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SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
LEED
Green Associate Study Guide
2009 Edition
Addenda: 01 February, 2010
NOTICE
DISCLAIMER
THIS STUDY GUIDE IS PROVIDED BY Studio4, LLC ON AN AS IS BASIS. Studio4, LLC MAKES
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The materials herein are intended to be used as supplemental study materials for preparation of
the LEED Green Associate examination. This study guide should be considered as a supplement
to the study materials as recommended by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the
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Studio4, LLC
Larry C. Sims
principal
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
ii
| Chapter 1
Table of Contents
Notice
Disclaimer
Copyright
CHAPTER | 1
Introductory conversations into sustainable design and construction and the
associated benefits of the roles of the LEED AP and LEED rating sysems
Introduction
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CHAPTER | 2
An analysis between conventional construction techniques versus green building
strategies and the environmental impacts associated with each
Green Building
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Table of Contents
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CHAPTER | 3
A review of the U.S. Green Building Council, Green Building Certification
Institute, LEED and the processes required for, and associated with, LEED
certification
Introduction
USGBCs Mission
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
The Triple Bottom Line
Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI)
LEED Green Building Rating Systems
LEED Rating Systems: Project Types
LEED Rating Systems: Overview
LEED Reference Guides
Rating System Structure
Prerequisite and Credit Structure
LEED 2009
Credit Harmonization
Credit Weightings
Carbon Overlay
Credit Interpretation Request (CIRs)
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
Registration and Certification Process
GBCI
LEED Online
Credit Scorecard
Credit Forms and Calculators
Charrette
Project Administrator
LEED AP
LEED Certification
Certification Process: General
Certification Process: Overview
Certification Process: Detailed
LEED for Homes
LEED Accreditation
USGBC Portfolio Program
LEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG)
USGBC/GBCI Logo Policies
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Table of Contents
The Appendix
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: the Program Narrative
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CHAPTER | 4
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 runoff, reduce heat island effects and eliminate light
pollution
Credit Matrix
Site Related Boundaries
Building Footprint
Development Footprint
Property Boundary
Project Boundary
LEED Project Boundary
Introduction
Transportation
Site Selection
Site Design and Management
Low Impact Development (LID)
Stormwater Management
Heat Island Effect
Light Pollution Reduction
Development Density and Community Connectivity
Full Time Equivalents (FTEs)
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: Sustainable Sites
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CHAPTER | 5
The goals of the Water Efficiency 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 efficient landscaping and, in Schools,
use water efficient processes as a teaching tool
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Table of Contents
Water Type Definitions
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption
Reducing Water to Save Energy and Improve Environmental Well Being
Practicing Water Efficient Landscaping
In Schools, Use Water efficient Processed as a Teaching Tool
Water Efficient Strategies
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: Water Efficiency
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CHAPTER | 6
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
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Energy Demand
Energy Efficiency
Energy Simulation
Managing Refrigerants to Eliminate CFCs
Renewable Energy
Ongoing Energy Performance
Building Commissioning
Monitoring and Verification
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: Energy and Atmosphere
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CHAPTER | 7
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
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Sustainable Materials Selection
Waste Reduction Practices
Waste Reduction at its Source
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Table of Contents
Reuse and Recycling
Waste Management
Calculating Material Costs
Materials and Resources Credit Metrics
Sustainable Material Selection Strategies
Storage and Collection of Recyclables:
Building Reuse: Maintain Existing Walls, Floors and Roof
Building Reuse: Maintain Interior Nonstructural Elements
Materials Reuse
Recycled Content
Regional Materials
Rapidly Renewable Materials
Certified Wood
Consider purchasing third party certification sustainable products
Life Cycle Impacts
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: Materials and Resources
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CHAPTER | 8
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
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Ventilation Improvement
Air Contaminant Management
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Particulate Matter
Material Selection Decisions
Occupant Control of Systems
Daylight and Views
Core & Shell (CS)
Schools
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Thoughts to keep
Studio4 Office Project: Indoor Environmental Quality
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Table of Contents
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CHAPTER | 9
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
Credit Matrix
Introduction
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design
Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance)
Exemplary Performance
Rating System ID Points
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design
Path 1: Innovation in Design (Innovative Performance)
Path 2: Exemplary Performance
ID Credit 2: LEED Accredited Professional
ID Credit 3: The School as a Teaching Tool
Studio4 Office Project: Innovation in Design
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CHAPTER | 10
USGBC has identified environmental concerns that are important for every
region of the country and offers bonus points for credits that address those
regional priorities
Credit Matrix
Regional Priority Credits
Studio4 Office Project: Regional Priority
Studio4 Office Project: Certification Summary
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CHAPTER | 11
The LEED Green Associate accreditation is for professionals who want to
demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical fields of practice denoting
basic knowledge of green design, construction, and operations
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Table of Contents
One Month Before Your Exam
One Week Before Your Exam
The Day of Your Exam
Examination Format
Miscellaneous
Passing the Exam
Failing the Exam
Certificates
Exam Specifications
LEED Credentialing
5 Things Every Candidate Should Know
Examination Question Format
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CHAPTER | 12
A directory of the seven primary areas of study recommended for preparation of
the Green Associate examination
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CHAPTER | 13
Acronyms, abbreviations and definitions that may be unfamiliar or have specific
meanings in the context of sustainability and green building
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CHAPTER | 14
Green resource links, charts, processes, fees, credit interactions, referenced
standards and miscellaneous support information
Appendix
Green Resources
Websites
Publications
Blogs
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Table of Contents
USGBC & GBCI Organizational Chart
Six Steps to Certification
Project Certification Fees
LEED Rating Systems & Reference Guides
LEED Rating Systems Reference Guides
Project Checklist Sample
Credit Form Sample
Commissioning Process
Commissioning Authority
Tasks and Responsibilities
Referenced Standards
Credit Interactions
LEED Rating Systems: Detailed
LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations
LEED for Core & Shell
LEED for Commercial Interiors
LEED for Schools
LEED for Healthcare
LEED for Retail
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
LEED for Homes
LEED for Neighborhood Development
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CHAPTER | 1
Introduction
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
Introduction
About this Study Guide
It should be understood that this is a third party study guide and should be used as a supplement
to USGBC and GBCI materials. USGBC has made a commitment to see that LEED processes and
information highways are frequently updated to meet ever changing demands. As such, it is
important to be connected in order to remain current. The first page of the Appendix section
has a listing of USGBC and GBCI web sites as well as links to additional green resource sites.
The Seven Domains chapter addresses each of the specific 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 LEED
project has been developed that progressively builds at the end of each sustainable category
chapter. 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 effective, high performance building. The intent of this project is to relate the sustainable
items discussed in the chapter to the process of how they are implemented. The content is
beyond that required for the Green Associate exam and need not be studied but read as a
source to understand how LEED is used as a tool for the development of green projects. The
Studio4 Office Project is introduced at the conclusion of the USGBC and its Programs chapter and
continues at the conclusion of each sustainable category chapter.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
| Chapter 1
Introduction
Why Bother with LEED Certification?
Part one: Intrinsic Benefits
Building owners often question the additional time and expense involved with registering a building
for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED (Registered)) certification 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 certified 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 financial incentive offered through their local government or parent organization. Essentially,
there are three general reasons why building owners should seek Certification: 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 efficient. 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 Certification 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 benefits
of a product or service), LEED Certification tells your peers, clients and customers, that your buildings
sustainable features have been verified 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 definition 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 Certified headquarters, branch office, 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 effort to not only include those features,
but also to have them confirmed - better yet Certified - by a nationally and internationally recognized
leader in the field. 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 Certification 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 staff, Heapy Engineering is one of the leading sustainable design
firms in the country. Michael is also a Board Member of the Cincinnati Regional Chapter of the USGBC.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
LEED Green Associate Study Guide
2009 Studio4, LLC All Rights Reserved
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 financial green light. Years of analysis, research,
and calculations had paid off.
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 certification 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 final 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 first 1% of the design budget. Thus, it becomes a daunting task to retroactively set project goals ...
specifically 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 significantly decrease such errors. One of the most prominent examples is the
Commissioning process, which is a service that all owners will benefit 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 Certification, 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 influence the construction industry. When projects pursue LEED Certification,
the market is driven to provide goods and services that attain the standards that have been chosen.
Each LEED-Certified 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.
| Chapter 1
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 significant 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 efficient 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, effort 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 suffer 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-offs 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 affects
human productivity. Sometimes the most effective 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 effective and sustainable facility.
Chad Edwards, RA, LEED AP, is an Associate at Emersion Design and serves on the USGBC Cincinnati Regional
Chapter Board of Directors.
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
LEED Green Associate Study Guide
2009 Studio4, LLC All Rights Reserved
Chapter 1 |
Introduction
Green Trend Forecasting
Over the course of the last 8 years, Green talk has infiltrated 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 five 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 offices. So whats next? Amidst the green buzz, here are several
trends in the green movement that visionary businesses should be preparing for.
