USGBC LEED-Green-Associate LEED Green Associate Exam (LEED GA) Exam Practice Test

LEED certification is a process that evaluates the environmental performance and sustainability of a building project based on a set of rating systems. To earn LEED certification, a project must satisfy all the mandatory requirements, or prerequisites, of the chosen rating system, and earn a minimum number of points by meeting optional criteria, or credits. The number of points determines the level of certification: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points), or Platinum (80+ points)123.

Employing a LEED AP (Accredited Professional) on the project team is not a requirement for LEED certification, but it can provide an advantage, as LEED APs have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in green building and LEED rating systems. Having a LEED AP on the project team can also earn one point under the Integrative Process credit4.

Conducting a whole-building life-cycle assessment is not a requirement for LEED certification, but it can be an option for earning points under the Building Life-Cycle Impact Reduction credit. A life-cycle assessment is a method of evaluating the environmental impacts of a building over its entire life span, from extraction of materials to disposal or reuse3.

Earning a minimum of 50 points or meeting a prerequisite is not a sufficient condition for LEED certification, as it does not account for the other prerequisites or the level of certification. A project must meet all the prerequisites and earn at least 40 points to qualify for the lowest level of certification

Rainwater Management is a credit that aims to reduce runoff, improve water quality, and restore natural hydrology1. It is part of the Sustainable Sites category, which addresses the environmental impacts of the site selection, design, and construction23.

LEED v4 | HPAC Engineering2

LEED v4 for BUILDING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION - USGBC3

NC-v4.1 SSc4: Rainwater management | LEEDuser1

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

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LEED certification for neighborhood development

LEED Reference Guide for ND

LEED for NeighborhoodDevelopment - Wikipedia

LEED rating system

LEED for Neighborhood Development - Infrastructure Tool Navigator

Climate change is weighted the most in the LEED rating systems because it is considered the most urgent and significant environmental challenge facing humanity. Climate change is caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which trap heat and alter the global climate patterns. Climate change can have severe consequences for human health, biodiversity, water resources, food security, and social equity. LEED projects can help mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from building operations and materials, as well as enhancing resilience and adaptation to climate impacts. The LEED impact categories andpoint allocation process assigns 35% of the total points to climatechange. References: LEED v4 Impact Category and Point Allocation Process Overview2; LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 9

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

From a LEED perspective, a brownfield site with access to multiple lines of public transportation and basic services would be the most applicable. Brownfield sites are previously developed sites that may be contaminated with hazardous waste or pollution. Developing on these sites can help to clean up and revitalize the area. Access to public transportation reduces the need for private vehicle use,reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

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

The LEED credit weightings are based on the impact categories defined and established by the USGBC, which is the organization that developed and administers the LEED rating system. The impact categories are aligned with the USGBC’s mission and vision of transforming the built environment to enhance environmental and human health. The impact categories are also informed by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Tools for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI) methodology, which provides a framework for assessing environmental impacts across different categories. References: LEED Link: Impact categories, section “LEED v4 impact categories”; LEED v4 Impact Category and Point Allocation Process Overview, page 1; LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 14

LEED promotes compact, transit-rich locations:

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

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

The USGBC administers the LEED credentialing programs, which include the LEED Green Associate and the LEED AP with specialty credentials. The USGBC does not administer the LEED exams, the LEED rating systems development, or the LEED project certification.

The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that “The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) administers the LEED credentialing programs related to green building practice” 1, page 3.

The same handbook also states that “The Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) administers the LEED professional credential exams” 1, page 3.

The LEED AP with Specialty Candidate Handbook states that “The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is responsible for the development of the LEED rating systems” 2, page 3.

The same handbook also states that “The Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) administers project certification for all commercial and institutional projects pursuing LEED certification under any of the current rating systems” 2, page 3.

According to the LEED v4 Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs), there is no minimum required number of occupants or full-time equivalents (FTEs) for which a building must be designed to be considered eligible to pursue certification1. However, the project must serve at least one FTE, which is based on an 8-hour day2. The other options are not part of the MPRs.

Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) - U.S. Green Building Council1

LEED 101: MPRs (Minimum Program Requirements)2

The intent of waste management in the Materials and Resources credit category is to reduce the amount of waste and toxins hauled to landfills. This can be achieved through strategies such as recycling, composting, reusing materials, and reducing overall material consumption. By reducing waste, we can conserve natural resources, reduce pollution from waste treatment and disposal processes, and decrease the demand for landfill space. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

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

References :=

SRI Calculator | LEEDuser

What Is Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of Materials?

Water Efficiency and LEED Certification | Contractor

Water Balance Analysis - ASHRAE

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

Integrated Project Planning and Design is a prerequisite for healthcare facilities under LEED v4. The intent is to maximize opportunities for the adoption of cost-effective integrated green design and construction strategies as early as pre-design1.

LEED v4 | HPAC Engineering1

Installing permanent water submeters that measure the total potable water use for a building and associated grounds allows facility staff to track water consumption and identify leaks. This can help reduce water waste, lower utility bills, and improve water efficiency1. It can also contribute to the Water Metering credit in the Water Efficiency category of LEED v42.

How LEED Guides Users to Water Efficiency - Facilitiesnet1

Submeter at least two water subsystems | LEEDuser2

As of 1996, the Montreal Protocol banned the production of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a chemical compound known to have ozone-depleting potential. CFCs are synthetic substances that were widely used as refrigerants, propellants, solvents, and foam-blowing agents. CFCs have high ozone depletion potential (ODP), which means they can destroy the ozone layer that protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty that aims to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. The Montreal Protocol banned the production of CFCs in 1996 fordeveloped countries and in 2010 for developing countries1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, UNEP’s Montreal Protocol

ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Appendix G is the referenced standard for defining the baseline building performance for energy simulation modeling in LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction. The baseline building is a hypothetical building that represents the minimum energy performance required by ASHRAE 90.1-2010, which is a standard for energy efficiency in buildings. The baseline building is used as a benchmark to compare the proposed design of the project and to calculate the percentage of energy cost savings achieved by the project. The baseline building performance is evaluated by following the procedures and assumptions specified in Appendix G of ASHRAE 90.1-2010, such as building envelope, lighting, HVAC systems, service water heating, and renewable energy.

The other options are not relevant to the question, as they are standards for different aspects of green building, such as thermal comfort (ASHRAE 55-2010), air filtration (ASHRAE 52.2-2007), and ventilation (ASHRAE 62.1-2010).

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

The cradle-to-cradle approach to sustainable materials evaluates building materials from extraction to reuse, which means that the materials are considered as part of a continuous cycle of use and regeneration, rather than a linear process of consumption and disposal. The cradle-to-cradle approach aims to eliminate waste and pollution, conserve resources and energy, and create positive impacts for the environment and human health. The cradle-to-cradle approach is based on the principles of eco-effectiveness, which include designing products and systems that are safe and healthy for humans and nature, using renewable energy and clean water, celebrating diversity and creativity, and respecting social and environmental justice12. The cradle-to-cradle approach is also recognized and encouraged by LEED v4, which includes a credit for using products that have achieved Cradle to Cradle certification34.

To maintain the LEED Green Associate credential, you must earn 30 continuing education hours every two years, with at least six of those hours being LEED specific. This requirement ensures that LEED Green Associates stay up-to-date with the latest developments in green building practices and LEED rating systems. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

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

15 Climate Feedback Loops and Examples - Earth How

Systems Thinking Through Climate Change — 5 Positive Feedback Loops

What are climate change feedback loops? - The Guardian

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

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

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

LEED v4 Rating Systems | USGBC-LI1

The Facilities Manager is typically responsible for ensuring the comfort and safety of a building’s occupants. They would be best equipped to evaluate responses to a survey about comfort levels in the building and develop a corrective action plan to address any problems identified. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

LEED emphasizes:

“The integrative process... encourages the project team to find opportunities to achieve synergies throughout all building systems.”

The integrative approach involves energy and water analysis in early phases to drive sustainability.

Sustainable forestry is the practice of managing forest resources in a way that meets the current and future needs of humans forforest products, while also conserving and enhancing the ecological, social, and economic values of the forest and its surrounding landscape1. One of the key aspects of sustainable forestry is to maintain the biodiversity of the forest, which refers to the variety and abundance of living organisms, such as plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, and their interactions within the forest ecosystem2. Biodiversity is important for the health and resilience of the forest, as it provides essential ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, water purification, soil formation, nutrient cycling, pollination, pest control, and climate regulation23. Biodiversity also supports the livelihoods, cultures, and well-being of forest-dependent communities and indigenous peoples23.

