Associate (demonstrates knowledge and skill in practicing green design,
construction and development)
Tier II : LEED+ Accredited Professional [BD&C] [ID&C] [O&M] [Homes] [ND] (extraordinary
depth of knowledge in green building practices and specialization in a specifc feld)
Tier III : LEED Fellow (TBD)
LEED Certifcation
Buildings are Certifed: A registered building is in the process of implementing LEED. A Certifed
building has implemented LEED and received a review by the USGBC verifying the sustainability
standards that were implemented. LEED Certifed (upper case C) is correct.
Certifed
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Companies or products are neither accredited nor certifed
Organizations can obtain membership to the USGBC national organization
Individuals can become members of USGBC regional chapters
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Chapter 3 |
LEED Green Building Rating Systems: Project Types
The LEED Rating System is a tool for design and construction professionals that encourages,
evaluates and recognizes green buildings and neighborhoods with the ultimate goal of market
transformation. LEED is fexible enough to apply to new and existing institutional, commercial
and residential buildings.
The LEED Rating Systems address the following types of projects:
LEED for New Construction (NC)
LEED for Core & Shell (CS)
LEED for Commercial Interiors (CI)
LEED for Schools
LEED for Healthcare
LEED for Retail
LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
LEED for Homes
LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)
For each rating system, green building strategies are divided into the following six categories:
Water Efciency (WE)
Innovation and Design (ID)
A seventh category, Regional Priority (RP), addresses regionally important environmental issues
LEED Rating Systems: Overview
New Buildings and Major Renovations
New Buildings
Ofces, institutional buildings (libraries, museums, churches, etc.), hotels, and
residential buildings of 4 or more habitable stories
Major Renovations
Major HVAC replacement or modifcations
Building core (major mechanical systems) & shell (building envelope and structural)
renovation
Project occupies greater than 50% of leasable space
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Developer controls core (major mechanical systems) & shell (building envelope and
structural) but not leasable tenant spaces
Commercial ofce buildings, medical ofce buildings, retail centers, warehouses,
institutional buildings and laboratory facilities
Project occupies 50% or less of leasable area
Tenant spaces primarily in ofce, retail, and institutional buildings
Tenant spaces that do not occupy the entire building
Designed to work hand in hand with LEED Core & Shell projects
LEED for Schools
Must be used for the construction or major renovation of an academic building on K12
school grounds
Other projects on a school campus may qualify under 2 or more LEED rating system
project scopes
Nonacademic buildings on a school campus, such as administrative ofces,
maintenance facilities or dormitories are eligible for either LEED for New Construction
or LEED for Schools
Projects involving postsecondary academic buildings or prekindergarten buildings
may also choose to use either LEED for New Construction or LEED for Schools
LEED for Healthcare
Developed to meet the unique needs of the health care market
Inpatient care facilities, licensed outpatient care facilities, and licensed long term care
facilities, medical ofces, assisted living facilities and medical education & research
centers.
Addresses issues such as increased sensitivity to chemicals and pollutants, traveling
distances from parking facilities, and access to natural spaces
LEED for Retail
Recognizes the unique nature of the retail environment and addresses the diferent types of
spaces that retailers need for their distinctive product lines
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance (EB O&M)
For the ongoing operations and maintenance of existing commercial and institutional
buildings
Solves building problems, improve building performance, and maintain and improve this
performance over time
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Chapter 3 |
Reduces cost streams associated with building operations, reduces environmental
impacts, creates healthier and more productive employee workspaces
Encourages owners and operators of existing buildings to implement sustainable
practices and reduce the environmental impacts of their building over their functional
life cycles
Certifes the operations and maintenance of the building and creates a plan for ensuring
high performance over time
Institutionalize a process of reporting, inspection and review over the lifespan of the
building
Requires three months of operational data for an initial certifcation
Building construction must be complete for at least a three month span before LEED
certifcation can be pursued
LEED for Homes
Promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes
Uses less energy, water and natural resources, creates less waste, and is healthier and
more comfortable for occupants
Integrates the principles of smart growth, urbanism and green building into the frst
national system for neighborhood design and addresses the land use planning of an entire
neighborhood, including buildings, infrastructure, street design and open space
Multiple Certifcations
Certain building types can achieve multiple rating systems:
Buildings certifed under the NC, CS or Schools may also be certifed under EB O&M
Buildings certifed under CS may also be certifed under CI
LEED Neighborhood Development may earn additional points for construction or retroft
of certifed buildings which are part of the development
LEED Reference Guides
LEED 2009 Reference Guides include
detailed information on the process for
achieving LEED certifcation, detailed credit
and prerequisite information, resources and
standards for the LEED 2009 rating systems
and all other requirements as outlined
in the Prerequisite and Credit Structure
section of this chapter.
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Application and Certifcation Process
GBCI
Beginning April 27, 2009, the Green Building Certifcation Institute (GBCI) manages the review
and verifcation process for projects seeking certifcation under the LEED Green Building Rating
System.
LEED Online
LEED Online is the primary resource with which project teams with registered projects can
manage the LEED Registration and Certifcation process and is available only to registered projects.
Using LEED Online you can:
Submit documentation to GBCI for review
Document compliance with LEED Credit Requirements
Coordinate resources among project team members
Manage public facing project details
Submit technical inquiries regarding LEED Credits
Track progress towards LEED Certifcation
Submit all required documentation
Upload Credit Forms
View and submit Credit Interpretation Rulings (CIR)
Contact Customer Service
View and respond to GBCI reviewer comments
Only the Project Administrator has full, unrestricted rights to access and manage all parts
of LEED Online
Credit Scorecard
(aka LEED Credit Checklist)
The LEED Credit Scorecard is a tool used by the Project Team that lists all of the prerequisites and
credits of the rating system being pursued:
Should be initiated by the Project Team early during the charrette process
Allows the Project Team members the ability to assess and track the credits they will
attempt with an anticipated level of certifcation achievement - a preliminary credit
review and tracking of potential or probable credits to go after
Lists all prerequisites and credits for each category with columns for the Project Team to
mark as Yes, ? or No
A sample Scorecard is available for review in the Appendix.
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Chapter 3 |
Credit Forms and Calculators
(aka LEED Credit Templates, Letter Templates or Submittal Templates)
Central to the certifcation process is the LEED Credit Form, an interactive tool that is accessed
by the Project Administrator and invited Project Team members via LEED Online for the purpose
of uploading documentation required to validate prerequisite and credit compliance. Each
Credit Form will list the requirements for achievement as well as the documentation required for
submittal and must be signed by the responsible Project Team member. For credits that require
calculations, calculators are built in to indicate if the credit requirements have been met. In part,
these Credit Forms:
Streamlines the preparation of LEED applications
Allows the Project Administrator to assign Project Team member responsibility
Provides automatic calculation when required data is entered by a Project Team
member
A sample Credit Form is available for review in the Appendix. At the time of printing, v3 forms
were not available.
Charrette
A LEED Charrette is a forum where those who can infuence project decisions meet and begin
planning the project. As a gathering of all key stakeholders in the LEED certifcation process, a
charrette facilitates agreement on project goals. By soliciting ideas, issues, and concerns early in
the project process, it saves time and money and gives an early sense of collective enthusiasm
with realistic goals and directions.
Project Administrator
The GBCI assigns the role of Project Administrator to the person who initially registers the project
via LEED Online. This person is the main contact with the GBCI via LEED Online. Although it is
advisable to select the Project Administrator during the charrette, this person can be replaced
after registration.
Provides project information when registering via LEED Online
Invites Team Members for access to LEED Online
Assigns credit responsibility to Team Members
LEED AP
Provides project coordination between all Project Team disciplines
Knows the responsibilities and status of each Team Member
Manages and reviews Project Team documentation prior to uploading to Credit Forms
Knows which credits each member of the Project Team is responsible for
Understands the entire certifcation process
Coordinates codes and standards
Must have a principle role in the project to be eligible for an Innovation in Design credit
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Rating System Structure
The LEED Rating Systems are comprised of categories, each of which contains prerequisite and
credit green building strategies.
Prerequisites are green building strategies in every sustainable category and are mandatory
for LEED certifcation. As early as possible the Project Team should verify that all prerequisite
requirements can be met. Prerequisites do not earn points and the project cannot receive
certifcation if all prerequisites are not met.
Credits are optional green building strategies in each category a project may elect to pursue. For
any project to receive LEED certifcation, it must comply with every prerequisite and achieve
a minimum number of credits. A project does not need to achieve each and every credit
available.
LEED prerequisites and credits work together as a fexible set of tools and strategies to
accommodate the circumstances of the project.
All LEED Rating Systems have 100 base points plus 6 Innovation and Design points and 4 Regional
Priority points, for a total of 110 points, except LEED for Homes. LEED for Homes is based on a
125 point scale plus 11 Innovation and Design points. Projects achieve certifcation if they earn
points according to the following levels:
Certifed : 40 - 49 points
Silver : 50 - 59 points
Gold : 60 - 79 points
Platinum : 80+ points
Prerequisite and Credit Structure
All LEED prerequisites and credits will have one or more requirements that must be met in order
to be in compliance. The frst section of every prerequisite or credit will summarize the Intent,
or goals, and the Requirements, or methods, strategies and/or standards required to achieve
compliance for that prerequisite or credit. The content structure of all LEED prerequisites and
credits is as follows:
Intents
Identifes the main sustainability goal or environmental beneft of the prerequisite or
credit
Requirements
Specifes the criteria that satisfy the prerequisite or credit and the number of points
available. Prerequisites must be achieved and credits are optional. Some credits have
2 or more compliance paths with cumulative points. Other credits have several options
available for the project team to choose
1. Benefts and Issues to Consider
The environmental damage that is being mitigated and economic considerations ofered
by the prerequisite or credit
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Chapter 3 |
2. Related Credits
Lists credits that may be afected through synergies or tradeofs
3. Summary of Referenced Standards
Standards, such as ASHRAE, ASTM and EPA that may be used as a requirement to achieve
prerequisite or credit compliance
For some prerequisites and credits, LEED will allow federal, state and or local laws or
codes to over rule if they are more strict. However, it should be noted that federal, state
and local laws or codes will always trump LEED required standards
4. Implementation
Ofers suggestions for methods and strategies that can be used to achieve prerequisite
or credit compliance
5. Timeline and Team
Describes who should be involved with achieving prerequisite or credit compliance and
when this task should occur.
6. Calculations
Lists and explains formulas and calculations, if required, to achieve prerequisite or credit
compliance
7. Documentation Guidance
This important section lists and explains what documents are required to be uploaded
to LEED Online demonstrating compliance and the person responsible for signing of on
the prerequisite or credit
8. Examples
Some prerequisites and credits have examples to demonstrate how compliance can be
achieved
9. Exemplary Performance
Many credits can earn additional points for exceeding the minimum credit performance.
No prerequisites ofer Exemplary Performance points
10. Regional Variations
LEED recognizes the regional diferences when trying to achieve credit compliance and
ofers options for addressing those regional issues
11. Operations and Maintenance Considerations
Guidance for implementing methods and strategies for operational and maintenance
procedures
12. Resources
Lists of websites and print media that can ofer additional information that may be
benefcial to achieving prerequisite or credit compliance
13. Defnitions
Lists of defnitions for terminology specifc to that prerequisite or credit
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LEED 2009
Credit Harmonization
Credits and prerequisites from all LEED commercial and institutional rating systems are
consolidated and aligned, drawing on their most efective common denominators, so that
credits and prerequisites are consistent across all LEED 2009 rating systems.
Credit Weightings
LEED 2009 credits have diferent weightings depending on their ability to impact diferent
environmental and human health concerns. With revised credit weightings, LEED awards more
points for strategies that will have greater positive impacts on what matters most energy
efciency and CO2 reductions. Each credit is evaluated against a list of 13 environmental impact
categories, including climate change, indoor environmental quality, resource depletion and
water intake, among many others. The impact categories were prioritized, and credits were
assigned a value based on how they contributed to mitigating each impact. The result revealed
each credits portion of the big picture, giving the most value to credits that have the highest
potential for making the biggest change. The credits are all intact; they are just worth diferent
amounts. As a result, LEED 2009 will operate on a 100-point scale
Carbon Overlay
The USGBC is a signatory to the Wingspread Principles on a U.S. Response to Global Warming,
a set of propositions signed by organizations and individuals declaring their commitment to
addressing the issue of climate change. The Wingspread Principles call for efective action to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions 60% - 80% below 1990 levels by mid-century.
LEED rated buildings typically have lower greenhouse gas emissions than comparable
conventional buildings, with some having greater reductions than others. Accordingly, the
USGBC identifes and prioritizes LEED credits based on their relative value for greenhouse gas
emissions reduction. This Carbon overlay is a quantitative index of the relative importance of
individual credits.
The score for each LEED credit is based on the carbon footprint for a typical LEED building. A
buildings carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with its construction
and operation:
Energy used in building systems
Building related transportation
Embodied emissions of water (electricity used to extract, convey, treat and deliver water)
Embodied emissions of solid waste (life cycle emissions associated with solid waste)
Embodied emissions of materials (associated with the manufacture and transport of
materials)
Carbon overlay is included in the LEED 2009 workbooks, including NC, EB O&M and ND
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Chapter 3 |
Credit Interpretation Request (CIRs)
Occasionally during the process of analyzing prerequisite or credit compliance requirements,
the Project Team may encounter instances where they are unclear whether their strategy for
achieving the credit is appropriate. The Project Credit Interpretation Request (CIR) and ruling
process is designed to allow Project Teams to obtain technical and administrative guidance on
how LEED requirements, including Minimum Program Requirements, Prerequisites, and Credits,
pertain to their projects.
A CIR may be submitted at any time after the point in which a project is registered
The CIR process must be completed using LEED Online
Each CIR shall pertain to no more than one LEED requirement
Shall not submit CIRs in the format of a letter. CIRs shall contain only the specifc inquiry
and the essential background information necessary for a ruling. CIRs shall not contain in
excess of 600 words or alternatively 4000 characters including spaces. Shall not submit
attachments, cut-sheets, plans or drawings with any CIR
Must submit the CIR inquiry and the ruling with the LEED application in order to ensure a
complete review
The credit language nor the minimum achievement thresholds can be changed at any time
during the CIR process
CIR rulings do not guarantee that a LEED MPR, prerequisite or credit will be satisfed or
achieved
All CIR rulings that are generated in response to a CIR submitted on or before June 26, 2009,
and pertain to a pre-LEED 2009 Rating System, are precedent setting and will carry forth
and apply to other pre-LEED 2009 projects submitted by the same Project Team and also
be available as a ruling for other pre-LEED 2009 projects registered by other project teams
All CIR rulings that are generated in response to a CIR submitted after June 26, 2009, for all
rating systems including pre-LEED 2009 and current versions, will be project specifc. As a
result, the ruling will only apply to the project for which the CIR was submitted. Accordingly,
the CIR ruling will not be precedent setting and will not carry forth and apply to other
projects submitted by the same Project Team nor be available as a ruling for other projects
registered by other project teams
The CIR database that was created for pre-LEED 2009 rating systems may not be referenced
or relied upon by project teams pursuing certifcation in accordance with LEED 2009 rating
systems
USGBC Company Members, LEED Registered Project Team Members and USGBC Workshop
Attendees (for a period of 12 months from the date of the Workshop) have access to review
CIRs
CIR fees are $200 for each application
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Chapter 3 | 27
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
In addition to mandatory compliance with all category prerequisites, the project must also
adhere to LEED Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs). These requirements defne the types
of buildings that the LEED Green Building Rating Systems were designed to evaluate, and taken
together serve three goals:
Give clear guidance to the customer
Protect the integrity of the LEED program
Reduce complications that occur during the LEED Certifcation process
For a project to be eligible for certifcation, it must comply with each applicable MPR for the
specifc rating system it is seeking:
1. Must comply with environmental laws
NC, CS, CI and Schools
Must be in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local environmental laws and
regulations
EB O&M
Must be in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local environmental laws and
regulations and must be satisfed from the start of the LEED projects frst LEED EB O&M
performance period through the expiration date of the LEED Certifcation
2. Be a complete or permanent building or space
All rating systems
Must be a complete or permanent building or space on land that already exists
NC, CS & Schools
Must include the new, ground-up design and construction, or major renovation, of at
least one building in its entirety
Construction prerequisites and credits may not be submitted for review until substantial
completion of construction has occurred
3. Use a reasonable site boundary
All rating systems
The LEED project boundary must include all contiguous land that is associated with and
supports normal building operations for the LEED project building, including all land that
was or will be disturbed for the purpose of undertaking. Gerrymandering of the LEED
project boundary is prohibited.
4. Comply with minimum foor area requirements
NC, CS, Schools and EB O&M
Minimum Gross Floor Area: 1,000 square feet
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Chapter 3 |
CI
Minimum Gross Floor Area: 250 square feet
5. Comply with minimum occupancy rates
NC, CS, CI and Schools
Must have at least one Full Time Equivalent occupant
EB O&M
Must have at least one Full Time Equivalent occupant
All building systems must be operating 12 months preceding the frst submission for
review
6. Commit to sharing whole building energy and water usage data
All rating systems
Must share energy and water usage data with the USGBC and GBCI for a period of fve
years
7. Comply with a minimum building area to site area ratio
All rating systems
The gross foor area of the LEED project building must be no less than 2% of the gross
land area within the LEED project boundary
Certifcation Process
Certifcation Process: General
LEED Certifcation provides independent, third-party verifcation that a building project meets
the highest green building and performance measures. Sustainable building strategies should
be considered early in the development cycle. An integrated project team will include the
major stakeholders of the project such as the developer/owner, architect, engineers, landscape
architect, contractor, and asset and property management staf.
Implementing an integrated, systems oriented approach to green project design, development
and operations can yield synergies and improve the overall performance of a building. Initial LEED
assessment will bring the project team together to evaluate and defne the projects goals and
the certifcation level sought. Project teams can utilize resources, such as the project checklist,
to identify individual measures within the rating system that are defnitely, or potentially,
achievable.
LEED Certifcation for any project requires satisfying all MPRs, prerequisites and a minimum number
of credits. Each rating system corresponds with a LEED reference guide that explains credit
criteria, describes the benefts of credit compliance and suggests strategies to achieve credit
compliance.
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Chapter 3 | 29
Timeline and Project Design Phases
Predesign
information gathering, recognizing stakeholder needs and establishing goals (charrette)
Schematic Design
explores design options and alternatives with the intent to establish an agreed upon
layout and scope of work
Design Development
begins the process of refning the schematic design and often involves the frst design of
the projects energy systems
Construction Documents
schematic design incorporated into detailed drawings so that construction can take
place
Construction
construction documents completed and permissions received to commence with
construction
Substantial Completion
when construction is nearly completed and the client could occupy the space
Final Completion
when all construction per the construction documents has been completed
Certifcate of Occupancy
ofcial notice by building authorities having jurisdiction that the project conforms to
applicable building and safety codes
Certifcation Process: Overview
For all LEED Ratings Systems
except LEED for Homes and LEED for Neighborhood Development:
Step 1: Planning
Step 2: Registration
Step 3: Documentation
Step 4: Certifcation
LEED for Homes and LEED for Neighborhood Development
follow diferent Rating Systems and Certifcation Processes:
LEED for Homes:
Step 1: Early Planning
Step 2: Design
Step 3: Build
Step 4: Verifcation and certifcation
Step 5: Refection on achievements
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Chapter 3 |
LEED for Neighborhood Development:
Stage 1: Review prior to completion of entitlement (permitting) process
Stage 2: Certifcation of an approved development plan
Stage 3: Review of a completed neighborhood development
Certifcation Process: Detailed
except LEED for Homes & LEED for Neighborhood Development
Step 1: Planning (Charrette)
The frst action toward any LEED project should be establishing a collective forum, or the charrette.
The stakeholders comprising the charrette should document the project goals, prepare a draft
of the LEED Credit Scorecard and select the Project Administrator.
Step 2: Registration
The LEED process begins with registration. The Project Administrator submits the registration
form and registration fee. Registration information required:
Account login information: name, address, company, title, e-mail address, password
Project type : rating system types, select rating system type, USGBC member status, amount
due
General project information : project title, project address, is project confdential
Primary contact information : name, address, organization, e-mail address
Project Owner information : name, organization, e-mail address
Project details : owner type, project scope, site conditions, occupant type, owner occupied,
gross square footage, project budget, current project phase, project type
Payment information :
Registration provides:
Point of contact between the GBCI and project
Access to LEED Online tools
Access to LEED Credit Forms (Credit Templates)
Ensures maximum potential for achieving certifcation, if done early in the design process
Registration fees:
USGBC members: $450
Non-Members: $600
GBCI ofers free registration for LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance for all
previously certifed LEED for New Construction, LEED for Schools, and LEED for Core & Shell
projects.
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Chapter 3 | 31
Step 3: Documentation Submittal
After project registration, the Project Administrator and Project Team begins to prepare the
required information for prerequisite and credit submittal. When the information has been
prepared and collected, it can be uploaded to the Credit Forms via LEED Online by the Project
Administrator, Project Manager, Project Owner or other Project Representative. Submittal of
required documentation for GBCI review can be done either as a split review or a combined
review:
Split Review: Prepare design related credit documentation and submit prior to substantial project
completion. Each prerequisite and credit states if submittal can be done during the design phase
of the project. Prepare construction related credit documentation and submit after the design
phase review and within two (2) years of substantial project completion. Each prerequisite and
credit states if submittal must be a construction phase submittal. Certifcation fee is split and
paid at the time of each phase submittal.
Combined Review: Prepare and submit required documentation for all required prerequisites
and credits being pursued upon project completion. Certifcation fee is paid at the time of
submittal.
Certifcation Fees:
In addition to the project registration fees, certifcation fees are required, based on USGBC
membership and the square footage size of the building. Current fee rates can be found
by visiting the GBCI website.
Submittal Review Status
During the review process, the GBCI responds to each prerequisite or credit submittal with one
of the following:
Anticipated : Only during a split Design Phase Review will the GBCI issue an anticipated
response. This does not guarantee credit acceptance, only that the GBCI believes the
credit does meet the requirements at this stage of the project
Pending : the GBCI requires additional information
Awarded : Only during the fnal GBCI review will the GBCI issue this response that the
credit has met the requirements and points are earned
Denied : The prerequisite/credit has not met the requirements
Submittal Review Process
During the Split Design and Construction Phase Review process (LEED NC, CS & CI):
Preliminary Design Phase Review : Project Team submits required design credit
documentation prior to substantial project completion
GBCI reviews and issues an Anticipated, Pending or Denied response to Preliminary
Design Phase Review documentation within 25 days
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Chapter 3 |
Final Design Phase Review : Project Team submits required pending credit documentation
within 25 days
GBCI reviews documentation and issues an Anticipated or Denied response within 15
days
Project Team can accept GBCI ruling or appeal the GBCI ruling
Design Phase Appeal Process fees, if Project Team takes this course of action, $500 per
prerequisite/credit appeal
Preliminary Construction Phase Review : Project Team submits required credit
documentation after the design phase submittal and within two (2) years of substantial
project completion
GBCI reviews and issues an Awarded, Pending or Denied response to Preliminary
Construction Phase Review documentation within 25 days
Final Construction Phase Review : Project Team submits required pending credit
documentation
GBCI reviews documentation and issues an Awarded or Denied response within 15
days
Project Team can accept the GBCI ruling or appeal the GBCI ruling
Construction Phase Appeal Process fees, if Project Team takes this course of action, $500
per prerequisite/credit appeal
During the Combined Review process:
Preliminary Review : Project Team submits required credit documentation
GBCI reviews and issues a response to Preliminary Review documentation
Final Review : Project Team submits required prerequisite/credit documentation
GBCI reviews documentation and issues an Accepted or Denied response
Project Team can accept the GBCI ruling or appeal the ruling
After the application has been completed and all fees received and processed, the GBCI will
perform a fnal review and formally rule on the application. The project is awarded the certifcation
level based on the number of credits achieved.
If the Project Team decides to formally fle an appeal, the GBCI will issue a LEED review within
25 business days. If a fnal denied ruling is issued, the project is closed and can never be
reopened.
Award: Only after the Project Team accepts the fnal ruling is the project awarded certifcation
with a formal letter of certifcation
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Chapter 3 | 33
Certifcation Process: LEED for Homes
The certifcation process for LEED for Homes requires that the project contract the services of a
LEED for Homes Provider to rate the project.
Step 1: Planning (Charrette)
Create the charrette with team members to establish project goals and analyze potential credits
to pursue. The LEED for Homes Provider, or LEED for Homes Rater, will help with the performance
testing of the design of the home, preparation of the preliminary project checklist and prepare
an estimate of the score and certifcation level.
Step 2: Design
Prepare project design based on goals established during the charrette and complete construction
documents accordingly.
Step 3: Construction
The LEED for Homes Green Rater will conduct inspections and performance testing throughout
the building process to ensure the credit path is being met.
Step 4: Verifcation and Certifcation
At the completion of the project, the LEED for Homes Rater will submit documentation that the
project achieved the credit it applied for and the project will be awarded certifcation.
Step 5: Refection on Achievements
Certifed homes will be permitted to use USGBC approved signs and other materials to market
the project and the LEED brand.
USGBC/GBCI Logo Policies
GBCI will provide logo artwork fles. Only artwork fles provided by GBCI may be used.
Images captured from websites, publications, and other sources may not be used
All uses must include the appropriate trademark symbol. The appropriate symbol will be
part of the artwork provided by GBCI
Use of a mark that has been ofcially registered must be followed by the registration
symbol
Use of a mark owned by but which has not yet been registered by GBCI must be followed
by either the trademark symbol TM or the service mark symbol SM (in superscript)
These symbols are only necessary for the frst and most prominent appearance of the mark;
they do not need to appear after every use of the mark within a single publication
The mark (or any word or design that is confusingly similar to the mark) may not be used as
part of a companys name, logo, domain name, or brand name for a product or service
The mark may not be the most prominent visual element on the materials. The users name
and logo must be signifcantly larger than the mark
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Chapter 3 |
The mark may not be used to indicate any kind of endorsement by GBCI of any product or
service, to indicate that any ofcial status for any product or service has been conferred by
or is otherwise associated with GBCI, or to show any kind of relationship with GBCI aside
from those permitted by these Guidelines
The mark may not be used on ofcial documents to include any sales contracts or ofcial
disclosure documents provided to potential or actual clients of purchases of an organizations
services or products
The mark may not be used in connection with any disparaging statements about GBCI or
its services, USGBC (U. S. Green Building Council) or its products or services, or statements
that otherwise refect poorly on GBCI or USGBC
The mark may not be altered in any way, including proportion, color (outside of logo
specifcations), element, type, etc. It may not be animated, morphed or distorted in any
other way. The mark, including its associated words, may not have additional text wrapped
around it
The mark may not be reduced to more than 20% of its original print size and may not be
enlarged to more than 380% of its original print size. Original print size is set in the EPS fle
On Web pages, the mark may not be reduced to less than a 50-pixel height, and may not
be enlarged to more than a 200-pixel height. The height and width of the mark must be
constrained to its original proportions
The mark is intended to stand alone and should not be integrated into other logos
For printing purposes, a provided EPS or high-resolution JPEG fle should be used. In
instances where the mark is printed at a larger size, an EPS fle must be used to ensure that
the image retains clarity. Lower resolution, Web-optimized JPEG or GIF fles should be used
when placing the mark on Web sites
GBCI reserves the right to approve or disapprove the use of any GBCI proprietary or licensed
mark on non-GBCI printed materials or Web sites
The Appendix
The Appendix at the rear of this study guide contains documents and charts that ofer additional
or more detailed information about the topics presented in this chapter.
Green Resource Links: Websites, Publications & Blogs
LEED Certifcation Overview
USGBC & GBCI & LEED
USGBC & GCBI Responsibilities
Six Steps to Certifcation Flow Chart
Project Score Card (Checklist) Sample
Credit Form Sample
Certifcation Fee Chart
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Chapter 3 | 35
Certifcation Application Timeline
Split Application
Combined (Standard) Application
Application Appeal Process
LEED Rating Systems & Related Reference Guides
Detailed LEED Rating Systems
Commissioning Process
Tasks & Responsibilities for EAp1 & EAc3
CxA Qualifcations
Credit Charts
Credit Interactions: Synergies & Trade Ofs
Referenced Standards
Chapter Summary
Establishing USGBC website User Profle
Go to USGBC website 1. www.usgbc.org
Click on 2. Sign In along the top bar
If you do not have a User Profle, click on hyperlink 3. Create a Site User Account
Enter personal information 4.
Under 5. Organization, enter your company
Enter 6. Corporate ID for your company (if USGBC member)
Click 7. Submit Your Registration at the bottom of the form and you will receive a password
to accompany your e-mail address when gaining access to member only sections of the
site
Once your User Profle is set up, team members can access LEED Online projects
LEED Online Access
Go to 1. www.leedonline.com
Enter e-mail address and password in 2. Log in Now box
Select project to access and click 3. Enter
Must have a registered project to gain access
LEED Online Components
My Project Page
My Projects
Active Projects
Saved Projects
Register
Rating Project Selector
Download Scorecard
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Chapter 3 |
Project Dashboard (aka Home Page)
Overview
Scorecard
Timeline
Team Administrator
Registration Details
Clarifcation
Messages
CIR
Credit Forms
Everything is done via electronic format
LEED Online form required for every prerequisite and all credits being attempted with
access available for registered projects
Includes signature block for person responsible for credit
Includes space for narrative(s)
Can attach numerous types, formats and examples of documentation
Six Steps to Certifcation: Review Summary
Step 1: Determine appropriateness of LEED
Form a charrette and gather information to determine if, and at what level, is LEED
appropriate
Step 2: Registration via LEED OnLine
www.gbci.org
Step 3: Prepare Application
Assign team members and prepare all documents required for prerequisites and credits
being sought (minimum number of credits are required for Certifcation)
Step 4: Submit Application via LEED OnLine
Upload Credit Forms with all required documentation
Step 5: Application Review
Upon receipt of a completed submittal application, a formal review will be initiated
Certifcation is the fnal step in the LEED Review Process. Once the fnal review is complete,
the project team can either accept or appeal the fnal decision. If accepted, LEED Certifed
Projects::
will receive a formal certifcate of recognition
will receive information on how to order plaques, certifcates, photo submissions and
marketing
May be included in an online directory and US Dept. of Energy High Performance Bldgs.
database
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Chapter 3 | 37
Certifcation Timelines
LEED Online Registration Upon receipt of payment
Online Documentation During design/construction
Split Submittal
Design Submittal Phase
Initial Review 25 business days
Second Review 15 business days
Construction Submittal Phase
Combined Design/Construction Submittal
Appeal Process 25 business days
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Chapter 3 |
Studio4 Ofce Project: the Program Narrative
The Project Location
This project will be located in a suburb north of Cincinnati, OH on property that was recently
purchased for the development of a 24,000 sf spec building in a rapidly expanding community.
The site contains 3.5 acres and is positioned inside a rezoned HT-1 (high tech light industrial)
corridor and runs perpendicular and central to a high density retail corridor with integrated
residential communities, just west of I-71. The adjacent property to the immediate south and
west is the 1.5 million square foot Proctor and Gamble global health care headquarters.
Aerial Vicinity Locator
Birdseye View (looking south)
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Chapter 3 | 39
The Project Program Narrative: Predesign
This property was required to be rezoned from residential to HT-1, where restrictions were
placed on the future development of this site. All properties along this corridor will be rezoned
HT-1 with the intent to limit use to high tech, professional and light industrial use, with no retail
or residential permitted.
Since this will be a spec development and there will be but one occupant initially, the owner/
developer Studio4, and occupying less than 25% of the total foor area, the project will be best
suited to register under the LEED for Core & Shell (CS) rating system. If the owner/developer
occupied more than 50% of the total building area, the LEED for New Construction (NC) rating
system would be appropriate.
Quickly, the project encountered the frst instance where local jurisdictions govern in a way
that can be contradictory, at times, to sustainable design. The original design program required
one 2 story, 24,000 sf building. However, in keeping with the surrounding architecture, a height
limitation of 1 story was mandated, with an unusual provision that two 12,000 sf buildings would
be allowed.
The initial Project Team (stakeholders) has been assembled to include the owner/developer,
occupant and LEED AP Studio4, Design Team members (architectural/civil/structural/MEP
engineers, landscape architect and certain material suppliers). Additionally, it has been the
experience of Studio4 that including local building and code ofcials, along with utility
representatives, is a win-win situation for all parties concerned. If there are issues encountered
related to codes, regulations and utilities, these people will generally join the team in fnding
viable solutions. The Project Administrator has been selected, Studio4, and the Project Checklist
is being reviewed to determine, frst, if the project can achieve each of the required prerequisites,
the Minimum Project Requirements and then a summary analysis of probable and potential
credits that should be pursued.
As with many sites located in more densely populated areas, land restrictions such as pre-
confgured and limited area sites, extremely high land costs and zoning allow for little, if any,
adjustments to the building orientation.
During the pre-design charrette where project goals are established, it is agreed that the
circumstances presented by P&G as a neighbor would work to the projects advantage. As
witnessed by the aerial photos, the property immediately to the south and west will remain
protected from future development by P&G and will continue to aford opportunities for views
to natural habitat and daylight. Imposed restrictions for stormwater management may require
negotiations to permit implementation of strategies being considered such as the use of
greywater, rain gardens, downspout disconnects and pervious pavements as well as others that
currently may not be permitted by utility companies, communities or state and local laws.
The Design Team has reviewed current federal, state and local codes and regulations that may
impact the design of this project and has prepared the following program:
The project program will focus on developing this project with efciency of time and
cost, while achieving some level of green certifcation. Given the opportunity to split
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
40
Chapter 3 |
the buildings will permit a more simple path if the project is scheduled as a two phase
development. LEED does allow a property boundary split if done in a reasonable and
justifable method. However, splitting the site into two parcels will require close attention
to setbacks and other related zoning requirements as local zoning ordinances will consider
these as two distinct properties. A zoning variance was applied for and approved for a
revision to the side yard setback distances.
The initial building construction and envelope design will be a single story 12,000 sf
building, concrete slab on grade, conventional wood or metal stud framing, masonry
veneer, trussed and shingled roof and high performance glazing.
A preliminary budget was provided by the owner and will be the target in determining
which credits to pursue in the fnal analysis. An life cycle analysis will be provided by the
Design Team that will illustrate to the owner the payback associated with the certifcation
level being sought.
The Design Team will study the process from design and engineering to material selections
and coordinate a schedule that considers the associated length of time involved. Materials,
such as regional or FSC, will be investigated as they can present delivery and scheduling
issues. Also important are credits like Enhanced Commissioning and Measurement &
Verifcation that can extend the length of time to receive certifcation.
The core & shell interiors will include only a demising wall to defne the initial tenant and
common area toilet facilities that will serve all tenants.
Owners Project Requirements (OPR)
Studio4 is an architectural and graphic design studio; creator/owner of a sustainable
website; provider of sustainable educational study materials and classes
A space requirement of 3,000 sf would be sufcient to fulfl present and future needs
Initial 4 FTEs and potential to expand to 8 FTEs; a potential of 15 transient occupants
General ofce; 2 private ofces; 1 design studio; 1 classroom for 15 people; 1 break
room; 1 utility room
This concludes the pre-design stage where the Owners Project Requirements (OPR) have been
collected, codes and regulations reviewed, a cursory credit analysis conducted and basic design
goals established. The next stage will entail registering the project via LEED Online and begin
the schematic design process to achieve the Basis of Design (BOD) documents.
The next project section is located at the conclusion of the Sustainable Sites chapter.
Although this project ofers more information than that required for the Green Associate exam, use it
only as a snapshot for understanding credit achievement and increasing your knowledge about the
interaction between credits that is critical to achieving a high performance building. A few calculations
are presented to illustrate how the credit can be achieved and for all credits, the submittal phase and
relative team members are listed.
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C H A P T E R | 4
Credit Matrix
Site Related Boundaries
Introduction
Transportation
Site Selection
Site Design and Management
Stormwater Management
Heat Island Efect
Light Pollution Reduction
Development Density & Community Connectivity,
Mass Transportation Access
Full Time Equivalents
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: Sustainable Sites
T
he selection and development of a buildings site
are fundamental components of sustainable
building practices. The goals of the LEED Sustainable
Sites credit category are to promote the following
measures: select and develop a site wisely, reduce
emissions associated with transportation, plant
sustainable landscapes, protection of surrounding
habitats, manage stormwater runof, reduce heat
island efects and eliminate light pollution.
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Chapter 4 |
Sustainable Sites
Credit Matrix
Site Related Boundaries
building footprint: area of the building
structure that is defned by the perimeter of
the building plan. Pavement, landscaping
and other nonbuilding facilities are not
included in the building footprint
development footprint: the area of
the site impacted by the project, which
includes parking, landscaping, roads and
other facilities in addition to the building
property boundary: the extents of the
entire property whose property lines,
or borders, have been defned by the
propertys legal description
project boundary: the full extent of
the project property as defned by the
property lines. For projects developed on
properties with multiple buildings, such as a campuses or industrial complexes, a reasonable
property boundary, as required for the project construction and local code, is permitted
LEED project boundary: the portion of the project site submitted for LEED certifcation
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
SUSTAINABLE SITES (SS) 26 24 28
SSp1 Construction Activity Pollution Prevention Reqd Reqd Reqd
SSp2 Environmental Site Assessment NA Reqd NA
SSc1 Site Selection 1 1 1
SSc2 Development Density and Community Connectivity 5 4 5
SSc3 Brownfield Redevelopment 1 1 1
SSc4.1 Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access 6 4 6
SSc4.2 Alternative Transportation - Bicycle Storage and Changing Rooms 1 1 2
SSc4.3 Alternative Transportation - Low-Emitting and Fuel-Efficient Vehicles 3 2 3
SSc4.4 Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity 2 2 2
SSc5.1 Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat 1 1 1
SSc5.2 Site Development - Maximize Open Space 1 1 1
SSc6.1 Stormwater Design - Quantity Control 1 1 1
SSc6.2 Stormwater Design - Quality Control 1 1 1
SSc7.1 Heat Island Effect - Nonroof 1 1 1
SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect - Roof 1 1 1
SSc8 Light Pollution Reduction 1 1 1
SSc9 Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines NA NA 1
SSc9 Site Master Plan NA 1 NA
SSc10 Joint Use of Facilities NA 1 NA
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Chapter 4 | 43
Sustainable Sites
Introduction
One of the frst decisions for the owner, developer or project team to make is that of site
selection, as the location of a site can determine how the project impacts the environment. The
location of a project can afect local and regional ecosystems and water sources in many ways
where damages caused by development and construction can take years to remedy. The most
sustainable sites promote an integrated design approach that considers and evaluates:
Protectin g undeveloped land
Reuse of previously developed sites
Reduced automobile use or support of alternative transportation
Stormwater management
Reduced heat island efect
Reduced light pollution
Conserva tion of existing areas for the protection of habitat
Transportation
Sustainable sites can reduce the social, economic and environmental impacts caused by the
increased demands on building related transportation. It is easy to understand the importance
of sustainable sites when you consider how the location of
the site can increase the length and frequency of vehicle trips.
Transportation accounts for 32% of the nations greenhouse gas
emissions and vehicle technology, transportation fuels and land
use all contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases. In 2006,
76% of the commuters in America ages 16 and older drove to
work alone, 5% used public transportation and 11% carpooled.
Sustainable site selection should consider locating near residential
areas, installing bicycle racks and changing rooms, preferred
parking, encourage the use of alternative fuel vehicles and provide access to mass transit.
Promoting mass transit reduces the energy required for transportation and the space needed
for parking lots, gas stations and related support facilities.