The first green trend and the reason LEED has been successful, is third party verification. 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 verifiable definitions for what green really is. For
buildings, that is LEED, but there are many other important third party verifications for the rest of our lives
and businesses. The International Organization for Standardization is developing the 14000 series of ISO
standards to define 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 efficiency 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 justifies 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, was the 2008 Chair of the USGBC Cincinnati Chapter
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
| Chapter 1
CHAPTER | 2
Green Building
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
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 stated, 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 effects
In the U.S., conventional buildings account for a high portion of natural resource use and waste
generation:
14% of potable water consumption
30% of waste output
38% of carbon dioxide (CO2)emissions
40% of raw material use
39% of energy use
72% of electrical consumption
By definition, 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 efficient building operations
through a coordinated team effort and intelligent design decisions. Green buildings lead to
increased facility assets, increased worker productivity and reduction in risk management, often
at little additional cost.
Federal, state and local governments are adopting more sustainable building practices.
Government agencies, utility companies and manufacturers increasingly offer financial 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?
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
LEED Green Associate Study Guide
2009 Studio4, LLC All Rights Reserved
Chapter 2 |
Green Building
Green Buildings
Green building is an integrative effort 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 defined by LEED. With an integrative and holistic approach, the interaction, or
synergies and trade-offs, 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 five sustainable categories of LEED (except LEED for Homes and LEED for Neighborhood
Development) plus the two categories for ID and RP:
Sustainable Sites (SS)
Water Efficiency (WE)
Energy and Atmosphere (EA)
Materials and Resources (MR)
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Innovation in Design (ID)
Regional Priority (RP)
10 | Chapter 2
Green Building
Life Cycle Assessment and Life Cycle Cost
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an informed choice of building materials and systems that minimizes
the negative impacts of the building and land use on people and the environment. The process
begins as early as planning and design, analyzes construction activities and then goes beyond
convention by including building operations and the eventual retirement and renewal of
materials. In essence, a life cycle assessment considers the building along with its materials and
components, from their extraction, manufacture and transport, to their use, reuse, recycling and
disposal. A cradle-to-grave analysis.
Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis is a method for assessing the total cost of ownership. It takes into
account all costs of acquiring, owning and operating, and the eventual disposal of a building.
Sustainable design requires an analysis of a building over its entire life and life cycle cost analysis
identifies which high performance building systems will save money over the life of the building.
For example: 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. All of the building expenses that can be calculated are
included in the analysis:
Value engineering is a method of calculating the value received for the dollars spent over the
lifetime of a building, with the emphasis placed on obtaining the maximum life cycle value. These
calculations must include the cost of construction, operation, and repair of the facility, and the
efficient delivery of services. If value engineering is not applied until the later stages of design
or after the design is completed, it may cause an examination of alternative design solutions;
the substitution of materials, finishes, or systems; and a reevaluation of project priorities. The
maximum life cycle value may result in increased initial construction costs in exchange for
decreased operation costs over the useful life of the building system. Value engineering must
not be a criteria for reducing the initial construction cost of the building. The construction cost
per square foot is not the only measure of value when considering the efficiency of the total
facility. The life-cycle cost of a building will reflect the efficiency of a building long after it is built
and occupied.
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Green Building
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 effect 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. 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 efforts
collectively to ensure success.
Integrative Process
The success of the integrative design process is dependant upon the makeup of the project
team and its integration into the project at the earliest stages possible. For a typical project, the
team members involved would include:
Project Owner: defines the parameters of the project and participates in the selection of
the project team
Architect: responsible for the design of the building and the overall coordination of the
design team
Engineers: responsible for the design of the site development plan, building structural,
building mechanical systems such as HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical and Lighting
Commissioning Authority: represents the owner and oversees the commissioning process,
ensuring construction and operational compliance with the Contract Documents
General Contractor: responsible for construction activities in accordance with the Contract
Documents
Facilities Staff: oversees and maintains the building after occupancy but Involved early in
the design and construction process
Building Occupants: users of the building after occupancy and often involved in determining
project requirements
Another important process is a properly formulated and executed design and construction
phase plan:
Predesign: collecting project requirements, establishing project goals (green strategies,
target certification level) and site selection
Design:
Schematic Design (SD): prepare design options to establish project layout and scope
Design Development (DD): refinement of preliminary spaces and begin design of
buildings energy systems
Construction Documents (CD): completed detailed documents ready for permitting
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Bidding: CDs sent for bids and subsequent award of contracts to prepare for construction
Construction: the processes involved with construction from beginning until occupancy
Substantial Completion: construction has been completed and could be occupied
Final Completion: All construction activities completed
Certificate of Occupancy: legal authorization by local building officials that project
conforms to applicable codes
Occupancy: buildings can only be legally occupied after the Certificate of Occupancy has
been issued.
Building Program
The Project Teams building program should include: the physical constraints of the project;
general room by room description; the projects environmental vision and goals and its design
criteria and priorities; criteria for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, materials selection, waste
and demolition recylcing as well as other green requirements; consideration of the local cultural
and climatic factors including ease of pedestrian and mass transit access; budget; schedule
Credit Interactions
One of the most critical aspects of a successful green project strategy is to understand the
credit interactions, or synergies, that may develop when a credit is being considered. It would
be difficult, at best, to recognize all the behind-the-scenes interactions taking place without
developing an integrative project team. How one credit impacts other areas can have both
positive, synergies, and negative, trade-offs, implications. A good project team will consider the
fact that every decision they make will have, to some degree, an impact somewhere along the
chain. Recognizing the importance of understanding synergies and trade-offs is just simply
being a responsible professional.
An argument can be made that every action has an opposite and equal reaction. Certainly,
every action has some degree of reaction and the importance here is, first, to recognizing these
reactions and, second, analyzing the overall impact to the project as a whole. One of the simpler
examples to use would be the issues related with cool roofs. Obviously a cool roof with a lighter
color will be of great value in a hot environment such as Florida. The roof would reflect much of
the suns energy - allowing the building to be cooler - requiring less cooling - reducing the size of
required HVAC equipment - resulting in less energy consumption. Great! This is what were striving
for. Now take that cool roof to the upper limits of Michigan. The absolute same reactions but
NOT what we want in a colder climate. Cooler buildings equate to increased heating - requiring
additional energy. This example, obviously, plays to the extreme side of the issues, but what
about that cool roof somewhere in the middle of the country in a more moderate climate zone.
Some decisions will be, as they say, no brainers. However, many will require a careful analysis into
the pros and cons. This is why an integrative project team is important.
The Appendix has several charts listing all credits and their potential for interacting with other
credits. Reviewing these credit interactions and understanding just the basics of synergies and
trade-offs is important to understanding green LEED.
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Green Building
Harvard University Office of Sustainability Green Building Resource
The Harvard University Office 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 offer or share more than Harvard does with their
LEED projects.
The Integrated Design Approach is so critical to the success of sustainable projects that Harvard
offers 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 partial checklist of salient items relative to the
Integrated Design Approach and is well worth promoting in this guide.
If it is important, ask for it: Include integrated design, sustainability, occupant education &
LEED goals in RFP language, interview questions, and Owners Project Requirements.
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 financial 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 specific 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
charrettes, design meetings, and construction meetings. Provide comprehensive preventive
maintenance plan and ensure effective training of operations and maintenance staff.
Commission throughout project: Engage a commissioning agent in Schematic Design and
include thorough verification of building performance and plans for continuous commissioning
throughout buildings life.
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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 first 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 verification requirements for the
project and include operations staff 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 files, LCC results, evaluation of consultants and contractors, and success
stories.
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Green Building
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, roofing, interior finishes such as carpet and painting,
mechanical systems, 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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ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program that focuses on improving
energy performance in buildings as a method of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
ENERGY STAR is a technical assistance and recognition program that offers owners and managers
of all buildings access to free tools and resources to help them evaluate their energy performance
and reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Organizations are encouraged to begin
by benchmarking the performance of their buildings using ENERGY STARs Portfolio Manager
online energy tracking tool. For certain types of buildings that perform in the top 25% compared
to their peers nationwide, the ENERGY STAR label is available as an indicator of superior energy
performance. Buildings carrying the ENERGY STAR label consume on average about 35% less
energy than their non-ENERGY STAR counterparts.
LEED is a building certification process that looks at various aspects of green building and
awards recognition to buildings that meet certain standards. Users of the LEED process earn
credits in several categories associated with green buildings. These differ by the type of LEED
certification, but generally include: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy & atmosphere,
materials & resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation. While each category may
have required prerequisites that must be met, for the bulk of the credits required for certification
users can choose in which categories they wish to focus based on their own priorities.
ENERGY STAR also provides labeling for home appliances, electronics, cooling and heating
equipment and for homes as an indication that the item has met certain energy efficiencies.