What is sustainable forestry?

Why is biodiversity important for forests?

LEED v4 - FSC United States

 In the commercial LEED rating systems, achieving 40-49 points will result in Silver level certification. The points are awarded based on how well the project meets various sustainability criteria set out in the LEED rating system. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Systems thinking is a principle that is part of the integrated process, which is a collaborative and holistic approach to green building design, construction, and operation. Systems thinking involves understanding the interrelationships and interactions among the various components of a system, such as the building, its occupants, its site, its climate, and its energy sources. Systems thinking helps to identify synergies, optimize performance, avoid unintendedconsequences, and create multiple benefits for the project13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide3

The Full Time Equivalent (FTE) occupancy of a project is a measure of how many people occupy a building or space on a regular basis. The FTE occupancy is calculated by dividing the total number of hours worked by all occupants in a week by the standard weekly hours for one FTE occupant. Thestandard weekly hours for one FTE occupant is typically 40 hours per week1 . For this project, the FTE occupancy is calculated as follows:

16 employees x 4 hours/day x 5 days/week = 320 hours/week 20 employees x 6 hours/day x 5 days/week = 600 hours/week 10 employees x 8 hours/day x 5 days/week = 400 hours/week Total hours/week = 1320 hours/week FTE occupancy = 1320 hours/week / 40hours/week = 33 Therefore, the FTE occupancy of the project is 33. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide

A strategy for preventing light pollution is to install shielded fixtures. Light pollution is the excessive or inappropriate use of artificial lighting that can have adverse effects on human health, wildlife, ecosystems, and astronomy. Shielded fixtures are lighting devices that direct light downward and prevent light from escaping upward or sideways. Shielded fixtures can reduce light pollution by minimizing glare, sky glow, light trespass, and energy waste13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, International Dark-Sky Association’s Lighting Basics3

The LEED minimum program requirements state that for LEED BD+C and LEED O+M rating systems, the LEED project must include a minimum of 1000 ft2 (93 m2) of gross floor area1.

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide

LEED minimum program requirements

LEED For Building Design And Construction (LEED BD+C) Rating Systems In Details

The LeadingGreen Study Guide defines carbon offsets as:

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

Additionally, LEED recognizes carbon offsets as a method to:

“...compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere.”

Hence, the correct and verified answer isCarbon offsets.

Biomass is a renewable energy source that can be used to produce electricity from organic plant and waste material. It is considered green power by the U.S. EPA because it provides environmental benefits and reduces greenhouse gas emissions12.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Increasing density means building more units or floor area on a given site, which reduces the amount of land and resources needed per unit or occupant1. This also creates a smaller footprint and maximizes the floor area ratio (FAR), which is the ratio of the total building floor area to the site area2. Increasing density can help achieve creditsin the Location and Transportation category, such as Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses3.

LEED v4: Neighborhood Development Guide | U.S. Green Building Council1

Floor Area Ratio - Planning Department2

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

According to the LeadingGreen Guide:

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

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

An exemplary performance point is earned if the project achieves a performance level that is significantly higher than the credit requirements, as specified in the LEED Reference Guide1. The incremental performance threshold varies depending on the credit and is typically double the credit requirements or the next percentage threshold2.

 1 NC-v4.1 INc1: Innovation | LEEDuser2 What Is Exemplary Performance In LEED? | LEED Blog - Projectific, Inc.

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

Native species are plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, and therefore require less water and maintenance than non-native species. By maximizing the use of native species in the landscaping design, the project can reduce the need for potable water for irrigation and achieve the Outdoor Water Use Reduction credit under LEED v4 Water Efficiency category1.