Transportation impacts include:
Location
Determines the frequency and length of vehicle trips
Vehicle technology
Determines the quantity and types of fuel and support systems needed
Fuel
Determines the environmental impact of vehicle operation
Human behavior
Combines location, vehicle technology and fuel in mobility choices
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
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Chapter 4 |
Sustainable Sites
Strategy considerations to address transportation:
Locate site in an area that has mass transit
Area has existing transportation networks
commuter rail, light rail or subway system
public, campus or private bus lines usable by building
occupants
Limit parking
Limit parking spaces and encourage alternative
transportation options to reduce pollution and land
development impacts from automobile use
Size parking not to exceed minimum local code
requirements
Shared parking facilities with other buildings
Alternatives to single occupant vehicles
Encourage car pooling and van pooling
Designated car pooling and van pooling parking spaces
Reserved parking spaces conveniently located near
building entrances for building occupants who carpool
to work
Promote alternative fuel vehicles
On-site fueling stations
For Schools, investigate tradeofs for alternative fuel
vehicles
Ofer incentives
Develop an alternative commuting incentive program
Programs such as ride share boards
Support alternative transportation
Promote alternatives or incentives to single-
occupancy vehicle commuting
Provide secured spaces and changing rooms for
bicycle use
Reduced parking rates for carpooling or
alternative fuel vehicles
Assist building occupants with parking fees for
public parking
Mass Transit
Alternative Transportation
& Incentive Programs
Limit Parking
Car/Van Pooling
Alternative Fuel Vehicles
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Site Selection
The selection of the projects site is one of the most important decisions that can contribute
to the success of the projects sustainability. The sustainable site will allow for proper building
orientation, as well as reducing associated environmental impacts. Redevelopment of brownfeld
sites can improve the quality of the environment and reduce the burden of developing on
greenfeld sites, farmland, previously undeveloped sites or encroaching on wetlands and water
bodies that can compromise existing habitat. Developing a master plan for the project and site
can protect the environment beyond the initial construction phase in consideration of future
expansions. Projects applying for LEED Commercial Interiors should investigate occupying
existing LEED Certifed buildings such as LEED for New Construction or LEED for Core and Shell.
Strategy considerations to address site selection:
Increase development density
Create a smaller footprint
Maximize the foor area ratio or square footage per acre by stacking foors, instead of
spreading out the building footprint, in order to maximize open spaces and protect the
habitat
Locate the project in densely populated communities
Average density of project and surrounding community should be 60,000 sf/acre
Redevelopment
Build on a previously developed site
Protects undeveloped land and is often served by existing infrastructure such as roads,
utilities and community services
Restore a brownfeld site
Improves and protects the environment
Saves undeveloped land
Incentives often ofered by owner or government agencies
Consider tradeofs such as costs for environmental assessments and
remediation, time required to investigate and remediate and potential
liabilities to owner
Protect the habitat
Select sites that do not include sensitive site elements and land types such as:
Prime farmland as defned by the U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA)
Less than 5 feet above areas defned by FEMA as
being in the 100 year food plain
Land that is habitat for threatened or endangered
species
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Within 100 feet of Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
defned wetlands
Within 50 feet of a body of water as regulated by the
Clean Water Act (CWA)
Public parklands
Urban development
Urban areas often have infrastructures in place, such as mass transit and community
services, that provide for more sustainable sites through community connectivity and
also by reducing demands on our natural resources.
Mass transit: unobstructed walking distance within 1/2
mile of commuter rail, light rail or subway system OR
unobstructed walking distance within 1/4 mile of one
or more bus stops for two or more public, campus or
private bus lines usable by building occupants
Community connectivity: must be on a previously
developed site AND within 1/2 mile of a residential
neighborhood with an average density of 10 units/
acre AND within 1/2 mile of ten basic community services such as: bank, convenience
store, place of worship, fre station, post ofce, restaurants (2 permitted), etc. and has
pedestrian access between the building and services
Sustainable site design and management includes the design, installation and maintenance
of areas such as landscaping and hardscapes. Green practices minimize the use of irrigation,
fertilizers and pesticides and employs strategies to reduce soil erosion and sedimentation. The use
of native plants reduces the burden on water resources due to reduced irrigation requirements
and reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Reducing the amount of hardscapes can
increase the area of open space and the use of refective materials for pavement, walks and roofs
can reduce heat island efects.
Strategy considerations for developing a sustainable site design and management plan:
Create and implement an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan (ESC) to reduce
construction pollution. The plan must comply with the requirements of the 2003 EPA
General Construction Permit or local codes, whichever is more strict. The EPA General
Construction Permit outlines the provisions necessary to comply
with Phase I and Phase II of the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) program.
Prevents loss of soil during construction by stormwater runof
and wind
Prevents sedimentation of storm sewer and receiving streams
Prevents pollution of the air with dust and particulate matter
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Strategies that can be used to control erosion due to construction activities are:
Mulching
Erosion control blankets
Straw bales
Berms
Silt fence
Reduce site disturbance caused by building
Reduce the footprint of the building to increase the amount of open space
Protect and restore existing habitat
Efcient hardscapes
Minimize the amount of hard surfaces such as parking lots, walkways, patios, etc
Design new or replace existing hard surfaces with permeable (pervious) surfaces
Reduced area of hardscapes also reduces the amount of exterior lighting required
Minimize water usage
Use native or adaptive landscaping that reduces, or eliminates, the need for irrigation
Use water efcient irrigation systems
Use non-potable water for fushing toilets and urinals
Use of refective materials
Design hard surfaces, including roofs, with high SRI materials to minimize heat island
impacts
Sustainable management plan
Consideration of the type of chemicals and other products used for cleaning exterior
surfaces
Consideration of the type of chemicals and other products used for snow and ice
removal
Develop an integrated pest management program
Mulch Control Blankets Straw Bales Silt Fencing
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Low Impact Development (LID)
Rainfall onto impervious surfaces such as parking lots, sidewalks and streets does not fltrate
back into the earth and aquifer, but rather washes the surfaces and sends the contaminants
eventually to our waterways. This is known as nonpoint source pollution.
Low Impact Development addresses how stormwater enters a site, is temporarily stored and how
the stormwater eventually exits the site. At its core, LID minimizes impervious surfaces, protects
soils from compaction and erosion, promotes native vegetation and manages stormwater at its
source.
As with any sustainable strategy, all aspects of synergies and tradeofs must be considered,
particularly with Neighborhood Development projects. Managing stormwater may be less
practical, for instance, when considering street grids that promote walking. Streets can cause
interruption to the overall stormwater management plan by disrupting the preferred release of
stormwater.
Developments can reduce the natural permeability
of a site, which increases the quantity and reduces the
quality of stormwater runof downstream to waterways
such as streams, rivers and lakes. The replacement of
permeable areas with impervious surfaces reduces the
quality due to the contaminates carried by the runof
water, which becomes harmful to aquatic life and
recreational opportunities in receiving waters. This
also causes downstream erosion in our waterways due
to increased runof rates. Stormwater management
involves strategies that reduce or control the amount of
increased stormwater created by the project. Pollution
caused by soil erosion during site development, increased amounts of impervious surfaces,
landscaping fertilizers and the cleansing of impervious pavements by rainwater contribute to
the sedimentation and degradation of our waterways. A stormwater management plan may
include the collection and reuse of stormwater to reduce the amount of potable water required
for irrigation and fushing of toilets. Stormwater management is often regulated by state or local
codes to address regional preferences. In certain parts of the U.S., management is generally
encouraged in eforts to reduce the impact on waterways and in communities with combined
sanitary and storm sewer systems. However, in other parts of the U.S., stormwater is committed
to downstream use for livestock, crops and municipal water supplies.
Strategy considerations for controlling and reducing the quantity of stormwater runof and
improving the quality of stormwater runof:
Quantity control
Design project site to maintain natural stormwater fows, promoting infltration
Permeable (pervious) pavement
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Minimize impervious areas by using alternative surfaces such as pervious pavements,
open grid pavers and vegetated roofs
Pervious pavements: For hardscapes such as parking, drives, walks and other similar
surfaces, use pervious materials that will allow stormwater to penetrate thru the surface
to the soils below to reduce the quantity of the stormwater runof. Also, the quality of
stormwater that goes back into the soils and possibly to the aquifers is fltrated and
improved
Grid pavers: consider the use of open grid pavers that allow the stormwater to fltrate the
open spaces created by the grid pattern to reduce the quantity of stormwater runnof
Vegetated roofs (aka green roofs): There are many synergies associated with vegetated
roofs in addition to reducing the amount of stormwater runof. The quality of retained
stormwater is improved, the roof is better insulated which improves heat gain/loss,
reducing the amount of HVAC required and the subsequent energy consumption and
vegetated roofs increase the amount of open green space, providing an environment for
insects, birds and other habitat
Control Stormwater: Redirect the fow and rate
Design retention and detention ponds, rain gardens, bioswales, vegetated strips or similar
structures to retain or hold and slow the rate of stormwater runof
Harvest Rainwater: Collect and reuse
Capture rainwater for reuse in such areas as irrigation, fushing toilets and urinals, and
custodial
Quality control
Most all of the strategies used for controlling the quantity of stormwater runof can
also be implemented for improving the quality of stormwater runof by utilizing Best
Management Practices (BMPs). BMPs are methods that have been proven to be efective
and are therefore accepted measures for meeting the requirement.
Pervious pavement and open grid pavers allow a certain amount of water to penetrate
the material and infltrate to the soils below, fltering contaminants from the stormwater
Structural techniques such as vegetated roofs and non-structural techniques such as rain
gardens, bioswales and vegetated strips ofer a natural fltration of the stormwater
Green Roofs Retention and Detention Ponds Rain Gardens
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Heat Island Efect
A heat island is an urban area which is signifcantly
warmer than its surrounding rural areas. The main cause
of the urban heat island is simply the modifcation of the
land surface by urban development. Heat islands can be
caused by buildings blocking surface heat from radiating
into the relatively cold night sky, the lack of sufcient wind,
changes in the thermal properties of surface materials
and a lack of evapotranspiration in urban areas. Materials
commonly used in urban areas, such as concrete
and asphalt, have signifcantly diferent thermal bulk
properties and surface radiative properties (albedo
and emissivity) than the surrounding rural areas. These
temperature diferentials are generally greater at night
than during the day. Heat island efects are also major
contributors to smog in urban areas. LEED defnes heat
islands as temperatures 10 degrees greater than those
of surrounding urban areas and addresses heat island
elements as nonroof components and roofs.
Pavement and roofng materials can be huge contributors to heat islands
due to their thermal properties, acting as heat sinks that collect and store
heat. Conventional paving and roofng materials that are darker in color
exacerbate this problem by absorbing more of the suns energy.
Emissivity is the ability of a material to emit heat by radiation, solar
refectance (albedo) is the measure of a materials ability to refect sunlight
and Solar Refectance Ratio (SRI) is the measure of a materials ability to
reject solar heat. The ideal relationship is lower emissivity and higher albedo and SRI. Pavement
and roofng materials that exhibit these qualities are often referred to as cool pavements and
cool roofs.
Solar Refectance is the fraction of the solar energy that is refected by a surface, such as a
roof or pavement, expressed as a number between zero and one. The higher the value, the
better the roof refects solar energy. For example, a white refective coating or membrane
has a refectance value of 0.85 (refects 85% of solar energy hitting it and absorbs the
remaining 15%), while asphalt has a value of 0.09 (refects 9%).
Emittance is the amount of absorbed heat that is radiated from a surface, expressed as a
number between zero and one. The higher the value, the better the surface radiates heat.
Solar Refectance Index (SRI) indicates the ability of a surface to reject solar heat, and is the
combined value of refectivity and emittance. It is defned so that a standard black is zero
(refectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) and a standard white is 100 (refectance 0.80, emittance
0.90). Because of the way SRI is defned, very hot materials can have slightly negative SRI
values, and very cool materials can have SRI values exceeding 100.
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Green roofs are becoming popular in the U.S. in larger metropolitan areas, such as Chicago.
In addition to assisting stormwater management by reducing quantity of fow and increasing
quality of release, green roofs reduce the buildings energy consumption, provides vegetated
open space and refuge for habitat. Green roofs also reduce the heat island efect of absorbing
the suns energy by providing natural vegetation and soils which also contributes to the
cooling efects of evapotranspiration, the release of water from plants into the atmosphere.
Green roofs are a great sustainable strategy for a project.
Strategy considerations for reducing heat island efects on the microclimate and human and
wildlife habitat:
Nonroofs
Reduce area of hardscapes including roads, parking lots/parking structures, walks or
courtyards
Shading: combination of any of the following strategies for 50% of the total hardscape
area
Shade from existing tree canopy or, for new trees, within 5 years of installation
Shade from structures covered by solar panels that produce renewable energy
Shade from architectural features that have a SRI of at least 29
Cool pavements: Use hardscape materials with a SRI of at least 29
Open grid pavement systems which are at least 50% pervious
Place a minimum of 50% of parking spaces under cover
Roofs used to shade or cover parking must have a SRI of at least 29
Roofs
Cool Roofs : Use roofng materials for 75% of the roof surface with controlled SRI values
78 SRI for low sloped roofs less than or equal to 2:12 slope
29 SRI for steep sloped roofs greater than 2:12 slope
Green Roofs : Install a vegetated roof that covers at least 50% of the roof area
Install high albedo (SRI) cool roof and vegetated roof surfaces that, in combination, meet
the following:
(area of roof meeting minimum SRI / 0.75) + (area of vegetated roof/0.5) = Total Roof
Area
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Outdoor lighting is important for human safety and illuminating connections between buildings
and support facilities such as sidewalks, parking lots, roadways and community gathering places
and is necessary for twilight and nighttime use. However, poorly designed exterior lighting can
add to nighttime light pollution which can interfere with nocturnal ecology, reduce observation
of night skies (aka Sky Glow), cause roadway glare and jeopardize relationships with neighbors
by causing light trespass.
Properly designed lighting systems can promote an appreciation for a place at night. Careful
selection of fxture types and wattage and controlling the lighting during of hours or curfew
times can avoid light pollution, maintain safety and enhance the public image of a company.
The intent of light pollution reduction is to:
Minimize light trespass from the building and site
Reduce sky glow to increase night sky access
Improve nighttime visibility through glare reduction
Reduce development impact on nocturnal environments
Interior
Utilize indirect interior lighting or automated non-emergency lighting shutof controls
Shut of non-emergency lighting: Reduce power to all non-emergency lighting with
a direct line of sight to building envelope openings, such as windows and doors, with
shutof controls during of hours or curfew times
Automatic shielding: Provide automatic shielding or permanent obstructions, for all non-
emergency lighting with a direct line of sight to building envelope openings, such as
windows and doors
Satellite image of earth at night Reduce exterior lighting for nonessential use
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Exterior
Design site lighting with computer model
Use computer modeling for proper selection and location of fxture types
Accurate control of illumination levels, particularly important for maintaining
required lighting densities per ASHRAE 90.1 and light trespass at the project
property lines
Only light areas required for safety and comfort
Shut of or reduce lighting levels for non-essential lighting such as building facade
and landscaping lighting
Use full cutof light fxtures, low angle spot lights and low refectance surfaces
Full cutof light fxtures prevent wasteful uplighting above a horizontal plane,
reduces glare and helps prevent light trespass
Low angle spot lights help reduce glare, lighting unnecessary surfaces and
wasting energy lighting the sky
Low refectance surfaces reduces light refectance and trespass
Classify project lighting zone and comply accordingly with the requirements of
IESNA RP-33
LZ1 - Dark (park and rural settings)
LZ2 - Low (residential areas and neighborhood business districts)
LZ3 - Medium (commercial/industrial and high density residential)
LZ4 - High (major city centers and entertainment districts)
School sports felds are excluded from requirements, but must have automatic
shutofs
Development Density and Community Connectivity
In order to achieve credit for urban redevelopment, 2 options are available to the project:
Development Density and Community Connectivity.
Development Density
The requirements to meet this credit option are to construct or renovate a building
on a previously developed site and in a community with a minimum density of
60,000 sf. The density calculation is based on a 2 story building and considers
the building and the surrounding community. The frst calculation required is to
determine the development density for the project by dividing the total square
footage of the building by the total site area in acres. This must be a minimum of
60,000 sf / acre.
Development Density (sf/acre) = Gross Building Area (sf) / Site Area (acres)
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The second calculation is used to determine the density radius. Convert the site area
from acres to sf (multiply the # of acres x 43,560 sf/ac) and then multiply this number by
the square root of 3.
Density Radius (sf) = 3 x sq rt [Site Area (acres) x 43,560 (sf/acre)]
The third calculation adds the sum of all buildings within the density radius. Add the
square footage and property acres of all buildings within the density radius and dividing
the total square footage by the total acres. The average density of all properties inside
this radius must be 60,000 sf or greater.
Average Property Density within Density Boundary = sum Square Footage / sum Site
Area
OR
Community Connectivity
Community Connectivity also requires
the construction or renovation of a
building on a previously develop site.
The intent of this option is to connect
the project to an existing infrastructure
by requiring the site to be within
1/2 mile of a residential zone with an
average density of 10 units per acres,
within 1/2 mile of at least 10 basic
services and must have unobstructed
pedestrian access between the
building and the services.. No service
type can be counted more that once in
the calculations other than restaurants,
where 2 are permitted.

Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access
Another area important to a successful urban redevelopment project is the proximity of the
project to mass transportation infrastructures usually found in densely populated urban areas.
The requirements for achieving this credit relate to the availability and proximity of rail stations
and bus stops. As with Development Density and Community Connectivity, there are 2 options
available to the project.
Rail Station
The project must be located within 1/2 mile walking distance of an existing, planned and
funded commuter rail, light rail or subway station
OR
Project location relative to 10 community services
within 1/2 mile walking distance from the building
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Bus Stops
The project must be within 1/4 mile
walking distance of 1 or more stops for
2 or more public, campus or private bus
lines usable by building occupants
Full Time Equivalents (FTEs)
full time equivalent (FTE): a regular building occupant who spends 40 hours per week in the
project building. Part time or overtime occupants have FTE values based on their hours per
week divided by 40. Multiple shifts are included for credits that require annual calculations, as
with annual potable water consumption and wastewater generation.
full time equivalent building occupants: a measure equal to the total number of hours all
building occupants spend in the building during the peak 8 hour occupancy period divided by
8 hours
There are two pieces of information required when registering a project with LEED Online that
are used across several credits. Therefore, LEED boundary information and Full Time Equivalent
data must be consistent when applied to each applicable credit.
The project boundary is used for storm water calculations, open space requirements and light
trespass as well as providing data for other credits. The frst instance when FTEs are required is
in the Sustainable Sites category to determine the required quantities for SS credit 4.2: Bicycle
Storage and Changing Rooms.
Full Time Equivalents identify the total number of building occupants of the following occupancy
types:
Full time staf
Part time staf
Peak Transients (students, volunteers, visitors, customers, etc.)
Residents
Bus stops within a 1/4 mile radius
with walking path from the building
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For full time and part time staf, the FTE occupants are based on an 8 hour occupancy
period. An 8 hour full time occupant has an FTE value of 1.0 and a part time occupants
FTE is the hours they work per day divided by 8. In buildings with multiple shifts, only
the shift with the highest volume is used. FTE calculations for each shift must be used
consistently for all LEED credits.
Transient occupants and total shifts worked are particularly important in the Water
Efciency category when determining annual wastewater and potable water calculations.
Annual calculations are determined by the total consumption or load during a 24 hour
period for the total number of days worked annually. For instance, if there are three shifts
and the FTE quantities of the shifts are 150, 100 and 50 FTEs, for most credits the highest
shift with 150 FTE would be used. However, when total annual calculations are required,
the consumption or load during a 24 hour period would be that created by the combined
shifts of 150, 100 and 50 - or 300 FTEs.
Chapter Summary
LEED sustainable sites promote responsible, innovative and practical site design
strategies that are sensitive to plants, wildlife and air and water quality. Sustainable sites
also mitigate the negative efects buildings have on the local and regional environment.
A properly coordinated and executed sustainable site considers and addresses site related
environmental impacts in the following areas:
Transportation
locate site in an area that has mass transit
Limit parking
Encourage carpooling
Promote alternative fuel vehicles
Ofer incentives
Support alternative transportation
Site Selection
Increase development density
Create a smaller footprint
Locate project in densely populated communities
Redevelopment
Build on previously developed sites
Restore a brownfeld site
Protect the habitat
Select sites that do not include sensitive site elements
Urban development
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Create an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan to reduce construction pollution
Reduce site disturbance caused by building footprint
Efcient hardscapes
Minimize water usage
Use of refective materials
Sustainable management plan
Quantity control
Reduce building footprint and impervious pavement materials, use pervious pavement
materials, vegetated roofs, design rain gardens, bioswales, retention and detention
ponds to hold and/or slow the rate of stormwater runof
Quality control
Reduce building footprint and impervious pavement materials, use pervious pavement
materials, vegetated roofs, design rain gardens, bioswales, retention and detention
ponds to flter contaminates from stormwater runof
Heat Island Efect
Nonroofs
Reduce area of hardscapes, provide shading and high SRI materials or place 50% of the
required parking under cover
Roofs
Provide high SRI roofng materials and/or install vegetated roofs (green roof)
Interior
Prevent non-emergency light trespass thru the building during of hours or curfew
times
Exterior
Use computer modeling for site lighting design, light only areas for safety and comfort,
use full cutof fxtures, low angle spotlights, low refective materials and design lighting
to comply with appropriate lighting zones
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Studio4 Ofce Project: Sustainable Sites
LEED Online Registration
Aside from the standard issue of questions about the Project Administrator, Project Owner and
general project details, there are two pieces of information LEED Online requires from the Project
Administrator that will serve as a standard of accounting across several credits that uses the
same information and, therefore must be used consistently throughout the certifcation process.
One is project boundary information and the other is the FTE count.
The project boundary for this project, as well as most sites with a single building, will simply
be the legal property description that is generally shown on a survey drawing that defnes the
metes and bounds. Also, the civil engineers drawings will indicate the property lines as well as
defning the scope of the project relative to work outside the building proper.
Another area that needs to be checked by the Project Team is an analysis of the Minimum Project
Requirements. This project meets the mandatory requirements, however, one calculation does
need to be made to ensure that the minimum building area to site area ratio is in compliance.
This requires that the gross foor area of the LEED project building must be no less than 2% of the
gross land area within the LEED project boundary. The site area is 3.5 acres and the gross foor
area is 12,000 sf. Therefore:
(3.5 acres x 43,560 sf/acre) x 0.02 = 152,460 x 0.02 = 3,049.2 sf minimum required
Although the project was zoned for two buildings with the agreement that there would be an
eventual lot split, for the sake of expediency, the split will occur after the completion of the
project and certifcation approved. Also needed to consider is the fact that this is a speculative
project and Phase II may never be developed.
FTE requirements refer to occupant loads, and occupant loads have diferent meanings
depending on the requirements being met. In the case of zoning, occupant loads deal with life
safety issues and addresses areas such as the minimum width of egress corridors and number of
Project Boundaries
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required emergency exit doors based on the building use group. LEED, on the other hand, views
occupants from a diferent perspective, allowing two options for determining occupant counts,
or FTEs. If the acutal FTE is not known, LEED provides a matrix based on the type of occupancy
use. For general ofce use such as this project, this would be 1 FTE per 250 sf of the gross square
footage. Therefore:
12,000 sf / 250 = 48 FTEs
Schematic Design
The Civil Engineer has taken the data collected during the initial charrette and prepared a
preliminary schematic site development plan where the owner, architect, engineers, landscape
architect, contractor and other stakeholders can review and discuss in more detail the strategies
to achieve the credits being sought. They will also determine what synergies are apparent and
perhaps uncover hidden issues in the form of adverse tradeofs that may afect their credit
selections.
Sustainable Sites Category
Sustainable Sites deal with issues outside of the building, including portions of the building
exterior, the land that is being developed, and the surrounding community. Choosing a
buildings site and managing that site during construction are important considerations for
the sustainability of any project. The Sustainable Sites category discourages development on
previously undeveloped land; minimizes a buildings impact on ecosystems and waterways;
encourages regionally appropriate landscaping; rewards smart transportation choices; controls
stormwater runof; and reduces erosion, light pollution, heat island efect and construction
related pollution.
SSp1 Construction Activity Pollution Prevention : This prerequisite requires the creation and
implementation of an erosion sediment control (ESC) plan, in accordance with the 2003
EPA Construction General Permit or local standards if more strict, to prevent loss of soil,
sedimentation and air pollution during the course of construction. Soil erosion on building
sites is a major source of sediment pollution in waterways and the runof of sediment
Conceptual Site Development Plan
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carries pollutants and excessive nutrients that enter the water systems at concentrated
levels. Many communities require strict adherence to EPA regulations or local ordinances
concerning both the protection of the site and the efects of site disturbance downstream.
Additionally, a mandated requirement for this site is that of monitoring the efectiveness
of control measures after storms that have delivered a set amount of rainfall within a given
period. Construction submittal: civil engineer, landscape architect, contractor
SSc1 Site Selection : This is an easy credit to achieve given the fact that this site fts perfectly
with the goals of sustainable sites. This site: does not infringe on any of the sensitive or
protected site elements such as wetlands, food plains, endangered species, farmland, etc.;
is a previously developed site, thereby preserving greenfelds; and is situated in a location
with a substantial amount of community connectivity. Design submittal: owner, civil
engineer, environmental engineer, ecologist
SSc2 Development Density and Community Connectivity : The intent of the Development
Density option is to drive development towards high density neighborhoods that have a
60,000 sf/acre density ratio. However, in the past this has been a difcult task to achieve.
Recently, LEED added the Community Connectivity option to this credit in a successful
efort to make it a much easier path to compliance. With regards to Development Density,
a precedent had been established thru a legacy CIR for a project of comparable size to this
project, but located in an area where the average density was over 125,000 sf per acre.
This avenue could possibly have been pursued, but is unnecessary at this point. There is
the intent of the Project Team not to apply for CIRs in an efort to expedite the project.
Community Connectivity is virtually at the projects doorstep. There is available the
required 10 community services and high density residential units (10 units/acre) within a
1/2 mile radius with sidewalks that provide a direct and unobstructed link. This will meet
the requirements of the Community Connectivity option of the credit. Each of the 10
basic services have to be identifed and the information uploaded via LEED Online. Design
submittal: owner, developer, design team
Community Connectivity (10 basic services and high density residential within 1/2 mile)
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SSc3 Brownfeld Redevelopment : Brownfelds have the potential to be renewed with
proper remediation that removes hazardous materials from the sites soil and groundwater.
Redevelopment on brownfelds prevents development on undeveloped greenfelds that
may serve as a habitat for wildlife and brownfelds are usually located in areas having
existing infrastructure necessary for the new development. Reclaiming a contaminated site
can provide economic support to the surrounding area and initialize further development.
Unfortunately, with regards to this credit, a condition of sale required the previous owners
to demolish and remove the existing buildings and accessory structures. The age of those
buildings revealed asbestos siding on the main structure. Asbestos siding has previously
been permitted by the EPA as an environmentally hazardous material sufcient to classify
a site as a Brownfeld. This project would most likely have qualifed as a brownfeld. Design
submittal: owner, civil engineer, environmental engineer, ecologist, EPA
SSc4 Alternative Transportation : There are 4 sub-credits within SSc4, and the project will
pursue SSc4.3 Alternative Transportation - Low Emitting and Fuel Efcient Vehicles and
SSc4.4 Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity.
SSc4.1 Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access : The use of public
transportation decreases air pollution in urban areas and reduces the building footprint by
requiring only a minimum of parking space. Choosing a site close to public transportation
gives building occupants the option to use public transportation to and from work. There
is no public transportation available to this project. Design submittal: owner, architect,
design team
SSc4.2 Alternative Transportation - Bicycle Storage and Changing Rooms: Select a site that
provides convenient biking paths, safe bike storage, and close shower facilities to building
occupants where the showering facilities must be within 200 yards of the entrance to
the building. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer, landscape architect, plumbing
engineer
SSc4.3 Alternative Transportation - Low Emitting and Fuel Efcient Vehicles: This credit
allows achievement by reserving 5% of the total parking capacity for the use of low
emitting and fuel efcient vehicles. 5% x 60 spaces = 3 spaces to be reserved close to the
building entrance for these types of vehicles. Design submittal: owner, architect, design
team
SSc4.4 Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity : Option 1 permits no more parking
capacity than that required by code. Local zoning regulations for this type of use requires
1 parking space per 200 sf of gross building area. Therefore, 12,000 sf/200 = 60 parking
spaces. Phase I of this project has the 60 spaces as required. Design submittal: owner,
architect, design team
SSc5 Site Development and SSc6 Stormwater Design
Sustainable Sites credits SSc5 and SSc6, with their 2 sub-credits each, aford the project many
synergetic opportunities throughout the sustainable categories and allows many of the same
strategies for credit compliance. Most projects governed by local, state and federal regulations
require some degree of stormwater control and landscaping/open space requirements.
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Implementing strategies for a path to compliance for one credit can be used successfully for
strategies related to other credits. Constructed wetlands, for instance, dont have to be large in
size, yet can serve to control the quantity and quality of stormwater, stormwater reuse for irrigation
and toilet fushing, greywater reuse and reducing heat island efects while providing a natural
and much needed refuse for local habitat. Rain gardens, vegetated swales and strips, bioswales,
detention/retention areas, wetlands and similar strategies can singularly, or collectively, be used
to achieve most, if not all, of the credit opportunities ofered.
SSc5 - Site Development credits are important for the enhancement of the natural elements
of the project site such as native plants and trees, soils, and watersheds. On greenfeld sites, a
key strategy to credit achievement is to minimize the building footprint as much as possible.
Utilize strategies such as sharing facilities, and stacking the parking with the building and
during construction, create construction boundaries that minimize land disturbance. Open
space is benefcial in urban environments to wildlife whose habitats are rapidly disappearing.
Smaller development footprints and more greenspace helps with the urban heat island efect
and provides for better stormwater retention. The goal of SSSc6 - Stormwater Design is to
decrease the amount of stormwater runof that leaves the site. The options depend on the pre-
development conditions on the site. If it is a greenfeld, prevent an increase in stormwater runof
on site after development. If the site has existing impervious surfaces, decrease the amount
of stormwater that exits the site by 25% after development. Where SS Credit 6.1 is about the
quantity of stormwater that leaves the site, SS Credit 6.2 is about the quality of the water that
leaves the site. To meet the requirements of the credit, create and implement a stormwater
management plan (SWMP) that is designed to capture and treat runof from 90% of the average
annual rainfall. Also, the best management practices (BMPs) used to treat runof must remove
80% of the average annual post development total suspended solids (TSS) load.
With the design of any project, a well qualifed Project Team will understand how to best maximize
strategies to the advantage of many other credits not only in the Sustainable Sites category but
the Water Efciency and Energy and Atmosphere categories as well.
Constructed wetland, habitat,
rain garden, vegetated strip
and pervious pavements
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Sustainable Sites
SSc5.1 Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat : This credit addresses two site
conditions, Case 1 as applied to greenfeld sites and Case 2 for
previously developed areas or graded sites. This is an important
credit to pursue because of the synergies involved and, in the sites
current confguration, an easy credit to achieve. Option 2 requires
protecting or restoring the greater of 50% of the site (excluding
building footprint) or 20% of the site (including building footprint)
with native or adaptive vegetation. Considering the fact that a lot
split is not planned during Phase I, combined with the extensive
landscape requirements of the local zoning ordinance, there is sufcient land available to
meet the requirements of this credit. The landscape architect will coordinate with the civil
engineer on this credit to design and engineer rain gardens, vegetated swales, constructed
wetlands and other strategies that can contribute to many Sustainable Site and Water
Efciency credits. Design submittal: civil engineer, landscape architect, environmental
engineer, ecologist, local professional
SSc5.2 Site Development - Maximize Open Space : This credit has three cases that address
existing local zoning ordinance provisions regarding open space
requirements. Open space is the area of the site remaining less the
development footprint. This project falls under the case where
there is local zoning but without any requirement for open space.
Although the local ordinance has no provision for a percentage
of open space, it does include an extensive and aggressive
landscaping policy requiring all unpaved and undeveloped
portions of the site be vegetated. This is an instance where local
codes are more stringent than those requirements necessary to
comply with the credit. On this site, all property lines, right of
ways, interior pavement islands, mandated spaces between sidewalks and buildings will
be landscaped with plants, shrubs and trees and landscaped berms constructed to protect
visibility from adjacent residential properties. Since c5.1 & c5.2 go hand-in-hand with each
other, the civil engineer and landscape architect will coordinate the design and construction
documents. Design submittal: civil engineer, landscape architect, environmental engineer,
ecologist, local professional
SSc6.1 Stormwater Design - Quantity Control : The intent of this credit is to limit disruption of
natural water hydrology by reducing impervious cover, increasing
on-site infltration, reducing or eliminating pollution from
stormwater runof, and eliminating contaminants. On building
sites where the existing imperviousness is greater than 50%, this
credit requires reducing the quantity of stormwater runof by
25%. On building sites where the existing imperviousness is less
than 50%, the requirement specifes that the post-development
discharge rate and quantity from the site shall not exceed the pre-development rate and
quantity. This site had no improvements, as there are no existing impervious surfaces and
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Chapter 4 |
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requires either 1) a stormwater management plan that prevents the post-development peak
discharge rate and quantity from exceeding the predevelopment peak discharge rate and
quantity for the 1 and 2 year 24 hour design storms OR 2) implementation of a stormwater
management plan that protects receiving stream channels from excessive erosion and
the stormwater management plan must include stream channel protection and quantity
control strategies. This credit is actually mandated by local zoning regulations that require
stormwater to be held and released for the purpose of downstream protection. Design
submittal: civil engineer, landscape architect
SSc6.2 Stormwater Design - Quality Control : The intent of this credit is to limit the disruption
of natural stormwater and clean the stormwater that becomes
contaminated as it passes through the site. To do this, the project
must implement a stormwater management plan that reduces
the amount of impervious cover, promotes infltration and then
captures and treats the remaining stormwater runof for 90% of
the average annual rainfall. For this credit, LEED promotes Best
Practice Methods (BMPs) as long as they remove 80% of the
post-development Total Suspended Solids (TSS). This credit is
achievable thru the implementation of strategies and techniques provided by credits SSc5.1,
SSc5.2 and SSc6.1. The wetland area, rain gardens and vegetated swales will hold and retain
stormwater, allowing some passage thru the structures into the subgrade for fltration.
The remaining stormwater that does eventually pass thru to the public storm sewer, or
waterways, will have been cleansed by the vegetation while being held. In calculating the
amount of stormwater to treat, climatic data is used for the specifc region where the project
is located. There are 3 distinct climates in the U.S. that infuence the amount of annual
rainfall. Humid watersheds that receive at least 40 of annual rainfall, semiarid watersheds
which receive between 20-40 per year and arid watersheds that will receive less than 20
of annual rainfall. Treating 90% of the annual rainfall is equal to the following: 1 for humid
waterhseds, 0.75 for semiarid waterhsheds and 0.50 for arid watersheds. Design submittal:
owner, architect, civil engineer, landscape architect
SSc7.1 Heat Island Efect - Nonroof : This credit requires shade (within 5 years of occupancy),
materials with a Solar Refectance Index (SRI) of at least 29, and/
or open-grid pavement for at least 50% of the sites non-roof
impervious surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, courtyards, and
parking lots. A second option requires placing a minimum of
50% of parking spaces underground or under a deck, a roof, or
a building. Any roof used to shade or cover parking must also
have a SRI of at least 29. This credit will be achieved by using
concrete for the parking lot, which accounts for more than 50% of
the hardscaped areas. Ordinary concrete has an SRI value range
between 38 and 52. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer,
landscape architect
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Sustainable Sites
SSc7.2 Heat Island Efect - Roof : In general, there are 2 confgurations used for conventional
roof designs - fat roofs and sloped roofs. This shingled roof will
have a slope of 6:12. LEED considers a steep sloped roof as one
having a slope greater than 2:12 and requiring an SRI index of 29
or higher. Low sloped roofs have a slope of 2:12 or less and require
an SRI index of 78 or higher. LEED allows vegetated roofs, high SRI
roofs and roofs that use a combination of the two and provides
formulas for the amount of area of each material to use in order
to comply with the credit. For the roof on this project, 75% of the
roof surface must be covered with a shingle that has a minimum
SRI value of 29. Fortunately, there are many colors available to
select from the manufacturers of cool shingles. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer,
landscape architect, mechanical engineer
SSc8 Light Pollution Reduction : Reducing light pollution relative to the site requires
regulating the light sources inside and outside of the building.
On the interior, all non-emergency light must be regulated when
trespassing beyond translucent surfaces (windows) between
the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. This can be and will be
accomplished by installing automatic devices with manual
overrides that will turn of the interior lights during this time
period. Addressing the exterior light pollution requires a determination of the proper
lighting zone and using shielded light fxtures where there exists the potential for these
fxtures to produce glare, trespass, etc. There are two possible candidates to consider for the
lighting zone - LZ2 Low and LZ3 Medium. If using the more strict LZ2, the footcandle (fc)
level at the property (boundary) line can be no greater than 0.10 fc horizontal and vertical.
However, this is another instance where local codes and ordinances are more stringent than
the requirements to achieve the credit. The local zoning ordinance mandates 0.00 fc at the
property line. Although argued for some time as being impractical and nearly impossible
to achieve, the 0.00 fc ordinance is still in efect. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer,
electrical engineer, landscape architect, lighting designer
SSc9 Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines : This credit is specifcally targeted to
C&S projects and requires the publication of an illustrated document written to educate
tenants about implementing sustainable design and construction features in their tenant
improvement build-out and how to use LEED for Commercial Interiors. Design submittal:
owner, architect, design team
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Schematic Site Development Plan
The civil engineer has taken the preliminary site development sketch and coordinated with the
landscape architect to prepare a refned Site Development Plan for distribution to the team to
review. This design and subsequent review comments will be used to begin the fnal site related
construction documents. The sustainable elements incorporated into this plan include:
Pervious sidewalk pavement
SRI 29 concrete parking and drive pavement
SRI 29 roofng materials
Vegetated swales to collect, hold, flter and release stormwater runof
Rain gardens between vegetated swale and parking lot, between building and sidewalk
and in 2 parking islands
Landscaped berm along east property line
Native and/or adaptive landscaping
Wetland for stormwater, habitat and potential reservoir for stormwater reuse
In summary, the credits being pursued in the Sustainable Sites category have come at little
additional cost to the project budget. Often referred to as the low hanging fruit, many of these
credits are either mandated by local codes and ordinances or were available due to the location
and existing condition of the site. Also, the sanitary and storm sewer authority that services
several cities and surrounding counties has initiated an aggressive campaign to expedite the
study and implementation of sustainable and green practices. As such, they will make available
funding on this project the cost for the rain gardens and constructed wetlands for inclusion into
their pilot program. An agreement to allow MSD to monitor performance is required.
Design Site Development Plan
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Sustainable Sites
Project Checklist Analysis
Not bad! 19 probable points out of 28 available with only 40 required for LEED certifcation. What
does this mean? We are halfway to certifcation and the cost so far for being green has been
minimal.
The next session will begin at the end of the Water Efciency chapter.
Please note, the Project Checklist is a tool that allows the Project Team to check of the credits
during the charrette they believe to be achievable and also check those credits the project will
not pursue. For the purposes of this exercise, the checklist is being used as an analysis of the
project credit standing as it progresses thru the categories.