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Refer to Acronyms and Glossary of Terms chapter
Hard Costs
Integrative Design Team
Life Cycle Assessment
Life Cycle Costs
Soft Costs
Sustainability
Thoughts to keep
Conventional buildings account for:
14% of potable water consumption
30% of waste output
38% of carbon dioxide emissions
39% of energy use
40% of raw material use
72% of electrical consumption
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Green Building
Energy usage in commercial buildings( EPA, September 2008):
1% office equipment
3% personal computers
3% cooking
6% refrigeration
7% ventilation
7% cooling
8% water heating
9% other
20% lighting
38% space heating
Green building performance:
13% lower maintenance costs
26% less energy usage
27% higher levels of occupant satisfaction
33% lower carbon dioxide emissions
Green Building Benefits:
Economic
Health & Community
Environmental
Green buildings cost approximately 2% more than conventional buildings
Americans spend 90% of their time indoors where pollutant levels are higher than outdoor
levels
A holistic approach considers the analysis of the sum of a buildings parts as opposed to the
separation of these parts
The integrative design/build approach binds the individual members of the team into one
homogenous entity that collaborates as one unit
ENERGY STAR can be used to compare performance of multiple buildings
Life Cycle Assessment = LCA = Environment and People
Life Cycle Cost = LCC = Economics
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Design/Construction process:
Predesign
Design:
Schematic Design (SD)
Development Design (DD)
Construction Documents (CD)
Bid
Construct
Occupy
The five categories of LEED (except LEED for Homes and LEED for ND):
Sustainable Sites (SS)
Water Efficiency (WE)
Energy and Atmosphere (EA)
Materials and Resources (MR)
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Innovation in Design (ID)
Regional Priority (RP)
USGBC Green Building Research website for additional green building facts as well as additional
Green Building resource links, refer to:
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1718
Download Sustainable Building Technical Manual, Part II, Pre-Design Issues:
http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3591
Download The Cost of Green Revisited:
http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3590
Download Green Office Building Guide, Integrating LEED into Your Leasing Process:
http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3676
Download AIA Integrated Project Delivery, A Guide:
http://www.aia.org/contractdocs/AIAS077630
Harvard websites:
http://green.harvard.edu/theresource/
http://www.greencampus.harvard.edu/theresource/new-construction/integrated-design/
documents/ID_checklist.pdf
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CHAPTER | 3
Introduction
USGBC, LEED and GBCI
LEED Green Building Rating Systems
Harmonization, Weightings & Carbon Overlay
CIRs & MPRs
Registration and Certification Process
Prerequisite and Credit Structure
Submittal Review
LEED for Homes
LEED Accredidation
USGBC Portfolio Program
LEED Technical Advisory Group
USGBC/GBCI Logo Policies
Final Thoughts
Studio4 Project: the Program Narrative
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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
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, profitable and
healthful places to live and work. USGBC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit 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, nonprofits. USGBC: Provides tools and expertise; Builds community; Provides forums
for industry dialog; Educates the industry and the public; Stewards market transformation.
LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was formed in 1998
by USGBC as a third party certification program to define and measure green buildings. LEED
promotes a holistic, whole building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in
location and planning, sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials
selection, indoor environmental quality, innovative strategies and regional priority issues.
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 certified 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 (TBL) 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 TBL: People, Planet, Profit
USGBC Guiding Principles:
Promote the Triple Bottom Line
Establish Leadership
Reconcile Humanity with Nature
Maintain Integrity
Endure Inclusiveness
Exhibit Transparency
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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 flexible 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 and Major Renovations (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 (EB O&M)
LEED for Homes
LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)
Green building strategies are divided into the following categories:
Sustainable Sites (SS)
Water Efficiency (WE)
Energy and Atmosphere (EA)
Materials and Resources (MR)
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Innovation in Design (ID); Innovation in Operation (IO)
A seventh category, Regional Priority (RP), addresses regionally important environmental issues
Additionally, the following categories are specific to the rating system noted:
Location and Linkages (LL): LEED for Homes
Awareness and Education (AE): LEED for Homes
Smart Location and Linkages: LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)
Neighborhood Pattern and Design: LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)
Green Infrastructure and Buildings: LEED for Neighborhood Development (ND)
Refer USGBC for current LEED Rating Systems:
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222
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Certified: 40 - 49 points
Silver: 50 - 59 points
Gold: 60 - 79 points
Platinum: 80+ points
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LEED Certification
Individuals are Accredited and become LEED Accredited Professionals by successfully testing at
the level of accreditation sought.
Buildings are Certified: A registered building is in the process of implementing LEED. LEED
certification with lowercase c describes the certification process. LEED certified with lowercase
c is used to describe a project that has been certified. LEED Certified with capital C is used to
describe a project that has been certified to the base level: Certified.
Certified
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Companies or products are neither accredited nor certified
Organizations can obtain membership to USGBC national organization
Individuals can become members of USGBC regional chapters
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Overview
Scorecard
Timeline
Team Administrator
Registration Details
Clarification
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 narratives
Can attach numerous types, formats and examples of documentation
Six Steps to Certification: 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
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LEED Accreditation
Individuals are Accredited and become LEED Accredited Professionals by successfully testing at
the level of accreditation sought:
LEED Green Associate
LEED Accredited Professionals with Specialities
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)
LEED Fellow
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 specific field)
Tier III: LEED Fellow (TBD)
Credential Maintenance
The Credential Maintenance Program (CMP) is designed to expand the knowledge and experience
base of LEED Professionals and also to facilitate a LEED Professionals continuing professional
development.
Refer GBCI for full details and CMP current information:
http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=202
Importance of LEED Credentials
Individual Benefits
Provides marketable credential to employer or client
Provides a listing on GBCI website of LEED professionals
Awards a LEED AP Professional Certificate
Recognizes the individual for involvement in the LEED certification process
Employer Benefits
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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 significantly larger than the mark
The mark may not be used to indicate any kind of endorsement by GBCI of any product or
service, to indicate that any official 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 official documents to include any sales contracts or official
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 reflect poorly on GBCI or USGBC
The mark may not be altered in any way, including proportion, color (outside of logo
specifications), 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 file
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 file should be used. In
instances where the mark is printed at a larger size, an EPS file must be used to ensure that
the image retains clarity. Lower resolution, Web-optimized JPEG or GIF files 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 offer additional
or more detailed information regarding the topics presented in this chapter.
Final Thoughts
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Thoughts to keep
USGBC controls LEED and Education/Research programs
GBCI controls project certification and LEED professional credentialing
Each LEED rating system (except LEED Homes) is comprised of Minimum Program Requirements;
Prerequisites and Credits
Each LEED rating system requires a minimum of 40 points for certification
LEED Online:
Project Administrator registers project
Only invited Project Team members can access LEED Online
Depository for all submittals and required documents
Submittal process (LEED NC, Schools, CS, CI):
Split submittal:
Design
Construction
Combined submittal:
Both Design & Construction credits submitted together
Project Certification:
Register project
Prepare application
Submit application
Application review
Certification
LEED for Homes Rating System:
Leed for Homes Provider
Green Rater
Download Guidelines for CIR Customers:
http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3596%20
Download LEED 2009 Minimum Program Requirements:
http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=130
GBCI Policy Manual: http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=129
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CHAPTER | 4
Sustainable Sites (SS)
Credit Matrix
Site Related Boundaries
Introduction
Transportation
Site Selection
Site Design and Management
Stormwater Management
Heat Island Effect
Light Pollution Reduction
Development Density & Community Connectivity,
Mass Transportation Access
Full Time Equivalents
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Studio4 Project: Sustainable Sites
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Sustainable Sites
Credit Matrix
Credit
SSp1
SSp2
SSc1
SSc2
SSc3
SSc4.1
SSc4.2
SSc4.3
SSc4.4
SSc5.1
SSc5.2
SSc6.1
SSc6.2
SSc7.1
SSc7.2
SSc8
SSc9
SSc9
SSc10
NC
Title
26
Reqd
NA
1
5
1
6
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
NA
NA
NA
Schools
Points
24
Reqd
Reqd
1
4
1
4
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
NA
1
1
CS
28
Reqd
NA
1
5
1
6
2
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
NA
NA
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Sustainable Sites
Introduction
One of the first decisions for the project team to make is that of site selection, as the location of
a site and the site itself can determine how the project impacts the environment. The location
of a project can affect local and regional ecosystems and water sources in many ways, both
positively and negatively. The most sustainable sites promote an integrated design approach
that considers and evaluates:
Protecting undeveloped land
Reuse of previously developed sites
Reduced automobile use or support of alternative transportation
Stormwater management
Reduced heat island effect
Reduced light pollution
Conservation 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 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
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
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Sustainable Sites
Strategy considerations to address transportation:
Locate site in an area that has mass transit networks
Commuter rail, light rail or subway system; public, campus
or private bus lines usable by building occupants
Shuttle service from project location to transit lines
Limit parking
Limit parking spaces and encourage employees to consider
alternative transportation options to reduce pollution and
land development impacts from automobile use
Mass Transit
Car/Van Pooling
Alternative Transportation
& Incentive Programs
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Sustainable Sites
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 brownfield
sites can improve the quality of the environment and reduce the burden of developing on
greenfield 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 Certified 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 floor area ratio or square footage per acre by stacking floors, 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 brownfield site
Improves and protects the environment
Saves undeveloped land
Incentives often offered by owner or government agencies
Consider tradeoffs 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 defined by the U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA)
Less than 5 feet above areas defined by FEMA as
being in the 100 year flood plain
Land that is habitat for threatened or endangered
species
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Within 100 feet of Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
defined 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, fire station, post office, 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 reflective materials for pavement, walks and roofs
can reduce heat island effects.