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide1, page 35

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

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

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

ASHRAE stands for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, a professional organization that develops standards and guidelines for the design, operation, and maintenance of buildings. ASHRAE standards are applicable to two LEED categories: Energy and Atmosphere (EA) and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). The EA category addresses the energy performance, efficiency, and renewable sources of buildings. The IEQ category addresses the indoor air quality, thermal comfort, lighting quality, and acoustic performance of buildings. Some of the ASHRAE standards that are relevant for these categories are: ASHRAE Standard 90.1 for energy efficiency;ASHRAE Standard 62.1 for ventilation; ASHRAE Standard 55 for thermal comfort; ASHRAE Standard 189.1 for high-performance green buildings1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, ASHRAE’s Standards & Guidelines

According to the LEED Study Guide:

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

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

SRI is a measure of a material's ability to reflect solar heat (reflectivity) and release absorbed heat (emissivity). This index helps evaluate materials for reducing the heat island effect under the Sustainable Sites category​​.

Stormwater runoff can indeed be treated and used in a facility’s cooling towers. This is an example of using non-potable water (water that is not of drinking quality) for purposes that do not require potable water. Other uses for treated stormwater might include toilet flushing or irrigation. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

According to the LEED credit library, the Energy and Atmosphere category for Building Design and Construction: New Construction and Major Renovation has 6 prerequisites and 11 credits, with a total of 33 possible points. The prerequisites are:

Fundamental Commissioning and Verification (required)

Minimum Energy Performance (required)

Building-Level Energy Metering (required)

Fundamental Refrigerant Management (required)

Construction Activity Pollution Prevention (required)

Advanced Energy Metering (required)

The credits are:

Enhanced Commissioning (2-6 points)

Optimize Energy Performance (1-18 points)

Advanced Energy Metering (1 point)

Demand Response (1-2 points)

Renewable Energy Production (1-3 points)

Enhanced Refrigerant Management (1 point)

Green Power and Carbon Offsets (1-2 points)

Graywater refers to relatively clean wastewater from domestic activities such as washing dishes, laundry, and bathing. Water from lavatory faucets falls into this category. Graywater can be treated and reused for non-potable purposes such as toilet flushing or irrigation, which can help conserve water. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Native landscaping directly supports bothsite assessmentandoutdoor water use reductionby reducing irrigation needs and enhancing biodiversity:

“Install native or adaptive landscaping to reduce or eliminate irrigation demands… Site assessment is one of the most important parts of the integrative process…”

This synergy reflects environmental and water conservation priorities within the LEED rating system.

From the Project Surroundings guide:

“Only about 3% of Earth’s water is freshwater.”

This limited availability emphasizes the importance of water conservation in LEED.

Regenerative design is a type of design that goes beyond sustainability and aims to restore or enhance the natural systems that support life. Regenerative design projects not only minimize their environmental impact, but also contribute positively to the environment and society. An example of regenerative design is a building that generates electricity from renewable sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, and sends the excess electricity to the grid, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the transition to a clean energy economy.

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

Rainwater is considered an alternative water source because it is a sustainable source of water that is not supplied from fresh surface water or groundwater. Rainwater can be harvested from roofs or other surfaces and stored for later use. Rainwater can offset the demand for freshwater and reduce the pressure on water resources. Rainwater can be used for various purposes, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, cooling, and cleaning. LEED projects can earn credits for using alternative water sources under the Water Efficiency category. References: Best Management Practice #14: Alternative Water Sources1; LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Water Efficiency, page 51

The coordination of building and site systems should be addressed at the predesign stage to maximize the impact of integrative process. The integrative process is a method of design and construction that involves the collaboration and coordination of all project stakeholders from the beginning to achieve the project’s sustainability goals1. The predesign stage is the earliest phase of the project, where the project vision, scope, budget, schedule, and performance targets are defined2. By addressing the coordination of building and site systems at this stage, the project team can identify and analyze the interrelationships and synergies among various systems, such as energy, water, materials, indoor environmental quality, and site ecology3. This can help the team to optimize the design solutions, reduce costs and risks, enhance performance and quality, and avoid rework and conflicts later in the projec

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEED Interior Design and Construction (ID+C) is a rating system that applies to projects that are a complete interior fit-out or renovation1. Data centers are one of the project types that can use this rating system, as they have specific requirements for energy efficiency, cooling, and reliability2.