LEE0 200 for Core and SheII 0eveIopment Project Name: StudIo4
Project ChecklIst 0ate: 01 Dctober, 2009
1 PossIble PoInts: 28 PossIble PoInts: 13
Y N : Y N :
Y Prereq 1 Y Prereq 1
1 CredIt 1 1 CredIt 1 1 to 5
N CredIt J 8rownfIeld Fedevelopment 1 CredIt J 1
N CredIt 4.1 6 CredIt 4 1 to 2
3 CredIt 4.J AlternatIve TransportatIon-LowEmIttIng and FuelEffIcIent 7ehIcles J CredIt 6 1
2 CredIt 4.4 2
1 CredIt 5.1 SIte 0evelopment-Protect or Festore HabItat 1 PossIble PoInts: 12
1 CredIt 5.2 SIte 0evelopment-|axImIze Dpen Space 1
1 CredIt 6.1 Stormwater 0esIgn-QuantIty Control 1 Y Prereq 1
1 CredIt 6.2 Stormwater 0esIgn-QualIty Control 1 Y Prereq 2
1 CredIt 7.1 Heat sland Effect-Nonroof 1 CredIt 1 1
1 CredIt 7.2 1 CredIt 2 1
1 CredIt 8 LIght PollutIon FeductIon 1 CredIt J 1
1 CredIt 9 1 CredIt 4.1 1
CredIt 4.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 10 CredIt 4.J 1
CredIt 4.4 1
haterIaIs and Pesources
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
LowEmIttIng |aterIals-AdhesIves and Sealants
LowEmIttIng |aterIals-PaInts and CoatIngs
ncreased 7entIlatIon
8uIldIng Feuse-|aIntaIn ExIstIng Walls, Floors, and Foof
Storage and CollectIon of Fecyclables
ConstructIon AQ |anagement Plan-0urIng ConstructIon
LowEmIttIng |aterIals-FloorIng Systems
LowEmIttIng |aterIals-ComposIte Wood and AgrIfIber Products
Dutdoor AIr 0elIvery |onItorIng
Indoor EnvIronmentaI uaIIty
|InImum ndoor AIr QualIty Performance
EnvIronmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
SustaInabIe SItes
AlternatIve TransportatIon-PublIc TransportatIon Access
SIte SelectIon
0evelopment 0ensIty and CommunIty ConnectIvIty
ConstructIon ActIvIty PollutIon PreventIon
AlternatIve TransportatIon-8Icycle Storage and ChangIng Fooms
ConstructIon Waste |anagement
Tenant 0esIgn and ConstructIon CuIdelInes
Water EffIcIency
AlternatIve TransportatIon-ParkIng CapacIty
Heat sland Effect-Foof
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
CredIt 4.4 1
Y Prereq 1 CredIt 5 1
CredIt 1 Water EffIcIent LandscapIng 2 to 4 CredIt 6 1
CredIt 2 nnovatIve Wastewater TechnologIes 2 CredIt 7 1
CredIt J 2 to 4 CredIt 8.1 1
CredIt 8.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 37
PossIble PoInts: 6
Y Prereq 1
Y Prereq 2 CredIt 1.1 1
Y Prereq J CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1 J to 21 CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 2 4 CredIt 1.4 1
CredIt J 2 CredIt 1.5 1
CredIt 4 2 CredIt 2 1
CredIt 5.1 J
CredIt 5.2 J PossIble PoInts: 4
CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
1 PossIble PoInts: 110
CertIfIed 40 to 4 poInts SIIver 50 to 5 poInts CoId 60 to 7 poInts PIatInum 80 to 110
Creen Power
DptImIze Energy Performance
Enhanced FefrIgerant |anagement
|easurement and 7erIfIcatIon-8ase 8uIldIng
|easurement and 7erIfIcatIon-Tenant SubmeterIng PegIonaI PrIorIty CredIts
TotaI
FegIonal PrIorIty: SpecIfIc CredIt
LEE0 AccredIted ProfessIonal
InnovatIon and 0esIgn Process
ndoor ChemIcal and Pollutant Source Control
Thermal Comfort-0esIgn
0aylIght and 7Iews-0aylIght
ControllabIlIty of Systems-Thermal Comfort
0aylIght and 7Iews-7Iews
Enhanced CommIssIonIng
DnSIte Fenewable Energy
Energy and Atmosphere
Water Use FeductIon-20 FeductIon
Water Use FeductIon
|InImum Energy Performance
Fundamental FefrIgerant |anagement
Fundamental CommIssIonIng of 8uIldIng Energy Systems
nnovatIon In 0esIgn: SpecIfIc TItle
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Water Efciency (WE)
C H A P T E R | 5
W
ater is the Earths most precious resource and
buildings are major users of our potable water
supply. The goals of the LEED Water Efciency credit
category are to promote the following measures:
monitor water consumption performance, reduce
indoor potable water consumption, reduce our
water consumption to save energy and improve
environmental well being, practice water efcient
landscaping and, in Schools, use water efcient
processes as a teaching tool.
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Water Type Defnitions
Monitor Water Consumption Performance
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption
Reduce Water Consumption to Save Energy
and Improve Environmental Well Being
Practicing Water Efcient Landscaping
Water Efcient Processes as a Teaching Tool
Water Efcient Strategies: Indoor Water,
Outdoor Water and Process Water
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: Water Efciency
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Credit Matrix
Introduction
As the demand for development increases, the burden on our limited water resources also
increases. Survey estimates between 1990 and 2000 suggest our fresh water consumption
increased 12%. The U.S. uses 400 billion gallons of water per day, with buildings accounting for
47 billion gallons per day. If these types of demands and increases continue, 36 states in the U.S.
expect to experience fresh water shortages by 2013.
This increase in the use of public potable water also creates an increase in the amount of wastewater
being generated, thereby straining the capacity of our wastewater treatment facilities. About
86% of the fresh water drawn is used, treated and discharged into our waterways. In turn, a
treatment facility that cannot handle the capacity it receives often releases untreated wastewater
that can contaminate our waterways and other sources of potable water. EPA estimates that 1/3
of the nations streams, rivers and lakes are unsafe for swimming and fshing. It is estimated that
efciency measures can easily reduce water consumption by 30% while many water conservation
measures can be done at no cost or at a rapid payback. The use of large volumes of water can
be directly related to maintenance and life cycle costs for building operations in addition to the
costs for additional municipal supply and treatment facilities.
Water Type Defnitions
potable water: water that meets or exceeds EPAs drinking water quality standards and is
approved for human consumption by the state or local authorities having jurisdiction
graywater: domestic wastewater composed of wash water from kitchen, bathroom and laundry
sinks, tubs and washers; the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) defnes graywater as untreated
household wastewater that has not come in contact with toilet waste; the International
Plumbing Code (IPC) defnes graywater as wastewater discharged from lavatories, bathtubs,
showers, clothes washers and laundry sinks; some states will allow kitchen sinks to be included
with graywater
blackwater: wastewater from toilets and urinals; defnitions vary where wastewater from
kitchen sinks, showers and bathtubs are considered as blackwater under some jurisdictions
wastewater: the spent or used water from a home, farm, community or industry that contains
dissolved or suspended matter
stormwater: runof water resulting from precipitation that fows over surfaces and usually to
storm sewers or waterways
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
WATER EFFICIENCY (WE) 10 11 10
WEp1 Water Use Reduction Reqd Reqd Reqd
WEc1 Water Efficient Landscaping *2-4 *2-4 *2-4
WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies 2 2 2
WEc3 Water Use Reduction *2-4 *2-4 *2-4
WEc4 Process Water Use Reduction NA 1 NA
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Water Efciency
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption
Reducing indoor potable water consumption is generally addressed by using alternative water
sources for nonpotable applications and installing water efcient fxtures and components.
Water treatment and reuse of stormwater and graywater for toilet fushing and custodial
purposes provides an alternative water source. Reducing potable water use for toilets, urinals,
showerheads, faucets and other fxtures can reduce the amount of water drawn from natural
water bodies through the use of water efcient fxtures, fow restrictors, electronic controls,
composting toilets and waterless urinals.
Reducing Water to Save Energy and Improve Environmental Well Being
Often the most signifcant savings associated with water efciency result from reduced energy
costs. Water that must be treated, heated, cooled and distributed requires energy. Nearly 15% of
a commercial buildings energy use comes from heating water. With the projected shortage of
fresh water in this country, concerns for human health and environmental welfare become more
real as reservoirs and groundwater aquifers become depleted. As this occurs, lower water levels
can concentrate natural contaminants and human pollutants.
Practicing Water Efcient Landscaping
Landscape irrigation, the primary user of outdoor water consumption, accounts for 30% of the
26 billion gallons of water consumed daily. The use of native plants supports a self sustaining
landscape that will require minimal supplemental water while providing additional environmental
benefts such as attracting native wildlife, requiring less fertilizers and pesticides which in turn
reduces water quality degradation.
In Schools, Use Water efcient Processed as a Teaching Tool
Water efciency strategies can provide educational opportunities such as the study of biological
systems, nutrient cycles, habitat and the impact of human systems on local watersheds and
natural resources. Students can enhance their math skills and environmental stewardship by
calculating the efects of water conservation strategies on their own use.
Water Efcient Strategies
Strategies implementing water efciency can be categorized into three primary areas of usage:
Indoor Water: water closets, urinals, lavatories, showers, sinks
Outdoor Water: landscape irrigation
Process Water: industrial processes and building systems such as cooling towers, boilers,
chillers, certain business operations such as dishwashers and washing machines
Plumbing fxtures are categorized as either fush or fow fxtures. Flush fxtures are toilets
and urinals and are rated in gallons per fush (GPF). Flow fxtures are primarily faucets such as
lavatories, sinks and showerheads and are rated in gallons per minute (GPM). Standard plumbing
fxtures used today are regulated by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct)
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Chapter 5 |
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gallons per fush (gpf): measurement of water used by fush fxtures (water closets and urinals).
Per EPAct 1992, baseline rates for water closets is 1.6 gpf and urinals is 1.0 gpf
gallons per minute (gpm): measurement of water used by fow fxtures (faucets, showerheads,
aerators, sprinkler heads)
Blackwater generating fxtures and fttings for both conventional and High Efciency Toilets
(HET):
Conventional toilets: 1.6 gpf
HET single fush: 1.28 GPF
HET single fush pressure assist: 1.0
HET dual fush (full fush): 1.6 gpf
HET dual fush (low fush): 1.1 gpf
HET foam fush: 0.05 gpf
Nonwater toilets: 0.0 gpf
Conventional urinals: 1.0 gpf
Nonwater urinals: 0.0 gpf
Residential fxtures, faucets and appliances
Conventional toilets: 1.6 gpf
Conventional lavatory (bathroom) faucets: 2.2 gpm
Conventional kitchen faucets: 2.2 gpm
Conventional showerheads: 2.5 gpm
When considering toilets account for 25% of our daily water consumption and a waterless urinal
in a shopping mall saves 40,000 gallons of water annually, the need to install efcient plumbing
fxtures becomes readily apparent.
Conserving water for irrigation can be less costly when coordinating strategies with stormwater
management such as capturing, fltering and holding rainwater.
Low Flow Toilet Composting (nonwater) Toilet Dual Flush Toilet
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Water Efciency
Process water is used for industrial processes and building systems such as cooling towers, boilers
and chillers installed for heating and cooling air for building operations. Process water also
includes washing machines and dishwashers used in businesses. Since the amount of process
water used can be signifcant, it is important to know how the water is being used and this can
be done by installing submeters to determine where the major users are and what conservation
measures would be appropriate.
Strategy considerations for indoor water use reduction:
Install water efcient plumbing fxtures
Use low fow fush type fxtures: dual fush toilets, waterless toilets and urinals, composting
toilets
Use low fow fxtures: lavatories, sinks, showerheads
Use nonpotable water
Captured rainwater, graywater or municipally claimed wastewater for fush type fxtures
Install submeters
Meter indoor water systems to monitor consumption and locate leaks
Strategy considerations for outdoor water use reduction:
Install locally adaptive landscaping
Native or adaptive landscaping reduces or eliminates irrigation demands
Xeriscaping
Requires little or no Irrigation
Zoned landscaping
Zone planting regions according to the irrigation requirements of each type of plant
Mulching
Mulch retains moisture which provides water to the plants root system
Mulch helps prevent evaporation of the plants water
Turf grass
Reduce or eliminate turf grasses which require large amounts of water
Use non potable water for irrigation
Captured rainwater, graywater or municipally claimed wastewater for irrigation
Efcient irrigation systems
Drip and bubbler irrigation systems are the most efcient by providing more water to the
root systems and less surface water to the leaves for evaporation or runof
Weather based controllers use weather and soil conditions to determine irrigation
requirements
Properly schedule irrigation times for appropriate times and quantities
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Chapter 5 |
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Install submeters
Meter irrigation systems to monitor consumption and locate leaks
Maintenance
Develop a maintenance program that establishes procedures for cutting, caring for and
routine maintenance of lawn and landscaping
Strategy considerations for indoor process water use reduction:
Use non potable water
Captured rainwater, graywater of municipally claimed wastewater for building processes
such as water chillers
Install submeters
Meter process water systems to monitor consumption and locate leaks
Chapter Summary
Using large volumes of water increases maintenance and life cycle costs for building operations
and also increases consumers costs for additional municipal supply and treatment facilities.
Water efciency measures can reduce water use in average commercial buildings by 30% or
more. Many water conservation strategies are no cost or provide a rapid payback while other
strategies, such as biological wastewater treatment systems and graywater plumbing systems
often require more substantial investments.
Strategy considerations for water use reduction:
Indoor water use
Install water efcient plumbing fxtures
Install submeters
Outdoor water use
Install locally adaptive landscaping
Xeriscaping
Mulching
No turf grass
Efcient irrigation systems
Install submeters
Process water use
Install submeters
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Water Efciency
Studio4 Ofce Project: Water Efciency
Water Efciency Category
Water Efciency addresses the use of potable water at the site and the discharge of wastewater
from the site. Reducing these will help limit the amounts of freshwater drawn from our water
bodies and aquifers, and then treated for distribution and use, which strain our freshwater
supplies and our water infrastructure. It also serves to reduce the wastewater volumes discharged
to these receiving bodies.
WEp1 Water Use Reduction: This prerequisite requires a potable water use reduction of 20%
from regulated fush and fow fxtures - fxtures as regulated by a standard such as EPAct - and
excludes water used for irrigation and process equipment. A baseline needs to be established
and compared to the design case in order to determine the amount of reduction. A quick outline
of how this is done:
Determine the FTE load for all occupants, including transient occupants (students, visitors
and retail customers)
We determined earlier that the default FTE load was 48 for the use type, and for this use
type, the default transient load = 0 FTE
Unless known otherwise, LEED establishes an equal split between men and women, 24
men and 24 women
Determine the fxture usage
These calculations deal with occupant usage and not number of fxtures, as the number
of fxtures is irrelevant. If you have 10 FTEs, the total daily usage will remain the same
whether there are 2 fxtures or 200 fxtures.
Women, by default, are calculated at 3 uses per day for toilets and 3 uses per day for
lavatories
Men, by default, are calculated at 3 uses per day also, but 1 use for toilets, 2 uses for
urinals and 3 uses for lavatories
Determine the baseline case for the total annual potable water consumption
Since we are looking for annual consumption, this calculation includes the total FTE
count for all shifts during a 24 hour period x the number of days worked per year, using
the default EPAct fgures for fush and fow fxtures. These include only toilets, urinals,
lavatory faucets, showers, kitchen sink faucets and pre-rinse spray valves. Per EPAct,
a toilet uses 1.6 gpf, a urinal 1.0 gpf and a lavatory faucet 2.2 gpm at a duration of 15
seconds (15 sec = 0.25 min). We will assume 5 days per week x 50 weeks per year = 250
days worked per year.
24 women x 3 = 72 toilet uses per day; 24 women x 3 = 72 lavatory uses per day
24 men x 1 = 24 toilet uses per day; 24 men x 2 = 48 urinal uses per day; 24 men x 3 = 72
lavatory uses per day
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Water Efciency
72 + 24 = 96 toilet uses per day total men & women
48 urinal uses per day total men
72 + 72 = 144 lavatory uses per day total men & women
Toilets = 96 uses x 1.6 gal = 153.6 gals per day
Urinals = 48 uses x 1.0 gal = 48.0 gals per day
Lavatories = 144 x (2.2 gpm x 0.25 min) = 144 x 0.55 = 79.2 gals per day
153.6 + 48.0 + 79.2 = 280.8 gals per day total potable water use
280.8 gal/day x 250 days/year worked = 70,200 gals baseline total annual potable water
Determine the design case for the total annual potable water consumption
Same exercise, only substitute the EPAct fush and fow rates
with the fush and fow rates for water efcient fxtures. Well
use the following: 1.0 gpf HET toilets; 0.0 gpf waterless urinals
and 1.5 gpm for lavatory faucets
Toilets = 96 uses x 1.0 gal =96.0 gals per day
Urinals = 48 uses x 0.0 gals = 0 gals per day
Lavatories = 144 uses x (1.5 gpm x 0.25) = 144 x 0.375 = 54.0
gals per day
96.0 + 0 + 54.0 = 150.0 gals per day total potable water use
150.0 gal/day x 250 days/year worked = 37,500 gals design total annual potable water
Determine the percentage annual potable water volume savings
1 - (37,500 design case/70,200 baseline case) = 1 - 0.5342 = 0.4658 or 47% annual potable
water volume savings per year
This is a huge savings in the respect it not only meets the prerequisite by changing out
standard fxtures with water efcient fxtures, it eliminates the need to reuse stormwater
to achieve the task. Furthermore, this is such a large annual savings, it sets the stage
nicely for the remaining Water Efciency credits.
Design submittal: owner, architect, engineers
WEc1 Water Efcient Landscaping: Approximately 30% of the 26 billion
gallons of water consumed daily goes into outdoor use, primarily
landscaping. The goals of WEc1 is to reduce potable water consumption
for irrigation by 50% or use no potable water for irrigation.
Since we have developed our landscaping in and around rain gardens,
vegetated swales and the wetland area, we will pursue Option 2 and install
no irrigation simply by planting indigenous plants that require little or no
irrigation and take advantage of the stormwater we are directing toward
the rain gardens, vegetated swales and wetland areas. Using this option,
LEED will allow temporary irrigation for a period of 12 months. Although
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Water Efciency
located in a moderate climate, well install a temporary irrigation system using the potable
water supply. If we were to reuse stormwater, we would likely need to install pumps and other
equipment. If this were done, this equipment would have to be included in EAp1 Fundamental
Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems. Design submittal: owner, landscape architect,
civil engineer, plumbing engineer
WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies: This credit requires a 50% reduction of potable
water used for building sewage (blackwater) conveyance produced by fush fxtures. This can
be accomplished by using water conserving fxtures, stormwater reuse, recycled greywater
or by treating 50% of the wastewater on-site to tertiary standards. Treating wastewater is not
universally permitted throughout the U.S. and if it is, can be an expensive strategy to implement.
Therefore we will consider the frst option and see how water conserving fxture compliance for
WEp1 helps to achieve this credit.
Most of the work has been done considering the calculations are identical to WEp1, except
the fow fxtures are removed from the equation because we are only considering wastewater.
Therefore:
Determine the baseline case
153.6 gals per day for toilets + 48.0 gals per day for urinals = 201.6 gals wastewater
generated per day x 250 days/year worked = 50,400 gals wastewater generated per year
Determine the design case
96.0 gals per day for HET toilets + 0.0 gals per day for waterless urinals = 96.0 gals wastewater
generated per day x 250 days/year worked = 24,000 gals wastewater generated per year
Determine the percentage of annual wastewater volume savings
1 - (24,000 design case/50,400 baseline case) = 1 - 0.4762 = 0.5238 or 52% annual
wastewater volume savings
The project has just collected 2 more points. Design submittal: owner, architect, engineers
WEc3 Water Use Reduction: An extension of WEp1, this credit awards points for achieving savings
above the prerequisite 20%. We dont need to incorporate additional strategies so the work has
already been done. All we need to do now is see how many points were entitled to pick up.
Points based on % annual potable water volume savings
30% savings = 2 points
At 47% savings, weve picked up 4 points. Design submittal: owner, architect, engineers
NO Yes Yes
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Water Efciency
In the Water Efciency category, a total of 10 points are available for credits applicable to this
project and we have collected all 10 through the use of water conserving fxtures and smart
landscaping strategies.
Before we go any further, a review of our credit status shows we have done exceedingly well and at
a minimal cost. If we take the 29 points and add the IDc2 credit point for having a LEED AP on the
project we have 30 points - 75% of that needed for certifcation.
This gives us the opportunity to continue thru the remainder of the project with the intent to cherry
pick the most easily obtainable and least expensive credits. At the end of the process, we can see how
much, or how little, it costs to obtain LEED certifcation. However, we will run thru the credits to show
how compliance could have been achieved if we had decided to do so.
The project needs 10 more points plus a few additional added as a safety factor. Its never known for
certain how the credits will be interpreted during the submittal review process.
The next session will begin at the end of the Energy and Atmosphere chapter.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
CredIt 4.2 1
10 PossIble PoInts: 10 CredIt 4.J 1
CredIt 4.4 1
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
CredIt 4.4 1
4 CredIt 1 Water EffIcIent LandscapIng 2 to 4 CredIt 6 1
2 CredIt 2 nnovatIve Wastewater TechnologIes 2 CredIt 7 1
4 CredIt J 2 to 4 CredIt 8.1 1
CredIt 8.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 37
PossIble PoInts: 6
Y Prereq 1
CredIt 1 J to 21 CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 2 4 CredIt 1.4 1
CredIt J 2 CredIt 1.5 1
CredIt 4 2 CredIt 2 1
CredIt 5.1 J
CredIt 5.2 J PossIble PoInts: 4
CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
Creen Power
TotaI
Water Use FeductIon
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C H A P T E R | 6
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Energy Demand
Energy Efciency
Managing Refrigerants to Eliminate CFCs
Renewable Energy
Ongoing Energy Performance
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: Energy and Atmosphere
A
ccording to the U.S. Department of Energy,
buildings use 39% of the energy and 74% of
the electricity produced each year in the United
States. To address these issues, the goals of the
LEED Energy & Atmosphere credit category are to
promote three kinds of activities: tracking a buildings
energy performance through design , commissioning
and monitoring, managing refrigerants to eliminate
CFCs and using renewable energy.
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Chapter 6 |
Credit Matrix
Introduction
The importance of energy conservation is easy to understand given the fact buildings consume
such a large percentage of the annual energy and electricity generated in this country. Generating
electricity from fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas negatively afects the environment,
beginning with extraction and transportation, followed by refning and distribution and ending
with consumption.
Electricity is most often generated by burning fossil fuels whose combustion releases carbon
dioxide and other greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Coal fred plants account
for more than half of the electricity generated in the U.S. Natural gas is a major source of nitrogen
oxide and greenhouses gases as well. Green buildings address these issues in two ways. They
reduce the amount of energy required for building operations and they use more benign
forms of energy. Implementing an integrative design approach, buildings, neighborhoods and
communities can increase energy efciency and by using renewable energy sources, further
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The energy performance of a building depends on its design. The orientation of the building,
the massing of the buildings elements, material selections, construction methods, building
envelope, water efciency, HVAC and lighting systems all determine how efciently the building
uses energy. Energy is addressed by focusing on four key elements:
Energy demand
Energy efciency
Renewable energy
Ongoing energy performance
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA) 35 33 37
EAp1 Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems Reqd Reqd Reqd
EAp2 Minimum Energy Performance Reqd Reqd Reqd
EAp3 Fundamental Refrigerant Management Reqd Reqd Reqd
EAc1 Optimize Energy Performance *1-19 *1-19 *3-21
EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy *1-7 *1-7 4
EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning 2 2 2
EAc4 Enhanced Refrigerant Management 2 1 2
EAc5 Measurement and Verification 3 2 NA
EAc5.1 Measurement and Verification - Base Building NA NA 3
EAc5.2 Measurement and Verification - Tenant Submetering NA NA 3
EAc6 Green Power 2 2 2
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Energy Demand
Green building energy savings primarily come from reduced electricity purchases and secondarily
from reduced peak energy demand. Therefore, the most logical place to begin assessing energy
is to reduce the energy demands for green buildings and neighborhoods. Several steps that
require little more than a fundamental knowledge and understanding of sustainable site and
building design practices can be implemented to reduce energy consumption. Fundamental to
those with sustainable experience and this is where an experienced team can be of enormous
beneft to the successful start of a project.
Collect data: Every project team should develop a program that outlines the parameters that
will be used for guidance throughout the course of the project. Typically this begins with the
collection of data from the owner during a charrette to describe their needs and in LEED this is
referred to as the Owners Project Requirements (OPR). With this information in hand, the project
team can then create their Basis of Design (BOD) documents which will formulate a project
program that translates the owners requirements into design and construction language.
Design process: To begin the design process, the project team should analyze the owners
requirements to ensure the building area is no larger than necessary. Next the project team
should prepare an assessment of the projects infrastructure to see that site related components
such as sustainable hardscapes and landscaping concepts are coordinated within the scope of
the project itself and with adjoining properties also to provide an efcient, compact design that
is sensitive to site related synergies and tradeofs. In the case of these frst two design processes
- less is more - the less constructed product, the more energy demand is reduced. Along
with a schematic site program, the building envelope itself must be planned in accordance
with regionally appropriate techniques, including exterior material selections, insulation,
roofng, weatherproofng, fenestration, etc. The next preliminary design step is to develop the
conceptual interior spaces and required mechanical systems, including HVAC, plumbing, power
and lighting.
Analyze design and data: With the projects program determined and a schematic design
completed, the project team can evaluate the building and building systems such as HVAC,
power and lighting, process water heating, water use, etc. This can best be done by utilizing
a building simulation model that analyzes and compares the energy consumption of the
design case against a baseline case for a similar building which is designed to conventional
building and engineering standards. This simulation model will be used to determine the
efects of building orientation and building envelope components, solar heat gains and losses,
mechanical system controls, water efciency power demand reductions and all other sources
that afect the demands on energy consumption.
Strategy considerations for reducing energy demand:
Design and energy goals
Establish targets and energy performance indicators early in the process using the OPR
and BOD
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Chapter 6 |
Building size
Do not design the building larger than necessary to meet the owners requirements
Site
Design the physical relationship of development elements such as buildings and
hardscapes to be compact and not sprawled across the site
Confgure roads, infrastructures and parcels such that buildings minimize summer solar
heat gain and maximize winter solar heat gain. Consider trees for shading, high SRI values
for hardscapes
Design adjacent buildings to help protect each other from the sun and wind
Building
Design the building envelope, including insulation and glazing systems, appropriately to
reduce heating and cooling loss
Design buildings to incorporate passive strategies to reduce the demand for artifcial
lighting, heating and cooling
Free energy
Design and orient the building to take advantage of natural ventilation, solar energy
and daylighting. Sunlight entering windows can greatly reduce the need for artifcial
lighting
Thermal masses, such as concrete foors, can absorb the suns energy during the day and
release this energy at night
Monitor consumption
Design buildings that use monitoring and feedback technologies and strategies that
encourage occupants to reduce their individual demand for energy
Energy Efciency
Energy is a substantial and widely recognized cost of building operations that can be reduced
through energy efciency and related measures which are part of green building design. Along
with reducing the demand for energy, it is important to see that the energy used is efcient and
works productively. Energy use per square foot and use per capita are metrics for measuring
energy intensity.
Strategy considerations for achieving energy efciency:
Passive design opportunities
Use natural resources like the sun and wind to heat, cool, ventilate and illuminate a building
by properly orienting the building, selection of materials and location of windows that
allow the building to be heated in the winter, cooled in the summer and naturally lit by
daylighting
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Building envelope
Design the insulation systems to be regionally appropriate and install high performance
glazing to minimize heat gains and losses
Make certain the building is weatherized properly
High performance mechanical systems
Conduct life cycle analysis to the tradeofs between capital and operating costs
Evaluate investments in energy efciency technologies
High efciency appliances
Reduce electrical loads associated with appliances (plug loads) by specifying computers,
monitors, printers and microwaves that meet or exceed Energy Star requirements
High efciency infrastructure
Efcient street lighting and LED based trafc signals reduce energy demands from
neighborhood infrastructure
Efciencies of scale
Design district heating and cooling systems to supply multiple buildings in a single loop
Thermal energy storage
Perform certain energy demanding tasks during of peak hours when energy costs are
lower and when some utility companies run their older generators
Example: generating ice at night to be used for cooling during the day
Energy simulation
Use computer energy modelling to identify and prioritize energy efcient opportunities
Monitor and verify performance
Monitor the performance of the building systems to verify they are functioning as
designed
Use control systems, building automation systems, commissioning and retro-
commissioning
Energy Simulation
LEED for NC requires new buildings to exceed baseline energy
performance standards that:
baseline complies with Appendix G of ASHRAE Standard 90.1
building energy determined by conducting a whole building
energy simulation
must distinguish between regulated energy and process energy.
Regulated energy powers lighting, HVAC and service water heating. Process energy runs
ofce equipment, computers, elevators, escalators, kitchen cooking and refrigeration,
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Chapter 6 |
laundry washing and drying, lighting that is exempt from the lighting power allowance
and miscellaneous items
Providing an energy simulation analysis early in the design phase allows the design team to
see the efects of changes made to the building and the building systems and determine
the most efcient building design based on related synergies, tradeofs and interactions
Managing Refrigerants to Eliminate CFCs
Scientifc evidence has long suggested that the release of chlorofuorcarbons (CFCs) destroys
the ozone molecules in the stratosphere that in turn harms Earths natural shield from incoming
ultraviolet radiation. In 1995, the U.S. joined the Montreal Protocol in banning the production of
CFCs and establishing a phase out date for the use of hydochlorofuorcarbons (HCFCs). CFCs and
HCFCs are categorized as ozone depleting substances (ODSs) and used as refrigerants in cooling
systems.
A refrigerant is a working fuid that fows through a machine that is designed to pump heat from
a lower temperature to a higher temperature. In order to meet certain criteria for performance,
most refrigerants are in the halogen family, and typically hydrogenated hydrocarbons. This
family of chemicals fall into the following categories:
CFC ( ChloroFluorCarbons)
Stability and long life with greatest Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) caused the
production to be banned in this country in 1995
HCFC ( HydoChloroFluorCarbons)
Stable and short life, not as great ODP as CFCs, allowing a phase out plan
HFC ( HydoFluorCarbons)
Negligible impact on the ozone layer but signifcant Global Warming Potential (GWP)
Halocarbons
Used in the cells of foamed insulation and fre fghting systems
Natural Refrigerants
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Water (H2O)
Ammonia (NH3)
Hydrocarbons (HC)
Air (78% N
2
; 21% O
2
; 1% H
2
O
2
; + trace gases)
The Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer (a protocol to the Vienna
Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer) is an international treaty designed to protect the
ozone layer by phasing out the production of a number of substances believed to be responsible
for ozone depletion. The treaty was entered into force on January 1, 1989 It is believed that if the
international agreement is adhered to, the ozone layer is expected to recover by 2050.
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The Montreal Protocol bans production of chlorofuorocarbons (CFC) and phases out
hydrochlorofuorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerants. Over 50% of the water chillers in existing buildings
still use CFC-11 and many are old, inefcient, leaky and retroftting is not cost efective. For newer
systems using CFC-11, replacement with HCFC-123 is encouraged. Replacement refrigerants are
less efcient, making the cooling systems consume more energy per unit of cooling output. The
choice of replacement refrigerants considers the tradeofs between performance, depletion of
stratospheric ozone (ODP) and contribution to global climate change (DWP). An alternative to
these refrigerants is the use of natural refrigerants such as ammonia, carbon dioxide, water or
propane. To achieve certifcation, new buildings may not use CFC based refrigerants and existing
buildings must complete a total CFC phase out prior to project completion.
For new construction, LEED ofers several options to address these issues:
Install HVAC&R systems using no refrigerants
Install HVAC&R systems using non CFC refrigerants
Install HVAC&R systems using refrigerants that minimize their efects on ozone depletion
and global climate change
Install fre suppression systems and equipment that use no CFCs, HCFCs or halons
For existing buildings, LEED requires a phase out plan:
Existing CFC based HVAC&R and fre suppression systems must be replaced or retroftted to
phase out the use of CFC refrigerants prior to project completion
For existing chiller systems, a plan to phase out CFC based refrigerants within 5 years of
project completion
An alternative compliance path for chillers is permitted if replacement or conversion is not
economically feasible. If replacement or conversion is determined by a third party audit
that a payback would be greater than 10 years, a reduction of annual leakage of 5% or less
is required
Renewable Energy
The use of renewable energy sources reduces the demand for conventional energy such as coal,
oil, natural gas and nuclear power and their associated environmental impacts. LEED distinguishes
between onsite energy production and the purchase of ofsite sources.
Renewable energy sources include:
photovoltaic
wind energy
solar thermal: active and passive
biofuel based electrical
geothermal heating
low impact hydroelectric
wave and tidal
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Strategy considerations for meeting energy demand with renewable energy:
Generate onsite renewable energy
based on energy costs, not energy consumption
energy cost savings; possible utility rebates and net metering (selling excess energy to
the utility)
investigate appropriateness: climate; geographical; regional factors
Purchase ofsite renewable energy
based on quantity of energy consumed, not energy cost
must be at least a 2 year contract for 35% of the buildings electricity consumption
There are 3 approaches to achieve this credit:
Open electricity market: governing utility company may be able to select a Green-e
certifed provider
Closed electricity market: governing utility company may be a Green-e certifed
provider
If local utility company cannot provide Green-e certifed power, Owner may purchase
renewable energy certifcates (RECs)
Green-e is a certifcation program for renewable energy that has been certifed by the
Center for Resource Solutions
Green-e equivalency is renewable energy that is not Green-e certifed but is equivalent
for the 2 major criteria for Green-e certifcation
The energy source meets the requirements for renewable resources detailed by the
Green-e standard
The renewable energy provider has undergone an independent third party verifcation
that the standard has been met
Wind Biomass Geothermal
Wave & Tidal Photovoltaic Of-Site
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A critical component to a successful sustainable project is to ensure that the project continues
to perform over time to the established specifcations. The standards for ensuring the continued
performance of a building are handled by the prerequisite for building commissioning and the
credit for monitoring and verifcation of the commissioned systems.
Building commissioning ensures that a new building functions as designed
Continual commissioning ensures that a building always meets it fundamental designed
operational requirements
Retrocommissioning is the same as continual commissioning but applies to existing
buildings
Monitoring and verifcation is the basis for tracking energy performance and resolving
issues that may develop over time
Strategy considerations for maintaining energy efciency:
Owners Project requirements (OPR)
prepare OPR at the beginning of the design process
conduct commissioning throughout the life cycle of the building
Staf training
train facilities managers to improve building performance over time
Preventative maintenance
develop a preventative maintenance program to keep building in optimal condition
Incentives for occupants and tenants
involve occupants in energy efcient strategies
promote usage of energy efcient electronic equipment and appliances
bill tenants from submeter readings to encourage energy conservation
educate occupants to shut down equipment and turn out lights
provide occupants feedback on energy performance
Building Commissioning
The commissioning process is a systematic quality control process that
involves the owner, users, occupants, operations and maintenance staf,
design professionals and contractors and is most efective if initiated at
the beginning of the project. The benefts of commissioning include
reduced energy use, lower operating costs, fewer contractor callbacks,
better building documentation, improved occupant productivity and
verifcation that the commissioned systems perform in accordance with
the owners project requirements. At a minimum, the systems to be
commissioned are:
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Chapter 6 |
HVAC&R systems and related controls
Lighting and daylighting controls
Domestic hot water systems
Renewable energy systems
In the prerequisite EAp1 and credit EAc3, the commissioning steps include:
Predesign, Design Phase
Designate the commissioning authority (CxA)
Document owners project requirements (OPR) and develop the basis of design (BOD)
Review OPR and BOD
Develop and implement a commissioning plan
Incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents
Conduct commissioning design review prior to midconstruction documents
Construction Phase
Review contractor submittals applicable to systems being commissioned
Verify installation and performance of commissioned systems
Develop systems manual for commissioned systems
Verify that requirements for training are completed
Complete a summary commissioning report
Occupancy
Review building operation within 10 months after substantial completion
Monitoring and Verifcation
Monitoring and verifcation can be done by comparing building performance measurements
against predictions from energy simulations or industry standard benchmarks. Programs
such as EPAs Energy Star Portfolio Manager uses project data on electricity and natural gas
consumption to compare against a building with similar characteristics to arrive at a buildings
energy performance. Other methods for measurement and verifcation are Option D: Calibrated
Simulation or Option B: Energy Conservation Method as specifed by the the International
Performance Measurement & Verifcation Protocol (IPMVP) Volume III. The Measurement &
Verifcation plans must cover a period of at least 1 year of post construction occupancy and
provide a process for corrective action if the results indicate that energy savings are not being
achieved.
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Chapter Summary
Energy Demand
Collect data
Design process
Analyze design and data
Energy Efciency
Building energy simulation
Managing Refrigerants
No CFCs
Phase Out CFCs
Renewable Energy
Onsite renewable energy
Ofsite renewable energy
Building commissioning
Measurement & Verifcation
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Studio4 Ofce Project: Energy and Atmosphere
Energy and Atmosphere Category
Energy and Atmosphere deals with practices and policies that reduce the use of energy at the
site, reduce the use of nonrenewable energy both at the site and at the energy source, and
reduce the impact on the global climate, atmosphere, and environment from both activities
at the site and energy sources of-site. Energy & Atmosphere credits aim to optimize energy
performance in order to reduce the energy consumption of our buildings, thereby decreasing
negative environmental impacts. This involves building commissioning, energy modeling, use of
non-ozone depleting substances and encouragement to use renewable energy technologies.
Energy and Atmosphere are combined because a signifcant portion of the air pollution and
global climate impacts come from energy sources. Therefore reducing or changing these energy
sources has a large impact on the atmosphere, particularly on a more regional or global scale.
EAp1 Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems: Projects that achieve any level
of LEED certifcation must perform better than a standard building.
The building must frst be designed to perform at a higher level, then it
must be verifed that the required systems were installed and function
in accordance with the documented design. Commissioning (Cx) is
the process of verifying and documenting that a building and related
systems and assemblies were planned, designed, installed, tested,
operated and maintained to meet the owners project requirements
(OPR). The Commissioning Authority (CxA) is the person who organizes,
leads and reviews completion of the commissioning process activities.
Depending on the building size, there are diferent members of the
Project Team, Design Team, Construction team, owner or owners employees and, of course, the
CxA who are permitted to perform certain activities. Two charts are provided in the Appendix
that list the activities required for commissioning and the persons permitted to perform CxA
activities per building size. Regardless of building size, there are two tasks that only the Cx can
perform. The frst is verifying the installation and performance of commissioned systems and
the second is completing a summary commissioning report. The Cx is a consultant to the project
in the respect that their purpose is to protect the owner and acts, essentially, as an oversight
entity. This is the reason the all important verifcation and summary report tasks can only be
done by the CxA.
The energy related systems that must be commissioned:
HVAC&R
Lighting and daylighting controls
Domestic hot water systems
Renewable energy systems
Commissioning is essential to the successful delivery of any high performing green building. A
LEED AP needs to be very familiar with both the tasks required and who is permitted to perform
those tasks. Construction submittal: owner, design team, CxA
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EAp2 Minimum Energy Performance: As stated in EAp1, projects that achieve any level of LEED
certifcation must perform better than a standard building and this prerequisite establishes that
level for energy performance. According to a DOE report in January 2008, all but nine states
use some iteration of ASHRAE 90.1 as their state energy code. All buildings must meet both the
mandatory provisions and the prescriptive requirements as required by ASHRAE/IENSA Standard
90.1-2007 (without amendments). Determining compliance for the envelope components
is relatively straightforward using the tables in the ASHRAE standard. LEED for Schools must
establish energy performance goals using EPAs Target Finder rating tool.
There are three options provided for establishing minimum energy performance:
Option 1 Whole Building Energy Simulation: Requires energy simulation software to
establish a baseline building and then compares that to the designed
building. The baseline building uses a set of preestablished conventional
building materials and components while the design building uses
materials and components selected by the Design Team. This determines
how the designed building compares to a standard building. This option
is more complex, but yields advanced and more accurate results and
also provides the potential for increased points based on the models
predicted savings.
Option 2 Prescriptive Compliance Path - ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide: This
option has four compliance paths, all directed towards certain building types:
Path 1 Small Ofce Buildings 2004 : must be less than 20,000 sf and ofce occupancy
Path 2 Small Retail Buildings 2006 : Must be less than 20,000 sf and retail occupancy
Path 3 Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings 2008 : Must be less than 50,000 sf
and warehouse or self storage occupancy
Option 2 K-12 School Buildings : Must be for K-12 schools
The Advanced Energy Design Guide series provides a sensible and easy approach to achieving
advanced levels of energy performance without the need for calculations or simulation analysis.
Prescriptive compliance simply means designing to a set of preestablished building components
and systems that have been shown to produce energy savings. Each path is regulated by the
climate zone where the project is located.
Option 3 Prescriptive Compliance Path - Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide:
This option complies with all the measures of the Advanced Energy Design Guide series but
permits same type buildings larger than those under Paths 1, 2 and 3, but less than 100,000 sf.
Being an ofce building less than 20,000 sf, this project will use Option 2 Path 1. Compliance
requires little more than using basic, proven building components and systems. Design submittal:
design team
EAp3 Fundamental Refrigerant Management: The intent of this prerequisite is to reduce ozone
depletion by zero use of ChloroFluoroCarbon (CFC) based refrigerants used in HVAC&R and fre
suppression systems in new buildings, or phasing out CFCs in existing buildings prior to project
completion. Though CFCs are no longer available in new equipment, due to the Montreal
Protocol banning the production of CFCs in this country in 1995, CFC based systems are still
found in existing buildings. If the new building is connected to an existing building, that system
must also be CFC free. Design submittal: owner, mechanical engineer
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Chapter 6 |
EAc1 Optimize Energy Performance: This credit is awarded if energy cost savings can be shown
compared to a base building that meets the requirements of ASHRAE/IENSA 90.1-2007. The
method of determining energy cost savings must meet the requirements of Appendix G of the
standard.