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 runoff
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
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 filtrate
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 tradeoffs must be considered,
particularly with LEED for 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.
Stormwater Management
Developments can reduce the natural permeability
of a site, which increases the quantity and reduces the
quality of stormwater runoff 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 runoff
water, which becomes harmful to aquatic life and
recreational opportunities in receiving waters. This
also causes downstream erosion in our waterways due
to increased runoff rates. Stormwater management
involves strategies that reduce or control the amount of
Permeable (pervious) pavement
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 flushing 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 efforts 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 and improving the quality of
stormwater runoff:
Quantity control
Design project site to maintain natural stormwater flows, promoting infiltration
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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 runoff. Also, the quality of
stormwater that goes back into the soils and possibly to the aquifers is filtrated and
improved
Grid pavers: consider the use of open grid pavers that allow the stormwater to filtrate the
open spaces created by the grid pattern to reduce the quantity of stormwater runnoff
Vegetated roofs (aka green roofs): There are many synergies associated with vegetated
roofs in addition to reducing the amount of stormwater runoff. 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 flow 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 runoff
Harvest Rainwater: Collect and reuse
Capture rainwater for reuse in such areas as irrigation, flushing toilets and urinals, and
custodial
Quality control
Most all of the strategies used for controlling the quantity of stormwater runoff can
also be implemented for improving the quality of stormwater runoff by utilizing Best
Management Practices (BMPs). BMPs are methods that have been proven to be effective
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 infiltrate to the soils below, filtering contaminants from the stormwater
Structural techniques such as vegetated roofs and non-structural techniques such as rain
gardens, bioswales and vegetated strips offer a natural filtration of the stormwater
Green Roofs
Rain Gardens
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Heat Island Effect
A heat island is an urban area which is significantly
warmer than its surrounding rural areas. The main cause
of the urban heat island is simply the modification 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 sufficient 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 significantly different thermal bulk
properties and surface radiative properties (albedo
and emissivity) than the surrounding rural areas. These
temperature differentials are generally greater at night
than during the day. Heat island effects are also major
contributors to smog in urban areas. LEED defines 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 roofing 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 roofing 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
reflectance (albedo) is the measure of a materials ability to reflect sunlight
and Solar Reflectance 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 roofing materials that exhibit these qualities are often referred to as cool pavements and
cool roofs.
Solar Reflectance is the fraction of the solar energy that is reflected 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 reflects solar energy. For example, a white reflective coating or membrane
has a reflectance value of 0.85 (reflects 85% of solar energy hitting it and absorbs the
remaining 15%), while asphalt has a value of 0.09 (reflects 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 Reflectance Index (SRI) indicates the ability of a surface to reject solar heat, and is the
combined value of reflectivity and emittance. It is defined so that a standard black is zero
(reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) and a standard white is 100 (reflectance 0.80, emittance
0.90). Because of the way SRI is defined, 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 flow 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 effect of absorbing
the suns energy by providing natural vegetation and soils which also contributes to the
cooling effects 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 effects 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 roofing 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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Light Pollution Reduction
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 fixture types and wattage and controlling the lighting during off 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 shutoff controls
Shut off 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
shutoff controls during off hours or curfew times
Automatic shielding: Provide automatic shielding or permanent obstructions, for all nonemergency lighting with a direct line of sight to building envelope openings, such as
windows and doors
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Exterior
Design site lighting with computer model
Use computer modeling for proper selection and location of fixture 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 off or reduce lighting levels for non-essential lighting such as building facade
and landscaping lighting
Use full cutoff light fixtures, low angle spot lights and low reflectance surfaces
Full cutoff light fixtures 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 reflectance surfaces reduces light reflectance 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 fields are excluded from requirements, but must have automatic
shutoffs
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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. Exclude undeveloped public areas such as parks
and water bodies and public roads and right-of-way areas.
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.
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
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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
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For full time and part time staff, 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 Efficiency
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.
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Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Refer to Acronyms and Glossary of Terms chapter
Acid Rain
Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Biodiversity
Biomass
Bioswale
Brownfield
Building Density
Building Footprint
Community Connectivity
Development Density
Diversity of Uses or Housing Types
Dry Ponds
Floodplain
Floor-to-Area Ratio
Footcandle
Full Time Equivalent (FTE)
Heat Island Effect
Imperviousness
Native and Adapted Plants
Perviousness
Prime Farmland
Rain Garden
Site Disturbance
Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)
Stormwater Runoff
Street Grid Density
Transient Occupants
Transportation Demand Management
Wetland Vegetation
Xeriscaping
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Thoughts to keep
The location of the site is of paramount importance to immediate and long term environmental
impacts. LEED sustainable sites promotes responsible and practical site design strategies relative
to local and regional communities and ecosystems in four areas:
Transportation
Site Selection
Site Design and Management
Stormwater Management
Transportation
The Triple Bottom Line:
Economic Prosperity: Reducing vehicle travel saves operation and maintenance costs
for the vehicle owner and reduces the burden of construction and maintenance of
highways
Social Responsibility: Reducing vehicle emissions also increases the quality of the air;
strategies such as mass transportation and bicycles promotes exercise
Environmental Stewardship: The obvious here is the reduction of vehicle emissions
Strategies:
locate site in an area that has mass transit
Limit parking
Encourage carpooling
Promote alternative fuel vehicles
Offer incentives
Support alternative transportation
Site Selection
The Triple Bottom Line:
Economic Prosperity: Site location can have a direct affect on vehicle miles traveled
(vmt) saving both fossil fuels and infrastructure; can contribute to the economy of
local communities; proper site selection allows for placement and orientation of the
building to reduce energy costs providing daylighting and natural ventilation
Social Responsibility: Sites should allow for sensitivity to strategies that promote the
restoration or protection of the natural habitat
Environmental Stewardship: Strategies such as daylighting and natural ventilation
reduces energy use; redevelopment saves greenfield sites
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Strategies:
Increase development density
Reduce development footprint to increase vegetated and pervious open space
Locate project in densely populated communities to reduce sprawl
Redevelopment
Build on previously developed sites
Restore a brownfield site
Protect the habitat
Select sites that do not include sensitive site elements
Urban development
Site Design and Management
The Triple Bottom Line:
Economic Prosperity: Strategies that incorporate native landscaping will conserve both
water and energy and require less maintenance
Social Responsibility: Reducing light pollution shows a concern for community and
safety; creating and increasing the natural habitat serves the project as well as adjoining
properties
Environmental Stewardship: Incorporating proper hardscape/roofing materials with
proper landscape design will reduce the heat island effect
Strategies:
Create an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan to reduce construction pollution
Reduce site disturbance caused by building footprint
Efficient hardscapes
Minimize water usage
Use of reflective materials
Sustainable management plan
Stormwater Management
The Triple Bottom Line:
Economic Prosperity: A proper stormwater management plan implemented at the
beginning of the project reduces damage to the site which later must be corrected;
retention ponds, rain gardens, wetlands and other aesthetic strategies can increase
the property value
Social Responsibility: Stormwater management strategies such as retention ponds, rain
gardens and wetlands promote biodiversity of native habitat; effective in reducing
damages to adjoining properties
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Environmental Stewardship: Managing stormwater reduces flooding and sedimentation
of downstream land and waterways; stormwater can be used for irrigation and inside
for flushing toilets thereby saving potable water
Strategies:
Quantity control
Reduce building footprint
Reduce impervious pavement materials
Use pervious pavement materials, vegetated roofs, rain gardens, bioswales,
retention and detention ponds to hold and/or slow the rate of stormwater runoff
Quality control
Reduce building footprint
Reduce impervious pavement materials
Use pervious pavement materials, vegetated roofs, rain gardens, bioswales,
retention and detention ponds to hold and/or slow the rate of stormwater runoff
Nonpoint source pollution is one of the greatest threats to stormwater quality and
can be caused by oil leaks from vehicles, fertilizers and other contaminants washed
across impervious surfaces during a rain.
Miscellaneous
Alternative Fuel Vehicles:
Electric; hydrogen; natural gas; ethanol, biofuel
Eligible vehicles:
Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) as defined by the California Air Resources Board
(CARB)
Green Score 40 or greater listed by the American Council for an Energy Efficient
Economy (ACEEE)
Brownfields:
EPA defines brownfields as real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse
of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous
substance, pollutant or contaminate.
If found to be contaminated, but remediated, the land can be reused
Schools are not permitted to be built on land that was previously used as a landfill
Heat island properties:
Understand the key elements: albedo, solar reflectance, solar reflectance index,
emittance
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Studio4 Office 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 certification 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 defines the
metes and bounds. Also, the civil engineers drawings will indicate the property lines as well as
defining the scope of the project relative to work outside the building proper.
Project Boundaries
Another area that needs to be checked by the Project Team is an analysis of the Minimum
Program Requirements (MPR). 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 floor 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 floor 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 certification 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 different 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
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required emergency exit doors based on the building use group. LEED, on the other hand, views
occupants from a different perspective, allowing two options for determining occupant counts,
or FTEs. If the actual FTE is not known, LEED provides a matrix based on the type of occupancy
use. For general office 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 tradeoffs that may affect their credit
selections.