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LEED rating system

LEED rating system selection

LEED Rating Systems Overview

ASHRAE 189.1 is a standard for the design of high-performance green buildings that covers various aspects of sustainability, energy efficiency, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and more. It is an alternate compliance path for the IGCC, which is a model code that contains minimum requirements for green building design and construction. In jurisdictions that adopt the IGCC, a builder has the option to design and construct a building in accordance with the provisions of ASHRAE 189.1 rather than those of the IGCC123.

ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2014: Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings (ASHRAE 189.1) | US EPA Smart Growth1

ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2014 - Trane Heating & Air Conditioning2

IgCC and ASHRAE Standard 189.1 Technical Provisions3

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

A high-efficiency HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system can directly reduce a building’s greenhouse gas emissions by using less energy than a standard system. Since most energy production involves the burning of fossil fuels, which releases greenhouse gases, using less energy results in fewer emissions. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

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

LEED states:

“Refrigerants have ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP)... Projects should select refrigerants with low values of both.”

This aligns with the credit “Fundamental Refrigerant Management” in LEED v4.

The reclaimed wood doors can be used to meet the Materials Reuse credit under the Building Product Disclosure and Optimization category in LEED v4. This credit rewards projects for reusing materials that have been recovered from existing buildings or products, and reduces the demand for virgin materials and the associated environmental impacts. The credit does not have any distance requirements for the source of the reused materials, unlike the Recycled Content and Regional Materials credits.

LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide1, page 36

LEED v4 and Low Carbon Building Materials2, page 19

One of the requirements for the Sustainable Sites Credit: Rainwater Management is that projects must use Green Infrastructure (GI) and Low Impact Development (LID) techniques within the LEED project boundary. GI and LID are design approaches that mimic natural hydrologic processes to manage stormwater runoff at its source. GI and LID techniques include strategies such as rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavements, green roofs, rain barrels, cisterns, and vegetated buffers. The other options are not requirements for the Sustainable Sites Credit: Rainwater Management. Maximizing open space within the LEED project boundary is a requirement for the Sustainable Sites Credit: Open Space. Calculating the total rainwater runoff for 75th percentile rainfall events is a requirement for the Sustainable Sites Credit: Site Assessment. Using a combination of both structural and non-structural measures to manage a 90th percentile rainfall event is an option for meeting Option 1 of the Sustainable Sites Credit: Rainwater Management. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 27; USGBC, [Sustainable Sites], page 4-5.

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

References :=

SRI Calculator | LEEDuser

What Is Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of Materials?

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

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

LEED CANADA SOLAR REFLECTANCE AND EMISSIVITY - Vicwest

The environmental harm associated with transportation is reduced when purchasing and installing locally sourced, environmentally preferable products. Locally sourced products are products that are extracted, harvested, recovered, or manufactured within a certain distance from the project site. Environmentally preferable products are products that have reduced environmental impacts compared to similar products in terms of energy use, water use, materials use, waste generation, emissions, toxicity, and durability. Purchasing and installing locally sourced, environmentally preferable products reduces the amount of fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and road congestion associated with transporting products over long distances. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving materials and resources efficiency is to “use local or regional materials (extracted, processed and manufactured within 100 miles)” [1, p. 15]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Environmentally Preferable Purchasing | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

A neighborhood that includes a diversity of uses is most appropriate to encourage a walkable street design. A diversity of uses means that different types of activities and functions are located within walking distance of each other, such as residential, commercial, retail, educational, recreational, cultural, and civic uses. A diversity of uses creates a vibrant and lively neighborhood that attracts pedestrians and supports social interaction. A walkable street design also incorporates elements such as sidewalks, crosswalks, street trees, lighting, benches, bike lanes, public transit stops, and reduced vehicle speeds to enhance pedestrian safety and comfort. The other options are not appropriate to encourage a walkable street design. An area with a decreased building-height-to-street-width ratio creates a wide and open street that exposes pedestrians to more sun and wind, reducing their comfort level. A development that uses many culs-de-sac in the street design creates a disconnected and irregular street network that limits pedestrian access and mobility. A project in an area designed with streets to facilitate increased speed limits prioritizes vehicle movement over pedestrian safety and comfort. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 29; USGBC [Location & Transportation], page 2-3.