Option 1 Whole Building Energy Simulation: 1-19 points for NC and Schools; 3-21 points
for CS
Option 2 Prescriptive Compliance Path - ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide: 1 point
for each path and option 2 Schools
Path 1 Small Ofce Buildings 2004 : must be less than 20,000 sf and ofce occupancy
Path 2 Small Retail Buildings 2006 : Must be less than 20,000 sf and retail occupancy
Path 3 Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings 2008 : Must be less than 50,000 sf
and warehouse or self storage occupancy
Option 2 K-12 School Buildings : Must be for K-12 schools
Option 3 Prescriptive Compliance Path - Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide:
1-3 points
Design submittal: design team
EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy: Achievement of this credit is
determined by the percentage of the buildings energy use that is
provided by on-site renewable energy generation systems. For this
credit, the project can use the annual energy cost calculated in EAc1
or the U.S. Department of Energys Commercial Buildings Energy
Consumption Survey (CBECS) database for the building type to
determine the amount of energy cost ofset. LEED provides points
base on the percentage of renewable energy contributed.
Since no energy performance calculation has been performed for the project, well use
the CBECS median electrical intensity budget for an ofce building at 11.7 kWh/Sf-yr for
electrical and 58.5 kBtu/sf-yr for non-electrical fuel and the Default Energy Costs by State
from EIA 2003 Commercial Sector Average Energy Costs by State at $0.0723 $/kWh for
electricity and $0.00789 $/kBtu for natural gas (State of Ohio):
Default Annual Electrical Costs
12,000 sf x 11.7 kWh/sf-yr x $0.0723/kWh = $10,150.92/yr
Default Annual Fuel Costs
12,000 sf x 58.5 (kBtu/sf-yr) x $0.00789$/kBtu = $5,538.78/yr
Default Total Annual Energy Costs
$10,150.92 Electricity + $5,538.78 Fuel = $15,689.70
The project would need to meet 1% of its annual energy costs - $1,568.97 - with renewable
energy systems in order to earn 4 points under EAc2. 1% and 4 points is the only option available
for Core & Shell projects. Design submittal: owner, architect, electrical engineer
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EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning: Enhanced commissioning requires the CxA to be on the project
earlier and stay on the project later than what is necessary with Fundamental Commissioning by
requiring 3 additional task be added to the scope. Again, these tasks are explained on the charts
included in the Appendix and in the order they are to be performed. The 3 tasks, in order, are:
Perform a design review prior to midconstruction documents
Review contractor submittals applicable to the systems being commissioned
Review building operation within 10 months after substantial completion
Construction submittal: owner, design team, CxA
EAc4 Enhanced Refrigerant Management: The intent of this credit is
not to use refrigerants. Buildings that comply with this credit eliminate
the use of HVAC&R systems that damage the atmosphere with CFCs,
HCFCs and Halons. Select refrigerants with low ozone depletion (ODP)
and global warming potential (GWP) and prevent leakage of these
compounds into the atmosphere. Select equipment with efcient
refrigerant charge and long service life potential. Projects that have
naturally ventilated buildings with no active cooling systems or natural refrigerants including
water, carbon dioxide, and ammonia are eligible for this credit. Design submittal: mechanical
engineer
EAc5 Measurement and Verifcation: NC & Schools
EAc5.1 Measurement and Verifcation - Base Building: Core & Shell
EAc5.2 Measurement and Verifcation - Tenant Submetering: Core & Shell
The M&V series of credits are designed to provide ongoing accountability of building energy
consumption.
Both EAc5 and EAc5.1 require the development and implementation of a measurement and
verifcation (M&V) plan consistent with either Option D: Calibrated Simulation as specifed
by the International Performance Measurement & Ventilation Protocol (IPMVP), Volume III or
Option B: Energy Conservation Measure Isolation as specifed by the International Performance
Measurement & Ventilation Protocol (IPMVP), Volume III. Construction submittal: design team,
operations & maintenance
EAc5.2 requires a centrally located electronic monitoring network to accommodate future tenants.
Also required is a M&V plan that documents and advises future tenants of this opportunity and
the means of achievement. The intent of submetering is to give tenants an incentive to save
energy. However, many utilities and municipalities do not allow a second party to charge for
electricity based on submetering.
This project will provide separate meters for each tenant. Construction submittal: design team,
operations & maintenance
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Chapter 6 |
EAc6 Green Power: Green power is derived from solar, wind, geothermal, biomass or low-impact
hydro sources and helps increase renewable sources of energy on the grid, rather than coal
powered electricity. This credit ofers 2 points for supporting the
development and use of grid source, renewable energy technologies
on a net zero pollution basis - of site renewable energy. The credit
requires a 2 year contract to provide 35% of the buildings electricity
from renewable of site sources based on the quantity of energy
consumed, not the energy cost. Renewable energy sources are
defned by the Center for Resource Solutions Green-e certifcation
requirements.
The power purchased to comply with this credits requirements do not have to be Green-e
certifed. Other sources of green power are eligible if they satisfy the Green-e programs technical
requirements such as renewable energy certifcates (RECs), tradable renewable certifcates
(TRCs), and green tags. Green tags equate to paying a subsidy to encourage renewable power
generation somewhere on the grid, even if the electricity does not supply your building.
Two options are available for establishing a baseline energy use. Option 1 determines the baseline
by using the results obtained from EAc1: Optimize Energy Performance. Option 2 estimates a
baseline using the DOEs Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) database.
Quantities per square foot are based on the building type.
There are guidelines for establishing area calculations for Core & Shell projects based on the %
of occupancy. However, to illustrate the cost of green power, well assume the building is fully
occupied and use the total 12,000 sf.
Since we havent determined the quantity based on an energy simulation model, well be
using Option 2, where the CBECS median electrical intensity budget for an ofce building
is 11.7 kWh/sf-yr.
12,000 sf x 11.7 kWh/Sf-yr = 140,400 kWh total electricity usage
140,400 (kWh/yr) x 35% x 2 yrs = 98,280 kwh required Green-e certifed green power
or RECs to purchase
If the project obtained a quote from a REC provider of $0.02/kwh, the cost would be:
98,280 kWh x $0.02/kWh = $1,965.60
Construction submittal: owner
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In the Energy and Atmosphere category, a total of 37 points are available for credits applicable
to this project and we have collected 2 by signing on to EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning. Not the
intent here, but many projects skirt around the important Energy and Atmosphere credits due
to the initial cost for credit achievement.
EAc2 On-Site renewable energy seemed reasonable at $1,568.79, but that does not include
the cost of the renewable energy systems which must be designed, purchased, installed and
commissioned.
EAc6: Green Power requires a renewable contract with no direct beneft to the project or
surrounding neighbors.
The next session will begin at the end of the Materials and Resources chapter.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
CredIt 4.2 1
CredIt 4.4 1
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
CredIt 4.4 1
CredIt 8.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 6
Y Prereq 1
N CredIt 1 J to 21 CredIt 1.J 1
N CredIt 2 4 CredIt 1.4 1
2 CredIt J 2 CredIt 1.5 1
N CredIt 4 2 CredIt 2 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 5.2 J PossIble PoInts: 4
N CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
Creen Power
TotaI
Water Use FeductIon
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C H A P T E R | 7
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Sustainable Materials Selection
Waste Reduction Practices
Waste Reduction at its Source
Reuse and Recycling
Waste Management
Sustainable Material Selection Strategies
Life Cycle Impacts
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: Materials and Resources
D
uring both the construction and operations
phases, buildings generate a lot of waste and
use a lot of materials and resources. The goals of the
LEED Materials and Resources credit category are to
promote the following measures: select sustainable
materials, practice waste reduction, reduce waste at
its source and the reuse and recycling of materials.
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Chapter 7 |
Materials and Resources
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Throughout their life cycles, buildings generate a great deal of waste that goes directly into the
waste stream. Materials procurement, recycling programs and waste management can divert
these materials from our landflls while improving the building environment. On the front end,
however, sustainable design gives consideration to material selections as they relate to natural
resources, occupant health and productivity and life cycle impacts.
Materials and Resources focuses on 2 main issues:
The environmental impact of materials brought into the project building
The minimization of landfll and incinerator disposal for materials that leave the project
building
The Materials and Resources category addresses environmental concerns relating to:
Materials selection
Waste disposal
Waste reduction
During the life cycle of a material, its extraction, processing, transportation, use and disposal
can have negative environmental and health consequences, polluting water and air, destroying
native habitats and depleting natural resources. The intent of developing an environmentally
responsible procurement policy is to reduce these impacts. By reusing materials or selecting
materials with recycled content, materials entering the waste stream are reduced while the
consumption of raw materials is also reduced.
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
MATERIALS & RESOURCES (MR) 14 13 13
MRp1 Storage and Collection of Recyclables Reqd Reqd Reqd
MRc1.1 Building Reuse - Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof *1-3 *1-2 NA
MRc1 Building Reuse - Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof NA NA *1-5
MRc1.2 Building Reuse - Maintain Interior - Nonstructural Elements 1 1 NA
MRc2 Construction Waste Management *1-2 *1-2 *1-2
MRc3 Materials Reuse *1-2 *1-2 1
MRc4 Recycled Content *1-2 *1-2 *1-2
MRc5 Regional Materials *1-2 *1-2 *1-2
MRc6 Rapidly Renewable Materials 1 1 NA
MRc7 Certified Wood 1 1 NA
MRc6 Certified Wood NA NA 1
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Chapter 7 | 99
Waste Reduction Practices
Construction and demolition waste account for 40% of the total solid waste in the U.S. The
strategy rankings of the EPA for solid waste management are, in order of importance:
Source reduction: minimizes environmental impacts throughout the materials life cycle
Reuse of materials: diverts materials from the waste stream
Recycling: diverts waste from landflls and incinerators and reduces the demand for virgin
materials
Waste Reduction at its Source
Source reduction is the most economical way to reduce waste. in 2006, residents, businesses
and institutions produced more than 251 million tons of solid waste, a 65% increase since 1980.
Additionally, 7.6 billion tons of industrial waste are generated each year. A construction waste
management plan is the frst step in managing waste because it requires contractors to establish
a system for tracking waste generation and disposal during construction.
Reuse and Recycling
One of the most efective strategies for minimizing environmental impacts is the reuse of
existing buildings. Reusing buildings reduces and diverts waste from the waste stream, provides
less disturbance to habitats and requires less infrastructure. The reuse of exterior and interior
materials should be incorporated into the construction documents to ensure their inclusion into
the project and reduce the volume of construction debris.
Recycling construction, demolition and land clearing debris reduces demand for virgin materials
which benefts from the associated afects of harvesting new materials. Recycling 1 ton of paper
saves 17 trees and saves 3 cubic yards of landfll space. The less the dependence on landflls
and incinerators, the less chance of groundwater contamination and the need for expanding or
providing new facilities which may require additional land.
Waste Management
A good waste management program focuses on waste diversion strategies that reduces the
amount of waste during demolition, construction and occupancy.
Strategy considerations for reducing waste:
Building size
design the building size appropriately to meet the owners requirements
Construction waste management
develop a policy that specifes a target diversion rate for the general contractor
develop a waste management plan that may include disposal of asbestos and PCBs
Recycling
develop a policy to reduce waste during operations and maintenance
provide a convenient and accessible location to occupants for collection of recyclables
monitor the efectiveness of the recycling programs
Compost
Create an on-site composting program
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Chapter 7 |
Calculating Material Costs
Material costs for the Materials and Resources credits are determined by the actual costs of the
projects materials with the exception of LEED NC, Schools and C&S rating system. For these,
the project team is permitted to use 45% of the total construction costs (labor and equipment)
instead of the actual costs. The costs are selected from Construction Specifcation Institute (CSI)
MasterFormat Divisions 3 through 10 and Division 12. In all instances, plumbing, HVAC, electrical
components and specialty items such as elevators are excluded from the cost calculations.
Additionally, the costs for Furniture and Furnishings, Division 12, can be used as long as they are
used consistently across all Materials and Resources credits.
Materials and Resources Credit Metrics
The Materials and Resources credit characteristics used to determine compliance are
measured by area, weight or cost, depending on the credit.
Sustainable Material Selection Strategies
The Materials and Resources category ofers several credit options for sustainable methods
of selecting materials:
Storage and Collection of Recyclables:
Provide an easily accessible dedicated area for the collection and storage of materials for
recycling for the entire building. Materials must include, at a minimum, paper, corrugated
cardboard, glass, plastics and metals. This is a prerequisite required of the Materials and
Resources category.
Building Reuse: Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof
Maintain certain percentages of the building structural elements. Window assemblies and
remediated hazardous materials are excluded from consideration.
For NC: 55%, 75% and 95%
For schools: 75% and 95%
For CS: 25%, 33%, 42%, 50% and 75%
Building Reuse: Maintain Interior Nonstructural Elements
Reuse at least 50% of the interior nonstructural elements (interior walls, doors, foor coverings
and ceilings)
Materials Reuse
Use certain percentages of salvaged, refurbished or reused materials. These can be materials
found on or of the project site. For on site reuse, these items must no longer serve their
original function and must be installed for a diferent purpose. Of site materials qualify if
they had been previously used.
For NC and Schools: 5% and 10%
For CS: 5%
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Recycled Content
Use certain percentages of preconsumer and post consumer recycled content materials.
Preconsumer waste is generally process waste from industry while postconsumer waste is
generally consumer waste left at curbside for recycling programs.
For NC, Schools and CS: 10% and 20%
Regional Materials
Use certain percentages of building materials that have been extracted, harvested or
recovered and manufactured within 500 miles of the project site. Using indigenous local
resources supports the community and reduces the negative environmental impacts
associated with transportation.
For NC, Schools and CS: 10% & 20%
Rapidly Renewable Materials
Use rapidly renewable materials (materials that are typically harvested within a 10 year cycle)
for a minimum 2.5% of the building materials and products used in the project. This credit
applies only to permanently installed in the project.
Certifed Wood
Use FSC certifed wood for a minimum 50% of the wood based materials and products for
all permanently installed wood building components
Consider purchasing third party certifcation sustainable products
Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International
Food Alliance Products
Marine Stewardship Council
UADA Organic
Rainforest Alliance Certifcation
Life Cycle Impacts
Life cycle impacts are crucial to the proper selection of sustainable materials. The performance
of materials from extraction until the end of their life, also known as cradle to grave, is a measure
of their sustainability. Preferred, however, are cradle to cradle materials that are recycled at end
of their original use.
Strategy considerations to promote sustainable purchasing during construction:
Construction purchasing policy
establish goals, thresholds and procedures for purchasing construction materials
monitor compliance and track efectiveness of policy
Green materials
specify rapidly renewable materials, regional materials, salvaged materials, and materials
with recycled content
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Chapter 7 |
Green interiors
specify fnishes, carpeting, fabrics and other materials with low levels of VOCs,
formaldehyde, or other toxic chemicals to protect the indoor environmental quality and
reduce the life cycle impacts
Strategy considerations to promote sustainable purchasing during operations:
Sustainable purchasing policy
establish goals, thresholds and procedures for purchasing ongoing consumables and
durable goods
monitor compliance and track efectiveness of policy
Green materials
specify rapidly renewable materials, regional materials, salvaged materials, and materials
with recycled content
Green electronic equipment
purchase computers and appliances that meet Energy Star, EPEAT or other standards for
efcient energy consumption
Chapter Summary
Sustainable buildings require policies for responsible construction and materials selection as
well as efective waste management. The intent of the Materials and Resources category is to
establish a foundation for developing, implementing and documenting these policies.
Waste Management
Building size
Construction waste management
Recycling
Compost
Building Reuse: Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof
Building Reuse: Maintain Interior Nonstructural Elements
Materials Reuse
Recycled Content
Regional Materials
Certifed Wood
Consider purchasing sustainable products that have third party certifcation
Life Cycle Impacts
Construction purchasing policy
Green materials
Green interiors
Sustainable purchasing policy
Green materials
Green electronic equipment
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Chapter 7 | 103
Studio4 Ofce Project: Materials and Resources
Materials and Resources Category
Materials and Resources deals with issues that reduce the use of new materials and resources,
encourages the use of materials and resources that have a smaller impact on the environment,
and promotes the reuse or recycling of materials so that more virgin materials and resources are
not used on LEED certifed projects. The life cycles of many products and materials are taken into
account to reduce the impact on the environment of their use. This may include transportation
impacts, harvesting impacts, manufacturing impacts, and the beneft of using recycled materials
in the production of the product. Materials and Resources Credit Characteristics: Most MR credits
require the percentage of material to be calculated based on area, weight, volume or cost and
what materials can and cannot be included into the calculated percentages.
LEED permits 2 options to use for the total material cost of the project. The frst is to calculate
and use the actual project costs (excluding labor and equipment) and the second is to apply a
45% factor (including labor and equipment) to total construction costs. This project has been
budgeted at $65/sf. If we calculate 12,000 sf x $65/sf we get a total construction cost of $780,000
and we would then need to back out the cost for labor and equipment. Or we can take the
$780,000 x 0.45 and arrive at a $351,000 cost for our default total materials cost for the project.
MRp1 Storage and Collection of Recyclables: Any responsibly sustainable building design is
important. However, a building and its occupants also impact the environment after construction.
This prerequisite saves land and reduces the environmental impacts
to water and air pollution. As the average waste is 3 pounds per
day per employee, it is important that the building occupants have
the option to maintain good recycling programs throughout the
lifespan of the building. LEED requires an area dedicated to recycling
that is easily accessible, so occupants can recycle, at the minimum,
paper, cardboard, glass, plastic and metals. By recycling these basic
items, there is a reduction in the need for virgin resources as well
as a signifcant reduction in the amount of waste going to landflls.
Design submittal: owner, architect
MRc1 & MRc1.1 Maintain Existing Walls, Floor and Roof: The purpose of this credit is to leave the
main portion of the building structure and shell in place when renovating. The building shell
includes the exterior walls, roof, and framing but excludes window
assemblies, interior walls, foor coverings, non-structural roofng
material, and ceiling systems. Points are awarded based on the
percentage (by area) of the structural elements retained. Design
submittal: owner, architect
MRc1.2 Maintain Interior Nonstructural Elements: The intent of this
credit is to reuse the nonstructural elements such as interior walls,
doors, foor coverings and ceiling systems of an existing building.
Points are awarded based on the percentage (by area) of the interior nonstructural elements
retained. Design submittal: owner, architect. The MRc1 credits are not applicable to this project.
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Chapter 7 |
MRc2 Construction Waste Management: The goal of this credit is to divert as much construction
waste from the landfll as possible. Develop a construction waste management plan that
identifes the materials that can be reclaimed and determines if
the projects waste materials will be sorted separately on-site or
commingled and separated by a third party at an of-site facility. The
construction waste management plan identifes a location on the
construction site where the materials to be diverted can be stored,
as well as a hauler who will accommodate the designated materials.
Materials that should be considered for recycling include concrete,
glass, wood, plastic, gypsum, tile, drywall, insulation, and carpet.
Excavated soil and land clearing debris are excluded and any PCBs or asbestos materials found
on site need to be properly addressed in the waste management plan. Donations of materials to
charities contribute to the credit. Monitor these materials for 50%, 1 point or 75%, 2 points, by
weight or volume. Construction submittal: contractor
MRc3 Materials Reuse: The intent of this credit is to reuse materials from existing buildings or
fnd new uses for products that would otherwise go into the landfll. Building materials such
as masonry, fooring, roofng and ceiling materials collected from
deconstructed buildings are being warehoused and sold for use on
new projects. For credit compliance, reused or salvaged materials
(by cost) must be equal to a percentage of the total value of the
project. Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and specialty items such
as elevators are excluded. LEED awards 1 point for 5% and 2 points
for 10% purchase of Reused Materials. With our default materials
cost of $351,000 we would need to purchase $351,000 x 0.05 =
$17,550 to receive 1 point or $351,000 x 0.10 = $35,100 to receive 2 points. Construction submittal:
architect, contractor
MRc4 Recycled Content: By including more recycled content into building, there is less solid
waste and less impact of materials on the environment. Recycled content products are made
from materials that would otherwise have been discarded. There
are two types of recycled materials: pre-consumer and post-
consumer. Pre-consumer content is material might have come
from excess or damaged items generated during manufacturing
processes that are not reused for the same purpose. Post-consumer
content is a material that has served its intended use and instead
of being set alongside the curb to be picked up and disposed of,
it is being recycled and reused in a diferent product. For credit
compliance, use materials with recycled content such that the sum (by cost) of post-consumer
content plus 1/2 of the pre-consumer content is equal to a percentage of the total value of the
project. Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and specialty items such as elevators are excluded.
LEED awards 1 point for 10% and 2 points for 20% purchase of Recycled Content materials. With
our default materials cost of $351,000 we would need to purchase $351,000 x 0.10 = $35,100 to
receive 1 point or $351,000 x 0.20 = $70,200 to receive 2 points. Construction submittal: architect,
contractor
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MRc5 Regional Materials: This credit supports the use of local materials and reduced
transportation distances. The requirements are
the use of building materials or products that
have been extracted, harvested or recovered,
as well as manufactured, within 500 miles of
the project site. The percentage of materials
is calculated on a cost basis. LEED awards 1
point for 10% and 2 points for 20% purchase of
Regional Materials. With our default materials
cost of $351,000 we would need to purchase
$351,000 x 0.10 = $35,100 to receive 1 point or
$351,000 x 0.20 = $70,200 to receive 2 points.
Construction submittal: architect, contractor
MRc6 Rapidly Renewable Materials: The intent of this credit is to reduce the use and depletion
of fnite raw materials and long cycle renewable resources by replacing them with materials (by
cost) that have a harvest rate of ten years, or less. Because rapidly renewable resources have a
shorter harvesting cycle than traditional materials, there are many environmental benefts. Often
the use of rapidly renewable resources can save land as well as other resources that usually go
into conventional materials. Also by virtue of their shorter harvesting cycles, rapidly renewable
materials can sustain a community for a longer period than more fnite sources. LEED awards 1
point for 2.5% use of Rapidly Renewable materials and products. With our default materials cost
of $351,000 we would need to purchase $351,000 x 0.025 = $8,775 to receive 1 point. This credit
is not available for Core & Shell projects. Construction submittal: architect, contractor
MRc6 & MRc7 Certifed Wood: Use wood based materials and products that have been certifed
in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and encourage
environmentally responsible forest management. At a minimum, these
components include structural framing and general dimensional lumber,
fooring, sub-fooring, wood doors and fnishes. MRc6 is directed to Core
& Shell projects while MRc7 applies to NC and Schools. LEED awards 1
point for MRc6 & MRc7 for 50% (by cost) of the purchase of Certifed Wood
materials and products on the project. With our default materials cost of
$351,000 we would need to purchase $351,000 x 0.50 = $175,500 to receive
1 point. Construction submittal: architect, contractor
Wheat Bamboo (U.S.) Wheat Cork
500 Mile Radius
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Chapter 7 |
Credit Checklist Analysis
In the Materials and Resources category, a total of 13 points are available and we have collected
6 points. A sufcient quantity of points were not available simply because there was no existing
structure for the project to have access to those credits.
We now have gathered 37 points, 38 with the LEED AP not yet entered, so we are 2 points shy
of reaching the certifcation level. With the IEQ category remaining, we should have no problem
collecting 40 before we look at the ID and RP categories for the safety net points.
The next session will begin at the end of the Indoor Environmental Quality chapter.
1 PossIble PoInts: 28 6 PossIble PoInts: 13
Y N : Y N :
1 CredIt 1 1 N CredIt 1 1 to 5
5 CredIt 2 5 2 CredIt 2 1 to 2
N CredIt J 8rownfIeld Fedevelopment 1 N CredIt J 1
N CredIt 4.1 6 2 CredIt 4 1 to 2
3 CredIt 4.J AlternatIve TransportatIon-LowEmIttIng and FuelEffIcIent 7ehIcles J N CredIt 6 1
2 CredIt 4.4 2
CredIt 4.2 1
CredIt 4.4 1
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
CredIt 4.4 1
CredIt 8.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 6
Y Prereq 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
Water Use FeductIon
Creen Power
TotaI
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C H A P T E R | 8
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Indoor Air Quality
Ventilation Improvements
Air Contaminant Management
Material Selection Decisions
Thermal Comfort, Lighting & Acoustics
Occupant Control of Systems
Daylight & Views
Core & Shell and Schools
Chapter Summary
Studio4 Project: Indoor Environmental Quality
T
he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
estimates that Americans spend about 90%
of their day indoors, where the air quality can be
signifcantly worse than outside by as much as 2 to 100
times. The goals of the LEED Indoor Environmental
Quality credit category are to promote the
following measures: improving ventilation, managing
air contaminants, specifying less harmful materials,
allowing occupants to control desired settings and
to provide daylight and views.
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Indoor Environmental Quality
Credit Matrix
Introduction
The EPA has designated indoor air pollution as a top environmental risk to public health and
recent increases in building related illnesses and related legal cases have heightened awareness
of indoor air quality (IAQ) among building owners and occupants. For schoolchildren, indoors
air quality issues are even more urgent as they are more sensitive during their development
and growth. Strategies to improve indoor environmental quality can reduce liability for building
owners, increase the resale value of the building and improve the health of building occupants.
Personnel costs are usually larger than a buildings operating costs and more studies are showing
increased occupant satisfaction and productivity gains due to improved indoor environmental
quality, making these improvements a sound fnancial investment. The potential annual
savings and productivity gains from improvements in indoor environmental quality in the U.S.
are estimated at $6 - $14 billion from reduced respiratory disease, $1 - $4 billion from reduced
allergies and asthma, $10 - $30 billion from reduced sick building syndrome symptoms and $20
- $160 billion from direct improvements in worker performance.
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ) 15 19 12
IEQp1 Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance Reqd Reqd Reqd
IEQp2 Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control Reqd Reqd Reqd
IEQp3 Minimum Acoustical Performance NA Reqd NA
IEQc1 Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring 1 1 1
IEQc2 Increased Ventilation 1 1 1
IEQc3.1 Construction IEQ Management Plan - During Construction 1 1 NA
IEQc3 Construction IEQ Management Plan - During Construction NA NA 1
IEQc3.2 Construction IEQ Management Plan - Before Occupancy 1 1 NA
IEQc4.1 Low-Emitting Materials - Adhesives and Sealants 1 1* 1
IEQc4.2 Low-Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings 1 1* 1
IEQc4.3 Low-Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems 1 1* 1
IEQc4.4 Low-Emitting Materials - Composite Wood and Agrifiber Products 1 1* 1
IEQc4.5 Low-Emitting Materials - Furniture and Furnishings NA 1* NA
IEQc4.6 Low-Emitting Materials - Ceiling and Wall Systems NA 1* NA
IEQc5 Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control 1 1 1
IEQc6.1 Controllability of Systems - Lighting 1 1 NA
IEQc6.2 Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort 1 1 NA
IEQc6 Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort NA NA 1
IEQc7.1 Thermal Comfort - Design 1 1 NA
IEQc7 Thermal Comfort - Design NA NA 1
IEQc7.2 Thermal Comfort - Verification 1 1 NA
IEQc8.1 Daylight and Views - Daylight 1 *1-3 1
IEQc8.2 Daylight and Views - Views 1 1 1
IEQc9 Enhanced Acoustical Performance NA 1 NA
IEQc10 Mold Prevention NA 1 NA
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The Indoor Environmental Quality category addresses environmental concerns relating to:
Indoor environmental quality
Occupant health, safety and comfort
Energy consumption
Air change efectiveness
Air contaminant management
The quality of the indoor environment can be improved by focusing on:
Indoor air quality
Thermal comfort
Lighting
Acoustics
Four attributes associated with green building design can be directly connected to increased
occupant productivity:
Increased ventilation control
Increased temperature control
Increased lighting control
Increased daylighting
Ventilation Improvement
Improving the quality of indoor air can be accomplished by increasing ventilation to remove
pollutants from the indoor environment. Although increased ventilation can require additional
energy, this efective strategy can yield excellent results with a relatively quick payback. The
project team can take advantage of regional characteristics by providing natural ventilation or in
areas of high heating and cooling loads use exhaust air to heat of cool the incoming air to reduce
energy use and operating costs.
Air Contaminant Management
Managing indoor pollutants is critical to the success of providing proper indoor air quality. There
are three basic contaminants that should be reduced or eliminated:
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS)
Referred to as secondhand smoke, it is the smoke exhaled by smokers and the smoke given of by
ignited tobacco products. Containing thousands of chemicals, ETS is linked to lung cancer and
heart disease.
Carbon Dioxide (CO
2
)
Although carbon dioxide is not known to cause serious health issues, high concentrated levels is
an indication of inadequate ventilation. Monitoring CO
2
is an efective way of providing proper
ventilation.
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Chapter 8 |
Particulate Matter
Airborne particles in indoor environments include lint, dirt, carpet fbers, dust, dust mites, mold,
bacteria, pollen and animal dander. Using high efciency air flters with a higher MERV rating
provides increased fltration of the air and reduces the exposure to these pollutants which
can exacerbate respiratory problems such as allergies, asthma, emphysema and chronic lung
disease.
Material Selection Decisions
Another strategy for improving the indoor environmental quality is to prevent problems before
the occur. This can be done by specifying materials and products that release fewer and less
harmful chemical compounds. Careful scheduling of deliveries of these materials will help
prevent exposure to moisture and absorption of of gassed contaminants.
Occupant Control of Systems
Providing individual occupant controls for lighting and thermostats improves occupant comfort
and productivity while saving energy. Individual controls allow occupants to set light levels that
are appropriate to the task, time of day, personal preferences and sight requirements. Individual
thermostats permit control to meet their individual heating or cooling needs during diferent
seasons, clothing and activity.
Daylight and Views
Daylighting reduces the need for artifcial lighting, therefore reducing energy consumption
and HVAC requirements. It is well documented that natural daylighting improves occupant
productivity and reduces health issues, resulting in lower absenteeism. Building occupants with
access to views to the outside are more productive and show an increased satisfaction with their
jobs. Daylighting and views are dependant on the building design and proper orientation to the
sun.
Core & Shell (CS)
For Core & Shell projects, the design and construction can infuence indoor environmental
quality in 2 ways:
The design team can infuence the quality of interior spaces such as lobbies, circulation
areas and the building cores
Design and construction decisions can afect in indoor environmental quality of tenant
spaces
Schools
The importance of human communication in learning spaces should be considered by reducing
background noise and optimizing acoustics.
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Chapter Summary
Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Environmental Quality is a measurement of the quality of the interior environment
within the building and deals, primarily, with the quality of air, thermal comfort (temperature
and humidity), lighting and acoustics. Poor indoor air quality can contribute to poor health and
absenteeism, creating a condition known as the Sick Building Syndrome.
Strategy considerations for improving indoor air quality:
Smoking
No smoking in the building or around entrances, operable windows and air intakes
Ventilation
Properly size ventilation systems to provide adequate outside air to building occupants.
Follow industry standards such as ASHRAE Standard 62, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor
Air Quality
Carbon dioxide
install carbon dioxide monitors integrated into the ventilation systems that supply proper
amounts of ventilation to occupants based on occupant loads
High efciency air flters
install flters with high MERV ratings
Low emitting materials
Specify green materials with low VOCs
Protect air quality during construction
prevent mold by protecting all materials from moisture
Prevent dust and particulate infltration and buildup
Flush-out
prior to occupancy, fush out the existing air by exhausting it out of the building and
replacing with fresh outdoor air
Green Cleaning Program
employ green cleaning materials and technologies to reduce contaminant exposure
Integrated pest management
employ a coordinated program using non-chemical strategies such as monitoring and
baiting
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Chapter 8 |
Thermal Comfort, Lighting and Acoustics
Thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics play an important role in the quality of the indoor
environment where studies have shown improvements in occupant satisfaction and
performance.
Strategy considerations for improving thermal comfort, lighting and acoustics:
Daylighting
design the building to allow for occupant access to daylight and views by placing
workstations around the perimeter walls of the building, keeping service areas toward
the interior core spaces
Operable windows
provide operable windows that open to the outside wherever possible
Individual temperature control
provide occupant temperature controls in mechanically ventilated spaces that allow
individual temperature control
Individual ventilation control
provide adjustable air difusers in mechanically ventilated spaces that allow individual air
fow adjustment
Individual lighting control
provide occupant lighting control so occupants can match the lighting level to the task
Occupant surveys
conduct surveys to assess occupant indoor environment satisfaction and make operational
changes based on the feedback
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Studio4 Ofce Project: Indoor Environmental Quality
Indoor Environmental Quality Category
The IEQ category is unique with regards to the environmental issues addressed,
as this category is all about the occupants. It is about creating and maintaining
an environment that promotes the well being of people. Simply stated, a healthy
employee is a happy employee - and a happy employee is a productive employee.
Three prerequisites in the Indoor Environmental Quality category represent the
very minimum IEQ eforts that must be addressed in order to proceed with
obtaining credits.
IEQp1 Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance: This prerequisite establishes a minimum indoor
air quality (IAQ) performance to enhance the comfort and well being of the building occupants.
As ASHRAE 90.1-2007 is synonymous with establishing minimum
energy performance, ASHRAE 62.1-2007 establishes minimum IAQ
performance by addressing the buildings ventilation. The three
basic methods for ventilating buildings and how each are addressed
by ASHRAE 62.1-2007:
Mechanical ventilation (active) : determines the minimum
required ventilation rates for various applications using either the
ventilation rate procedure of the indoor air quality procedure
Natural ventilation (passive) : provides requirements on the size
and location of ventilation openings
Mixed mode ventilation (active + passive) : can use any acceptable
engineering calculation methodology that meets the minimum
ventilation rates required by 62.1-2007
Design submittal: architect and mechanical engineer
IEQp2 Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control: For NC and CS projects, the intent of the
prerequisite is to prevent or minimize exposure of building occupants, indoor surfaces and
ventilation distribution systems to ETS. For Schools, the intent is to eliminate exposure to ETS.
For NC & CS, there are 2 cases. Case 1 is for all buildings and Option 1
prohibits smoking in the building. Option 2 prohibits smoking in the
building except in designated spaces. Case 2 for NC & CS addresses
residential and hospitality projects and prohibits smoking in all
common areas of the building. Case 2 for Schools prohibits smoking
in the building. If smoking is permitted in the building on the
property grounds, designated smoking areas should be established
and in all cases not permitted within 25 feet of entries, outdoor air intakes or operable windows.
Design submittal: facilities manager
IEQp3 Minimum Acoustical Performance: This prerequisite applies to LEED for Schools only
and provides for classroom environments that are quiet and allow teachers and students the
ability to communicate efectively. Design submittal: architect, mechanical engineer, electrical
engineer, contractor
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IEQc1 Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring: For this credit, the installation of permanent monitoring
systems of building ventilation is required. By monitoring the
ventilation systems performance, the building operator will be able
to stay informed of the defciencies in the system. The monitoring
system should be designed to generate an alarm when the conditions
vary by at least 10% from the setpoint. One way to achieve this is by
installing carbon dioxide (CO2) and airfow measurement equipment.
The equipment should feed the information to the HVAC system,
Building Automation System (BAS) or building operator to signal for adjustment when varying
beyond the setpoint. Design submittal: mechanical engineer
IEQc2 Increased Ventilation: In order to achieve this credit for mechanically vented spaces, the
outdoor ventilation rates to all occupied spaces must be increased by
30% above the minimum rates required by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-
2007. One approach is to use heat recovery in order to minimize the
additional energy consumption associated with higher ventilation
rates.
For naturally ventilated spaces, frst determine if natural ventilation
is an efective strategy for the project, then follow the design
recommendations set forth in the Chartered Institution of Building
Services Engineers (CIBSE) Applications Manual 10. Use fow diagrams and calculations to show
that the design of the natural ventilation systems meets the recommendations outlined in the
CIBSE Applications Manual 10. Another option is to use a macroscopic, multi-zone analytic model
to predict room-by-room airfows that will efectively naturally ventilate, providing the minimum
ventilation rates required by ASHRAE 62.1-2007 for at least 90% of the occupied spaces. Design
submittal: mechanical engineer
IEQc3 & IEQc3.1 Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan - During Construction:
This management plan is directed towards eliminating as many indoor air problems during
construction as possible and requires the development and implementation of a plan for the
construction and preoccupancy phases that addresses the following:
During construction, comply with the control measures of
the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Contractors
Association (SMACNA) IAQ Guidelines for Occupied Buildings
Under Construction
Protect and store on-site and installed absorptive materials from
moisture damage
If permanently installed air handlers are used during construction,
fltration media with a minimum efciency reporting value
(MERV) of 8 must be installed at each return air grille per ASHRAE
52.2-1999
For School projects, no smoking is permitted inside the building and within 25 feet of
building entrances once the building has been enclosed
Construction submittal: contractor
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IEQc3.2 Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan - Before Occupancy: Compliance with
this credit will reduce the IAQ problems resulting from construction or renovation activities.
There are 2 options for achieving this credit. The frst is to
conduct a building fush-out prior to building occupancy by
supplying a total volume of 14,000 cubic feet of outdoor air
per square foot of foor area, while maintaining an internal
temperature of 60 degrees and up to 60% relative humidity.
The fush-out is often used where occupancy is not required
immediately upon substantial completion of construction. The second option is to conduct
baseline IAQ testing after construction ends, but prior to occupancy to demonstrate that the
contaminant maximum concentrations are not exceeded. Construction submittal: contractor
EQc4 Low-Emitting Materials: The selection of IEQc4 credits are constructed as a practical way
to prevent IEQ problems by specifying materials that release fewer and less harmful chemical
compounds, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), for adhesives, paints, carpets, composite wood
products and furniture. The delivery and installation of these materials and products should be
coordinated so that they are not exposed to moisture and absorption of of-gassed contaminants.
These rules apply to materials and products inside the building (inside the weatherproofng
system and applied on-site). Construction submittal: architect, contractor
IEQc4.1 Low-Emitting Materials - Adhesives and Sealants: Adhesives, sealants and sealant primers
must comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD)
Rule #1168. Aerosol adhesives must comply with Green Seal Standard
for Commercial Adhesives GS-36. LEED for School projects must comply
with the California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for
the Testing of Volatile Organic Compounds from Various Sources Using
Small Scale Environmental Chambers. Construction submittal: architect,
contractor
IEQc4.2 Low-Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings: Paints and coatings applied inside the
building must comply to the following:
Architectural paints and coatings applied to interior walls and ceilings
must not exceed the volatile organic compound (VOC) limit established
by Green Seal Standard GS-11, Paints
Anti-corrosive and anti-rust paints applied to interior ferrous metal must
not exceed the VOC limit of 250g/L established by Green Seal GS-03,
Anti-Corrosive Paints
Clear wood fnishes, foor coatings, stains, primers and shellacs must not
exceed the VOC limits established by South Coast Air Quality Management
District (SCAQMD) Rule #1113, Architectural Coatings
LEED for School projects must comply with the California Department of Health Services
Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Compounds from Various Sources
Using Small Scale Environmental Chambers
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IEQc4.3 Low-Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems: All fooring must comply to the following:
Option 1
Carpet to meet the testing and product requirements of the Carpet
and Rug Institute Green Label Plus program
Carpet cushion to meet the testing and product requirements of
the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program
Carpet adhesives must meet the requirements of IEQc4.1 including
the VOC limit of 50 g/L
All hard surface fooring must be certifed as compliant with the
FloorScore standard by an independent third party. Hard surface
fooring includes: vinyl; linoleum, laminate, wood, ceramic and
rubber fooring and wall base
An alternative compliance path using FloorScore is acceptable for
credit compliance if 100% of the non-carpet fnished fooring is
equal to 25% of the fnished foor area. Unfnished fooring areas are
mechanical rooms, electrical rooms and elevator service rooms
Concrete, wood, bamboo and cork foor fnishes such as
sealer and stain must meet the requirements of South
Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule
#1113, Architectural Coatings
Tile setting adhesives and grout must meet South Coast
Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule #1168
Option 2
All fooring elements in the building must comply with the California Department of
Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Compounds from
Various Sources Using Small Scale Environmental Chambers
IEQc4.4 Low-Emitting Materials - Composite Wood and Agrifber Products:
Composite wood and agrifber products are defned as particleboard,
medium density fberboard (MDF), plywood, wheatboard, panel substrates
and door cores. These materials and products must contain no added urea-
formaldehyde resins. LEED for School projects must comply with the California
Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile
Organic Compounds from Various Sources Using Small Scale Environmental
Chambers. Construction submittal: architect, contractor
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IEQc4.5 Low-Emitting Materials - Furniture and Furnishings: This credit applies to LEED for
Schools projects only. Classroom furniture that was manufactured, refurbished or refnished
within 1 year prior to occupancy must comply with one of the following options:
Option 1
Furniture and seating must be Greenguard Children and
Schools certifed
Option 2
Indoor air concentrations must be less than or equal to those
listed for furniture and seating determined by a procedure
based on the EPA Environmental Technology Verifcation
(ETV) Large Chamber Test Protocol for Measuring Emissions
of VOCs and Aldehydes
Option 3
Indoor air concentrations must be less than or equal to those listed for furniture and
seating determined by a procedure based on ANSI/BIFMA M7.1-2007 and ANSI/BIFMA
X7.1-2007
IEQc4.6 Low-Emitting Materials - Ceiling and Wall Systems: This credit applies to
LEED for Schools projects only and must comply with the California Department of
Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic Compounds
from Various Sources Using Small Scale Environmental Chambers. Construction
submittal: architect, contractor
IEQc5 Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control: This credit is designed to minimize and
control pollutant entry to the building and addresses three areas necessary for compliance:
Install a permanent entryway system at each outdoor to indoor
entry to prevent occupant-borne contaminants from entering
the building. The system must be at least ten feet long in the
primary direction of travel in order to capture dirt and particulates
before they can enter the building. Acceptable systems include:
grates, grilles or slotted systems that allow for regular cleaning
underneath. Roll-out mats are only acceptable if scheduled to
have cleaning on a weekly basis by a contracted service
Design facility cleaning and maintenance areas where hazardous gases or chemicals
may be present with isolated exhaust systems for contaminants, and exhaust each space
sufciently to create a negative pressure with respect to the adjacent spaces. This includes
garages, housekeeping and laundry areas, as well as copying and printing room areas.