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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 effects of site disturbance downstream.
Additionally, a mandated requirement for this site is that of monitoring the effectiveness
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 fits perfectly
with the goals of sustainable sites. This site: does not infringe on any of the sensitive or
protected site elements such as wetlands, flood plains, endangered species, farmland, etc.;
is a previously developed site, thereby preserving greenfields; 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 difficult task to achieve.
Recently, LEED added the Community Connectivity option to this credit in a successful
effort 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 effort 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 identified 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 Brownfield Redevelopment: Brownfields have the potential to be renewed with proper
remediation that removes possible hazardous materials from the sites soil and groundwater
that may be present. Redevelopment on brownfields prevents development on undeveloped
greenfields that may serve as a habitat for wildlife and brownfields are usually located
in areas having existing infrastructure necessary for the new development. Reclaiming a
potentially 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 sufficient to classify a site as a Brownfield. This project would most likely have
qualified as a brownfield. 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 Efficient 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 Efficient Vehicles: This credit
allows achievement by reserving 5% of the total parking capacity for the use of low
emitting and fuel efficient 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, afford 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
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require some degree of stormwater control and landscaping/open space requirements.
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 flushing, graywater reuse and reducing heat island effects 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 offered.
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 greenfield 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
beneficial in urban environments to wildlife whose habitats are rapidly disappearing. Smaller
development footprints and more greenspace helps with the urban heat island effect and
provides for better stormwater retention. The goal of SSSc6 - Stormwater Design is to decrease the
amount of stormwater runoff that leaves the site. The options depend on the pre-development
conditions on the site. If it is a greenfield, prevent an increase in stormwater runoff 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 runoff from 90% of the average annual rainfall. Also, the best
management practices (BMPs) used to treat runoff must remove 80% of the average annual post
development total suspended solids (TSS) load.
With the design of any project, a well qualified Project Team will understand how to best
maximize the strategies and synergies available in the Sustainable Sites category.
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SSc5.1 Site Development - Protect or Restore Habitat: This credit addresses two site
conditions, Case 1 as applied to greenfield 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 configuration, 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 sufficient 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
Efficiency credits. Construction 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 property area minus the
development footprint and must be vegetated and pervious.
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 infiltration, reducing or eliminating pollution from
stormwater runoff, and eliminating contaminants. On building
sites where the existing imperviousness is greater than 50%, this
credit requires reducing the quantity of stormwater runoff by
25%. On building sites where the existing imperviousness is less
than 50%, the requirement specifies 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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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 infiltration and then
captures and treats the remaining stormwater runoff 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 filtration.
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 specific region where the project
is located. There are 3 distinct climates in the U.S. that influence 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
watersheds, 0.75 for semiarid watersheds and 0.50 for arid watersheds. Design submittal:
owner, architect, civil engineer, landscape architect
SSc7.1 Heat Island Effect - Nonroof: This credit requires shade (within 5 years of occupancy),
materials with a Solar Reflectance 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. Construction submittal: architect, civil
engineer, landscape architect
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SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect - Roof: In general, there are 2 configurations used for conventional
roof designs - flat 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 accomplished by
installing automatic devices with manual overrides that will turn off
the interior lights during this time period. Addressing the exterior
light pollution requires a determination of the proper lighting zone and using shielded
light fixtures where there exists the potential for these fixtures 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 effect. Design submittal: architect, civil engineer, electrical engineer, landscape
architect, lighting designer
SSc9 Tenant Design and Construction Guidelines: This credit is specifically 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
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Project Checklist Analysis
Not bad! 19 probable points out of 28 available with only 40 required for LEED certification. What
does this mean? We are halfway to certification and the cost so far for being green has been
minimal.
The next session will begin at the end of the Water Efficiency chapter.
Please note, the Project Checklist is a tool that allows the Project Team to check off 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.
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CHAPTER | 5
Water Efficiency (WE)
Credit Matrix
Introduction
Water Type Definitions
Monitor Water Consumption Performance
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption
Reduce Water Consumption to Save Energy
and Improve Environmental Well Being
Practicing Water Efficient Landscaping
Water Efficient Processes as a Teaching Tool
Water Efficient Strategies
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Studio4 Project: Water Efficiency
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Credit Matrix
Credit
WEp1
WEc1
WEc2
WEc3
WEc4
NC
Title
WATER EFFICIENCY (WE)
Water Use Reduction
Water Efficient Landscaping
Innovative Wastewater Technologies
Water Use Reduction
Process Water Use Reduction
10
Reqd
*2-4
2
*2-4
NA
Schools
Points
11
Reqd
*2-4
2
*2-4
1
CS
10
Reqd
*2-4
2
*2-4
NA
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% and 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 fishing. It is estimated that
efficiency 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.
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Water Efficiency
Reducing Indoor Potable Water Consumption
Reducing indoor potable water consumption is generally addressed by using alternative water
sources for nonpotable applications and installing water efficient fixtures and components.
Water treatment and reuse of stormwater and graywater for toilet flushing and custodial
purposes provides an alternative water source. Reducing potable water use for toilets, urinals,
showerheads, faucets and other fixtures can reduce the amount of water drawn from natural
water bodies through the use of water efficient fixtures, flow restrictors, electronic controls,
composting toilets and waterless urinals.
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gallons per flush (gpf): measurement of water used by flush fixtures (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 flow fixtures (faucets, showerheads,
aerators, sprinkler heads)
Blackwater generating fixtures and fittings for both conventional and High Efficiency Toilets
(HET):
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 efficient plumbing
fixtures becomes readily apparent.
Conserving water for irrigation can be less costly when coordinating strategies with stormwater
management such as capturing, filtering and holding rainwater.
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Water Efficiency
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 significant, 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 efficient plumbing fixtures
Use low flow fixtures: lavatories, sinks, showerheads
Use low flow flush type fixtures: dual flush toilets, waterless toilets and urinals, composting
toilets
Dual flush water closets use a full flush for solid waste and a half flush for liquid waste
Waterless urinals all use basically the same science of passing urine through a liquid
seal and there are two varieties of waterless urinal: cartridge based and non cartridge
based units
WaterSense fixtures:
WaterSense is an EPA sponsored partnership program that promotes water efficiency
for water-efficient products, programs, and practices. WaterSense helps consumers
identify water-efficient products and programs that meet WaterSense water efficiency
and performance criteria. HET waterclosets are available with the WaterSense label
Use nonpotable water
Captured rainwater, graywater or municipally claimed wastewater for flush type fixtures
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 by using
indigenous plants that have acclimated to the climate characteristics of the region
Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is a landscape concept that considers the whole of the landscaping design in
an effort to produce landscaping that requires little or no Irrigation
The concept includes an analysis of existing soil conditions and the use, if needed, of
water efficient irrigation systems, native or adaptive planting, mulch and maintenance
considerations
Zoned landscaping
Zone planting regions according to the irrigation requirements of each type of plant
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Mulching
Mulch retains moisture which provides water to the plants root system and helps prevent
evaporation of the plants water
Turf grass
Reduce or eliminate turf grasses that require large amounts of water
Use non potable water for irrigation
Captured rainwater, graywater or municipally claimed wastewater for irrigation
Efficient irrigation systems
Drip and bubbler irrigation systems are the most efficient by providing more water to the
root systems and less surface water to the leaves for evaporation or runoff
Weather based controllers use weather and soil conditions to determine irrigation
requirements
Properly schedule irrigation times for appropriate times and quantities
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
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Water Efficiency
Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Refer to Acronyms and Glossary of Terms chapter
Adaptive and Native Plants
Baseline versus Design
Blackwater
Composting Toilet
Drip Irrigation
Full Time Equivalent (FTE)
Gallons per Flush (GPF)
Gallons per Minute (GPM)
Graywater
Harvested Rainwater
Invasive Plants
Irrigation Efficiency
Nonpotable Water
Potable Water
Rainwater Harvesting
Stormwater
Wastewater
Wetland Vegetation
Thoughts to keep
Our demand for fresh water is reducing our supplies at an alarming rate and the drop in fresh
water levels will cause many areas of the country to run short within a few years. 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. LEED addresses water conservation in three areas:
Indoor Water Use
Outdoor Water Use
Process Water Use
The Triple Bottom Line:
Water efficiency addresses one environmental issue and that is water conservation.
The Triple Bottom Line applies consistently with all use types.
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Economic Prosperity: Reducing large amounts of water reduces maintenance and life
cycle costs for building operations; reduction in consumers costs for additional supply
and treatment facilities; reduced water usage also conserves energy.
Social Responsibility: Conserving water is our obligation to future generations.
Environmental Stewardship: Using less water has a profound affect on our infrastructure
as it relates to water supply and sanitary sewer treatment facilities.
Indoor Water Use
Strategies:
Install water efficient plumbing fixtures
Use nonpotable water
Install submeters
Outdoor water use
Strategies:
Install locally native and adaptive landscaping
Xeriscaping
Mulching
No turf grass
Use nonpotable water
Efficient irrigation systems
Install submeters
Process water use
Strategies:
Use non potable water
Install submeters
Miscellaneous
Strategy Pros and Cons:
Although some water saving strategies may save water, consideration should be given
to the strategies implemented that may consume more energy. Wastewater treatment,
for example, may increase energy consumption through the use of pumping systems.