Low-Impact Development (LID) is an approach to land development that uses various land planning and design practices and technologies to simultaneously conserve and protect natural resource systems and reduce infrastructure costs. LID still allows land to be developed, but in a cost-effective manner that helps mitigate potential environmental impacts. This approach aims to manage rainwater as close to its source as possible, mimicking a site’s pre-development hydrology through the use of numerous site design strategies. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

A charrette is a strategy that can help build consensus for a project’s sustainability goals. A charrette is an intensive, collaborative, and creative workshop that brings together the project team and other stakeholders to define the project goals, scope, and strategies. A charrette can help to establish a common vision, identify synergies, and prioritize actions for a green building project. A charrette can also foster communication, trust, and buy-in among the participants13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide3

Potable water is water that is suitable for drinking. Potable water meets or exceeds the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) drinking water quality standards and is free of contaminants that are harmful to human health. The other options are not suitable for drinking. Graywater is wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundry that can be reused for non-potable purposes such as toilet flushing and irrigation. Greenwater is rainwater that is collected and stored for non-potable uses. Stormwater is runoff from precipitation that can carry pollutants and sediments into waterways. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 26; USGBC, [Water Efficiency], page 2.

Installing new flush valves or flow restrictors is a low-cost strategy to improve water efficiency. These devices reduce the amount of water used in each flush or flow, leading to significant water savings over time. Other strategies like installing subsurface cisterns to collect stormwater, using only compostable toilets throughout the facility, or incorporating an on-site blackwater treatment system can also improve water efficiency, but they typically involve higher upfront costs. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Integrative design is the term that encourages team members to collaborate throughout the process of design and construction to create synergistic solutions. Integrative design is an approach that considers the interrelationships among various building systems, environmental factors, and occupant needs, and seeks to optimize the performance, cost, and environmental benefits of the project. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Integrative Process category is to “support high-performance, cost-effective project outcomes through an early analysis of the interrelationships among systems” [1, p. 12]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Integrative Design Process | Whole Building Design Guide]

Closed systems are systems that promote the conservation of materials and resources by linking elements in order to form relationships with their function. Closed systems aim to minimize waste, energy loss, and environmental impact by reusing, recycling, or regenerating materials within the system boundaries. Closed systems can be inspired by natural ecosystems, where waste from one process becomes food for another process. An example of a closed system is a building that collects rainwater for irrigation, uses solar panels for electricity, composts organic waste forfertilizer, and recycles greywater for flushing toilets1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, Biomimicry Institute’s What is Biomimicry?

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

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

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

Rainwater Harvesting for Landscape Irrigation

Potable Water

Clean Water

Blackwater

Monitoring outdoor airflow is a strategy for improving indoor environmental quality during construction. Outdoor airflow is the amount of fresh air that enters a building through natural or mechanical means. Monitoring outdoor airflow can help ensure that adequate ventilation is provided to the building during construction, which can prevent the accumulation of indoor pollutants, such as dust, debris, or volatile organic compounds, that may affect the health and comfort of the workers or occupants. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving indoor environmental quality is to “monitor outdoor airflow” [1, p. 16]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Outdoor Airflow | ASHRAE]

Recycling is a strategy that can be used to reduce the amount of construction waste that is sent to landfills or incinerators. Recycling involves collecting, sorting, processing, and reusing or selling materials that would otherwise be discarded as waste. Recycling can save natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create jobs, and lowerdisposal costs1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Recycling Basics

Stone that is harvested and processed 80 mi (128.7 km) from the project site and purchased 75 mi (121 km) away is considered a local material because it meets the criteria of being extracted, harvested, recovered, or manufactured within 100 mi (160 km) of the project site. Local materials can help reduce environmental impacts associated with transportation, such as greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and energy consumption. Local materials can also support the local economy and community. LEED projects can earn credits for using local materials under the Materials and Resources category. References: Local Materialsin India3; LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Materials and Resources, page 65

LEED MPRs state:

“Must be in a permanent location on existing land… Must use reasonable LEED boundaries… Must comply with project size requirements: BD+C and O+M: minimum 1,000 sq ft…”

Only option B satisfies all these conditions.