Physical isolation must be maintained from regularly occupied areas in the building
In mechanically ventilated buildings, install MERV 13, or higher, flters in air handling units
on both return air and outside supply air.
Provide containment for appropriate disposal of hazardous liquid wastes in places where
water and chemical concentrate mixing occurs
Design submittal: architect, mechanical engineer, contractor
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IEQc6.1 Controllability of Systems - Lighting: The intent of this credit is to design the building
interior with a high level of lighting system control for the individual occupants, as well as lighting
system controllability for multi-occupant spaces. Include integration of
lighting systems controllability into the overall lighting design in order
to provide both ambient and task lighting that will promote occupant
comfort and productivity. For Case 1, provide individual lighting controls
for 90% of the building occupants and provide lighting system controls
for all learning spaces. Case 2, in classrooms, provide a lighting system
that operates in 2 modes: general illumination and audio/visual (A/V).
Design submittal: owner, architect, electrical engineer, lighting engineer
IEQc6.2 Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort: This credit requires that thermal comfort be
controllable by 50% of the building occupants. Building design should include individual comfort
controls, as well as comfort controls for groups in multi-occupant spaces.
Individual adjustments may involve individual thermostat controls,
local difusers at foor, desk or overhead levels, or control of individual
radiant panels. There may also be other means of control integrated
into overall thermal comfort and energy systems in the building design.
Thermal comfort systems may by strictly mechanical, or may integrate
both mechanical and operable windows in order to provide the comfort
criteria needed for this credit. ASHRAE 55-2004 identifes the factors of
thermal comfort (air temperature, radiant temperature, air speed and
humidity) and a process for developing building spaces that suit the
needs of the occupants involved in their daily activities. ASHRAE 62.1-
2007, paragraph 5.1 for Natural Ventilation details how operable windows can be used in lieu
of comfort controls refer to the requirements of that must be met. Design submittal: owner,
architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, contractor
IEQc7 & IEQc7.1 Thermal Comfort - Design: There are three variables that can afect thermal
comfort of building occupants: activity, clothing, and environmental factors. Environmental
factors include air temperature, radiant temperature, humidity and air speed. To qualify for
this credit, the design of the buildings HVAC system and building envelope must comply with
ASHRAE 55-2004, Thermal Comfort Conditions for Human Occupancy. During the design and
planning phase, the owner and designer should evaluate the buildings needs based on the
building size, type, location, and nature of the operations, as well as climate conditions. Once
determined, use load calculations to determine size and selection of HVAC equipment to
accomplish the thermal comfort goals and refer to the Chartered Institution of Building Services
Engineers (CIBSE) Application Manual 10 for strategies involving natural ventilation. Design
submittal: owner, architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer
IEQc7.2 Thermal Comfort - Verifcation: The frst step of this programs is to have the occupants fll
out a survey to ensure that their comfort level is being met. ASHRAE 55-2004 provides guidance
for establishing thermal comfort criteria and the documentation and validation of building
performance to the criteria. Second, after the survey, develop a plan for corrective action if
greater than 20% of those surveyed are dissatisfed with the comfort level of the building. Design
submittal: owner, architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, Cx
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IEQc8.1 Daylight and Views - Daylight: The goal of this credit is to increase this
connection that people have between indoor and outdoor spaces in order to
provide increased comfort and productivity. There are several strategies that can be
used to increase the amount of daylight entering a building. Many are designed to
bring daylight into interior areas that would otherwise be inaccessible to window
light. Others are designed to maximize the sunlight coming in, while preventing
discomfort due to glare that can be caused by direct sunlight. Daylight provided
by south facing windows should incorporate a light shelf designed to block the
summer sun from directly entering the building and refect it onto the ceiling of
the interior. In the winter, the suns path is at a lower position in the Southern sky
and is allowed to enter the building in order to provide light and an additional heat
source for the cooler season. Other strategies include light tubes and skylights that
allow light to enter from overhead. 1 point is awarded for providing 75% daylight
and an additional 2 points for 90% daylight in School projects. Design submittal:
owner, architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer
IEQc8.2 Daylight and Views - Views: This credit requires a direct line of sight
for 90% of the occupants to view the outdoor environment through windows
placed between 30 and 90 above the fnished foor. Measures should be taken
for both IEQc8.1 and IEQc8.2 to insure proper design and energy modeling to
avoid increased heat gain due to the lower insulating nature of glass compared to
standard walls, while maximizing energy efciency and reduced need for artifcial
lighting. Core & Shell projects must incorporate a feasible tenant layout using the
default occupancy counts. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer, landscape
architect
IEQc9 Enhanced Acoustical Performance: This credit applies to LEED for School projects and
provides classrooms better teacher-to-student and student-to-student communications through
efective acoustical design in two ways:
Sound Transmission : Design the building shell, classroom partitions and other core learning
space partitions to meet the Sound Transmission Class (STC) requirements of ANSI S12.60-
2002, Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements and Guidelines for Schools,
except windows which must meet an STC rating of at least 35
Background Noise : Reduce background noise level to 40 dBA or less from HVAC systems in
classrooms and other core learning spaces
Design submittal: owner, architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, acoustical
consultant, contractor
IEQc10 Mold Prevention: This credit applies to LEED for School projects and reduces the
potential for mold through preventive design and construction by requiring achievement of
these credits:
IEQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan - During Construction
IEQc7.1: Thermal Comfort - Design
IEQc7.2: Thermal Comfort - Verifcation
Design submittal: mechanical engineer
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Chapter 8 |
In the Indoor Environmental Quality category, a total of 14 points are available for credits
applicable to this project and we have collected 4 points.
We now have gathered 41 points, enough to receive certifcation, if all are accepted during the
fnal review.
The next session will begin at the end of the Innovation in Design chapter.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
1 CredIt 5.1 SIte 0evelopment-Protect or Festore HabItat 1 4 PossIble PoInts: 12
1 CredIt 7.1 Heat sland Effect-Nonroof 1 N CredIt 1 1
1 CredIt 7.2 1 N CredIt 2 1
1 CredIt 8 LIght PollutIon FeductIon 1 N CredIt J 1
1 CredIt 9 1 1 CredIt 4.1 1
1 CredIt 4.2 1
10 PossIble PoInts: 10 1 CredIt 4.J 1
1 CredIt 4.4 1
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
1 CredIt 4.4 1
Y Prereq 1 N CredIt 5 1
4 CredIt 1 Water EffIcIent LandscapIng 2 to 4 N CredIt 6 1
2 CredIt 2 nnovatIve Wastewater TechnologIes 2 N CredIt 7 1
4 CredIt J 2 to 4 N CredIt 8.1 1
N CredIt 8.2 1
PossIble PoInts: 6
Y Prereq 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
Water Use FeductIon
Creen Power
TotaI
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C H A P T E R | 9
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Innovation in Design
Exemplary Performance
LEED Accredited Professional
The School as a Teaching Tool
Studio4 Project: Innovation in Design
T
he LEED Innovation in Design credit category
awards bonus points for projects that use
new and innovative technologies and strategies to
improve a buildings performance well beyond what
is required by other LEED credits or in green building
considerations that are not specifcally addressed
elsewhere in LEED. This credit category also
rewards projects for including a LEED Accredited
Professional on the team to ensure a holistic,
integrated approach to the design and construction
phase.
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Chapter 9 |
Credit Matrix
Introduction
The Innovation in Design credits IDc1.1 - IDc1.5 provide bonus points for projects that incorporate
innovative and sustainable building features that improve performance above and beyond the
LEED Rating System requirements as directed in each credit. With the Innovation in Design
credit series there are two strategies available to receive points. The frst is to exceed a credits
requirements and is referred to as exemplary performance where the general rule is that the ID
requirements meet the next increment or double if incremental levels do not exist. The second
option is to address a sustainable topic not covered in the LEED Rating System, and this is referred
to as innovative performance.
For IDc2, a LEED Accredited Professional is an important member in the makeup of the project
team for a coordinated path to LEED Certifcation and LEED rewards the project that has a LEED
AP involved as a principle participant. When someone with training, experience, and guidance in
the LEED Rating System is on the team, it saves time and money in the certifcation process.
IDc3 is available only to EB O&M and School projects.
The credit structure for Innovation is Design is as follows:
ID Credit 1 : Innovation in Design
ID Credit 2 : LEED AP
ID Credit 3 : The School as a Teaching Tool
Some confusing aspects of the ID category arise given the fact that the category is titled
Innovation in Design, ID Credit 1 is titled Innovation in Design also and 1 of the 2 compliance
paths for ID Credit 1 is also titled Innovation in Design. For the specifc ID Credit 1, there are 2
compliance paths allowed, either for all Innovation in Design credits or for Innovation in Design
credits in combination with Exemplary Performance credits.
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
INNOVATION IN DESIGN (ID) 6 6 6
IDc1.1 Innovation in Design 1 1 1
IDc2 LEED Accredited Professional 1 1 1
IDc3 The School as a Teaching Tool 0 1 0
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ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design
Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance)
Innovation in Design points are awarded for innovative strategies that introduce new ideas not
covered in the 5 LEED categories under prerequisites and credits and must meet three criteria:
The strategy must demonstrate a quantifable environmental performance beneft
The strategy must be applied comprehensively across the project
The strategy must be transferable to other projects and be signifcantly better than standard
sustainable practices
Types of strategies that are indicative of Innovation in Design are:
Developing an educational outreach program
Using a greenhouse gas budget to demonstrate carbon neutral design and operations
Incorporating high levels of fy ash in concrete to divert waste materials from landflls
The terms Exceptional Performance and Exemplary Performance are used interchangeably and
are for strategies exceeding credit requirements.
Exemplary Performance strategies are not available for every LEED credit.
These points, when available, are awarded for going to the next higher incremental level of credit
performance. For example, if the credit threshold percentage requirements are 10% and 20%, an
ID point may be awarded for achieving a 30% level of performance. Incrementally, 30% would
be the next threshold. For credits with more than 1 compliance path, an ID point can be earned
by satisfying more than 1 compliance path if their benefts are additive.
Points may also awarded for doubling the level of credit performance. For example, if the credit
requires a 2 year contract at 35%, an ID point may be awarded for providing a 4 year contract at
35%, or a 2 year contract at 70%. ID points may be awarded for doubling the percentage of credit
performance. For example, if 10% and 20% thresholds are required, an exemplary point may be
awarded when a performance achievement of 40% is provided. 40% would be doubling the
20% threshold.
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Chapter 9 |
Rating System ID Points
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design
Path 1: Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance)
NC, CS & CI: 1 - 5 points
EB O&M and Schools: 1 - 4 points
Each Innovation in Design strategy achieved is allowed one (1) point
Each strategy must identify, in writing:
The intent of the proposed innovation credit
The proposed requirement for compliance
The proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance
The design approach (strategies) used to meet the requirements
Path 2: Exemplary Performance
NC, CS, CI, EB O&M & Schools: 1 - 3 points
Each Exemplary Performance strategy achieved is allowed one (1) point
ID Credit 2: LEED Accredited Professional
NC, CS, CI, EB O&M and Schools: 1 point is allowed for one member of the Project Team
being a LEED Accredited Professional and performing as a principal participant
Required submittal information:
Name of the LEED AP
Name of the LEED APs company
Brief description of the LEED APs project role(s)
Copy of the LEED AP certifcate
ID Credit 3: The School as a Teaching Tool
EB O&M: 1 point for Documenting Building Costs Impacts
Schools: 1 point for The School as a Teaching Tool
Total ID Points Available
NC, CS & CI: 6 points: 5 points for ID Credit 1 & 1 point for ID Credit 2
EB O&M & Schools: 6 points: 4 points for ID Credit 1, 1point for ID Credit 2 & 1 point for ID
Credit 3
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Studio4 Ofce Project: Innovation in Design
Innovation in Design Category
During the course of developing this project, we have not looked at the ID points available to
selected credits. Section 9 Exemplary Performance under each credit will state if an ID Exemplary
Performance point is available and if so, what the requirement or threshold is for achieving
compliance. Since Exemplary Performance requires achievement, we will concentrate on the
other option and see if we can gather any points for Innovative Performance.
Innovative Performance is, in a sense, granted to strategies and programs that exhibit unique
performance. The USGBC website ofers guidance on these types of strategies. In part, they include
comprehensive strategies which demonstrate quantifable environmental benefts. Examples
are: Educational Outreach Programs; Green Housekeeping; High Volume Fly Ash Low-Emitting
Furniture & Furnishings; Organic Landscaping / Integrated Pest Management Program.
The project will attempt to achieve the following:
IDc1.1 Green Building Education: Studio4 provides educational services
related to sustainable development ideals and conducts classes for
individuals and employees of companies interested in receiving
accreditation. Studio4 has a website that promotes sustainability and
being located in an excellent public school system, will develop a
childrens Green Educational Program.
IDc1.2 Green Housekeeping: Cleaning products can be harmful to the
environment and human health and have the potential to of-gas volatile
organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals also harm water systems
by the way they are carelessly disposed. Reverting to an environmental
cleaning program is a cost efective alternative to conventional cleaning
programs that should be considered by all projects seeking certifcation.
IDc2 LEED Accredited Professional (AP): The intent of this credit is to support and encourage the
design integration required by a LEED green building project and to streamline the application
and certifcation process. The requirement for compliance is that at least one principal participant
of the project team be a LEED Accredited Professional.
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Chapter 9 |
We picked up 3 of the 6 points available in the Innovation in Design category. The project team
could have collected additional points by looking at the Exemplary Performance credits and
other Innovative Performance option such as the use of fy ash in our concrete mix. However, we
already have the point total necessary - 44 - for certifcation and a small safety net of 4 points,
with the Regional Priority category remaining.
The fnal session will begin at the end of the Regional Priority chapter.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
1 CredIt 4.2 1
1 CredIt 4.4 1
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
1 CredIt 4.4 1
N CredIt 8.2 1
Y Prereq 1
Y Prereq 2 1 CredIt 1.1 1
Y Prereq J 1 CredIt 1.2 1
N CredIt 1 J to 21 N CredIt 1.J 1
N CredIt 2 4 N CredIt 1.4 1
2 CredIt J 2 N CredIt 1.5 1
N CredIt 4 2 1 CredIt 2 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 6 2
CredIt 1.1 1
CredIt 1.2 1
CredIt 1.J 1
CredIt 1.4 1
Creen Power
TotaI
Water Use FeductIon
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C H A P T E R | 1 0
Credit Matrix
Regional Priority Credits
Studio4 Project: Regional Priority
Studio4 Project: Certifcation Summary
U
SGBCs regional councils, chapters and
afliates have identifed the environmental
concerns that are locally most important for every
region of the country, and six LEED credits that
address those local priorities were selected for
each region. A project that earns a regional priority
credit will earn one bonus point in addition to any
points awarded for that credit. Up to four extra
points can be earned in this way.
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Chapter 10 |
Regional Priority
Credit Matrix
Regional Priority Credits
Since environmental priorities may difer between diferent geographical regions in the U.S.,
the Regional Priority category tackles the unique challenges and opportunities for addressing
critical environmental issues for various regions throughout the country.
The challenges in the Northeast difer tremendously from those in the Southwest, from the
usage of heating oil to the urgency of water conservation. Densely populated urban locations
often feature credits related to stormwater management or heat island reduction, while site
protection and building reuse credits are frequently prioritized in rural locations with low
population densities.
Through USGBCs regional councils, chapters and afliates, regionally specifc environmental
issues were identifed. For a projects location, as determined by its zip code, 6 existing LEED
credits have been prioritized because they address environmental issues within that specifc zip
code.
Each Regional Priority credit is based on an existing credit and, if achieved, worth an additional 1
point. A total of 4 additional points may be earned from the pool of 6 Regional Priority credits.
Upon project registration, LEED Online automatically determines a projects Regional Priority
credits, based on the projects zip code.
Although the project may be able to qualify for more than 4 of the 6 Regional Priority credits
available, the project team can choose any 4 credits for which they prefer the points to apply.
A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet by state is available for download from the USGBC website.
Regional Priority Credits are available only in the U.S.
NC Schools CS
Credit Title Points
REGIONAL PRIORITY (RP) 4 4 4
RPc1.1 Regional Priority 1 1 1
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Regional Priority
Studio4 Ofce Project: Regional Priority
Regional Priority Category
Upon project registration, LEED Online automatically determines a projects Regional Priority
credits, based on the projects zip code.
Each Regional Priority credit is based on an existing credit and, if achieved, worth an additional 1
point. A total of 4 additional points may be earned from the pool of 6 Regional Priority credits.
As shown is this capture of the spreadsheet for the zip code 45242, the credits available for
Regional Priority points are:
SSc6.1 Stormwater Design - Quantity Control
EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy
MRc1.1 (75%) Building Reuse - Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof
MRc2 (75%) Construction Waste Management
MRc3 Materials Reuse
IEQc8.1 Daylight and Views - Daylight
Two Regional Priority points are applicable, based on previous credit achievement:
SSc6.1 Stormwater Design - Quantity Control
MRc2 Construction Waste Management.
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Chapter 10 |
Regional Priority
2 of the 4 points available in the Regional Priority category provides the project team with 46
points.
We will take an overview look at the fnal Credit Checklist to determine if this is the path to
certifcation we want to focus on and then prepare a Summary Report.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
1 CredIt 4.2 1
1 CredIt 4.4 1
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
1 CredIt 4.4 1
N CredIt 8.2 1
Y Prereq 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 5.2 J 2 PossIble PoInts: 4
N CredIt 6 2
1 CredIt 1.1 1
1 CredIt 1.2 1
N CredIt 1.J 1
N CredIt 1.4 1
Creen Power
TotaI
Water Use FeductIon
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Chapter 10 |
Studio4 Ofce Project: Certifcation Summary
Project Certifcation Summary
The project team has analyzed the preliminary credit count and determined basic certifcation
can be achieved by complying with local codes and ordinances, implementing good design and
construction techniques and prioritizing which limited sustainable credits to pursue.
A review by category indicates the credits achieved in the Sustainable Sites category were
assisted by, in large part, the location and condition of the site, the demands of local codes and
ordinances and an aggressive Pilot Program by the local storm and sanitary sewer authority.
The Water Efciency credits were achieved primarily through the use of water efcient plumbing
fxtures and credits previously achieved in the Sustainable Sites category.
Energy and Atmosphere took the hit that is indicative of many projects seeking certifcation. The
credits within this category represent a substantial initial cost and although credible evidence
exists that indicate attractive payback periods, budgets are often tight and cannot handle this
fnancial burden.
With each LEED project that receives certifcation and federal, state and local governments
mandate some degree of certifcation in government and educational facilities, new products
become available that make the Materials and Resources category an easy mark for collecting
credits.
Y N : Y N :
2 CredIt 4.4 2
1 CredIt 4.2 1
1 CredIt 4.4 1
|aterIals Feuse
Fecycled Content
SustaInabIe SItes
SIte SelectIon
Water EffIcIency
CertIfIed Wood
FegIonal |aterIals
1 CredIt 4.4 1
N CredIt 8.2 1
Y Prereq 1
N CredIt 5.1 J
N CredIt 5.2 J 2 PossIble PoInts: 4
N CredIt 6 2
1 CredIt 1.1 1
1 CredIt 1.2 1
N CredIt 1.J 1
N CredIt 1.4 1
Creen Power
TotaI
Water Use FeductIon
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Chapter 10 |
The Indoor Environmental Quality category doesnt address sustainable elements the same as
any of the other categories. Yet it is an extremely important part of certifcation because it deals
directly and immediately with human health, well being and occupant productivity. Low VOC
products are available in every category for little, if any, additional cost or at a sacrifce to design.
The Daylight and Views credits can be difcult if the site and foor plan are not suitable for
considering these credits on their face. Revising the building foor plan and fenestration along
with the interior ofce layout can come at the sacrifce of the Owners Project Requirements or site
conditions and not always obtainable. Every project should look closely at increased ventilation,
monitoring and chemical and pollutant control at the source.
In all likelihood, this project will probably go back and reconsider some of the credits passed over.
The direction of this project changed, however, to focus on achieving certifcation at minimal
cost and achieved this goal in illustrating how little cost LEED certifcation can contribute to
the overall budget. Given, this project is small although typical of many projects in size and
site attributes. Not discussed are the costs for compliance to the prerequisites, though all
but Fundamental Commissioning and Water Use Reduction are mainly a step above code or
standards implemented in construction today such as providing space for recycling, a smoke
free environment, construction pollution activity and refrigerant management.
In summary, many attributes of green building have already been put in place thru federal, state
and local laws, codes and ordinances. Combined with proper design and good construction
practices and BMPs inherent in the industry today, NOT being green would be difcult to
defend!
Studio4 Ofce Project
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C H A P T E R | 1 1
LEED Green Associate Exam
C H A P T E R | 1 1
T
he LEED Green Associate accreditation is
for professionals who want to demonstrate
green building expertise in non-technical felds
of practice denoting basic knowledge of green
design, construction, and operations. The LEED
Green Associate examination is also required for all
candidates who plan to continue forward with one
of the Tier II credentialing examinations.
Study Materials
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Chapter 11 |
Study Materials
The primary sources for the development of the core references are the LEED Rating Systems. The
LEED Green Associate examination is designed to test your general knowledge of green building
practices and how to support other professionals working on LEED projects. LEED Reference
Guides are published by the U.S. Green Building Council and are available for purchase at www.
usgbc.org/store > Publications.
The GBCI Green Associate Candidate Handbook is a free download and lists resources that are
subject matter for questions on the LEED Green Associate examination. There are seven primary
references and ten ancillary references listed.
The content on the USGBC website, www.usgbc.org including, but not limited to:
L EED Project Registration
LEED Certifcation content
The purpose of LEED OnLine
LEED Reference Guide Introductions
Checklists
LEED for Homes Rating System
LEED for Homes Rating System Glossary of Terms
Links to download these documents can be found in the GBCI Green Associate Candidate
Handbook
USGBC Primary Websites:
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC): www.usgbc.org
Green Building Certifcation Institute (GBCI): www.gbci.org
LEED Online: www.leedonline.com
LEED Resources and links: www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=75
Prometric: www.prometric.com/gbci
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Getting Started
The frst thing you should to do is download and study the LEED Green Associate Candidate
Handbook, available as a free download at www.gbci.org. This handbook is the default source for
information regarding the specifcs for the LEED Green Associate exam process. The information
contained In the LEED Illustrated Green Associate study guide is an outline description of
the exam process. A review of the LEED Green Associate Handbook will acquaint you with the
specifcs regarding exam rescheduling, test site hours of operation, contact numbers, etc..
Detailed within the LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook is, in part, the following
information:
5 Things Every Candidate Should Know (includes study links)
Study Materials (includes sample exam questions)
Applying for Your Exam (includes eligibility requirements)
Scheduling Your Exam (days, dates and times available)
Pre-Exam Checklist (one month & one week checklists)
The Day of Your Exam (ID and name requirements)
After Your Exam (passing, failing, credentialing and certifcates)
Contact information
Examination Eligibility Requirements
To take the LEED Green Associate exam, you must have experience in the form of involvement
on a LEED registered project, employment (or previous employment) in a sustainable feld of
work, or engagement in (or completion of) an education program that addresses green building
principles. You only have to meet one of these criteria to demonstrate eligibility.
For candidates who have attended, or are attending, an education program that addresses
green building principles, GBCI will accept a certifcate of completion or an ofcial transcript in
lieu of a letter of attestation. Any other eligibility documentation must be in the form of a letter
of attestation.
Candidates must also agree to the disciplinary policy and credential maintenance requirements
and submit to an application audit.
Applying for the Exam
The process necessary to take the LEED Green Associate exam requires three (3) steps. First, you
must apply for the exam and receive approval from the GBCI, the second step is to register for the
exam with Prometric and third, upon successful registration, you can schedule your exam with
Prometric. Registration is valid for a period of one (1) year from date of application approval. You
are permitted to have one pending registration at any one time, but can take the examination
three times during one year of the application approval. After three unsuccessful attempts, you
must wait three months before you can register again.
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Chapter 11 |
Go to www.gbci.org and click My Credentials. Create an account with GBCI, if you do not
have one Create, or update, your profle and upload the required document for proof of
eligibility. Verify that your name matches the identifcation you will present at the test
center
GBCI will review the application and approve, request additional information or deny
After application approval by GBCI, you can register and schedule the exam with
Prometric
Registration and Scheduling
GBCI contracts with Prometric to administer all LEED credentialing examinations. After you have
been approved by GBCI and received your eligibility ID, you can register and schedule your exam
with Prometric. After registering and scheduling, you will receive a confrmation number via
e-mail. It is recommended that this be printed in the event you need to contact Prometric in the
future. Candidates may register at any point during their one year application period through
My Credentials at www.gbci.org. Available Prometric test sites can be located by visiting www.
prometric.com/gbci
LEED Green Associate Application and Exam Fees
$50 non-refundable LEED Green Associate application fee
$150 examination fee for USGBC national members and full time students
$200 examination fee for all other exam applicants
Payment can be made electronically by credit or debit card
For test sites within the U.S., the fee is charged at the time the exam is taken
For test sites outside the U.S., the fee is charged at the time the exam is scheduled
Testing Rules & Regulations
It is important to note that the USGBC and Prometric adhere to these rules, almost without
exception, and are explained in full detail in the LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook.
You must provide a valid government issued photo ID (Drivers License, Passport or Military
ID). The name on your photo ID must match the name you used when registering for the
exam
The test site will have available small lockers for you to place your personal items which are
not permitted to be taken into the examination room. These items include wallets, purses,
watches, keys, cell phones, calculators, paper, pens/pencils, computers, beverages, food,
books, bags
You must receive approval from the testing proctor prior to leaving the examination room.
If you need to leave the examination room for any reason, make certain you have your
photo ID with you. If you leave the building during the examination, the test proctor will
terminate your exam
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One Month Before Your Exam
Ensure that your name in My Credentials matches the identifcation you will present at the test
center
One Week Before Your Exam
Confrm that the exam scheduled with Prometric is for the correct date, time, and location
Ensure that your name in My Credentials matches the identifcation you will present at the test
center
The Day of Your Exam
You must provide a valid, unexpired ID with a signature and a photograph
Examination Format
Raw exam scores are converted to a scaled score that ranges from a minimum of 125 to a
maximum of 200 with a passing score set at 170. The scaled score is reported on screen at the
end of the exam
You will have 10 minutes to review a tutorial on how to use the computer. Any time remaining
can be used to write memorization notes on the scrap paper provided at the test site
There are 100 randomly delivered questions on the exam and you will have 2 hours to complete
the 100 question exam, not including the 10 minute tutorial
Questions are multiple choice with some having more than one answer, such as choose 3 of 5
Miscellaneous
Make certain you know where the test center is located and get there 15 - 30 minutes early
You are permitted to move thru the questions and either answer, leave unanswered or mark. At
the conclusion of the exam, you will be shown a summary of the 100 questions showing which
have been answered, marked or unanswered and given the opportunity to go back to address
the marked or unanswered questions. You can also elect to review all of the questions at this
time
No credit is given for providing partial answers, such as answering 2 of 5 when 3 of 5 is
required
No credit is given for unanswered questions. Therefore it is recommended that you answer all
questions on the frst try and mark those you are unsure of. Marked questions count as being
answered
Take your time and read each question carefully. Pay particular attention to words such as not,
may, prerequisite, may be required, etc.. Not seeing these words can have an efect on the correct
answer
Certain questions and answers may remind you of something that can provide assistance in
answering other questions you were previously unsure of
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Chapter 11 |
Passing the Exam
If you receive a score of 170 or higher, you earn the LEED Green Associate designation
You will receive a print out of your examination results which will indicate your performance on
each section
You will receive an automatic e-mail from GBCI notifying you when your results have posted
Two to three months after you pass the exam, you will receive formal notifcation from GBCI,
including a congratulatory letter and a certifcate recognizing you as a LEED Green Associate
Failing the Exam
If you receive a score of 169 or lower you will be denied the LEED Green Associate credential
You will receive a print out of your exam results which will indicate your performance on each
section
If you decide to retake the exam, you can use the report to focus your studies on your weakest
areas as indicated by your exam print out
You will receive an automatic e-mail from GBCI notifying you when your results have posted
Certifcates
Certifcates will be mailed directly from GBCI headquarters two to three months after the test
date
Exam Specifcations
The specifcations for each section of the LEED Green Associate exam are organized to include
a list of seven (7) domains and their corresponding knowledge areas. This structure assesses
whether a candidate is capable of performing specifc tasks and services.
The following outline provides a general description of exam content areas for the LEED Green
Associate exam:
1. Synergistic Opportunities and LEED Application Process
Project Requirements (site; program; budget; schedule)
Costs (hard costs; soft costs; life-cycle)
Green Resources (USGBC; Environmental Building News)
Standards that support LEED Credit (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-
conditioning Engineers [ASHRAE]; Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National
Association [SMACNA] guidelines; Green Seal)
Credit Interactions (energy and IEQ; waste management)
Credit Interpretation Rulings/Requests and precedents that lead to exemplary
performance
Components of LEED Online and Project Registration
Components of LEED Scorecard
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Chapter 11 | 139
Components of Credit Forms (project calculations; supplementary documentation)
Strategies to Achieve Credit
Project Boundary; LEED Boundary; Property Boundary
Prerequisites and/or Minimum Program Requirements for LEED Certifcation
Preliminary Rating (target certifcation level)
Multiple Certifcations for Same Building (Operations & Maintenance for certifed building
new construction; core and shell and commercial interior; certifed building in neighborhood
development)
Occupancy Requirements (existing building - building must be fully occupied for 12
continuous months as described in minimum program requirements)
USGBC Policies (trademark usage; logo usage)
Requirements to earn LEED AP Credit
2. Project Site Factors
Community Connectivity: Transportation (public transportation; bike storage; fuel efcient
vehicle parking; parking capacity; car pool parking; car share membership [Zipcar];
shuttles; carts) Pedestrian Access (circulation and accessibility such as cross walks; ramps;
and trails)
Zoning Requirements: (density components such as calculations -site area and foor area
ratio; construction limits; open space; building footprint; development footprint; specifc
landscaping restrictions)
Development: Heat Islands (non-roof; roof; Solar Refectance Index [SRI]; emissivity; albedo;
heat island efect; green roofs)
3. Water Management
Types and Quality of Water (potable; graywater; blackwater; stormwater)
Water Management (water use reduction through fxtures such as water closets; urinals;
sinks; lavatory faucets; showers; harvesting; baseline water demand; calculations of Full
Time Equivalent; irrigation)
4. Project Systems and Energy Impacts
Environmental Concerns (chlorofuorocarbon [CFC] reduction, no refrigerant
option, ozone depletion, fre suppressions without halons or CFCs, phase-out plan,
hydrochlorofuorocarbons [HCFC])
Green Power (of-site generated, renewable energy certifcates, Green-e providers)
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Chapter 11 |
5. Acquisition, Installation, and Management of Project Materials
Recycled Materials (pre-consumer, post-consumer, collection requirements, commingled)
Locally (regionally) Harvested and Manufactured Materials
Construction Waste Management (written plan; accounted by weight or volume; reduction
strategies; polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) removal and Asbestos-containing materials
(ACM) management)
6. Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
Integrated Project Team Criteria (architect, heating-ventilation-air-conditioning [HVAC]
engineer, landscape architect, civil engineer, contractor, Facility Manager)
Durability Planning and Management (material life cycle, building re-use)
Innovative and Regional Design (regional green design and construction measures as
appropriate and established requirements)
7. Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
Codes (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fre protection)
LEED Credentialing
There are three tiers to the LEED Credentialing system:
Tier I: LEED Green Associate
Tier II: LEED AP+ (with Specialty)
Building Design & Construction (BD&C)
Interior Design & Construction (ID&C)
Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
Homes
Neighborhood Development (ND)
Tier III: LEED Fellow (Under Development)
A LEED Green Associate is someone who has passed the LEED Green Associate examination
by demonstrating an understanding of basic green building knowledge, construction and
operations and has a general knowledge of green building practices and how to support other
professionals working on LEED projects.
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Chapter 11 | 141
5 Things Every Candidate Should Know
1. Ensure that your name in My Credentials matches the identifcation you will present at the test
center
2. In order to receive member pricing for your examination, you must enter your Corporate
Access ID into your USGBC account prior to registration. (To update your member status, go to
www.usgbc.org > Your Account > Membership) The member discount is not automatically applied
retroactively to exam registrations that are submitted under non-member pricing
3. To change or cancel your exam appointment you must do so through Prometric no later
than midnight on the third day before your scheduled exam. All exam appointments cancelled/
rescheduled 30 days or less before the exam date are charged a $30 fee. If you do not receive
a new confrmation number from Prometric, contact them immediately to confrm that your
appointment has been successfully cancelled/rescheduled
4. The only feld you cannot edit in your My Credentials account is the name. (If you need to
change your name, contact GBCI credentialing staf at www.gbci.org/contact > Name Changes
or at 1-800-795-1746, within the US, or at +1-202-828-1145, outside the US.) Every other feld,
including username, e-mail address, password, street address, company afliation, etc., can be
changed, so there is no reason to create a new account when you change jobs, locations, or job
titles
5. If you have a documented disability that would prevent you from taking a LEED Professional
Credentialing exam under standard conditions, you may request a reasonable accommodation
as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Prometric certifes that it shall comply
with the provisions of the ADA.
Examination Question Format
The following question is provided only as an example of the general format and content of
items on the examination.
Question:
1: What Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) program set standards for low-emitting carpets,
adhesives, and pads? (select 1)
A. Green Seal
B. Green Guard
C. Green-e Certifed
D. Green Label Plus
Answer:
D. Green Label Plus
This question aligns itself with:
Standards that support LEED credit
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The Seven Domains
C H A P T E R | 1 2
Synergistic Opportunities and LEED
Project Site Factors
Water Management
Project Systems & Energy Impacts
Project Materials
Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
Project Surroundings & Public Outreach
T
he specifcations for each section of the LEED
Green Associate examination are organized
to include a list of seven (7) domains and their
corresponding knowledge areas. This structure
provides the framework to guide the development
of the examination items to assess whether a
candidate is capable of performing specifc tasks
and services.
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Chapter 12 |
The Seven Domains
As outlined in the LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, the content of the Green Associate
exam is categorized into seven sections, or domains. Each domain contains various descriptions
relative to a specifc topic to study. The seven domains are:
Synergistic Opportunities and LEED Application Process 1.
Project Site Factors 2.
Water Management 3.
Project Systems and Energy Impacts 4.
Acquisition, Installation and Management of Project Materials 5.
Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation 6.
Project Surroundings and Public Outreach 7.
Additionally, it is recommended that the study material links included in the LEED Green Associate
Candidate Handbook be downloaded and reviewed. All current rating system candidate
handbooks can be located on the GBCI website under Resources > Credentialing Resources
Note: Click on the green buttons to be directed to the section(s) that describe the topic(s) being
addressed
Project Requirements (site; program; budget; schedule)
During the predesign phase (charrette), stakeholders meet to establish the initial project
parameters including site selection, registering the owners program requirements
regarding building size, number of employees, how the business and organization
functions, any specifc requirements relative to the building systems such as HVAC, power
and lighting, project budget, design and construction schedules and also to target the
rating system and level of achievement to pursue. By using the Scorecard, the project
team will be able to determine the range of certifcation levels that are within reach of
the project. Understand the 4 levels of certifcation and the credit point ranges required
for each level. Selecting the proper rating system is usually an easy task but may require
in depth consideration in some instances, particularly if renovation is involved. It may be
a matter of adding the credits that can be achieved with 2 or more possibilities in order
to make the determination.