Remember also that any device using electricity must go through the commissioning
process.
Water savings are calculated by calculating the percentage reduction from the baseline
case to the design case
Process Water:
Process water is not addressed by all LEED ratings systems
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Water Efficiency
Studio4 Office Project: Water Efficiency
Water Efficiency Category
Water Efficiency 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 flush and flow fixtures - fixtures 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 fixture usage
These calculations deal with occupant usage and not number of fixtures, as the number
of fixtures is irrelevant. If you have 10 FTEs, the total daily usage will remain the same
whether there are 2 fixtures or 200 fixtures.
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 figures for flush and flow fixtures. 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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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 flush and flow rates
with the flush and flow rates for water efficient fixtures. 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 fixtures with water efficient fixtures, 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 Efficiency credits. 47% qualifies for Exemplary Performance.
Design submittal: owner, architect, engineers
WEc1 Water Efficient 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 Efficiency
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 flush fixtures. This can
be accomplished by using water conserving fixtures, 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 first option and see how water conserving fixture compliance for
WEp1 helps to achieve this credit.
NO
Yes
Yes
Most of the work has been done considering the calculations are identical to WEp1, except
the flow fixtures 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
35% savings = 3 points
40% savings = 4 points
At 47% savings, weve picked up 4 points. Design submittal: owner, architect, engineers
WEc4: Process Water Use Reduction - N/A
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Project Checklist Analysis
In the Water Efficiency 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 fixtures 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 certification.
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 certification. 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.
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CHAPTER | 6
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
90
NC
Title
ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA)
Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems
Minimum Energy Performance
Fundamental Refrigerant Management
Optimize Energy Performance
On-Site Renewable Energy
Enhanced Commissioning
Enhanced Refrigerant Management
Measurement and Verification
Measurement and Verification - Base Building
Measurement and Verification - Tenant Submetering
Green Power
35
Reqd
Reqd
Reqd
*1-19
*1-7
2
2
3
NA
NA
2
Schools
Points
33
Reqd
Reqd
Reqd
*1-19
*1-7
2
1
2
NA
NA
2
CS
37
Reqd
Reqd
Reqd
*3-21
4
2
2
NA
3
3
2
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 affects the environment,
beginning with extraction and transportation, followed by refining 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 fired 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 efficiency 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 efficiency, HVAC and lighting systems all determine how efficiently the building
uses energy. Energy is addressed by focusing on four key elements:
Energy demand
Energy efficiency
Ongoing energy performance
Renewable energy
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Energy Efficiency
Energy is a substantial and widely recognized cost of building operations that can be reduced
through energy efficiency 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 efficient and
works productively. Energy use per square foot and use per capita are metrics for measuring
energy intensity.
Strategy considerations for achieving energy efficiency:
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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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 offsite sources.
Renewable energy sources include:
photovoltaic
wind energy
solar thermal: active and passive
biofuels: from organic materials such as wood by-products and agricultural waste
geothermal heating
low impact hydroelectric
wave and tidal
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Wind
Biomass
Photovoltaic
Geothermal
Off-Site
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Final Thoughts
Terminology to know
Refer to Acronyms and Glossary of Terms chapter
British Thermal Unit (BTU)
Building Envelope
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Climate Change
Commissioning (Cx);
Commissioning Agent (CxA)
Commissioning Plan
Commissioning Report
Compact Fluorescent Lamp
Energy Efficient Products and Systems
Energy Management System
ENERGY STAR Rating
Energy Use Intensity
Emissions per Capita
Fossil Fuel
Geothermal energy Systems
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Energy demand, energy efficiency, ongoing energy performance and renewable energy
address strategies that reduce our dependence on nonrenewable energy sources.
Economic Prosperity: Reducing energy demand will reduce energy and operating costs
which are major cost components of operating a business or home budgets.
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The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of HCFCs is much smaller than the ODP of CFCs.
However, the ODP of HFCs is nearly zero, but their global warming potential (GWP) is
much higher. Therefore, the dilemma created is that ODP friendly refrigerants are
enemies of GWP and GWP friendly refrigerants are enemies of ODP.
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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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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 benefit to the project or
surrounding neighbors.
The next session will begin at the end of the Materials and Resources chapter.
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CHAPTER | 7
110
NC
Credit
Title
14
Reqd
*1-3
NA
1
*1-2
*1-2
*1-2
*1-2
1
1
NA
Schools
Points
13
Reqd
*1-2
NA
1
*1-2
*1-2
*1-2
*1-2
1
1
NA
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 and toxins from our landfills 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 major issues:
Waste management: minimization of landfill and incinerator disposal for materials that
leave the project building
Life cycle impacts: environmental impact of materials brought into the project building
The Materials and Resources category addresses environmental concerns relating to:
Materials selection
Waste disposal
Waste reduction
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CS
13
Reqd
NA
*1-5
NA
*1-2
1
*1-2
*1-2
NA
NA
1
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 specifies a target diversion rate for the general contractor
develop a waste management plan that may include disposal of asbestos and PCBs
waste can be collected in one container - comingled - and sent to an offsite facility to
be separated. This practice allows for easier compliance and requires less space for
containers. The second option is to provide marked and protected containers onsite to
separate waste materials to be recycled. This requires more space and monitoring to
ensure compliance.
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The successful selection of sustainable materials is directly affected by life cycle analysis
Economic Prosperity: Sustainable materials policies promote strategies such as regional
harvesting and manufacturing which contributes to local economies and reduces the
impact of transportation
Social Responsibility: Selecting sustainable materials that have long life cycle impacts
reduces the burden on our natural resources
Environmental Stewardship: Enormous amounts of our natural resources go into the
construction of buildings. Careful selection of sustainable materials such as recycled
content and reuse can reduce the vast environmental impacts and depletion associated
with buildings
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Wheat
Bamboo (U.S.)
Wheat
Cork
MRc6 & MRc7 Certified Wood: Use wood based materials and products that have been certified
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,
flooring, sub-flooring, wood doors and finishes. 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 Certified 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
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In the Materials and Resources category, a total of 13 points are available and we have collected
6 points. A sufficient 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 certification 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.
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CHAPTER | 8
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
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
Codes & Referenced Standards
Final Thoughts
Studio4 Project: Indoor Environmental Quality
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NC
Title
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
Minimum Acoustical Performance
Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
Increased Ventilation
Construction IEQ Management Plan - During Construction
Construction IEQ Management Plan - During Construction
Construction IEQ Management Plan - Before Occupancy
Low-Emitting Materials - Adhesives and Sealants
Low-Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings
Low-Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems
Low-Emitting Materials - Composite Wood and Agrifiber Products
Low-Emitting Materials - Furniture and Furnishings
Low-Emitting Materials - Ceiling and Wall Systems
Indoor Chemical and Pollutant Source Control
Controllability of Systems - Lighting
Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
Thermal Comfort - Design
Thermal Comfort - Design
Thermal Comfort - Verification
Daylight and Views - Daylight
Daylight and Views - Views
Enhanced Acoustical Performance
Mold Prevention
15
Reqd
Reqd
NA
1
1
1
NA
1
1
1
1
1
NA
NA
1
1
1
NA
1
NA
1
1
1
NA
NA
Schools
Points
19
Reqd
Reqd
Reqd
1
1
1
NA
1
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1*
1
1
1
NA
1
NA
1
*1-3
1
1
1
CS
12
Reqd
Reqd
NA
1
1
NA
1
NA
1
1
1
1
NA
NA
1
NA
NA
1
NA
1
NA
1
1
NA
NA
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, indoor
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 financial 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 (SBS) symptoms and
$20 - $160 billion from direct improvements in worker performance.
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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 effective 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 or cool the incoming air to reduce
energy use and operating costs.
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Schools
The importance of human communication in learning spaces should be considered by reducing
background noise and optimizing acoustics.
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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 certification, if all are accepted during the
final review.
The next session will begin at the end of the Innovation in Design chapter.
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Innovation in Design
Credit Matrix
Credit
IDc1.1
IDc1.2
IDc1.3
IDc1.4
IDc1.5
IDc2
IDc3
NC
Title
6
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
Schools
Points
6
1
1
1
1
0
1
1
CS
6
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
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 first 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 Certification 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 certification process.
IDc3 is available only to EB O&M and School projects.
The credit structure for Innovation is Design is as follows:
Innovation in Design
ID Credit 1: Innovation in Design
Innovation in Design
Exemplary Performance
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 specific 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.
Download Guidance on Innovation & Design (ID) Credits :
http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3594
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Innovation in Design
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 quantifiable environmental performance benefit
The strategy must be applied comprehensively across the project
The strategy must be transferable to other projects and be significantly 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 fly ash in concrete to divert waste materials from landfills
Exemplary Performance
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 benefits 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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Innovation in Design
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 certificate
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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Innovation in Design
Studio4 Office 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 offers guidance on these types of strategies. In part, they include
comprehensive strategies which demonstrate quantifiable environmental benefits. 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 off-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 effective alternative to conventional cleaning
programs that should be considered by all projects seeking certification.