Costs (hard costs; soft costs; life-cycle costs)
Green Resources (USGBC; Environmental Building News)
The frst section of the Appendix contains links to the following types of green resources:
websites, magazines and interactive blogs relating to sustainability
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The Seven Domains
Standards that support LEED Credit (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and
Air-conditioning Engineers [ASHRAE]; Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors
National Association [SMACNA] guidelines; Green Seal)
The crux of the LEED rating systems is based on meeting requirements as established by
governing authorities, best management practices (BMPs) or standards that have been
created by organizations such as ASHRAE, ANSI, Green Seal and others. Located in the
Appendix are charts listing each standard as referenced in the LEED reference guide
Credit Interactions (energy and IEQ; waste management)
It would be nearly impossible to design a sustainable and high performance building
without understanding the interactions between the credits. Many defnitions exist as to
what synergies are, but in the most simplistic form an analogy would be similar to that of
every action causes an opposite and equal reaction. Thats not exactly the case, as LEED
defnes credit interactions that are positive as synergies and those interactions which are
negative as tradeofs. It is crucial to understand the side efects whenever considering the
implementation of a credit. For instance, a green roof has so many positive synergies such
as improving stormwater quantity and quality, reducing heating/cooling loads, providing
habitat, increasing open spaces, etc. On the other hand, when looking at the replacement
of CFCs in existing refrigerant systems with HCFCs, you reduce ozone depletion but add
to the global warming efect. A synergy and a tradeof. The Appendix has a credit-by-
credit listing of common credit synergies and tradeofs. These should be studied for a
better understanding of this critical responsibility of an integrated project team. Because
every construction project is diferent, the makeup of synergies and tradeofs is unique
to that project. Located in the Appendix are charts listing the synergies associated with
each credit
Credit Interpretation Rulings/Requests and precedents that lead to exemplary
performance
Components of LEED Online and Project Registration
Components of LEED Scorecard
Components of Letter Templates (project calculations; supplementary docs)
Strategies to Achieve Credit
Strategies to achieve a credit, or prerequisite, can be as simple as complying with a single
referenced standard or they may be complex and require creative planning. Credits can
be diferent as to their requirement structure. A credit may have just one requirement that
must be met, several requirements that must be met, such as credit SSc1: Site Selection
which has 6 requirements and then there are credits that ofer options, or alternative
compliance paths, for achievement such as WEc1: Water Efcient Landscaping. Credits
may also be achieved by implementing innovative strategies that would be considered
as Innovation in Design performance. Some credits require calculations, uploading
supporting data or verifcation that the work was actually performed. Link to the section
that outlines how prerequisites and credits are structured
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The Seven Domains
Project Boundary; LEED Boundary; Property Boundary
Prerequisites and/or Minimum Program Requirements for LEED Certifcation
Preliminary Rating (target certifcation level)
A preliminary rating is the target rating level as determined by the total credit count of
the credits the project initially sets out to pursue. Ideally, during the predesign (charrette)
phase. The project team uses the Scorecard to evaluate each credit and its requirements
to determine if the credit is achievable, and at what cost to the project budget or its
interaction with other credits. The total of these credits will be the target certifcation
level
Multiple Certifcations for Same Building (Operations & Maintenance for certifed building
new construction; core and shell and commercial interior; certifed building in neighborhood
development)
Occupancy Requirements (existing building -- building must be fully occupied for 12
continuous months as described in minimum program requirements)
USGBC Policies (trademark usage; logo usage)
Requirements to Earn LEED AP Credit
2. Project Site Factors
Community Connectivity: Transportation (public transportation; bike storage; fuel efcient
vehicle parking; parking capacity; car pool parking; car share membership [Zipcar];
shuttles; carts); Pedestrian Access (circulation and accessibility such as cross walks; ramps;
and trails)
Zoning Requirements: density components such as calculations, site area and foor area
ratio; construction limits; open space; building footprint; development footprint; specifc
landscaping restrictions
Development: Heat Islands (non-roof; roof; Solar Refectance Index [SRI]; emissivity; albedo;
heat island efect; green roofs)
3. Water Management
Types and Quality of Water (potable; graywater; blackwater; stormwater)
Water Management (water use reduction through fxtures such as water closets; urinals;
sinks; lavatory faucets; showers; harvesting; baseline water demand; calculations of Full
Time Equivalent; irrigation)
4. Project Systems and Energy Impacts
Environmental Concerns (chlorofuorocarbon [CFC] reduction, no refrigerant
option, ozone depletion, fre suppressions without halons or CFCs, phase-out plan,
Hydrochlorofuorocarbons [HCFC])
Green Power (of-site generated, renewable energy certifcates, Green-e providers)
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The Seven Domains
5. Acquisition, Installation, and Management of Project Materials
Recycled Materials (pre-consumer, post-consumer, collection requirements, commingled)
Locally (regionally) Harvested and Manufactured Materials
Construction Waste Management (written plan; accounted by weight or volume; reduction
strategies; polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) removal and Asbestos-containing materials
(ACM) management)
6. Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
Integrated Project Team Criteria (architect, heating-ventilation-air-conditioning [HVAC]
engineer, landscape architect, civil engineer, contractor, Facility Manager)
The 4 conversations in Chapter 1 provide an excellent analysis of the roles and value of an
integrated project and design team
Durability Planning and Management (material lifecycle, building re-use)
This subject promotes durability and high performance of the building enclosure and
its components and systems through appropriate design, materials selection and
construction practices. Although this can be applicable to all green projects through the
sustainable procurement policies, Durability Planning and Management is a LEED for
Homes mandated prerequisite and can be reviewed in the LEED for Homes Reference
Guide
Innovative and Regional Design (regional green design and construction measures as
appropriate and established requirements)
7. Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
Codes (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fre protection)
Every construction project in this country will most likely be governed to some degree
by local, state and/or federal regulations, laws and codes. They include local zoning
and building codes that are concerned with building setbacks, parking requirements,
landscaping and open space ordinances, fre protection and, most importantly, life safety
issues. The Sustainable Building Technical Manual: Part II provides additional information
regarding Laws, Codes and Standards. The Appendix provides a link to this manual
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Acronyms & Glossary of Terms
C H A P T E R | 1 3
Acronyms & Abbreviations
Glossary of Terms
A
cronyms and defnitions that may be unfamiliar
or have specifc meanings in the context of
sustainability and green building.
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Acronyms & Abbreviations
ACCA: Air Conditioning Contractors of America
ACEEE: American Council for an Energy Efcient Economy
AE: Awareness and Education Section
AFUE: Annual Fuel Utilization Efciency
AIA: American Institute of Architects
AFV: Alternative Fueled Vehicle (hybrid-electric, electric, natural gas, bio-diesel, fuel cell
ALP ENERGY STAR: Advanced Lighting Package
ANSI: American National Standards Institute
ASHRAE: American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials
BIPV: Building Integrated Photovoltaics (integrated with roof, spandrels, glazing, shading
devices
BOD: Biological Oxygen Demand (that which is created by the release of nitrogen rich
wastewater
CAE: Combined Annual Efciency
CDVR: Corrected Design Ventilation Rate (design ventilation rate divided by the air change
efectiveness
CFA: Conditioned Floor Area
CFC: Chlorofuorocarbon (ozone depleting HVAC refrigerants
CFL: Compact Fluorescent Light
CFM: Cubic Feet per Minute
CFR: U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
CGP: Construction General Permit
CIBSE: Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
CIR: USGBC Credit Interpretation Request
CIWMB: California Integrated Waste Management Board
CO: Carbon Monoxide
CO2: Carbon Dioxide
COC: Chain of Custody
COP: Coefcient of Performance
CRI: Carpet & Rug Institute
CRS: Center for Resource Solutions
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CSI: Construction Specifcations Institute
CWA: Clean Water Act (formerly referred to as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act or Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972)
CZ: Climate zone
DHW: Domestic Hot Water
DOE: U.S. Department of Energy
DU: Distribution Uniformity
EA: LEED Energy and Atmosphere section
ECB: Energy Cost Budget (ASHRAE 90.1 compliance path
ECM: Energy Conservation Measure (design strategies intended to reduce energy use
EEM: Energy Efcient Measure (interchangeable with ECM, term used in energy modeling
tools
EER: Energy Efciency Rating
EERE :U.S. Ofce of Energy Efciency and Renewable Energy
EF: Energy Factor
EPA: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ETS: Environmental Tobacco Smoke (includes that which is spread through ventilation
systems
FEMA: U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency
FSC: Forest Stewardship Council
GBCI: Green Building Certifcation Institute
GPF: Gallons Per Flush
GPM : Gallons Per Minute
GWP: Global Warming Potential (rating of a gaseous substances contribution to greenhouse
efects
HCFC: Hydrochlorofourocarbon (alternative refrigerant that has reduced ozone depleting
efects
HFC: Hydrofourocarbon (alternative refrigerant with no ozone depleting efects but some
tradeof
HEPA: High-Efciency Particle Absorbing
HERS: Home Efciency Rating Standards
HET: High-Efciency Toilet
HOA: Homeowners Association
HSPF: Heating Season Performance Ffactor
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HVAC: Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
HVAC&R: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
IAP: ENERGY STAR with Indoor Air Package
IAQ: Indoor Air Quality (with respect to human occupancy of a building
ICC: International Code Council
ICF: Insulated Concrete Form
ID: LEED Innovation & Design section
IDR: Innovative Design Report
IECC: International Energy Conservation Code
IEQ: LEED Indoor Environmental Quality section (encompasses IAQ, thermal comfort, daylighting,
etc
IESNA: Illuminating Engineering Society of North America
IPLV: Integrated Part Load Value (chiller efciency including part load operation for a given
cycle
IPMVP: International Performance Measurement & Verifcation Protocol, Inc.
IRC: International Residence Code
ISO: International Organization for Standardization
KW: Kilowatt
KWH: Kilowatt-hour
LCA: Life Cycle Assessment (a full assessment of a materials cradle-to-grave environmental
impacts
LED: Light-Emitting Diode
LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
LEED AP: LEED Accredited Professional
LL: LEED Location and Linkages section (Homes)
MEF: Modifed Energy Factor
MERV: Minimum Efciency Reporting Value (a measure of the efectiveness of air fltration
media
MR: LEED Materials & Resources section
MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet (provides essential information on composition and
hazards
NFRC: National Fenestration Rating Council
NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NPS: Non-point Source
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O&M: Operation and Maintenance
ODP: Ozone Depleting Potential (rating of a gaseous substances ability to destroy stratospheric
ozone
OSB: Oriented Strand Board
OSWER: U.S. EPA Ofce of Solid Waste & Emergency Response
RESNET: Residential Energy Services Network
SCAQMD: South Coast Air Quality Management District
SCS: Scientifc Certifcation Systems
SEER: Seasonal Energy Efciency Rating
SHGC: Solar Heat Gain Coefcient (the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a particular
glazing
SIP: Structural Insulated Panels
SMACNA: Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Contractors Association
SWPPP: Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
SRI: Solar Refectance Index
SS: LEED Sustainable Site section
TASC: Technical Advisory Subcommittee
TP: Total Phosphorous (phosphates, polyphosphates and orthophosphates in stormwater
TSS: Total Suspended Solids (particles too small or light to be removed from a liquid by gravity
settling
UL: Underwriters Laboratory
UBC: Uniform Building Code: The International Conference of Building Ofcials model building
code
UPC :Uniform Plumbing Code
USGBC: U.S. Green Building Council
VAV: Variable Air Volume (ventilation system confguration diferentiated from Constant Air
Volume)
VOC: Volatile Organic Compound (hazardous substances that ofgass from certain chemicals
WE: LEED Water Efciency section
WF: Water Factor
WFA: Window-to-foor ratio
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Glossary of Terms
acid rain: precipitation of dilute solutions of strong mineral acids, formed by the mixing of the
atmosphere of various industrial pollutants (primarily sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide) with
naturally occurring oxygen and water vapor
active ventilation: synonymous with mechanical ventilation
adapted (or introduced) plants: non-native, introduced plants that reliably grow well in a given
habitat with minimal winter protection, pest control, fertilization or irrigation once their root
systems are established; adapted plants are considered low, maintenance and not invasive
adaptive reuse: renovation of a space for a purpose diferent from the original
adhesives: substance that is used to bond one surface to another by attachment
aerosol adhesive: an aerosol product in which the spray mechanism is permanently housed
in a nonrefllable can
agrifbre: agricultural fber such as wheat, straw, cereal straw, sugarcane bagasse, sunfower
husk, walnut shells, coconut husks
agrifbre board: a composite panel product derived from recovered agricultural waste fber
and mixed together with a resin. To meet credit requirements, the products must: be inside
the buildings weatherproofng system, composite components used in assemblies must be
included and the product must be part of the base building system
air conditioning: the process of treating air to meet the requirements of a conditioned space
by controlling the temperature, humidity, cleanliness and distribution
air handling units (AHUs): mechanically indirect heating, ventilating or air conditioning
systems in which air is treated or handled by equipment located outside the space served and
conveyed to and from the space by means of a fan and duct system
air quality standards: level of pollutants prescribed by regulations that are not to be exceeded
during a given time in a defned area
airborne pollutant: any substance in the air that could cause harm to humans, animals and
vegetation
albedo: refectance of sunlight, also known as Solar Refectance
alternative daily cover: material that is placed on the surface of the active face of a municipal
solid waste landfll at the end of each day to control vectors, fres, odors, blowing litter and
scavenging
alternative fuel vehicles: engines that do not rely on petroleum as their only source of fuel
ambient temperature: temperature of the surrounding air or other medium
anticorrosive paint: coatings formulated for use in preventing the corrosion of ferrous metal
substrates
aquifer: underground rock formations holding water that is supplied to wells and springs
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architectural nonporous sealant primer: a substance used as a sealant primer on nonporous
materials
architectural porous sealant primer: a substance used as a sealant on porous materials
area weighted SRI: weighted average calculation for buildings with multiple roof surfaces
to demonstrate that the total roof area has an average SRI equal to or greater than that of a
theoretical roof 75% of whose surfaces have an SRI of 78 and 25% have an SRi of 30%
assembly recycled content: the percentage of material in a product that is either postconsumer
or preconsumer recycled content
attendance boundary: used by school districts to determine which students attend what
school based on where they live
audiovisual (A/V) media: slides, flm, video, sound recordings and other such devises used to
present information
automatic fxture sensors: motion detectors that automatically turn on and turn of lavatories,
sinks, water closets and urinals
ASHRAE: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers
bake out: process of removing VOCs from a building by elevating the temperature
baseline building performance: annual energy costs for a building design intended for use as
a baseline for rating above standard design, as defned by ASHRAE 90.1-2007, Appendix G
baseline case versus design case: amount of design case water saved over the baseline case
amount; the baseline case is based on the Energy Policy Act or 1992 (EPAct 1992) for fush and
fow rates
baseline irrigation water use: amount of water used by conventional irrigation in the region
basis of design (BOD): design information gathered to document the owners project
requirements
bicycle racks: outdoor bicycle racks, bicycle lockers and indoor bicycle storage rooms
biochemical oxygen demand: measure of how fast biological organisms use up oxygen in a
body of water
biodegradable: capable of decomposing under natural conditions
biodiversity: the variety of life in all forms, levels and combination including ecosystem
diversity, species diversity and genetic diversity
biofuel based energy systems: electrical power systems that run on renewable fuels derived
from organic materials such as untreated wood waste, agricultural crops and residues, animal
wastes, landfll gas and other organic waste
biological control: the use of chemical or physical water treatment to inhibit bacterial growth
in cooling towers
biomass: the total weight of a designated group of organisms in a particular area
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bioswale: stormwater control feature that uses a combination of engineered basin, soils and
vegetation to slow and detain stormwater
blackwater: wastewater from toilets and urinals, defnitions vary where wastewater from
kitchen sinks, showers and bathtubs are considered as blackwater under some jurisdictions
bleed of or blow down: release of solids in a cooling tower by releasing the towers recirculating
water
bleed of rate: frequency bleed of occurs
Best Management Practices (BMPs): used to control the generation and delivery of pollutants
from the built environment to water ways, thereby reducing the amount of pollutants entering
surface and ground waters. BMPs can be structural like a Vortechs System or can be non-
structural, like street sweeping
breathing zone: part of an occupied room from 3 to 6 feet of the foor and more than 2 feet
from walls or fxed air conditioning equipment as per ASHRAE 62.1
brownfeld: land whose former use resulted in potential pollution or the presence of hazardous
substances
British thermal unit (Btu): amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of
liquid water from 60 F to 61 F
Building Automation Systems (BAS): systems that use computer controls to monitor and
control building subsystems for maximum operating efciency and reporting
building density: foor area of the building divided by the total area of the site (sf per acre)
building envelope: exterior surfaces of a building. Walls, roof, windows, foor and also referred
to as the shell
building footprint: area of the building structure that is defned by the perimeter of the
building plan. Pavement, landscaping and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the
building footprint
building operating plan: document covering the intended operation of each building base
system
building related illness: an illness which can be diagnosed and attributed to building
contaminants
byproduct: material, other than the principal material, that is generated as a consequence of
an industrial process or as a breakdown product in a living system
campus or private bus: bus or shuttle service that is privately operated and not available to
the general public. In LEED, a campus or private bus line that falls within 1/4 mile of the project
site and provides transportation service to the public can contribute to earning points
cap and trade system: a regulatory or management system that sets a target level for emissions
or natural resource use, and, after distributing shares in that quota, lets trading in those permits
determine their price
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carbon dioxide (CO2) levels: measuring exhaust gas levels that indicate ventilation
efectiveness. Concentrations above 530 ppm (parts per million) show inadequate ventilation,
while concentrations above 800 ppm show poor air quality
carbon footprint: a measure of greenhouse gas emissions associated with an activity; a
comprehensive carbon footprint includes building construction, operation, energy use,
building related transportation and the embodied energy of water, solid waste and construction
materials
carpool: two or more people sharing a vehicle
chain-of-custody (COC): tracks products from harvest or extraction to consumer end-use
chain of custody certifcation: awarded to companies that produce, sell, promote or trade
forest products after audits verify proper accounting of material fows and proper use of the
FSC name and logo
chemical runof: water that takes chemicals from the project, including the surrounding
hardscape, to local waterways
chemical treatment: chemicals to control rusting, biological growth and scaling in cooling
towers. Other treatments such apply ultra-violet light, are considered healthier for humans
chlorofuorocarbons (CFCs): a chemical compound made up of carbon, fuorine, and chlorine;
CFCs have been used as propellants in spray cans, coolants in refrigerators and air conditioners,
and in foam, plastics, and cleaning solvents; they are very stable in the troposphere, but are
broken down by strong ultraviolet light in the stratosphere and release chlorine atoms that
then deplete the ozone layer
climate change: signifcant change to a given climate over 10 years or more
coating: substance applied to beautify, protect or provide a barrier to a surface
combined heat and power (CHP) (or cogeneration): generates both electrical power and
thermal energy from one fuel source
comfort criteria: conditions for human comfort based on temperature, humidity, clothing and
anticipated activity
commingling recycling: permits putting diferent materials in one container for later sorting
and recycling at a sorting facility
commissioning (Cx): the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its
systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated and maintained to
meet the owners project requirements (OPR)
commissioning cycle: schedule of commissioning phases
commissioning plan: a document that outlines the organization, schedule, allocation of
resources and documentation requirements of the commissioning process
commissioning process: systematic efort to ensure that building systems are designed,
specifed, installed and functioning in accordance with the owners intent
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commissioning report: a document that details the commissioning process, including a
commissioning program overview, identifcation of the commissioning team and description
of the commissioning process activities
commissioning specifcation: contract language used in construction documents to detail
the objective, scope and implementation of the construction and acceptance phases of the
commissioning process as developed by the design phase of the commissioning plan
commissioning team: includes those people responsible for working together to carry out the
commissioning process
community connectivity: amount of connection between a site and the surrounding
community. The physical location of the site relative to homes, schools, retail, restaurants,
medical and other services
compact fuorescent lamp (CFL): a small fuorescent lamp used as a more efcient alternative
to incandescent lamps
completed design area: the total area of the fnished ceilings, foors, full height walls and
demountable partitions, interior doors and built-in case goods. Not included are exterior doors
and windows
composite wood: wood or plant particles or fbers bonded together by a synthetic resin or
binder and include plywood, particle board, oriented strandboard (OSB), medium density
fberboard (MDF) and composite door cores. To meet credit requirements, the products must:
be inside the buildings weatherproofng system, composite components used in assemblies
must be included and the product must be part of the base building system
composting (or nonwater) toilets: dry plumbing fxtures and fttings that contain and treat
human waste via microbiological processes
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA): tax
on the chemical and petroleum industries to clean up abandoned or historic waste sites
compressed work week: rearranges the workweek by increasing the daily hours and decreasing
the number of days from a standard of 8 hours per day for 5 consecutive days
concentration: the ratio of the level of dissolved solids in the recirculating water to the level
found in the entering makeup water
conditioned space: the sections of a building that are heated, cooled or both
conservation: methods of utilizing natural resources in ways to prevent their depletion
constructed wetland: artifcial system designed to simulate the water treatment efects of
wetlands and remove any pollutants
construction and demolition debris: waste and recyclable materials from construction,
demolition, deconstruction or renovation of existing buildings
construction, demolition and land clearing debris: everything included in construction and
demolition debris plus soil, vegetation and rock from land clearing
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construction IAQ management plan: plan to minimize air contamination caused by building
construction; includes procedures to remove contaminants before occupancy
construction waste management plan: plan that diverts construction debris from landflls or
incinerators through recycling, salvaging and reusing
contaminant: an unwanted airborne element that may reduce indoor air quality
controls: operating mechanisms that enable a person to turn devices on or of
conventional irrigation: most common type of irrigation used in the region where the project
is located
cooling tower: equipment using water to absorb heat from other sources, such as air
conditioning systems
core learning spaces: spaces for educational activities where the primary purpose is teaching
or learning
curfew hours: locally set times when lighting restrictions take efect; default time is 10 p.m.
daylight factor: percentage of exterior illumination to interior illumination; variables include
foor area, window area, window design, visible transmittance and window height
daylight glazing: the vertical window 7-6 above the foor
daylighting: the controlled admission of natural light into a space to reduce or eliminate the
need for artifcial light
daylighting zone: the total foor area that meets the performance requirements for
daylighting
daylight responsive lighting controls: photosensors used with other switching and dimming
devices to control the amount of artifcial light in relationship to the amount of natural
daylight
demand control ventilation: the automatic reduction of outside air to a level below design
rates when occupancy is less than design determined by occupancy indicators such as time of
day, schedules
densely occupied space: an area with 25 people or more per 1,000 square feet, or 40 square
feet or less of foor space per person
density factor (kd): modifes the evapotranspiration rate to refect the use by a particular plant
or group of plants to calculate the landscape coefcient
design light output: the output of a lamp at 40% of its useful life
development density: total area of all buildings within a particular area and expressed in
square feet per acre
development footprint: the area impacted by the project site, which includes parking,
landscaping, roads and other facilities in addition to the building
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district energy system: central energy conversion plant and transmission and distribution
system that provides thermal energy to a group of buildings. Central energy systems that
provide only electricity are not included
dew point: the temperature to which air must be cooled for the water vapor it contains to
revert to a liquid state
direct line of sight to perimeter vision glazing: method used to determine the calculated
area of regularly occupied areas with direct line of sight to perimeter vision glazing
displacement ventilation: provides buoyancy driven air fow rather than conventional forced
methods
diversity of uses or housing types: number of spaces or housing types, ofces, homes, schools,
parks, stores, per acre
downstream equipment: all heating or cooling systems, equipment and controls located
within a project building and site associated with transporting thermal energy into heated or
cooled spaces
drip irrigation: uses low pressure to deliver water through a series of tubes directly to specifc
plants; uses less water than standard means and supplies water only to selected plants, not
weeds or hardscape surfaces
dry urinals: also known as nonwater urinals and composting toilets; a water fush is replaced
with a trap full of buoyant liquid that blocks sewer gas and odors from escaping
dry ponds: elevated areas that detain stormwater and slow runof but are dry between rain
events
durable goods: items that have a useful life of 2 or more years or may require capital
expenditure
durable goods waste stream: durable goods leaving the project site that have been fully
depreciated and have reached the end of their useful life
ecological restoration: the process of assisting in the recovery and management of ecological
integrity
ecologically appropriate site features: natural site elements that maintain or restore the
ecological integrity of the site
economizer: devices such as HVAC enthalpy controls used to make building systems more
energy efcient
ecosystem: a basic unit of nature that includes a community of organisms and their nonliving
environment linked by biological, chemical and physical processes
electrical conductivity (EC) meter: a device that measures the amount of nutrients and salt
in water
elemental mercury: pure mercury. Mercury vapor is commonly used in fuorescent and other
types of lamps
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embodied energy: the energy used during the entire life cycle of a product, including the
manufacture, transportation, disposal as well as the inherent energy captured within the
product
emissions reduction reporting: the calculation, tracking and documentation of the greenhouse
gas emissions that are associated with the energy usage of a building
emissivity: the ratio of radiation emitted from a material to the radiation from a black body at
the same temperature
endangered species: species threatened with extinction
energy audit: identifes the amount and purpose of the energy used and identifes efciency
and cost reduction opportunities
energy conservation measures: methods or activities that use less energy
energy or greenhouse gas emissions per capita: total greenhouse gas emissions of a
community divided by the total resident count
energy efcient products and systems: building components and appliances that use less
energy
energy management system: a control system capable of monitoring environmental and
system loads and adjusting HVAC operations accordingly in order to conserve energy while
maintaining comfort
energy simulation model (or energy model): computer representations that allow users to
estimate the anticipated energy use of the building; allows various systems to be compared for
performance with a baseline
Energy Star rating: is a measure of a buildings energy performance compared to those with
similar characteristics; a 50 score represents average building performance
energy use intensity: energy consumption divided by the area in square feet in a building;
energy consumption is usually expressed as British thermal units (Btus) per square foot or as
kilowatt-hours of electricity per square foot per year (kWh/sf/yr)
enhanced commissioning: set of best practices that go beyond fundamental commissioning
that includes designating a commissioning authority prior to the construction documents
phase, conducting commissioning design reviews, reviewing contractor submittals, developing
a systems manual, verifying operator training and performing a post occupancy operations
review
entryway systems: open foor grates or grilles designed to capture potential pollutants from
people entering a building
environmental sustainability: long term maintenance of ecosystem components for future
generations
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS): (also known as secondhand smoke) refers to all forms
of tobacco smoke exhaled, or allowed to be released into the air, by smokers
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erosion: process by which hard materials are loosened or dissolved, or worn away and
transported by natural agents
eutrophication: the increase in chemical nutrients, such as nitrogen found in fertilizers, in an
ecosystem
evapotranspiration: amount of water lost from the soil and by transpiration from plants and
expressed in millimeters per unit of time
evapotranspiration (ET) rate: amount of water lost from a vegetated surface in units of water
depth and expressed in millimeters per unit of time
exfltration: air leakage through cracks
exhaust air: air removed from a building and discharged outside the building by mechanical
or natural ventilation systems
existing area: the total area of a building structure, core and envelope that existed when the
project area was selected
Fairtrade: a product certifcation system overseen by FLO International that identifes products
that meet certain environmental, labor and development standards
foodplain: land that has a likelihood of being fooded within a given storm cycle, such as a 100
year storm
foor area ratio: ratio of total building area to that of the amount of buildable land
fy ash: solid waste from an incineration process which can be used in concrete
fush out: the operation of mechanical systems for two weeks using 100% outside air at the
end of construction and prior to occupancy to ensure safe indoor air quality
Food Alliance: certifes food from sustainable farms and ranches that produce natural products,
ensure quality control and food safety, responsibly manage water and energy resources,
stresses recycling and waste management, provides a safe work environment and commits to
a continuous improvement of sustainable practices
footcandle: amount of illumination falling on a surface at one lumen per square foot of surface
area
formaldehyde: a natural VOC compound found in plants and animals
fossil fuel: energy derived from ancient organic remains such as peat, coal, crude oil and natural
gas
fuel efcient vehicles: vehicles earning a score of 40 or more on the American Council for an
Energy Efcient Economy annual vehicle rating guide
full cutof luminaire: light source where the light output (in lumens) does not exceed 0% at 90
degrees above nadir and 10% above 80 degrees
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full time equivalent (FTE): a regular building occupant who spends 40 hours per week
in the project building. Part time or overtime occupants have FTE values based on their
hours per week divided by 40. Multiple shifts are included or excluded depending on
their intent and requirements of the credit
full time equivalent building occupants: a measure equal to the total number of hours
all building occupants spend in the building during the peak 8 hour occupancy period
divided by 8 hours
fully shielded exterior light fxtures: attached to outside light sources and built so
the lower edge of the shield is at or below the lowest edge of the lamp, such that light
travels downward only
fundamental commissioning: set of essential best practices used to ensure that
building performance requirements have been identifed early in the projects
development and to verify that the designed systems have been installed in compliance
with those requirements. Included are the process of designating a commissioning
authority, documenting the owners project requirements and basis of design (BOD),
incorporating commissioning requirements into the construction documents,
establishing a commissioning plan, verifying installation and performance of specifed
building systems and completing a summary commissioning report
furniture, fxtures and equipment (FFE): all movable items not part of the base
building such as desks, computers and portable lights
gallons per minute: measurement of water used by fow fxtures (faucets, showerheads,
aerators, sprinkler heads); Per EPAct 1992, baseline rates for faucets, showerheads and
aerators is 2.5 gpm
gallons per fush: measurement of water used by fush fxtures (water closets and
urinals); per EPAct 1992, baseline rates for water closets is 1.6 gpf and urinals is 1.0 gpf
geothermal energy: the heat of the earth; where this heat occurs close to the earths
surface, and is able to maintain a temperature in the surrounding rock or water at or
above 150 degrees C, it may be tapped to drive steam turbines
geothermal heating systems: systems that use pipes to transfer heat from underground
steam or hot water for heating, cooling and hot water
glare: any excessively bright source of light within the visual feld that creates discomfort
or loss of visibility
glazing factor: the ratio of interior light at a specifc point on a specifc plane under
known overcast skies; the variables used by LEED area the foor area, window areas,
window geometry, visible transmittance and window height
global warming: an increase in the temperature near the surface of the earth
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graywater: domestic wastewater composed of wash water from kitchen, bathroom and laundry
sinks, tubs and washers; the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) defnes graywater as untreated
household wastewater that has not come in contact with toilet waste; the International
Plumbing Code (IPC) defnes graywater as wastewater discharged from lavatories, bathtubs,
showers, clothes washers and laundry sinks; some states will allow kitchen sinks to be included
with graywater
green cleaning: the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental
impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and
practices
green power: synonymous with renewable energy
green-e: program established by the Center for Resource Solutions to promote green electricity
products
greenfelds: sites not previously developed or graded that could support open space, habitat
or agriculture
greenwashing: a term playing of whitewash that is used to describe projects that are labeled
as energy-efcient and sustainable when theyre really not; its also a term sometimes used to
describe the distribution of misleading information by a business or an organization to conceal
its abuse of the environment
greenhouse efect: the rise in temperature that the Earth experiences because certain gases
in the atmosphere (water vapor, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane, for example)
trap energy from the sun; because of their warming efect, these gases are referred to as
greenhouse gases; without them, more heat would escape back into space and the Earths
average temperature would be about 33C colder; similarly, their rapid accumulation in the
atmosphere can lead to rising temperatures
greenhouse gases (GHGs): gasses such as carbon dioxide or methane that refects infrared
radiation emitted by the earth, thereby helping to retain heat in the atmosphere
group multi occupant spaces: include conference rooms, classrooms and other indoor spaces
used as places of congregation
halons: ozone damaging chemicals used in fre fghting systems and extinguishers
hard costs: project costs directly related to construction and development activities such as
contractor costs, labor and material costs, and costs related to direct service and material costs
for the project. Not included are soft costs such as legal fees, closing fees, architectural and
engineering fees, interest costs, etc.
hardscape: refers to the non-plant elements of the landscape; these elements include
pavement, concrete, brick, tile and other hard surfaces external to the building shell
hard surface fooring: includes vinyl, linoleum, laminate, wood rubber, wall base and associated
sundries
harvested rainwater: precipitation captured and used for indoor and/or irrigation needs
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heat island efect: refers to the absorption of heat by dark surfaces, such as buildings, then
radiating that heat into nearby areas
Hertz (Hz): unit to describe the frequency of vibrations (cycles) per second
high performance green building: a structure designed to conserve water and energy; uses
space, materials and resources efciently; minimizes construction waste; creates a healthful
indoor environment
horizontal footcandles: light on a horizontal surface
Hospitality: is the business of providing temporary residence to customers, such as a hotel
HVAC systems: equipment, distribution systems and terminals that provide the processes of
heating, ventilating and air conditioning
HVAC&R systems: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration systems inside a
building
hybrid vehicles: use a gasoline engine to drive an electric generator and use the electric
generator to drive the vehicles wheels
hydro energy: energy supplied by water fowing
hydrochlorofourocarbons (HCFCs): cooling chemicals used in building equipment; they
damage the ozone layer, but not to the extent of CFCs
hydrofourocarbons (HFCs): cooling chemicals that do not damage the ozone layer but may
contribute to global warming
hydrology: the study of water occurrence, movement and balances in an ecosystem
hydropower: electricity produced from the downhill fow of water
impervious surfaces: have a perviousness of less than 50% and promote runof of water
instead of infltration into the subsurface
imperviousness: the resistance of a material to penetration by a liquid such as water
incinerator: furnace for burning waste
individual occupant spaces: where workers use standard workspaces to conduct individual
tasks
indoor adhesive, sealant or primer: an adhesive or sealant product applied on-site, inside the
buildings weatherproofng system
indoor air quality (IAQ): the nature of air inside a space that afects the health and well being
of building occupants; it is considered acceptable when there are no known contaminants
at harmful concentrations and when the majority (80%) of the occupants do not express
dissatisfaction
indoor carpet systems: carpet, carpet adhesive or carpet cushion products installed inside the
buildings weatherproofng system
indoor paints or coating products: applied inside a buildings weatherproofng system
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indoor composite wood or agrifbre: product installed inside the buildings weatherproofng
system
infltration: air leakage into conditioned spaces through cracks in foors, ceilings and walls
from unconditioned spaces or the outdoors
infltration basins and trenches: devices that help stormwater settle into the ground
infrared (or thermal) emittance: a parameter between 0 and 1 that indicates the ability of a
material to shed infrared radiation (heat)
in situ remediation: involves treating contaminants in place using injection wells, reactive
trenches or other technologies that take advantage of the natural hydraulic gradient of
groundwater
installation inspection: examines components of the building systems to determine whether
they are installed properly and ready for systems performance testing
integrated design team: all the individuals involved in a building project from early in the
design process
integrated pest management (IPM): the coordinated use of knowledge about pests, the
environment and pest prevention and control methods to minimize pest infestation and
damage
interior lighting power allowance: maximum lighting power allowed for the interior of a
building and expressed in watts
Interior nonstructural components reuse: determined by dividing the area of retained
components by the larger area of the prior condition or the area of the completed design
invasive plants: aggressive, reproduce rapidly and tend to overrun areas, forcing out native
species.
irrigated land: land watered by artifcial means
irrigation efciency: percentage of water used by irrigation equipment that is efective for
irrigation that does not evaporate, blow away or fall on hardscape surfaces
laminate adhesive: adhesives used in wood or agrifbre products
lamp life: useful operating span of a lamp
lamps: products that use electricity to produce light
landflls: disposal site where waste is buried
landscape area: total site area used for landscaping purposes excluding the building footprint,
hardscape areas, water bodies, parking, etc.
leakage rate: the speed at which an appliance loses refrigerant, measured between refrigerant
changes or over 12 months, whichever is shorter
LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs): people who have passed the LEED professional
test.
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LEED credit: an optional LEED Green Building Rating System component whose achievement
results in the earning of points toward certifcation
LEED Credit Interpretation Request (CIR): a formal USGBC process in which a project team
experiencing difculties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit can seek and receive
clarifcation
LEED intent: the primary goal of each LEED prerequisite or credit
LEED Rating System: a voluntary, consensus based, market driven building rating system
based on existing proven technology
LEED prerequisite: a required LEED Green building Rating System component whose
achievement is mandatory and does not earn any points
LEED project boundary: portion of the project site submitted for LEED certifcation. For single
building developments, this is the entire project scope and is limited to the site boundary.
For multiple building developments, the LEED project boundary may be a portion of the
development as determined by the project team
LEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG): a committee consisting of industry experts who
assist in interpreting credits and developing improvements to the LEED Green Building Rating
System
legionella pneumophilia: a waterborne bacterium that causes Legionnaires disease
life cycle assessment: analyzes a product, process or services environmental aspects and
impacts.
life cycle cost analysis: calculates expected future operating, maintenance and replacement
costs of designs and features to assist owners in developing a realistic design and budget
estimate
light pollution: waste light produces glare or is directed into the night sky or of-site
light trespass: unobtrusive light that causes annoyance, discomfort or loss of visibility
lighting power density (LPD): the installed lighting power per unit area
local zoning requirements: local government regulations imposed to promote orderly
development of private lands and prevent land use issues
low emitting vehicles: classifed as zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) by the California Air Resources
Board
lumen: a unit of luminous fux equal to the light emitted in a unit solid angle by a uniform point
source of 1 candle intensity
luminaire: a complete lighting unit consisting of a lamp and housing
luminaire opening: the part of the luminaire that allows light to be emitted
makeup water: water used by cooling systems to replace that which has been lost
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management staf: employees or contractors involved in operating and maintaining a building
or site
manufacturing: the fnal assembly of components into the building product that is furnished
and installed by the trade workers
market value: a value presumed to be less than the replacement value, the amount paid or
would have been paid
mass transit: designed to transport large groups of people in a single vehicle
master plan: the overall design or development concept for the buildings and site
Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS): detailed instructions documenting a method to achieve
uniformity of performance
measures of energy use: three primary measures of energy consumption associated with
buildings expressed in kilowatt hours of electricity, therms of natural gas and gallons of liquid
fuel
mechanical (active) ventilation: air circulated through mechanical means such as fans and
blowers
metering controls: controls that limit the time water can fow, typically installed on bathroom
faucets and showers and are generally manual-on and automatic-of devices
microirrigation: irrigation using small sprinklers, microjets and drippers designed to apply
small amounts of water
minimum efciency reporting value (MERV): mechanical system air flter efciency rating
ranging from 1 to 16
mixed (active and passive) mode ventilation: combines natural and mechanical ventilation,
using one method or the other, or a combination of the two
mixed use: project that involves a combination of residential and commercial or retail
components
mycotoxins: toxic substances produced by fungus
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): permit program to control water
pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into the waterways
native (or indigenous) plants: are adapted to a given area during a defned time period and
are not invasive
natural (passive) ventilation: air circulated by natural means and without the aid of fans or
blowers
neighborhood: synonymous with residential area
net metering: metering and billing arrangements that allows on-site generators to send excess
electricity fows to the regional power grid
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net project material value: includes the construction material value and the CSI Division 12
(Furniture and Furnishings) material value, less the material values for mechanical and electrical
components and the salvage value identifed in the MR credits
noise reduction coefcient (NRC): the arithmetic average of absorption coefcients at 250,
500, 1,000 and 2,000 Hz for a material
nonoccupied spaces: includes all rooms used by maintenance personnel that are not open for
use by occupants
nonporous sealant: a substance used as a sealant on nonporous materials
nonpotable water (aka gray water): refers to water unft for human consumption that has not
come into contact with human waste, but is adequate for other uses such as irrigation
nonregularly occupied spaces: hallways, corridors, lobbies, break rooms and other areas
where people do not spend extended periods of time
nonrenewable resource: a resource that can be depleted over time
nonwater (or composting) toilet systems: dry plumbing fxtures and fttings that contain and
treat human waste via microbiological processes
nonwater (or dry) urinal: replaces a water fush with a trap containing a layer of buoyant liquid
that foats above the urine, blocking sewer gas and odors
occasional furniture: furniture located in lobbies and in conference rooms
occupants: workers in a commercial building who either have a permanent ofce or workstation
in the building or typically spend a minimum of 10 hours per week in the building. In residential
building, occupants include all people who live in the building. In schools, occupants include
students, faculty, support staf, administration and maintenance employees.