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 certification process. The requirement for compliance is that at least one principal participant
of the project team be a LEED Accredited Professional. Construction Submittal
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Innovation in Design
Credit Checklist Analysis
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 fly ash in our concrete mix. However, we
already have the point total necessary - 44 - for certification and a small safety net of 4 points,
with the Regional Priority category remaining.
The final session will begin at the end of the Regional Priority chapter.
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Regional Priority
Credit Matrix
Credit
RPc1.1
RPc1.2
RPc1.3
RPc1.4
NC
Title
4
1
1
1
1
Schools
Points
4
1
1
1
1
CS
4
1
1
1
1
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Regional Priority
Studio4 Office 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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Regional Priority
Credit Checklist Analysis
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 final Credit Checklist to determine if this is the path to
certification we want to focus on and then prepare a Summary Report.
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The project team has analyzed the preliminary credit count and determined basic certification
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 Efficiency credits were achieved primarily through the use of water efficient plumbing
fixtures and credits previously achieved in the Sustainable Sites category.
Energy and Atmosphere took the hit that is indicative of many projects seeking certification. 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
financial burden.
With each LEED project that receives certification and federal, state and local governments
mandate some degree of certification in government and educational facilities, new products
become available that make the Materials and Resources category an easy mark for collecting
credits.
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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 certification 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 sacrifice to design.
The Daylight and Views credits can be difficult if the site and floor plan are not suitable for
considering these credits on their face. Revising the building floor plan and fenestration along
with the interior office layout can come at the sacrifice 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 certification at minimal
cost and achieved this goal in illustrating how little cost LEED certification 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 difficult to
defend!
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Study Materials
The primary sources for the development of the core references are the LEED Rating Systems. he
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.
The two primary resources for the Green Associate exam as recommended by USGBC/GBCI
are the Green Associate Candidate Handbook and the Green Building and LEED Core Concepts
Guide.
The GBCI Green Associate Candidate Handbook is a free download and is frequently updated,
therefore it is recommended to review the most current edition of this document for any revisions.
All LEED Candidate Handbooks can be located at:
http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=97
LEED Reference Guides (Green Building and LEED Core Concepts Guide) are published by the
U.S. Green Building Council and are available for purchase at:
http://www.usgbc.org/Store/PublicationsList_New.aspx?CMSPageID=1518
Importantly, the Green Associate Candidate Handbook lists two categories of additional
reference materials. There are currently eleven (11) primary references and eleven (11) ancillary
references listed. Primary references are those from which exam items are taken and ancillary
references contain concepts relating to the LEED rating systems that the candidate should be
familiar with.
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The first 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 specifics for the LEED Green Associate exam process. The information
contained In the Studio4 LEED 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 specifics
regarding exam rescheduling, test site hours of operation, contact numbers, etc.
Note: Check the GBCI website frequently for the current version of the LEED Green Associate Candidate
Handbook.
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 certificates)
Contact information
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 field 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 certificate of completion or an official 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.
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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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 first 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 effect 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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Certificates
Certificates will be mailed directly from GBCI headquarters two to three months after the test
date
Exam Specifications
The specifications 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 specific 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 Airconditioning 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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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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3. Water Management
Types and Quality of Water (potable; graywater; blackwater; stormwater)
Water Management (water use reduction through fixtures such as water closets; urinals;
sinks; lavatory faucets; showers; harvesting; baseline water demand; calculations of Full
Time Equivalent; irrigation)
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CHAPTER | 14
Appendix
Green Resource Links: Websites, Publications & Blogs
USGBC & GCBI Organizational Chart
Six Steps to Certification Flow Chart
LEED Rating Systems & Reference Guide Chart
Certification Fee Chart
Project Checklist Sample
Credit Form Sample
Commissioning Process
Tasks & Responsibilities for EAp1 & EAc3
CxA Qualifications
Credit Charts
Referenced Standards
Credit Interactions
Detailed LEED Rating Systems
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Green Resources
Websites
Refer last page of the Seven Domains Chapter for additional resource links
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 systems http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222
USGBC green building education http://www.greenbuild365.org/
USGBC courses www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=283
USGBC Green Building Resource Links http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=76&
GBCI Home Page www.gbci.org/
GBCI Green Associate Candidate Handbook (required primary and ancillary resource links)
www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3571
Credentialing resources www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=93
Policy Manual http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=129
Registration & Certification Processes http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=211
LEED CIRs http://www.gbci.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3596%20
LEED MPRs http://www.gbci.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=130
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
Miscellaneous Resource Websites
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) www.epa.gov/
Harvard Green Building Resource www.green.harvard.edu/theresource/
Stormwater Glossary of Terms www.stormwaterauthority.org/glossary.aspx
LEED credit analysis www.leeduser.com/
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
Studio4 sustainable website www.studio4llc.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//
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USGBCand
& GBCI
Chart
USBGC
GBCIOrganizational
Organizational Chart
GBCI
Professional
Accredidtaion
USGBC
Building
Certification
LEED Online
Reference
Guides
Professional Accreditation:
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 Certification:
LEED for New Construction
LEED for Schools
LEED for Core & Shell
LEED for Existing Buildings
LEED for Commercial Interiors
LEED for Homes
LEED
Rating
Systems
Education
Programs
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
GBCI
USGBC
Primary Functions:
Provides third party LEED project certication
Provides third party LEED professional credentials
Primary Functions:
Developed the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System. The LEED
Green Building Rating Sustem is the nationally accepted
benchmark for the design, construction and operation of
high performance green buildings
Provides and develops LEED based education and research
programs
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208 | Chapter 14
LEED 2009: New Construction & Major Renovations, Schools and Core&Shell
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Is LEED
Right for You
Registration
Prepare
Application
Submit
Application
Application
Review
Certification
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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
$20,000
$500
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
$2,250
$0.045
$5,000 regardless of sf
$22,500
$500
$500
Construction Review
USGBC Members
$500
$0.010
$5,000
$500
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
$750
$0.015
$5,000 regardless of sf
$7,500
$500
$0.045
$22,500
$500
$0.055
$27,500
$10,000 regardless of sf
$500
$500
$2,250
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
$2,750
$500
Fixed Rate
Based on SF
Fixed Rate
Per Credit
USGBC Members
$1,500
$0.030
$15,000
$500
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
$2,000
$0.040
$10,000 regardless of sf
$2,000
$500
$0.015
$7,500
$500
$0.020
$10,000
$10,000 regardless of sf
$500
$500
Recertification Review
USGBC Members
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
$750
$1,000
$500
Fixed Rate
Per Credit
$3,250
$500
$4,250
$5,000 regardless of sf
$500
$220
Precertification
USGBC Members
Non-Members
Expedited Fee
CIR's
$500
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LEED
&& Reference
Guides
LEEDRating
Ratings
Six Systems
Steps
Systems
to Certification
Reference Guides
LEED 2009: New Construction & Major Renovations, Schools and Core&Shell
110*
26
10
11
10
35
33
37
14
15
13
19
13
12
Regional Priority
Sustainable Sites
110*
Sustainable Sites
Sustainable Sites
24
Under
Development
Under
Development
110*
Sustainable Sites
21
11
37
14
17
Under
Development
26
14
35
10
15
Regional Priority
Under
Development
27
44
29
110*
Sustainable Sites
Reference Guide
Rating System
11
10
22
15
38
16
21
3
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LEED Rating
Systems Reference Guides
RATING SYSTEMS REFERENCE GUIDES
LEED 2009: New Construction, Schools, Core and Shell
Applies To
Reference Guide
LEED for
Core & Shell (CS)
LEED for
Schools
LEED for
Commercial Interiors
(CI)
LEED for
Existing Buildings:
Operations &
Maintenance (EB
O&M)
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
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214 | Chapter 14
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
Commissioning
Process
LEED 2009:
New Construction, Schools,
Core and Shell
Commissioning Authority
COMMISSIONING AUTHORITY
Fundamental
Commissioning
Prerequisite 2 4 5
Enhanced
Commissioning
Credit 3 4 5
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1 "Disinterested" means an employee or subcontractor who has no project responsibilities other than
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
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."