of gassing: the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
of-site salvaged materials: items recovered from a source diferent from the project site
on-demand (tankless) heaters: heaters that heat water only when needed and applies only
the amount of heat required to meet the demand
ongoing commissioning: applies the commissioning process continually to maintain optimal
building performance
ongoing consumables: products that have a low unit cost and regularly used and replaced
during the course of business
on-site renewable energy: energy derived from renewable sources located within the project
site perimeter
on-site salvaged materials: Items recovered and reused at the same location
on-site wastewater treatment: transport, storage, treatment and disposal of wastewater
generated on the project site
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open grid pavement: is less than 50% impervious and accommodates vegetation between
the open cells
open space area: if no local codes defne open space, LEED defnes as the property area minus
the development footprint
owners project requirements: document detailing the ideas, concepts and criteria that are
determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project
outdoor air: ambient air from the outside that enters a building through a ventilation system
ozone: a chemically unstable and highly reactive gas (each molecule of which consists of three
atoms of oxygen in contrast with the usual two) found mainly at ground level in cities and in
the stratosphere; at ground level, ozone can be a lung irritant. In the stratospheric ozone layer,
the gas plays an important role in protecting the Earths surface from high levels of biologically
damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is known to be a signifcant risk factor for skin
cancers, eye cataracts, and the suppression of mammalian immune systems
ozone layer: the region of the stratosphere (lying approximately 15-40 km above the Earths
surface) that contains the bulk of the worlds atmospheric ozone
paint: a liquid, liquefable or mastic composition that is converted to a solid protective,
decorative or functional adherent flm after application as a thin layer
parking footprint: the site area occupied by parking structures
partially shielded light fxtures: outside light fxtures built so light travels horizontally or
downward, but not upward
particulates: solid particles or droplets in the atmosphere; the chemical composition varies
depending on location and time of the year
passive ventilation: uses the building layout, fabric and form to provide natural ventilation to
a conditioned space using nonmechanical forms of heat transfer and air movement
pedestrian access: allows people to walk to services without being blocked by walls, freeways
or other barriers
percentage improvement: measures the energy cost savings for the proposed design as
defned in ASHRAE 90.1-2007, Appendix G
perviousness: percentage of a paved area that is open and allows water to soak into the
ground
pheno-formaldehyde: a combination of urea and formaldehyde that is used in glues and may
emit formaldehyde at room temperature
photovoltaic cell: a device incorporating a semiconductor that generates electricity when
exposed to (sun) light; the technology may be further sub-divided into crystalline, multi-
crystalline, thin-flm and concentrator variants
photovoltaic (PV or solar) energy: energy from the sun converted by photovoltaic cells into
electricity
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plug load: synonymous with receptacle load
pollutant: any substance introduced into the environment that adversely afects the usefulness
of a resource or the health of humans, animals or the ecosystem; common pollutants include
carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx), mercury (Hg), small particulates
(PM25) and large particulates (PM10)
porous materials (aka permeable): having tiny openings which can absorb or discharge
fuids
porous pavements and permeable surfaces: allows runof to infltrate into the ground
postconsumer fber: paper, paperboard and fbrous wastes that are collected from municipal
solid waste systems
postconsumer material: recycled from consumer waste
postconsumer recycled content: the percentage of material in a product that was consumer
waste. The recycled materials was generated by household, commercial, industrial or institutional
end users and can no longer be used for its intended purpose. It includes returns from the
distribution chain
potable water: water that meets or exceeds EPAs drinking water quality standards and is
approved for human consumption by the state or local authorities having jurisdiction
PPM: parts per million, a measurement commonly used for distribution of an element in a gas
or liquid
preconsumer recycled content (also known as post-industrial content): the percentage
of material made from recycled manufacturing waste; reclaimable items that are reworked,
regrind or scrap generated in a process that be reused in the same process are not included
predicted mean vote: an empirical equation for predicting the mean vote on a rating scale of
thermal comfort of a large population of people exposed to a certain environment
preferred parking: parking spaces that provide advantages to vehicle drivers, such as being
close to buildings or being covered
Preproject: before the LEED project was initiated, but not necessarily before any development
or disturbance took place. Pre-project conditions describe conditions on the date the developer
acquired rights to a majority of the buildable land on the project site through purchase or
option to purchase
preventive maintenance: routinely scheduled inspection, cleaning and repairs
previously developed sites: sites that have previously been built upon, graded or altered by
human activities
prime farmland: undeveloped land that has been determined to be suitable for agricultural
use
primer: material applied to a substrate to improve adhesion of subsequently applied coats
prior condition: the state of the project space at the time it was selected
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prior condition area: total area of the fnished ceilings, foors and full height walls that existed
when the project was selected. It does not include doors or windows
Private or private use : plumbing fxtures in residences, apartments, and dormitories, to
private (non-public) bathrooms in transient lodging facilities (hotels and motels), and to private
bathrooms in hospitals and nursing facilities
process water: water used for industrial processes and building systems such as boilers, cooling
towers and chillers
project boundary: portion of the project site submitted for LEED certifcation. For single building
developments, this is the entire project scope and is limited to the site boundary. For multiple
building developments, the LEED project boundary may be a portion of the development as
determined by the project team
property area: the total area within the legal property boundaries of a site
property manager: the person in charge of building operations and maintenance
proposed building performance: annual energy cost calculated for a proposed design as
defned in ASHRAE 90.1-2007, Appendix G
Protected Harvest certifcation standards: refects the requirements and environmental
considerations of diferent crops and bioregions
public transportation: bus, rail, light rail and other services designed to move large numbers
of people on a regular basis and route
Public or public use: applies to all buildings, structures, or uses that are not defned as private
or private use
Rainforest Alliance certifcation: award for farms that protects wildlife by planting trees,
controls erosion, limits agrichemicals, protects native vegetation, hires local workers and pays
fair wages
rain garden: a stormwater management feature consisting of an excavated depression and
vegetation that collects and infltrates runof to reduce peak discharge rates
rainwater harvesting: the collection and storage of precipitation from a catchment area
rapidly renewable materials: agricultural products that can be grown or raised and harvested
within a ten year cycle
rated power: the nameplate power on equipment representing its maximum draw
receptacle (aka plug) load: the current drawn by all equipment that is plugged into the
electrical system
recirculated air: air that has been used then reconditioned for further use
reclaimed water: wastewater that has been treated and purifed for reuse
recommissioning: applies to previously commissioned buildings undergoing new construction
or renovation
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recovered fber: postconsumer and waste fber from the manufacturing process
recycled content: percentage (by volume or weight) of material in a product that has been
recycled from the manufacturing waste stream (preconsumer) or the consumer waste stream
(postconsumer) and used to manufacture new materials
recycling: collection, reprocessing and reuse of materials recovered or diverted from waste
stream
recycling collection area: an area located in a regularly occupied space in the building for the
collection of occupants recyclable materials
refrigerants: the working fuids of refrigeration cycles that absorb heat from a reservoir at low
temperatures and reject heat at higher temperatures
refurbished materials: used products that are updated and/or repaired to increase their
lifespan
regional materials: percentage (total material costs of the building) of a buildings materials
that have been extracted, processed and manufactured within a 500 mile radius of the project
site
regionally extracted materials: materials taken from within a 500 mile radius of the project
site
regionally manufactured products: materials assembled as fnished products within a 500
mile radius of the project site
regular building occupants: Those people who spend 10 hours or more per week in a building,
including those who live there
regularly occupied spaces: in commercial buildings are where people sit or stand as they
work. In residential applications these spaces include all living and family rooms and exclude
bathrooms, closets or other storage or utility areas. In schools, they are areas where students,
teachers or administrators are seated or standing as they work or study
relative humidity: the ratio of partial density of airborne water vapor to the saturation density
of water vapor at the same temperature and total pressure
remanufactured materials: Items made into other products, such as plastic bottles turned
into clothing
remediation: the process of cleaning up a contaminated site by physical, chemical or biological
means
renewable energy (aka green power): Refers to energy sources that are not depleted by
use; derived from incoming solar radiation, wind, hydropower, waves and tidal, lake and pond
thermal diferences, from decomposition of waste material such as methane gas from landflls,
from processes that use regenerated materials such as wood and biobased products and from
the internal heat of the earth
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renewable energy certifcates (RECs): tradable commodities that verify electricity was
generated by a renewable source
renewable resource: a resource that is capable of being replenished through natural processes
or its own reproduction, generally within a time span that does not exceed a few decades;
metal bearing ores are not renewable, but metals themselves can be recycled indefnitely
replacement value: estimated cost of replacing a used product
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): legislation allows the EPA to control
hazardous waste from cradle to grave
residential area: land zoned primarily for housing at a density of 10 units per acre or greater
retained components: portions the fnished ceilings, fnished foors and full height walls and
demountable partitions, interior doors and built in case goods that existed in the prior condition
area and remain in the completed design
retention ponds: designed to capture stormwater and clear it of pollutants before its release
retroft: any change to an existing building
return air: air removed from a space and then recirculated or exhausted
reuse: percentage (total material costs of the building) that have been salvaged and reused in
the same or related use
reused area: the total area of the building structure, core and envelope that existed in the prior
condition and remains in the completed design
reverberation: an acoustical phenomenon that occurs when sound persists in an enclosed
space because of its repeated refection or scattering upon the enclosing surfaces or objects
within the space
reverberation time (RT): measure of the amount of reverberation in a space and equal to the
time required for the level of a steady sound to decay by 60dB after the sound has stopped
ridesharing: synonymous with carpooling
safety and comfort light levels: meets local code requirements and must be adequate to
provide a safe path of egress
salvaged materials or reused materials: construction items recovered from existing buildings
or construction sites and reused
sealant: an adhesive used to fll, seal or waterproof gaps or joints between two surfaces
sealant primer: a substance applied to a substrate prior to the application of a sealant to
enhance the bonding surface
seating: task and guest chairs used with systems furniture
secure bicycle storage: an internal or external secured location for keeping bikes safe from
theft
sedimentation: the addition of soil particles to bodies of water, which decreases water quality
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and clarity
sensors: devices that undergo a measurable change in response to environmental changes
and communicate this to the appropriate equipment or control system
sequence of operations: detailed system level document for each building system covering all
stages of operation and variable
setpoints: normal operating ranges for building systems and indoor environmental quality
shielding: devices or techniques used as part of a luminaire to limit glare, light trespass or sky
glow
sick building syndrome (SBS): a combination of symptoms that appear to be linked to time
spent in a building but cannot be traced to a specifc cause
site area: synonymous with property area and total area within a project boundary, both built
and natural portions
site assessment: an investigation of a sites above ground and subsurface characteristics
including its structures, geology and hydrology
site disturbance: portion of the site which has been disturbed due to the project
requirements
site energy: the amount of heat and electricity consumed by a building
sky glow: caused by stray light from unshielded light sources and light refecting of surfaces
that enter the atmosphere and illuminate of dust, debris and water vapor
soft costs: Indirect construction costs such as architectural, engineering and permit fees
solar refectance (albedo): is the ability of a surface material to refect sunlight and measured
on a scale from 0 to 1; black has a solar refectance of 0; white has a solar refectance of 1
solar refex index (SRI): measure of a materials ability to reject heat from the surface of a
material, with the index ranging from 0, black and less refective, to 100, white and highly
refective.
solar thermal systems: systems that collect or absorb sunlight via solar collectors to heat water
that is then circulated to the buildings hot water tank
sound absorption: the portion of sound energy striking a surface that is not returned as sound
energy
sound absorption coefcient: the ability of a material to absorb sound, expressed as a fraction
of incident sound
sound absorption class (STC): a single number rating for the acoustic attenuation of airborne
sound passing through a partition or other building element
source energy: raw fuel used by a building
source reduction: reduces the amount of unnecessary material brought into a building, such
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Chapter 13 |
as packaging
species factor: coefcient used to adjust the Evapotranspiration Rate to refect features of a
specifc plant species
spores: microscopic cells used by mold to reproduce
square footage: the total area of a building including all rooms, corridors, elevators, stairwells
and shafts
standard operating procedures: detailed instructions documenting a method to achieve
uniformity of performance
stewardship: stewardship is assuming responsibility for taking good care of resources; these
resources may be individual, communal, commercial, or environmental, and form part of any
communitys natural capital
stormwater: runof water resulting from precipitation that fows over surfaces and usually to
storm sewers or waterways
stormwater pollution prevention plan: describes all measures to prevent stormwater
contamination, control sedimentation and erosion during construction and comply with the
requirements of the Clean Water Act
stormwater runof: water from precipitation that fows over surfaces into sewer systems or
receiving water bodies
stratifed random sampling: categorizes members of a population into discreet subgroups,
based on characteristics that may afect their responses to a survey
stratosphere: the layer of the earths atmosphere just above the troposphere, extending from
10 km to about 50 km above the earth
street grid density: neighborhood density calculated as the number of centerline miles per
square mile. Centerline miles are the length of a road down its center
submetering: measuring energy consumption by specifc mechanical or electrical systems,
such as heating or air-conditioning
supply air: air delivered to a space by mechanical or natural ventilation
sustainable development: a development path along which the maximization of human well-
being for todays generations does not lead to declines in future well-being
sustainable forestry: process of managing forest resources by maintaining the biodiversity of
the forests
sustainable purchasing policies: policies that prefer products with limited environmental
impacts
sustainability: meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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sustainable forestry: management of forest resources to meet the long term forest product
needs of humans while maintaining the biodiversity of forested landscapes
sustained yield forestry: management of a forest to produce in perpetuity a high level annual
or regular periodic output through a balance between increment and cutting
systemic sampling: surveys every xth person in a population using a constant skip interval
systems furniture: panel based workstations
systems narrative: A general description of each major building heating, cooling, ventilation,
humidifcation/dehumidifcation and lighting system
systems performance testing: determining the ability of commissioned systems to perform
in accordance with the owners project requirements (OPR)
tertiary treatment: highest level of water treatment that removes organics, solids and other
pollutants
thermal comfort: temperature, humidity and air fow range for human comfort when occupants
express satisfaction
tipping fees: charges by a landfll for disposal of waste
total phosphorus (TP): organically bound phosphates, polyphosphates and orthophosphates
in stormwater, commonly attributed to fertilizers
total suspended solids (TSS): particles too small or light to be removed from stormwater via
gravity settling
transient users: occupants who do not use a facility on a consistent, regular, daily basis
transportation demand management: process of reducing peak period vehicle trips
two year, 24-hour design storm: rate that represents the largest amount of rainfall expected
over a 24 hour period during a 2 year interval
undercover parking: underground or under a deck, roof or building where the hardscape
surfaces are shaded
underground parking: parking beneath a stacked structure such as a building
universal notifcation: notifying building occupants not less than 72 hours before a pesticide
is applied in a building or on surrounding grounds under normal conditions and within 24
hours after application in emergency conditions
upstream equipment: all heating or cooling systems, equipment and controls that are
associated with a district energy system but are not part of the project buildings thermal
connection or do not interfere with the district energy system. It includes the central energy
plant and all transmission and distribution equipment associated with transporting thermal
energy to the project building and site
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Chapter 13 |
urea formaldehyde: combination of two materials often found in glue that can emit
formaldehyde at room temperature
USDA organic: USDAs certifcation for products that contain at least 95% organically
produced ingredients. Remaining ingredients must contain nonagricultural substances or be
nonorganically produced agricultural products that are not commercially available in organic
form
U value: the measure of heat fow through materials that separate the building facade, slab or
roof from the exterior environment in units
vapor barrier: material used to prevent moisture penetration through wall, ceiling, foor and
roof assemblies and the potential condensation that can result from temperature diferentials
between the buildings interior and exterior temperatures
vegetation containing artifces: planters, gardens or other constructions that hosts fora
vehicle miles traveled (vmt): transportation demand measurement of vehicle miles associated
with a project
ventilation: the process of supplying air to or removing air from a space for the purpose of
controlling air contaminant levels, humidity or temperature within the space
ventilation rated: amount of air circulated in a space measured in air changes per hour; ASHRAE
standard 62 determines the proper amount to ensure that a sufcient quantity of air is supplied
for the number of occupants to prevent carbon monoxide and other pollutant accumulation
verifcation: range of checks and tests carried out to determine whether components,
subsystems, systems and interfaces between systems operate in accordance with the contract
documents
vertical footcandles: light on a vertical surface
visible light transmittance (T
vis
): the ratio of total transmitted light to the total incident light.
The amount of visible spectrum light passing through a glazing surface divided by the amount
of light striking the glazing surface
vision glazing: that portion of exterior windows between 26 and 76 above the foor that
permits a view to the exterior
volatile organic compounds (VOC): a carbon-containing compound, such as gasoline or
acetone, that vaporizes at a relatively low temperature, generally below 40C; VOCs can
contaminate water, and in the atmosphere can react with other gases in the presence of sunlight
to form ozone or other photochemical oxidants
walking distance: the length of the walkable pathway between the building and public
transportation
waste: all materials that fow from the building to fnal disposal
waste disposal: eliminates waste by means of burial in a landfll, combustion through
incineration or any other way that is not reuse or recycling
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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waste diversion: activity that disposes of waste other than landflls or incinerators
waste reduction program: a program to reduce waste fowing from a project to landflls and/
or incinerators; includes a list of steps that will be taken to reduce the fow and increase reuse
and recycling; tracking and review procedures are also part of the plan
waste stream: overall fow of waste from a building or site
wastewater: the spent or used water from a home, farm, community or industry that contains
dissolved or suspended matter
water meters: devices that measure water usage
wave and tidal power systems: energy captured by wave and tidal action that is turned into
electricity and primarily used for desalination, water pumping and electricity generation
weighted decibel (dBA): sound pressure level measured with a conventional frequency
weighting that approximates how the human ear hears diferent frequency components of
sounds at typical listening levels for speech
wet ponds: elevated areas that detain stormwater and slow runof and hold water all the time
wetland vegetation: plants that require saturated soils to survive or can tolerate prolonged
wet soil conditions
wind energy: electricity generated by wind turbines
window -to-foor ratio (WFR): the total area of the window, measured vertically from 30 inches
above the fnished foor to the top of the glass, multiplied by the width of the glass divided by
the foor area
xeriscaping: a landscaping method that makes routine irrigation unnecessary, allowing plants
to be watered from rain and or use compost to retain moisture
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C H A P T E R | 1 4
Green Resource Links: Websites, Publications & Blogs
LEED Certifcation Overview
USGBC & GBCI & LEED
USGBC & GCBI Responsibilites
Six Steps to Certifcation Flow Chart
Project Checklist Sample
Credit Form Sample
Certifcation Fee Chart
Certifcation Application Timeline
Split Application
Combined (Standard) Application
Appeal Process
Tasks & Responsibilities for EAp1 & EAc3
CxA Qualifcations
Credit Charts
Credit Interactions
LEED Rating Systems & Reference Guide Chart
Detailed LEED Rating Systems
Core Credits: Intents, Requirements, Strategies,
Referenced Standards, Team Members
Appendix
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Chapter 14 |
Green Resources
Websites
USGBC Home Page www.usgbc.org/
Green Building Research www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1718
LEED resources www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=75
LEED rating system selector http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222
USGBC courses www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=283
USGBC Green Building Resource Links http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=76&
USGBC Minimum Program Requirements http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2014
GBCI Home Page www.gbci.org/
GBCI Green Associate Candidate Handbook (additional resource links) www.gbci.org/ShowFile.
aspx?DocumentID=3571
Credentialing resources www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=93
Certifcation resources www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=138
LEED Online www.leedonline.com/
LEED CIRs www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=142
LEED sample credit forms www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1447
LEED White Paper on Sustainable Building Design Technical Manual www.gbci.org/ShowFile.
aspx?DocumentID=3591
LEED White Paper on Environmental Impact of Refrigerants www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3592
USGBC Regional Chapters
USGBC Cincinnati Regional Chapter Home Page www.usgbc-cincinnati.org/
USGBC Colorado Regional Chapter Home Page http://www.usgbccolorado.com/index.html
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) www.epa.gov/
Harvard Green Building Resource website www.green.harvard.edu/theresource/
Stormwater Glossary of Terms www.stormwaterauthority.org/glossary.aspx
McGraw-Hill green website www.greensource.construction.com/Default.asp
HOK green website http://hoklife.com/category/archives/sustainable-design/
Sustainable Connections resource website www.sustainableconnections.org/
Inhabitat sustainable website www.inhabitat.com/
LEED credit analysis www.leeduser.com/
Publications
Environmental magazine lists
http://www.deb.uminho.pt/Fontes/enviroinfo/publications/
http://local444.caw.ca/docs/enviromaglist-may2008.pdf
http://www.city.stratford.on.ca/naturally/envmag.asp
Environmental Design + Construction www.edcmag.com/
Green Builder www.greenbuildermag.com/
Blogs
Green blog directory www.bestgreenblogs.com//
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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Chapter 14 |
USGBC & GBCI Responsibilities
Professional
Accredidtaion
Building
Certifcation
LEED Online LEED
USGBC GBCI
Rating
Systems
Education
Programs
Reference
Guides
Reference Guides:
Green Building Design and Construction Reference Guide
Green Interior Design and Construction Reference Guide
Green Building Operations and Maintenance Reference Guide
Green Building and LEED Core Concepts Guide
Rating Systems:
New Construction and Major Renovations
Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
Commercial Interiors
Core & Shell
Schools
Retail*
Healthcare*
Homes
Neighborhood Development*
* : Pilot Program
Education Programs:
100 Level: Awareness
200 Level: Understanding
300 Level: Application & Implementation
400 Level: Mastery
Professional Accredidation:
Tier I:
LEED Green Associate
Tier II:
LEED AP+ (BD&C): Building Design & Construction
LEED AP+ (ID&C): Interior Design & Construction
LEED AP+ (O&M): Operations & Maintenance
LEED AP+ Homes
LEED AP+ (ND): Neighborhood Development
Tier III:
LEED Fellow: (TBD)
Building Certifcation:
LEED for New Construction
LEED for Schools
LEED for Core & Shell
LEED for Existing Buildings
LEED for Commercial Interiors
LEED for Homes
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Chapter 14 |
Step 1: Determine appropriateness of LEED
Form a charrette and gather information to determine if, and at what level, LEED is
appropriate
Step 2: Registration via LEED OnLine
www.gbci.org
Step 3: Prepare Application
Assign team members and prepare all documents required for prerequisites and credits
being sought (minimum number of credits are required for Certifcation)
Step 4: Submit Application via LEED OnLine
Upload Credit Forms with all required documentation
Step 5: Application Review
Upon receipt of a completed submittal application, a formal review will be initiated
Certifcation is the fnal step in the LEED Review Process. Once the fnal review is complete,
the project team can either accept or appeal the fnal decision. If accepted, LEED Certifed
Projects::
will receive a formal certifcate of recognition
will receive information on how to order plaques, certifcates, photo submissions and
marketing
May be included in an online directory and US Dept. of Energy High Performance
Bldgs. Database
NOTE: Project certifcation requires all Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) and prerequisites
in each sustainable category be met along with a minimum total number of credit points
Visit this link for current Steps to Certifcation process:
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1991 http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.
aspx?CMSPageID=1991
Six Steps to Certifcation
Is LEED
Right for You
Prepare
Application
Submit
Application
Application
Review
Registration Certifcation
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6
Sustainable Sites 26
Water & Efciency 10
Energy & Atmosphere 35
Materials & Resources 14
Indoor Environmental Quality 15
* Out of a possible 100 pts + 10 bonus pts
** Certifed 40-49 pts; Silver 50-59 pts;
Gold 60-79 pts; Platinum80+ pts
Innovation in Design 6
Regional Priority 4
LEED for New Construction
Total Possible Points** 110*
Water & Efciency 14
Innovation in Operations 6
Regional Priority 4
LEED for Existing Buildings
Water & Efciency 10
Regional Priority 4
LEED for Core & Shell
Water & Efciency 11
Regional Priority 4
LEED for Commercial Interiors
Water & Efciency 11
Regional Priority 4
LEED for Schools
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Chapter 14 |
Project Checklist Sample
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186
Chapter 14 |
Credit Form Sample
(v3 Credit Forms were not available at time of printing)
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
187
Chapter 14 |
Project Certifcation Fees
< 50,000 sf 50,000 - 500,000 sf > 500,000 sf
Appeals
(if applicable)
Fixed Rate Based on sf Fixed Rate Per Credit
USGBC Members $2,000 $0.040 $2,000 $500
Non-Members $2,250 $0.045 $22,500 $500
$500
USGBC Members $500 $0.010 $5,000 $500
Non-Members $750 $0.015 $7,500 $500
$500
USGBC Members $2,250 $0.045 $22,500 $500
Non-Members $2,750 $0.055 $27,500 $500
$500
Fixed Rate Based on SF Fixed Rate Per Credit
USGBC Members $1,500 $0.030 $15,000 $500
Non-Members $2,000 $0.040 $2,000 $500
$500
USGBC Members $750 $0.015 $7,500 $500
Non-Members $1,000 $0.020 $10,000 $500
$500
Fixed Rate Per Credit
USGBC Members $3,250 $500
Non-Members $4,250 $500
Expedited Fee $500
$220 for all rating systems CIR's
LEED 2009: EB O&M
$10,000 regardless of sf
LEED 2009: Core & Shell
Precertification
Expedited Fee
Recertification Review
Project Certification Fees
Project Certification fees depend on USGBC membership status and the sf of the building
Project Registration fees not included
LEED 2009: NC, CS &CI
Design Review
Project Certification Rates: Effective 01 January, 2010
Expedited Fee
Expedited Fee
Expedited Fee
Expedited Fee
Construction Review
Combined Design & Construction Review
Initial Certification Review
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Chapter 14 |
Application Submittal Process
Split Review
Time
25 days
25 days
15 days
25 days
25 days
15 days
GBCI shall review and return comments for all credits and prerequisites included in the
response to the preliminary Design Review. The Owner shall then accept or appeal the final
Design Review (see II. Appeals by Owner of CIRs and Credits/Prerequisites)
"anticipated"
"denied"
Application for Construction Review
Following completion of the Design Review phase and within 2 (two) years of substantial
project completion, the Owner shall submit, via LEED Online, a complete application for
Construction Review. A complete application for Construction Review must include payment
of the Construction Review fee and complete submittal documentation for 1) all prerequisites
not reviewed during the Design Review phase, 2) at least one construction credit. The
application for Construction Review may also include complete submittal documentation for
design credits not reviewed during the Design Review phase. The application for Construction
Review must contain enough credits (including the credits marked as anticipated during the
final Design Review) to result in the minimum number of points required for certification.
Preliminary Construction Review
application for Construction Review. Additionally, credits marked as anticipated during the
Design Review will be marked as either awarded or denied.
"awarded"
"pending"
"denied"
Response to Preliminary Construction Review
The Owner may submit, via LEED Online, a response to the preliminary Construction Review.
Said response must include revised documentation for any prerequisite or credit submitted
with the initial application for Design Review.
Final Construction Review
response to the preliminary Construction Review.The Owner shall then accept or appeal the
final Construction Review (see II. Appeals by Owner of CIRs and Credits/Prerequisites)
"awarded"
"denied"
Final Design Review
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Core & Shell
Application for Split Review: Design Review and Construction Review
Ruling
Application for Design Review
Prior to substantial project completion (defined as the date on which the building receives a
Certificate of Occupancy or similar official indication that it is ready for use), the Project
Administrator, Project Manager, Project Owner or other Project Representative (hereinafter,
the Owner) shall submit, via LEED Online, a complete application for Design Review. A
complete application for Design Review must include payment of the Design Review fee and
complete submittal documentation for at least one design credit or prerequisite.
Preliminary Design Review
GBCI shall review and return preliminary comments for all credits and prerequisites included in
the application for Design Review.
"anticipated"
"pending"
"denied"
Response to Preliminary Design Review
The Owner may submit, via LEED Online, a response to the preliminary Design Review. Said
response must include revised documentation for any prerequisite or credit submitted with
the initial application for Design Review.
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Chapter 14 |
Application Submittal Process
Combined Review and Appeal Process
Time
25 days
25 days
15 days
If a Project Team wishes to challenge a GBCI determination as to the satisfaction of a Minimum Program Requirement, Prerequisite
and/or Credit, or challenge a response to a project Credit Interpretation Request, the Project Team may initiate the appeal process.
First Level Appeal
To initiate this process, the Project Team must submit a first level appeal to GBCI within twenty-five (25) business days from the
applicable action or determination by GBCI. All first level appeals must be provided to GBCI through LEED Online. The Project Team
must remit the appeal fee as well as submit the following information to establish the basis for the appeal: 1) supplemental
documentation supporting such Minimum Program Requirement, Prerequisite and/or Credit; as well as 2) an explanation addressing
the issues in the technical advice provided with the denial of the Minimum Program Requirement, Prerequisite and/or Credit. If the
appeal pertains to a response to a Credit Interpretation Request, the Project Team must include an explanation addressing the
contested guidance provided with the Credit Interpretation Request response. GBCI will acknowledge filing of the appeal within five
(5) business days. GBCI representatives not previously involved in evaluating the relevant requirement for the Project will review the
appeal documentation and explanation provided by the Project Team. GBCI will render a decision on the appeal and notify the
Project Team of such decision within twenty (20) business days from the initial filing of the appeal. GBCIs appeal decision shall
include identification of the technical basis underlying such decision.
Final Level Appeal
A Project Team may initiate a final level appeal in order to challenge a first level appeal decision. The Project Team must submit the
final level appeal, using LEED Online, within twenty-five (25) business days after receiving notice from GBCI as to the determination
of the first level appeal. The Appeals Board will endeavor to meet within 60 calendar days. It shall render a decision, including a brief
description of its reasons, based on the record below and written briefs (if any) without an oral hearing, within ten (10) business days
of the meeting of the Appeals Board. Decisions of the Appeals Board shall be by majority vote. The decisions of the Appeals Board
shall be final.
Application for Combined (Standard) Review
Ruling
The Owner may submit, via LEED Online, a response to the preliminary Standard Review. Said
response must include revised documentation for any prerequisite or credit submitted with
the initial application for Design Review.
Final Standard Review
response to the preliminary Standard Review. The Owner shall then accept or appeal the final
Construction Review (see II. Appeals by Owner of CIRs and Credits/Prerequisites)
"awarded"
"denied"
Application for Operations & Maintenance O&M or Combined Design & Construction (D&C) Review (Hereafter
Standard Review)
Appeals Policy
Within two (2) years of substantial project completion (Combined D&C only, see LEED-EB: O&M
rating system for O&M timeline requirements), the Owner shall submit, via LEED Online, a
complete application for Standard Review. A complete application for Standard Review must
include payment of the Standard Review fee and complete submittal documentation for 1) all
prerequisites and enough credits to result in the minimum number of points required for
certification.
Preliminary Standard Review
application for Standard Review.
"anticipated"
"pending"
"denied"
Response to Preliminary Standard Review
Project Certification Application Process
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Chapter 14 |
Commissioning Authority
Party Acting as Commissioning Authority (CxA)
Enhanced Commissioning
Credit
3 4 5
< 50,000 (sf) >= 50,000 (sf)
Employee or subcontractor of general contractor with construction
responsibilities
Yes
Employee or subcontractor, with construction responsibilities, of
construction manager who holds construction contracts
Yes
Employee or subcontractor, with project design responsibilities, of the
architect or engineer of record
Yes
Disinterested employee or subcontractor of general contractor or
construction manager
1
Yes Yes
Disinterested employee of architect or engineer
1
Yes Yes
Disinterested subcontractor to architect or engineer
1
Yes Yes Yes
Construction manager not holding construction contracts Yes Yes Yes
Independent consultant contracted to Owner Yes Yes Yes
Owner employee or staff Yes Yes Yes
5 Regardless of who employees the CxA, the CxA "shall have documented commissioning authority experience in at least two
building projects" and ideally meet the minimum qualifications of having "a high level of experience in energy systems design,
installation and operation, commissioning planning and process management, hands on field experience with energy systems
performance, interaction, startup, balancing, testing, troubleshooting, operation and maintenance procedures and energy
systems automation control knowledge."
Fundamental
Commissioning
Prerequisite
2 4 5
1 "Disinterested" means an employee or subcontractor who has no project responsibilities other than commissioning
2 EAp1 requirements
3 EAc3 requirements (the CxA must review the owner's project requirements (OPR), basis of design (BOD) and design
documents prior to midconstruction documents phase and perform a back check)
4 The came CxA overseeing the enhanced commissioning tasks must also oversee the fundamental commissioning tasks
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Chapter 14 |
Tasks and Responsibilities
Project
Phases
Rating System
Tasks
Fundamental Enhanced
Request for proposal
Architect and engineer
selection
1 Designate commissioning authority (CxA)
EAp1, Task 1
EAc3, Task 1
Owner or
Project Team
Owner or
Project Team
Owner's project
requirements (OPR);
basis of design (BOD)
2
Document owner's project requirements
(OPR); Develop basis of design (BOD)
EAp1, Task 2
Owner or CxA*
Design Team
Owner or CxA*
Design Team
Schematic design 3
Review owner's project requirements
(OPR) and basis of design (BOD)
EAp1, Task 2
EAc3, Task 2
CxA** CxA
Design development 4
Develop and implement commissioning
plan
EAp1, Task 4
Project Team or
CxA*
Project Team or
CxA
Construction
documents
5
Incorporate commissioning requirements
into construction documents
EAp1, Task 3
Project Team or
CxA*
Project Team or
CxA
Construction
documents
6
Conduct commissioning design review
prior to midconstruction documents
EAc3, Task 2 N/A CxA
Equipment
procurement
Equipment installation
7
Review contractor submittals applicable
to systems being commissioned
Functional testing
Test and balance
Performance testing
acceptance
8
Verify installation and performance of
commissioned systems
EAp1, Task 5 CxA CxA
Operations and
Maintenance (O&M)
manuals
9
Develop systems manual for
commissioned systems
EAc3, Task 4 N/A
Project Team or
CxA
O&M training 10
Verify that requirements for training are
completed
EAc3, Task 5 N/A
Project Team or
CxA
Substantial completion 11
Complete a summary commissioning
report
EAp1, Task 6 CxA CxA
Systems monitoring 12
Review building operation within 10
months after substantial completion
RED indicates EAc3, Enhanced Commissioning, tasks only
** Some commissioning tasks can be performed by the owner or other project team members. However, the review of the
owner's project requirements (OPR) and basis of design (BOD) must be performed by the CxA. For EAp1, Fundamental
Commissioning, this may be performed at any time before verification of equipment installation and acceptance.