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Commissioning Process
Tasks and Responsibilities
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
LEED 2009: New Construction, Schools, Core and Shell
TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Rating
Project
Fundamenta
Enhanced
System
l
Phases
Tasks
Predesign/Design Phase
Request for
EAp1, Task 1
Owner or
Owner or
proposal Architect 1 Designate commissioning authority (CxA)
EAc3, Task 1 Project Team Project Team
and engineer
selection
Owner's project
Owner or
Owner or
Document owner's project requirements
requirements
CxA*
EAp1, Task 2
CxA*
2
(OPR); Develop basis of design (BOD)
(OPR); basis of
Design Team Design Team
design (BOD)
Commissioning Tasks
1 - 12
EAp1, Task 2
EAc3, Task 2
Schematic design
Design
development
EAp1, Task 4
EAc3, Task 2
N/A
CxA
EAc3, Task 3
N/A
CxA
EAp1, Task 5
CxA
CxA
EAc3, Task 4
N/A
Construction
documents
Construction
documents
CxA**
CxA
Construction Phase
Equipment
Review contractor submittals applicable
procurement
7
to systems being commissioned
Equipment
Functional testing
Verify installation and performance of
Test and balance
8
commissioned systems
Performance
testing acceptance
Operations and
Develop systems manual for
Maintenance
9
commissioned systems
(O&M) manuals
Project Team
or
CxA
Project Team
or
CxA
O&M training
10
EAc3, Task 5
N/A
Substantial
completion
11
EAp1, Task 6
CxA
CxA
12
EAc3, Task 6
N/A
CxA
Occupancy
Systems
monitoring
* 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
** 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.
RED indicates EAc3, Enhanced Commissioning, tasks only
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Referenced Standards
SUSTAINABLE SITES (SS)
SSp1
Construction Activity
Pollution Prevention
SSp2
Environmental
Site Assessment
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
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
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
SSc1
Site Selection
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 No Referenced Standards
Community Connectivity
U.S. EPA, Definition of Brownfields (EPA Sustainable Redevelopment of Brownfields Program)
SSc3
Brownfield
Redevelopment
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
Alternative Transportation No Referenced Standards
Public Transportation
Access
SSc4.2
Alternative Transportation
No Referenced Standards
Bicycle Storage &
Changing Rooms
SSc4.3
Alternative Transportation
No Referenced Standards
Low-Emitting &
Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
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Referenced Standards
SUSTAINABLE SITES (SS)
SSc4.4
Institute of Transportation Engineers, Parking Generation Study, 2003: Database of studies for
Alternative Transportation
various types of parking demands
Parking Capacity
SSc5.1
No Referenced Standards
Site Development
Protect or Restore Habitat
SSc5.2
Site Development
Maximize Open Space
No Referenced Standards
SSc6.1
Stormwater Design
Quantity Control
No Referenced Standards
SSc6.2
Stormwater Design
Quality Control
No Referenced Standards
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
SSc7.1
Heat Island Effect
Nonroof
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
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
SSc7.2
Heat Island Effect
Roof
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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Referenced Standards
SUSTAINABLE SITES (SS)
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
No Referenced Standards
SSc9
Site Master Plan
No Referenced Standards
SSc10
Joint Use of Facilities
No Referenced Standards
WEc1
Water Efficient
Landscaping
WEc2
Innovative
Wastewater
Technologies
No Referenced Standards
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
WEc3
Water Use Reduction
WEc4
Process Water
Use Reduction
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
No Referenced Standards
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Referenced Standards
ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA)
EAp1
Fundamental
Commissioning of
Building Energy Systems
No Referenced Standards
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
EAp2
Minimum Energy
Performance
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
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
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
220 | Chapter 14
Referenced Standards
ENERGY & ATMOSPHERE (EA)
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
EAc1
Optimize
Energy
Performance
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
EAc3
Enhanced
Commissioning
EAc4
Enhanced
Refrigerant
Management
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 requirement
California T-24-2005: granted parallel equivalency to ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2007
No Referenced Standards
No Referenced Standards
EAc5
Measurement
& Verification
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol, Volume III, EVO 30000.12006, 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
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol, Volume III, EVO 30000.12006, 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
EAc5.2
Measurement
& Verification
Tenant Submetering
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol, Volume III, EVO 30000.12006, 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
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
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Referenced Standards
MATERIALS & RESOURCES (MR)
MRp1
Storage & Collection
of Recyclables
No Referenced Standards
MRc1.1
Building Reuse
Maintain Existing
Walls, Floors and Roof
No Referenced Standards
MRc1
Building Reuse
Maintain Existing
Walls, Floors and Roof
No Referenced Standards
MRc1.2
Building Reuse
Maintain Interior
Nonstructural Elements
No Referenced Standards
MRc2
Construction
Waste Management
No Referenced Standards
MRc3
Materials Reuse
No Referenced Standards
MRc4
Recycled Content
MRc5
Regional Materials
No Referenced Standards
MRc6
Rapidly Renewable
Materials
No Referenced Standards
MRc7
Certified Wood
MRc6
Certified Wood
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
IEQp2
Environmental Tobacco
Smoke (ETS) Control
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222 | Chapter 14
Referenced Standards
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
IEQp3
Minimum
Acoustical
Performance
IEQc1
Outdoor Air
Delivery Monitoring
IEQc3.1
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
During Construction
IEQc3
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
During Construction
IEQc3.2
Construction IAQ
Management Plan
Before Occupancy
IEQc4.1
Low Emitting Materials
Adhesives and Sealants
IEQc4.2
Low Emitting Materials
Paints and Coatings
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
removing particles from the air stream and the device's resistance to airflow
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
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
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
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Referenced Standards
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
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
IEQc4.3
Low Emitting Materials
Flooring Systems
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
IEQc4.4
Low Emitting Materials
Composite Wood
& Agrifiber Products
FOR SCHOOLS:
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
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
224 | Chapter 14
Referenced Standards
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
IEQc4.6
Low Emitting Materials
Ceiling and Wall Systems
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
IEQc6.1
Controllability of Systems No Referenced Standards
Lighting
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007: Ventilation Rate
IEQc6.2
for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality: Standard providing minimum requirements for operable openings
Controllability of Systems
at 4% of the net habitable floor area
Thermal Comfort
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
IEQc6
environmental and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental conditions acceptable to
Controllability of Systems
80% of the occupants within a space. The environmental factors addressed are: temperature, thermal
Thermal Comfort
radiation, humidity and air speed. The personal factors are: activity and clothing
IEQc7.1
Thermal Comfort
Design
IEQc7
Thermal Comfort
Design
IEQc7.2
Thermal Comfort
Verification
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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Referenced Standards
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (IEQ)
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
No Referenced Standards
IEQc9
Enhanced
Acoustical Performance
IEQc10
Mold Prevention
No Referenced Standards
IDc1.2
Innovation in Design
No Referenced Standards
IDc1.3
Innovation in Design
No Referenced Standards
IDc1.4
Innovation in Design
No Referenced Standards
IDc1.5
Innovation in Design
No Referenced Standards
IDc2
LEED
Accredited Professional
No Referenced Standards
IDc3
The School
as a Teaching Tool
No Referenced Standards
RPc1.2
Regional Priority
RPc1.3
Regional Priority
RPc1.4
Regional Priority
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
226 | Chapter 14
CREDITInteractions
INTERACTIONS
Credit
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
Ssp2
Minimizing site disturbance and preventing soil and erosion assists SSc5.1 &
SSc5.2
Limiting disturbance of natural hydrology assists SSc6. & SSc6.2
Site Selection
SSc1
SSc3
Brownfield Redevelopment
Projects developing on Brownfield sites are likely to qualify for SSc1
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CREDITInteractions
INTERACTIONS
Credit
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
SSc9
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
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
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228 | Chapter 14
CREDITInteractions
INTERACTIONS
Credit
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
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
WEc2
WEc3
WEc4
Some water saving technologies affect energy performance and may require
commissioning and measurement/verification, EAp1 and EAc5
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CREDIT
INTERACTIONS
Credit
Interactions
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
EAp2
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
EAp3
EAc1
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
EAc2
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
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230 | Chapter 14
CREDIT INTERACTIONS
Credit
Interactions
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
Enhanced Commissioning
EAc3
EAc4
EAc5
refer EAc5
refer EAc5
Green Power
EAc6
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CREDIT
INTERACTIONS
Credit
Interactions
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
MRc1
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
Materials Reuse
MRc3
refer MRc1.1
refer MRc1.1
Recycled Content
MRc4
Regional Materials
MRc5
The project material costs used for MRc5 must be consistent with those costs
used in MRc3, MRc4 & MRc6
Using regional materials may affect the levels of achievement of MRc3, MRc4 &
MRc5
MRc7
MRc6
The project material costs used for MRc65 must be consistent with those costs
used in MRc3, MRc4 & MRc5
Using rapidly renewable materials may affect the levels of achievement of MRc3,
MRc4 & MRc5
Rapidly renewable materials may contain high VOCs, IEQc4
Certified Wood
Certified Wood
Agrifiber
refer MRc7
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232 | Chapter 14
CREDIT
INTERACTIONS
Credit
Interactions
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
IEQp3
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
Increased Ventilation
IEQc2
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CREDIT
INTERACTIONS
Credit
Interactions
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
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SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
234 | Chapter 14
CREDITInteractions
INTERACTIONS
Credit
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
IEQc6
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CREDITInteractions
INTERACTIONS
Credit
LEED 2009: New Construction and Major Renovations, Schools and Corehell
IEQc7
refer IEQc7.1
Increasing the area of vision glazing can increase access to views from the
IEQc8.2 building, IEQc8.1
Increased window-to-wall ration can alter energy performance, EAc1 & EAp2
Daylighting controls can maximize energy savings, IEQc6.1
IDc3
2009.11.02
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Chapter 14 |
237
SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
238 | Chapter 14
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SUSTAINABLEIDEALS
240 | Chapter 14