Predesign/Design Phase
Construction Phase
Occupancy
Commissioning Tasks
1 - 12
* Although EAp1 does not require the CxA to be on the project team until just before the equipment installation phase, if
brought in earlier the CxA can also help the owner develop the project requirements and assist with other commissioning tasks.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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Chapter 14 |
SUSTAINABLE SITES (SS)
SSp1
Construction Activity
Pollution Prevention
2003 EPA Construction General Permit: A set of provisions construction operators must follow to
comply with NPDES stormwater regulations
OR
Local Codes if more stringent
SSp2
Environmental
Site Assessment
ASTM E1527-05 Phase I Environmental Assessment: A report prepared that identifies potential or
existing environmental contamination liabilities but does not collect physical samples or chemical
analysis
ASTM E1903-97 Phase II Environmental Site Assessment: An investigation that collects samples of
soil, groundwater or building materials to analyze for quantitative values of various contaminants
SSc1
Site Selection
U.S. Department of Agriculture, United States Code of Federal Regulations Title 7, Volume 6,
Parts 400 to 699, Section 657.5: Standard that defines prime farmland
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Definition of 100 Year Flood: The flood
elevation that has a 1% chance of being reached or exceeded each yea
Endangered Species List (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, List of Threatened and Endangered
Species): Addresses threatened and endangered wildlife and plants
National Marine Fisheries Services, List of Endangered Marine Species: In addition to this federal
list, state agencies provide state specific lists
United States Code of Federal Regulations, 40 CFR, Parts 230 -233, and Part 22, Definition of
Wetlands: Addresses wetlands and discharges of dredge or filled material into water regulated by states
SSc2
Development Density and
Community Connectivity
No Referenced Standards
SSc3
Brownfield
Redevelopment
U.S. EPA, Definition of Brownfields (EPA Sustainable Redevelopment of Brownfields Program)
ASTM E1527-05 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment: A report prepared that identifies potential
or existing environmental contamination liabilities but does not collect physical samples or chemical
analysis
ASTM E1903-97 Phase II Environmental Site Assessment: An investigation that collects samples of
soil, groundwater or building materials to analyze for quantitative values of various contaminants
SSc4.1
Public Transportation
Access
SSc4.2
Bicycle Storage &
Changing Rooms
SSc4.3
Low-Emitting &
Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
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Chapter 14 |
SSc4.4
Parking Capacity
Institute of Transportation Engineers, Parking Generation Study, 2003: Database of studies for
various types of parking demands
SSc5.1
Site Development
Protect or Restore Habitat
SSc5.2
Site Development
Maximize Open Space
SSc6.1
Stormwater Design
Quantity Control
SSc6.2
Stormwater Design
Quality Control
SSc7.1
Heat Island Effect
Nonroof
ASTM E408-71(1996) e1, Standard Test Methods for Total Normal Emittance of Surfaces Using
Inspection Meter Techniques: Describes how to measure total normal Emittance of surfaces
ASTM C1371-04a, Standard Test Method for Determination of Emittance of Materials Near
Room Temperature Using Portable Emissometers: Technique for determination of the emittance of
typical materials
ASTM E903-96, Standard Test Method for Solar Absorptance, Reflectance and Transmittance
of Materials Using Integrating Spheres: Energy Star roofing standard for initial reflectance
measurement
ASTM E1918-97, Standard Test Method for Measuring Solar Reflectance of Horizontal and Low
Sloped Surfaces in the Field: Measures solar reflectance in the field
ASTM C1549-04, Standard Test Method for Determination of Solar Reflectance Near Ambient
Temperatures Using a Portable Solar Reflectometer: Technique for determining the solar
reflectance of flat, opaque materials
SSc7.2
Heat Island Effect
Roof
ASTM E1980-01, Standard Practice for Calculating Solar Reflectance Index of Horizontal and
Low Sloped Opaque Surfaces: Describes how surface reflectivity and emissivity are combined to
calculate solar reflectance index (SRI) for a roofing material or other surface
ASTM E408-71(1996)e1, Standard Test Methods for Total Normal Emittance of Surfaces Using
Inspection Meter Techniques: Describes how to measure total normal Emittance of surfaces
ASTM E903-96, Standard Test Method for Solar Absorptance, Reflectance and Transmittance of
Materials Using Integrating Spheres: Energy Star roofing standard for initial reflectance
measurement
ASTM E1918-97, Standard Test Method for Measuring Solar Reflectance of Horizontal and Low
Sloped Surfaces in the Field: Measures solar reflectance in the field
ASTM C1371-04a, Standard Test Method for Determination of Emittance of Materials Near
Room Temperature Using Portable Emissometers: Technique for determination of the emittance of
typical material
ASTM C1549-04, Standard Test Method for Determination of Solar Reflectance Near Ambient
Temperatures Using a Portable Solar Reflectometer: Technique for determining the solar
reflectance of flat, opaque materials
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SSc8
Light Pollution
Reduction
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low Rise Residential
Lighting, Section 9 (without amendments): Establishes exterior lighting power densities (LPD) for
buildings
SSc9
Tenant Design &
Construction Guidelines
SSc9
Site Master Plan
SSc10
Joint Use of Facilities
WATER EFFICIENCY (WE)
WEp1
Water Use
Reduction
The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 (and as amended): Addresses energy and water use in
commercial, institutional and residential facilities
The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005: Statute that became U.S. law in August 2005
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Publication/American National
Standards Institute IAPMO/ANSI UPC 1-2006, Uniform Plumbing Code 206, Section 402.0,
Water Conserving Fixtures and Fittings: PC defines water conserving fixtures and fittings for water
closets, urinals and metered faucets
International Code Council, International Plumbing Code 2006, Section 604, Design of
Building Water Distribution System: Defines maximum flow rates and consumption for plumbing
fixtures and fittings, including public and private lavatories, showerheads, sink faucets, urinals and water
closets
WEc1
Water Efficient
Landscaping
WEc2
Innovative
Wastewater
Technologies
WEc3
Water Use Reduction
WEc4
Process Water
Use Reduction
The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 (and as amended): Addresses energy and water use in
commercial, institutional and residential facilities
The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005: Statute that became U.S. law in August 200
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Publication/American National
Standards Institute IAPMO/ANSI UPC 1-2006, Uniform Plumbing Code 206, Section 402.0,
Water Conserving Fixtures and Fittings: UPC defines water conserving fixtures and fittings for water
closets, urinals and metered faucets
International Code Council, International Plumbing Code 2006, Section 604, Design of
Building Water Distribution System: Defines maximum flow rates and consumption for plumbing
fixtures and fittings, including public and private lavatories, showerheads, sink faucets, urinals and water
closets
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ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA)
EAp1
Fundamental
Commissioning of
Building Energy Systems
EAp2
Minimum Energy
Performance
ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low Rise
Residential: Establishes minimum requirements for the energy efficient design of buildings using
mandatory provisions and additional prescriptive requirements
California T-24-2005: granted parallel equivalency to ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2007
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Office Buildings, 2004: Achieves advanced
levels of energy savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for office buildings up to
20,000 sf
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings,
2008: Achieves advanced levels of energy savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for
warehouses up to 50,000 sf and self storage buildings that use unitary heating and air conditioning
equipment
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Guide for K-12 School Buildings: Achieves advanced levels of energy
savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for elementary, middle and high school
buildings
New Building Institute, Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide: Provides a predictable New Building Institute, Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide: Provides a predictable
alternative to energy performance modeling and a simple set of criteria for increasing building energy
performance
Energy Star Program, Target Finder Rating Tool: A government partnership managed by the EPA
and DOE as an online tool that can establish energy performance goals for a project
EAp3
Fundamental
Refrigerant
Management
U.S. EPA Clean Air Act, Title VI, Section 608, Compliance with the Section 608 Refrigerant
Recycling Rule: Regulations on using and recycling ozone depleting compounds
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ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA)
EAc1
Optimize
Energy
Performance
mandatory provisions and additional prescriptive requirements
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Office Buildings, 2004: Achieves advanced
levels of energy savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for office buildings up to
20,000 sf
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings,
2008: Achieves advanced levels of energy savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for
warehouses up to 50,000 sf and self storage buildings that use unitary heating and air conditioning
equipment
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Guide for K-12 School Buildings: Achieves advanced levels of energy
savings without having to perform calculations or analysis for elementary, middle and high school
buildings
New Building Institute, Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide: Provides a predictable
alternative to energy performance modeling and a simple set of criteria for increasing building energy
performance
EAc2
On-Site
Renewable
Energy
mandatory provisions and additional prescriptive requirement
Energy
EAc3
Enhanced
Commissioning
EAc4
Enhanced
Refrigerant
Management
EAc5
Measurement
& Verification
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol, Volume III, EVO 30000.1-
2006, Concepts and Options for Determining Energy Savings in New Construction, effective
January, 2006: IPMVP Volume III describes best practice techniques for verifying the energy performance
of new construction projects
EAc5.1
Measurement
& Verification
Base Building
January, 2006: IPMVP Volume III describes best practice techniques for verifying the energy
performance of new construction projects
EAc5.2
Measurement
& Verification
Tenant Submetering
January, 2006: IPMVP Volume III describes best practice techniques for verifying the energy
performance of new construction projects
EAc6
Green Power
Center for Resource Solutions, Green-e Product Certification Requirements: Certifies products
that meet environmental and consumer protection standards developed un conjunction with
environmental, energy and policy organizations. Three types of renewable energy are eligible for Green-e
certification: renewable energy certificates, utility green pricing programs and competitive electricity
products products
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MATERIALS & RESOURCES (MR)
MRp1
Storage & Collection
of Recyclables
MRc1.1
Building Reuse
Maintain Existing
Walls, Floors and Roof
MRc1
Building Reuse
Maintain Existing
Walls, Floors and Roof
MRc1.2
Building Reuse
Maintain Interior
Nonstructural Elements
MRc2
Construction
Waste Management
MRc3
Materials Reuse
MRc4
Recycled Content
International Standard ISO 14021-1999, Environmental Labels and Declarations - Self
Declared Environmental Claims (Type II Environmental Labeling): Specifies requirements for self
declared environmental claims including statements, symbols and graphics for products
MRc5
Regional Materials
MRc6
Rapidly Renewable
Materials
MRc7
Certified Wood
MRc6
Certified Wood
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
IEQp1
Minimum Indoor
Air Quality Performance
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007: Ventilation for
Acceptable Indoor Air Quality: Specifies minimum standard ventilation rates and IAQ levels
IEQp2
Environmental Tobacco
Smoke (ETS) Control
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASTM-E779-03, Standard Test Method for
Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization: Standard for measuring air leakage rates
through a building envelope under controlled pressurization and depressurization
Residential Manual for Compliance with California's 2001 Energy Efficiency Standards (For Low
Rise Residential Buildings),Chapter 4: Standard for the quality of design and construction of
mechanical ventilation systems and air distribution systems
Forest Stewardship Council Principles and Criteria: Seal of approval awarded to forest managers
who adopt environmentally and socially responsible forest management practices and to companies that
manufacture and sell products made from certified wood
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Chapter 14 |
IEQp3
Minimum
Acoustical
Performance
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard S12.60-2002, Acoustical
Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools: Standard for acoustical
performance criteria and design requirements for classrooms and other learning spaces
ASHRAE Handbook, Chapter 47, Sound and Vibration Control, 2003 HVAC Applications:
Addresses sound and vibration from mechanical equipment
IEQc1
Outdoor Air
Delivery Monitoring
IEQc2
Increased Ventilation
Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Application Manual 10-2005,
Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings: CIBSE Applications Manual 10-2005 provides
guidance for implementing natural ventilation in nonresidential buildings
IEQc3.1
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
During Construction
IEQc3
Construction IAQ
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA) IAQ Guidelines
for Occupied Buildings under Construction, 2nd edition, Chapter 3, November 2007: Guidelines
for maintaining healthful indoor air quality during demolitions, renovations and construction
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 52.2-1999: Method of
Testing General Ventilation Air Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by Particle Size:
Standard for methods for testing air cleaners for 2 performance characteristics: the device's capacity for
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
During Construction
IEQc3.2
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
Before Occupancy
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Compendium for the Determination of Air
Pollutants in Indoor Air: Provides regional, state and local environmental regulatory agencies with
step-by-step sampling and analysis procedures for the determination of selected pollutants in indoor air
IEQc4.1
Low Emitting Materials
Adhesives and Sealants
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Amendment to South Coast Rule
1168, VOC Limits, effective January 7, 2005: VOC limits for adhesives, sealants and sealant primers
Green Seal Standard GC-36, effective October 19,2000: VOC limits for aerosol adhesives
IEQc4.2
Paints and Coatings
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings:
VOC limits for paints and coatings
Green Seal Standard GC-03: VOC limits for anti-corrosive and anti-rust paints
Green Seal Standard GS-11: VOC limits for commercial flat and nonflat paints
Standard for methods for testing air cleaners for 2 performance characteristics: the device's capacity for
removing particles from the air stream and the device's resistance to airflow
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Chapter 14 |
IEQc4.3
Flooring Systems
Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Green Label Plus and Green Label Testing Program: CRI is a trade
organization representing the carpet and rug industry. Green Label Plus is an independent testing
program that identifies carpet and carpet cushions with low VOC emissions. Green Label addresses carpet
cushions
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168, VOC Limits: VOC limits for
adhesives
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings :
VOC limits for paints and coatings
FloorScore Program: Tests and certifies flooring products for compliance with indoor air quality
emission requirements. Products include vinyl, linoleum, laminate flooring, wood flooring, ceramic
flooring, rubber flooring and wall base
California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile Organic
Emissions from Various Sources Using Small Scale Environmental Chambers, including 2004
Addenda: Testing practice that applies to any newly manufactured material generally used within an
enclosed indoor environment. Excluded is testing of all products that cannot be tested whole or by
representative sample in small scale environmental chambers
State of California Standard 1350, Section 9, Standard Practice for the Testing of Volatile
Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small Scale Environmental Chambers, Testing
Criteria : Specifies testing criteria for carpet emissions that will satisfy the credit requirements
FOR SCHOOLS:
IEQc4.4
Composite Wood
& Agrifiber Products
FOR SCHOOLS:
IEQc4.5
Furniture and Furnishings
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Business and Institutional Furniture Makers
Association (BIFMA) X7.1-2007 Standard for Formaldehyde and TVOC Emissions of Low
Emitting Office Furniture Systems and Seating: Standard for Formaldehyde and TVOC Emissions of
Low Emitting Office Furniture and Seating
BIFMA International: Defines the criteria for office furniture VOC emissions to be classified as low
emitting products
Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Large Chamber Test Protocol for Measuring
Emissions of VOCs and Aldehydes, effective September 1999: Protocol that requires the
placement of the seating product or furniture assembly to be tested in a climatically controlled chamber
Greenguard Certification Program: Performance based standards to define goods with low
chemical emissions for use indoors, primarily for building materials; interior furnishings; furniture;
electronics; and cleaning, maintenance and personal care products
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Chapter 14 |
IEQc4.6
Ceiling and Wall Systems
IEQc5
Indoor Chemical
& Pollutant Source Control
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 52.2-1999: Method of Testing
General Ventilation Air Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by Particle Size: Standard for
methods for testing air cleaners for 2 performance characteristics: the device's capacity for removing
particles from the air stream and the device's resistance to airflow
IEQc6.1
Controllability of Systems
Lighting
IEQc6.2
Thermal Comfort
IEQc6
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007: Ventilation Rate
for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality: Standard providing minimum requirements for operable openings
at 4% of the net habitable floor area
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 55-2004: Thermal
Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy: Identifies the factors of thermal comfort and the
process for developing comfort criteria for a building space and its occupants. Indoor space
environmental and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental conditions acceptable to
80% of the occupants within a space. The environmental factors addressed are: temperature, thermal
Thermal Comfort
IEQc7.1
Thermal Comfort
Design
IEQc7
Thermal Comfort
Design
IEQc7.2
Thermal Comfort
Verification
radiation, humidity and air speed. The personal factors are: activity and clothing
Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Application Manual 10-2005,
Natural Ventilation in Non-Domestic Buildings: CIBSE Applications Manual 10-2005 provides
guidance for implementing natural ventilation in nonresidential building
SCHOOLS:
ASHRAE HVAC Applications Handbook, 2003 edition, Chapter 4 (Places of Assembly), Typical
Natatorium Design Conditions: ASHRAE handbook to help design engineers use equipment and
systems
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Chapter 14 |
IEQc8.1
Daylight and Views
Daylight
ASTM D1003-07e1, Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of
Transparent Plastics: Tests the specific light transmitting and wide angle light scattering properties of
planer sections of materials
IEQc8.2
Daylight and Views
Views
IEQc9
Enhanced
Acoustical Performance
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard S12.60-2002, Acoustical
Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools: Standard for acoustical
performance criteria for classrooms and other learning spaces
ASHRAE Handbook, Chapter 47, Sound and Vibration Control, 2003 HVAC Applications:
Addresses sound and vibration from mechanical equipment
IEQc10
Mold Prevention
Building Air Quality: A Guide for Building Owners and Facility Managers, EPA Reference
Number 402-F-91-102, effective December 1991:Provides information on factors affecting IAQ and
how to develop and manage an IAQ profile
INNOVATION in DESIGN (ID)
IDc1.1
IDc1.2
IDc1.3
IDc1.4
IDc1.5
IDc2
LEED
Accredited Professional
IDc3
The School
as a Teaching Tool
REGIONAL PRIORITY (RP)
RPc1.1
Regional Priority
Refer project zip code applicable Regional Priority credits
RPc1.2
Regional Priority
RPc1.3
Regional Priority
RPc1.4
Regional Priority
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Credit Interactions
SSp1
Construction Activity Pollution Prevention
Minimizing site disturbance and preventing soil and erosion assists SSc5.1 &
SSc5.2
Limiting disturbance of natural hydrology assists SSc6. & SSc6.2
SSc5.1: Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat
SSc5.2: Site Development - Maximize Open Space
SSc6.1: Stormwater Design - Quantity Control
SSc6.2: Stormwater Design - Quality Control
Ssp2
Environmental Site Assessment
Projects conducting environmental site assessments are eligible to achieve SSc3
SSc3: Brownfield Redevelopment
SSc1
Site Selection
Previously developed sites are likely to public transportation and connectivity
and have an opportunity to remediate a contaminated site SSc2, SSc3 & SSc4.1
Limiting development footprint protects sensitive areas, SSc5.1 & SSc5.2
Credit SSc1 can assist stormwater design SSc6.1 & SSc6.2
SSc2: Development Density and Community Connectivity
SSc4.1: Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access
SSc2
Development Density and Community Connectivity
Channeling development toward urban areas increases the likelihood of
locating on a previously developed site, SSc1, and near public transportation
SSc4.1
SSc1: Site Selection
SSc4.1: Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access
SSc3
Brownfield Redevelopment
Projects developing on Brownfield sites are likely to qualify for SSc1
SSc4.1
Alt. Transportation - Public Transportation Access
Sites located near public transportation are likely to be previously developed
sites, SSc1, and near urban areas SSc2
SSc4.2
Alt. Transportation - Bicycle Storage and Changing Rooms
Paving materials added for paving bicycle lanes can affect stormwater design
SSc6.1 & SSc6.2 and alter heat island effects, SSc7.1
SSc7.1: Heat Island Effect - Nonroof
SSc4.3
Alt. Transportation - Low-Emitting and Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Projects that provide preferred parking without increasing the parking capacity
may be eligible for SSc4.4
SSc4.4: Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity
SSc4.4
Alt. Transportation - Parking Capacity
Minimizing surface parking can enhance the qualities of open space, SSc5.1 &
SSc5.2
Change the stormwater design, SSc6.1 & SSc6.2
Reduce heat island effects, SSc7.1
SSc5.1
Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat
Protecting or restoring habitat provides open space, SSc5.2
Reduces impervious areas, thereby reducing the quantity and increasing the
quality of stormwater, SSc6.1 & SSc6.2
Reduces heat island effects, SSc7.1 & SSc7.2
Allows for the use of native vegetation to reduce landscaping irrigation
requirements, WEc1
SSc7.2: Heat Island Effect - Roof
WEc1: Water Efficient Landscaping
SSc5.2
Site Development - Maximize Open Space
Maximizing open spaces may improve stormwater quantities and qualities,
SSc6.1 & SSc6.2
Increasing the amount of open space can reduce heat island effects, SSC7.1 &
SSc7.2
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Credit Interactions
SSc6.1
Stormwater Design - Quantity Control
Reducing the rate and quantity of stormwater reduces filtration requirements,
SSc6.2
Reducing impervious surfaces by using pervious surfaces, vegetated roofs and
vegetated open spaces can contribute to SSc5.1, SSC5.2, SSc7.1 & SSc7.2
Harvesting rainwater reduces stormwater runoff and can be reused for
irrigation,
WEc1, and nonpotable needs inside the building, WEc3
Projects in dense urban areas that earn SSc2 may have difficulty achieving credit
SSc6.1
WEc3: Water Use Reduction
SSc6.2
Stormwater Design - Quality Control
Projects Using best management practices (BMP) to capture and treat runoff
reducing the runoff volume, affects the stormwater quality, SSc6.2
Reducing impervious surfaces by using pervious surfaces, vegetated roofs and
vegetated open spaces can contribute to SSc5.1, SSC5.2, SSc7.1 & SSc7.2
Using BMPs for rain gardens, vegetated swales, rainwater harvesting, etc. can
assist with earning WEc1
SSc7.2: Heat Island Effect: Roof
SSc7.1
Locating parking structures underground will assist with SSc5.2 The use of open
grid pavements to capture and treat stormwater runoff can contribute to SSc6.1
& SSc6.2
Vegetation used to shade hardscapes can also help reduce landscaping
irrigation requirements, WEc1
SSc7.2
Heat Island Effect - Roof
Vegetated roofs help capture and treat stormwater, SSc6.1 & SSc6.2
Using highly reflective roofing materials can reduce cooling loads, EAc1
Vegetated roofs can also reduce the amount of rainwater harvesting that can
be used for nonpotable purposes, thereby making it more challenging to
achieve WEc3
SSc6.2: Stormwater Control - Quality Control
EAc1: Optimize Energy Performance
SSc8
Energy savings beyond the baseline lighting power density (LPD) established by
ASHRAE 90.1 may contribute to EAc1
Automatic occupancy controls to shut off interior perimeter lighting assists
IEQc6.1
EAc1: Optimize energy Performance
IEQc6.1: Controllability of Systems - Lighting
SSc9
Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines
Credit SSc9 is related to all these LEED Core & Shell credits the project pursues
EAc3: Enhanced Commissioning
EAc5: Measurement and Verification
IEQp2: Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control
IEQc2: Increased Ventilation
IEQc3: Construction IAQ Management Plan
IEQc5: Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control
IEQc6: Controllability of Systems
IEQc7: Thermal Comfort
IEQc8: Daylighting and Views
SSc9
Site Master Plan
LEED for Schools requires the achievement and recalculation of (4) of these (7)
credits for compliance: SSc1, 5.1, 5.2,6.1,6.2, 7.1 and 8.1
Possible community partnerships may result from pursuit of this credit, SSc10
SSc8: Light Pollution Reduction
SSc10: Joint Use of Facilities
SSc10
Joint Use of Facilities
This credit likely will place the project in the proximity of the school to services
and institutions within the neighborhood, SSc2
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Credit Interactions
WEp1
Water Use Reduction
Efforts to increase rainwater harvesting, increase greywater use and decrease in
demand on local water aquifers may support SSc6.1, SSc6.2, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3
and WEc4
Additional energy use may be needed for certain reuse strategies requiring
EAp1, EAc3 and EAc5
WEc2: Innovative Wastewater Technologies
WEc4: Process Water Use Reduction (Schools)
EAp1: Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems
WEc1
Water Efficient Landscaping
Using native or adaptive vegetation can assist with SSc5.1, SSc5.2 and SSc7.2
Rainwater capturing can help managing stormwater runoff, SSc6.1 and SSc6.2
Landscaping can mitigate climate conditions and reduce building energy
consumption by shading hardscapes and south facing windows and aiding
passive solar design, contributing to SSc7.1, EAp2 and EAc1
SSc5.1: Site Development - Protect or Restore
EAp2: Minimum Energy Performance
WEc2
Innovative Wastewater Technologies
demand on local water aquifers may support SSc6.1, SSc6.2, WEp1, WEc1,
WEc2, WEc3 and WEc4
Additional energy use may be needed for certain reuse strategies requiring
EAp1, EAc3 and EAc5
WEp1: Water Use Reduction
WEc3
Water Use Reduction
demand on local water aquifers may support SSc6.1, SSc6.2, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3
and WEc4
Additional energy use may be needed for certain reuse strategies possibly
requiring credits EAp1, EAc3 and EAc5
WEc4
Process Water Use Reduction
Some water saving technologies affect energy performance and may require
commissioning and measurement/verification, EAp1 and EAc5
WATER EFFICIENCY (WE)
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Credit Interactions
EAp1
Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems
LEED encourages the commissioning of energy using systems in these credits:
SSc8, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3, EAc1, EAc2, EAc5, IEQp1, IEQc1, IEQc2, IEQc5, IEQc6
and IEQc7
EAp1 establishes the minimum threshold for commissioning that is used for
enhanced commissioning, EAc3
EAc2: On-site Renewable Energy
IEQp1: Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
IEQc1: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
EAp2
Minimum Energy Performance
LEED for NC, Schools and CS address building energy efficiency in 2 places:EAp2
and EAc1
Energy consumption can be reduced by ensuring the project exceeds building
code requirements for the envelope, lighting and HVAC systems, EAc1, using
climatically appropriate roofing materials, SSc7.2, and optimizing exterior
lighting, SSc8
Energy use can be mitigated by using renewable energy, EAc3 and EAc6
Building energy performance and indoor environmental issues such as
increased ventilation, occupant controllability and the amount of daylight must
be carefully coordinated. Increased ventilation may require additional energy
use, which in turn can cause air and water pollution. The additional need for
energy may be mitigated by considering these strategies: IEQp1, IEQc1, IEQc2,
IEQc6, IEQc7 and IEQc8
Because water use, especially domestic hot water, requires significant energy
use, water use reductions can lead to energy savings, WEc3 and WEc4
EAc6: Green Power
IEQc8: Daylight and Views
EAp3
Fundamental Refrigerant Management
EAp3 establishes minimum thresholds for refrigerant selection while greater
environmental benefits can be achieved by using environmentally preferable or
no refrigerants, EAc4
EAc4: Enhanced Refrigerant Management
EAc1
Optimize Energy Performance
LEED for NC, Schools and CS address building energy efficiency in 2 places:EAp2
and EAc1
Energy consumption can be reduced by ensuring the project exceeds building
code requirements for the envelope, lighting and HVAC systems, EAc1using
climatically appropriate roofing materials, SSc7.2, and optimizing exterior
lighting, SSc8
Energy use can be mitigated by using renewable energy, EAc3 and EAc6
Building energy performance and indoor environmental issues such as
increased ventilation, occupant controllability and the amount of daylight must
be carefully coordinated. Increased ventilation may require additional energy
use, which in turn can cause air and water pollution. The additional need for
energy may be mitigated by considering these strategies: IEQp1, IEQc1, IEQc2,
IEQc6, IEQc7 and IEQc8
Because water use, especially domestic hot water, requires significant energy
use, water use reductions can lead to energy savings, WEc3 and WEc4
EAp2: Minimize Energy Performance
EAc6: Green Power
WEc4: Process Water Use Reduction (LEED for Schools only)
ENERGY AND ATMOSPHERE (EA)
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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Credit Interactions
EAc2
On-Site Renewable Energy
The installation of renewable energy equipment usually has only a small effect
on the achievement of other credits but does require commissioning, EAp1, and
measurement and verification, EAc5
The achievement of on-site renewable energy, EAc2, is a percentage of the
building's energy use and tied to the building's energy performance, EAp2 and
EAc1
EAc2 reduces the amount of green power needed, EAc6
EAc6: Green Power
EAc3
Enhanced Commissioning
LEED encourages the commissioning of energy using systems in these credits:
SSc8, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3, EAc1, EAc2, EAc5, IEQp1, IEQc1, IEQc2, IEQc5, IEQc6
and IEQc7
EAc3 goes beyond the minimum threshold established by EAp1
EAp1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy
Systems
EAc4
Enhanced Refrigerant Management
EAc4 encourages the use of no refrigerants or environmentally preferable
refrigerants and goes beyond the baseline prerequisite EAp3 Since building
cooling equipment consumes a large part of the energy use, HVAC&R
equipment plays a significant role in the building's energy performance, EAp2 &
EAc1
Systems addressed by EAc4 can help meet the thermal comfort needs of the
building occupants, IEQc7, IEQc7.1 and IEQc7.2
EAp3: Fundamental Refrigerant Management
IEQc7.1: (CS IEQc7): Thermal Comfort - Design
IEQc7.2: Thermal Comfort - Verification
EAc5
Measurement and Verification
Implementation of a measurement & verification (M&V) plan can contribute to
realizing optimal energy performance, EAp2 & EAc1
On-site renewable energy generation systems are considered within an M&V
plan
Commissioning uses measurement devices and often tracks building
performance and can serve as a basis for a M&V plan, EAp1 & EAc3
Systems
EAc5.1 Measurement and Verification - Base Building refer EAc5
EAc5.2 Measurement and Verification - Tenant Submetering refer EAc5
EAc6
Green Power
Replacing conventional energy sources with renewable energy sources works
synergistically with efforts to reduce energy costs, EAc1
Replacing roofing materials with roof mounted renewable energy
sources reduces heat island effect, SSc7.2
Renewable energy sources should be commissioned, EAp1 & EAc3
Systems
ENERGY AND ATMOSPHERE (EA)
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Credit Interactions
MRp1
Storage and Collection of Recyclables
Projects can seek ID credit for educational outreach
CS projects should address recycling within tenant guidelines, SSc9
IDc1: Innovation in Design
SSc9: Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines
MRc1.1
Building Reuse - Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof
Develop a comprehensive reuse management plan on an adaptive reuse project
If reuse is not enough to meet the requirements of MRc1, these materials may be
applied to MRc2 or MRc3, but not both
MRc2: Construction Waste Management
MRc3: Materials Reuse
MRc1 Building Reuse - Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof refer MRc1.1
MRc1.2Building Reuse - Maintain Interior - Nonstructural Elements refer MRc1.1
MRc2
Construction Waste Management
Projects that reuse existing buildings but do not meet the threshold
requirements for MRc1 may apply the reused portions toward achievement of
MRc2
If the building is found to contain contaminated substances, these materials
should be remediated per EPA, SSc3
MRc1: Building Reuse
MRc3
Materials Reuse
Develop a comprehensive reuse management plan to evaluate materials
meeting the requirements for MRc1 & MRc2
Remanufactured materials are not considered a reuse of the material but can
contribute toward MRc2 & MRc4
The project material costs used for MRc3 must be consistent with those costs
used in MRc4, MRc5 & MRc6
MRc1: Building Reuse
MRc4: Recycled Materials
MRc5: Regional Materials
MRc6: Rapidly Renewable Materials
MRc4
Recycled Content
Coordinate recycled procurement with a waste management plan to make use
of salvaged deconstruction and demolition waste, MRc2 & MRc3
Purchasing new recycled content materials using local waste products that are
remanufactured locally can take advantage of synergies with MRc5
Recycled content materials may contain high VOCs, IEQc4
IEQc4: Low-Emitting Materials
MRc5
Regional Materials
Using regional materials may affect the levels of achievement of MRc3, MRc4 &
MRc5
MRc6
Using rapidly renewable materials may affect the levels of achievement of
MRc3, MRc4 & MRc5
Rapidly renewable materials may contain high VOCs, IEQc4
IEQc4: Low-Emitting Materials
MRc7
Certified Wood
Certified wood (FSC) may be sourced locally, MRc5
Mixed certified wood products may contain urea-formaldehyde, IEQc4.4
IEQc4.4: Low-Emitting Materials - Composite Wood and
Agrifiber
MRc6 Certified Wood refer MRc7
MATERIALS AND RESOURCES (MR)
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Credit Interactions
IEQp1
Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
Commissioning and measurement & verification can improve IAQ while
minimizing energy efficiency losses, EAp1, EAc3 & EAc5
Specify materials and furnishings that do not release VOCs, IEQc4
Occupant activities such as chemical handling and smoking can affect indoor
air quality, IEQc5 & IEQp2
Dense neighborhoods and heavy traffic can affect ventilation, SSc4, where sites
could be contaminated, SSc3
IEQc4: Low Emitting Materials
IEQc5: Indoor Chemical and Pollution Source Control
IEQp2: Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
SSc4: Alternative Transportation
IEQp2
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
Using separate ventilation systems to isolate smoking requires additional
energy, commissioning and measurement & verification, EAp1, EAc1, EAc3 and
EAc5
Indoor and outdoor smoking affects the IAQ performance and is related to
IEQp1, IEQc1 & IEQc2
Project should address smoking related contaminants in conjunction with other
sources of air pollutants, IEQc4 & IEQc5
IEQp3
Minimum Acoustical Performance
Additional strategies to achieve effective acoustical performance, IEQc9
IEQc9: Enhanced Acoustical Performance
IEQc1
Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
Monitoring airflow can alert building operators of potential IAQ problems that
requires increased ventilation, IEQc2 and help the commissioning process and
enable measurement & verification, EAp1, EAc3 & EAc5
Dense neighborhoods, heavy traffic and site contamination can raise CO2 levels
where alternative transportation methods can help alleviate, SSc4
SSc4: Alternative Transportation
IEQc2
Increased Ventilation
Ventilation strategies influence energy performance and requires
commissioning as well as measurement & verification, EAp1, EAc3 & EAc5
Increased mechanical ventilation increase energy consumption and affect EAp2
& EAc1 Installing ventilation monitoring can facilitate the achievement and
maintenance of increased ventilation, IEQc1
IEQc3.1
Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan
During Construction
Construction activities can affect a building after occupancy. Reduce levels of
indoor contaminants by implementing a construction IAQ management plan,
IEQc3.2, selecting low emitting finish materials and furnishings, IEQc4, and
isolating indoor pollutant sources, IEQc5
IEQc3.2: Construction IAQ Mgt Plan - Before Occupancy
IEQc3
During Construction
CS projects are eligible for exemplary performance under ID when an indoor
IAQ management plan is enforced for 100% of the tenants
There are a number of credit synergies between CS and CI offered as incentives
for CS projects to pursue CI certification
IEQc3.1: Construction IAQ Mgt Plan - During Construction
IEQc3.2
Before Occupancy
Comprehensive IAQ management plans consists of best practices both during
construction and after construction prior to occupancy, IEQc3.1
Materials specified and installed within the external moisture barrier, as well as
filtration, can affect air quality and influence the results for air quality testing,
IEQc4 & IEQc5
Dilution of indoor air contaminants can be achieved by introducing outdoor air,
IEQp1 & IEQc2
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Credit Interactions
IEQc4.1
Low Emitting Materials - Adhesives and Sealants
The credit intent is to reduce odorous, irritating or harmful indoor air
contaminants, IEQc4.2, IEQc4.3, IEQc4.4, IEQc4.5 & IEQc4.6
Indoor environmental quality also includes occupant's auditory comfort and
well being, IEQp3 & IEQc9
Scheduling strategies and the use and tracking of building materials are part of
the contractor orientation training, IEQc3.1 & IEQc3.2
Indoor air quality is affected by sources generated within the building IEQp2 &
IEQc5
IEQc4.2: Low Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings
IEQc4.3: Low Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems
IEQc4.4: Low Emitting Materials - Composite Wood & Agrifiber
IEQc4.5: Low Emitting Materials - Furniture & Furnishings
(Schools)
IEQc4.6: Low Emitting Materials - Ceiling and Wall Systems
(Schools)
IEQp3: Minimum Acoustical Performance (Schools)
IEQc9: Enhanced Acoustical Performance (Schools)
IEQc4.2
Low Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings
IEQc5
IEQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials - Adhesives and Sealants
(Schools)
(Schools)
IEQc4.3
Low Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems
IEQc5
(Schools)
(Schools)
IEQc4.4
Low Emitting Materials - Composite Wood and Agrifiber
Products
IEQc5
IEQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials - Sealants and Adhesives
(Schools)
(Schools)
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Credit Interactions
IEQc4.5
Low Emitting Materials - Furniture and Furnishings
IEQc5
(Schools)
IEQc4.6
Low Emitting Materials - Ceiling and Wall Systems
IEQc5
IEQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials - Sealants and Adhesives
(Schools)
IEQc5
Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control
Filtration media can remove contaminants from the air during construction
and during operation, IEQc3.1 & IEQc3.2
Exhausting air can require additional fan energy and require commissioning,
EAc1 & EAp2, EAp1 & EAc3
Filtration systems must be capable of accommodating the filtration media,
IEQp1 & IEQc1
EAp1: Fund. Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems
IEQp1: Minimum Indoor Air Delivery Monitoring
IEQc6.1
Controllability of Systems - Lighting
Lighting systems are affected by window placement, glazing selection for
daylight and views, IEQc8, and zoning strategies employed for thermal comfort
controllability,IEQc6.2
Lighting systems affect energy performance, EAp2 & EAc1and are required to be
commissioned, EAp1 and EAc3
IEQc6.2: Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
IEQc6.2
Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
The intent of this credit is to enable individuals and groups in multioccupant
spaces to control their thermal comfort, systems and maintenance
Eac5: Measurement and Verification
IEQc6.1: Controllability of Systems - Lighting (NC & Schools)
IEQc6 Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort refer IEQc6.2
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Credit Interactions
IEQc7.1
Thermal Comfort - Design
Thermal comfort is affected by environmental conditions (air temperature,
radiant temperature, relative humidity and air speed), personal factors
(metabolic rate and clothing) and personal preferences. Thermal comfort can
be controlled by active (HVAC) and passive (natural ventilation. Using both
active and passive systems, the building's energy consumption can be reduced
as well as optimizing comfort levels, EAp2, EAc1, EAc5
Thermal comfort systems should be commissioned, EAp1 & EAc3
Addressing and maintaining thermal comfort are also covered by IEQp1, IEQc2,
IEQc6.2 & IEQc7.2
IEQc7 Thermal Comfort - Design refer IEQc7.1
IEQc7.2
Thermal Comfort - Verification
Thermal comfort is affected by environmental conditions (air temperature,
radiant temperature, relative humidity and air speed), personal factors
(metabolic rate and clothing) and personal preferences. Thermal comfort
systems should be measured & verified, EAc5, monitored, IEQp1, and
commissioned, EAp1 & EAc3
Achieving thermal comfort by ventilation, IEQc2, and controlling, IEQc6.2 per
system design parameters, IEQc7.1
IEQc8.1
Daylight and Views - Daylight
Increasing the area of vision glazing can increase access to views from the
building, IEQc8.2
Increased window-to-wall ration can alter energy performance, EAc1 & EAp2
Daylighting controls can maximize energy savings, IEQc6.1
IEQc8.2: Daylight and Views - Views
IEQc8.2
Daylight and Views - Views
Increasing the area of vision glazing can increase access to views from the
building, IEQc8.1
Increased window-to-wall ration can alter energy performance, EAc1 & EAp2
Daylighting controls can maximize energy savings, IEQc6.1
IEQc8.1: Daylight and Views - Daylight
IEQc9
Enhanced Acoustical Performance
This credit is directly related to strategies and measures to achieve effective
acoustical performance, IEQp3
IEQc10
Mold Prevention
Abating mold through preventative design and construction measures is
treated in IEQc3.1, IEQc7.1 & IEQc7.2
IDc1.1 Innovation in Design
IDc2 LEED Accredited Professional
IDc3 The School as a Teaching Tool
RPc1.1 Regional Priority
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Chapter 14 |
Reference Guides
LEED Rating System Applies To Reference Guide
LEED for
New Construction (NC)
New Buildings and Major Renovations
New Buildings: Offices, institutional buildings (libraries, museums,
churches, etc.), hotels, and residential buildings of 4 or more habitable
stories
Major Renovations: Major HVAC replacement or modifications;
Building core (major mechanical systems) & shell (building envelope and
structural) renovation;
Project occupies greater than 50% of leasable space
LEED for
Core & Shell (CS)
Developer controls core (major mechanical systems) & shell (building
envelope and structural) but not leasable tenant spaces
Commercial office buildings, medical office buildings, retail centers,
warehouses, institutional buildings and laboratory facilities;
Project occupies 50% or less of leasable area
LEED for
Schools
Must be used for the construction or major renovation of an academic
building on K12 school grounds
Other projects on a school campus may qualify under 2 or more LEED
rating system project scopes:
Nonacademic buildings on a school campus, such as administrative
offices, maintenance facilities or dormitories are eligible for either LEED for
New Construction or LEED for Schools
Projects involving postsecondary academic buildings or prekindergarten
buildings may also choose to use either LEED for New Construction or LEED
for Schools
LEED for
Commercial Interiors
(CI)
Tenant spaces primarily in office, retail, and institutional buildings:
Tenant spaces that do not occupy the entire building
Designed to work hand in hand with LEED Core & Shell projects
LEED 2009 Reference
Guide for
Green Interior Design
and Construction
LEED for
Existing Buildings:
Operations &
Maintenance (EB
O&M)
For the ongoing operations and maintenance of existing commercial and
institutional buildings
Also used for buildings certified under NC, Schools or C&S
LEED 2009 Reference
Guide for
Green Building
Operations &
Maintenance
LEED for
Homes
New Residences
Single Family: Attached and Detached
Multifamily: Low rise 1 to 3 stories and include 2 or more dwelling units
Rehabilitation
Manufactured and Modular
Mixed Use if at least 50% of the floor area is residential
LEED 2009 Reference
Guide for
Green Homes
LEED 2009 Reference
Guide for
Green Building Design
and Construction
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LEED for New Construction was designed primarily for new commercial ofce buildings, but it
has been applied to many other building types by LEED
practitioners. All commercial buildings, as defned by
standard building codes, are eligible for certifcation
as LEED for New Construction buildings. Examples of
commercial occupancies include ofces, institutional
buildings (libraries, museums, churches, etc.), hotels, and
residential buildings of 4 or more habitable stories.
LEED for New Construction addresses design and
construction activities for both new buildings and major renovations of existing buildings. A
major renovation involves major HVAC renovation, signifcant envelope modifcations, and
major interior rehabilitation. For a major renovation of an existing building, LEED for New
Construction is the appropriate rating system. If the project scope does not involve signifcant
design and construction activities and focuses more on operations and maintenance activities,
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance is more appropriate because it addresses
operational and maintenance issues of working buildings.
Some projects are designed and constructed to be partially occupied by the owner or developer,
and partially occupied by others tenants. In such projects, the owner or developer has direct
infuence over the portion of the work that they occupy. For such a project to pursue LEED for
New Construction certifcation, the owner or tenant must occupy more than 50% of the buildings
leasable square footage. Projects in which 50% or less of the buildings leasable square footage
is occupied by an owner should pursue LEED for Core & Shell certifcation.
The LEED for Core & Shell Rating System is a market-specifc application that recognizes the
unique nature of core and shell development. The
LEED for Core & Shell Rating System acknowledges the
limited level of infuence a developer can exert in a
speculatively developed building.
LEED for Core & Shell was developed to serve the
speculative development market, in which project
teams do not control all scopes of a whole buildings
design and construction. Depending on how the
project is structured, this scope can vary signifcantly from project to project. The LEED for Core
& Shell Rating System addresses a variety of project types and a broad project range.
LEED for Core & Shell can be used for projects in which the developer controls the design and
construction of the entire core and shell base building (e.g., mechanical, electrical, plumbing,
and fre protection systems) but has no control over the design and construction of the tenant
ft-out. Examples of this type of project can be a commercial ofce building, medical ofce
building, retail center, warehouse, and lab facility. If a project is designed and constructed to be
partially occupied by the owner or developer, then the owner or developer has direct infuence
over that portion of the interior build-out work. For these projects to pursue LEED for Core &
LEED Rating Systems: Detailed
(taken from USGBCs website)
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Chapter 14 |
Shell certifcation, the owner must occupy 50% or less of the buildings leasable square footage.
Projects in which more than 50% of the buildings tenant space is occupied by a owner should
pursue LEED for New Construction certifcation.
LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors addresses the specifcs of tenant spaces primarily in ofce,
retail, and institutional buildings. Tenants who lease their space
or do not occupy the entire building are eligible.
LEED for Commercial Interiors was designed to work hand-in-
hand with the LEED for Core & Shell certifcation system. LEED
for Core & Shell is used by developers to certify the core and
shell of a project; it prepares the building for environmentally
conscious tenants.
LEED for Schools, LEED for Healthcare and LEED for Retail are all derivatives of LEED for New
Construction and LEED for Commercial Interiors. These rating systems are customized to the
unique nature of each market segment.
LEED for Schools
LEED for Schools rating system recognizes the unique nature of the design and construction
of K-12 schools. Based on the LEED for New Construction
rating system, it addresses issues such as classroom acoustics,
master planning, mold prevention and environmental site
assessment.
By addressing the uniqueness of school spaces and
childrens health issues, LEED for Schools provides a unique,
comprehensive tool for schools that wish to build green, with
measurable results. LEED for Schools is the recognized third-party standard for high-performance
schools that are healthy for students, comfortable for teachers, and cost-efective.
As of April 20, 2007, all new construction and major renovations of K-12 school facilities seeking
LEED certifcation must use the LEED for Schools Rating System. LEED for New Construction can
no longer be used to certify K-12 school building projects. LEED for Schools is recommended for
Early Education, Daycare, and Higher Education facilities.
LEED for Healthcare
LEED for Healthcare Green Building Rating System was developed to meet the unique needs
of the health care market, including inpatient care facilities,
licensed outpatient care facilities, and licensed long term care
facilities. LEED for Healthcare may also be used for medical
ofces, assisted living facilities and medical education &
research centers. LEED for Healthcare addresses issues such
as increased sensitivity to chemicals and pollutants, traveling
distances from parking facilities, and access to natural spaces.
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Chapter 14 |
LEED for Retail
LEED for Retail recognizes the unique nature of the retail
environment and addresses the diferent types of spaces that
retailers need for their distinctive product lines.
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
(EB O&M)
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance is the tool for
the ongoing operations and maintenance of existing commercial
and institutional buildings.
LEED helps building owners and managers solve building problems,
improve building performance, and maintain and improve this
performance over time. LEED reduces cost streams associated
with building operations, reduces environmental impacts, creates
healthier and more productive employee workplaces, and provides
public recognition for leadership in sustainability. The majority
of requirements for LEED for Existing Building certifcation are
operations and maintenance best practices. LEED for Existing
Buildings: Operations & Maintenance encourages owners and
operators of existing buildings to implement sustainable practices and reduce the environmental
impacts of their building over their functional life cycles.
LEED for New Construction and Commercial Interiors Rating Systems focus largely on the
construction and/or major renovation phase of a building. When the project is complete and the
building is in operation, LEED for New Construction and Commercial Interiors have performed
their intended task. The intent of LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance is to
certify the operations and maintenance of the building and create a plan for ensuring high
performance over time. The rating system captures both a buildings physical systems (equipment,
design, land use, etc.) and the way the building is occupied and operated by its managers (waste
management, temperature monitoring, commuting programs, etc.).
A key goal of LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance is to institutionalize a process
of reporting, inspection and review over the lifespan of the building. So when LEED is applied
to new construction and commercial interiors, the one time act of renovating, constructing or
tenant ft-out is certifed. LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance certifes the
completed and operated building as it functions on an ongoing basis.
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance helps building owners and managers solve
building problems, and improve building life cycle performance. The rating system is targeted
at single buildings, whether owner occupied, multi-tenanted, or multiple-building campus
projects and requires three months of operational data for an initial certifcation; any building
construction must be complete for at least a three month span before LEED Certifcation can be
pursued. Historic properties can also become certifed under the rating system, and the USGBC
has been working collaboratively with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to outline
specifc metrics that highlight and promote preservation activities as green building strategies.
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Chapter 14 |
Existing buildings undergoing substantial renovations are eligible to become certifed under
LEED for Commercial Interiors, Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance (upon completion
of the renovation and three months of occupancy/operation) or New Construction. Comparing
the requirements of LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance to other LEED Rating
Systems will help you determine which rating system is better suited to your project type.
LEED for Homes
LEED for Homes is a rating system that promotes the design and
construction of high-performance green homes. A green home uses
less energy, water and natural resources, creates less waste, and is
healthier and more comfortable for occupants. Benefts of a LEED
home include lower energy and water bills; reduced greenhouse
gas emissions; and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor
toxins. The net cost of owning a LEED home is comparable to that
of owning a conventional home.
LEED for Homes, for single family and small multifamily homes, includes two additional
categories:
Location and Linkages
Awareness and Education
The LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system integrates
the principles of smart growth, urbanism and green building into
the frst national system for neighborhood design and addresses
the land use planning of an entire neighborhood, including
buildings, infrastructure, street design and open space. LEED
Certifcation provides independent, third-party verifcation that a
developments location and design meet accepted high levels of
environmentally responsible, sustainable development. LEED for
Neighborhood Development is a collaboration among USGBC, the
Congress for the New Urbanism and the Natural Resources Defense
Council and is organized into entirely diferent categories:
Smart Location and Linkage
Neighborhood Pattern an Design
Green Infrastructure and Buildings

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SUSTAINABLEIDEALS

We do not inherit the earth

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