The owner is one of the team members who should participate in the initial evaluation to determine which level of LEED certification to target. The owner is the person or entity who has the authority and responsibility to make decisions about the project’s goals, budget, schedule, and design. The owner’s involvement is crucial for setting the vision and expectations for the project’s sustainability performance and selecting the appropriate LEED rating system and certification level. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the steps in the integrative process is to “engage in a preliminary LEED assessment with key project team members, including owner” [1, p. 12]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Integrative Process | U.S. Green Building Council]

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

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

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a type of compound that was widely used in the 20th century in various applications, including as a refrigerant in air conditioning systems such as centrifugal chillers. CFCs are known to deplete the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere, and their use has been phased out in many countries under the Montreal Protocol. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Building and material reuse contribute to the sustainability goals of a project by reducing the use of raw materials, which can save energy, water, and natural resources, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation, and environmental impacts. By reusing existing buildings or materials, project teams can avoid the extraction, processing, transportation, and disposal of new materials, which can have significant environmental and social costs. LEED v4.1 recognizes and rewards multiple strategies for building and material reuse in the Building-Life Cycle Impact Reduction credit1.

Green Cleaning is a plan that is implemented after occupancy to ensure that the building is maintained in a way that reduces the environmental and health impacts of cleaning products, equipment, and practices. Green Cleaning is part of the LEED v4 Operations and Maintenance rating system, and it includes credits for purchasing sustainable cleaning products and materials, using green cleaning equipment, implementing an indoor integrated pest management program, and developing a green cleaning policy1.

LEED v4: Operations and Maintenance Guide1, pages 36-41

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

Per the LeadingGreen Study Guide:

“LEED points are awarded on a 100-point scale. Additionally, 10 bonus credits are available: six Innovation and four Regional Priority credits.”

This totals 110 maximum points.

Waste that is transported or diverted to landfills can have negative impacts on the environment, such as occupying valuable land, contaminating soil and water, and emitting harmful gases. One of the most significant impacts is the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. Methane is generated when organic waste decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen) in landfills. Methane has a global warming potential 28 times higher than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Landfill Methane Outreach Program2

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

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

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

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

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

LEED v4 | U.S. Green Building Council

LEED credit library | U.S. Green Building Council

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

ASHRAE 62.1 is a standard that ensures adequate ventilation is supplied to building occupants. ASHRAE stands for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-ConditioningEngineers, a professional organization that develops standards and guidelines for the design, operation, and maintenance of buildings. ASHRAE 62.1 is a standard that specifies the minimum ventilation rates and other measures for new and existing buildings that are intended to provide acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ) for the occupants. Ventilation is the process of supplying outdoor air to or removing indoor air from a building. Adequate ventilation is important for maintaining good IAQ, which can affectthe health, comfort, and productivity of the occupants13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, ASHRAE’s Standard 62.13

Green Seal is a third-party certification program that evaluates the environmental impacts of cleaning products and services. It has standards for various categories of products, such as cleaners, paper products, hand soaps, and floor care. Green Seal certified products meet rigorous performance, health, and environmental criteria. By using Green Seal certified products, projects can reduce the exposure of building occupants and maintenance personnel to potentially harmful chemicals, improve indoor air quality, and support sustainable purchasing practices. References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Operations and Maintenance, p. 109 1; Green Seal website

LEED encouragesTransportation Demand Managementstrategies to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use when access to public transit is not available. One such strategy is:

“Encouraging carpooling… provides options to users in areas without access to transit.”

Offering preferred parking for single-use vehicles contradicts the intent, and LEED cannot require changes to local transit systems. Providing extra parking encourages single-occupancy vehicle use.

The LEED rating system is designed to address the most important environmental impacts and human benefits of green building. The impact categories are based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s TRACI method (Tool for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and Other Environmental Impacts), which evaluates the potential environmental effects of a product or process over its life cycle. The impact categories are: reverse contribution to global climate change; enhance individual human health and well-being; protect and restore water resources; protect, enhance and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services; promote sustainable and regenerative material cycles; build a greener economy; enhance social equity, environmental justice, community health and quality of life. Among these categories, reducing contribution to climate change and enhancing human health and well-being have been identified as the most important ones for a LEED project to accomplish. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide

This formula is used to calculate the percentage of restoration area for the LEED v4 credit SSc2: Protect or Restore Habitat1. The restoration area is the portion of the site that is restored with native or adapted vegetation, and the total previously disturbed site area is the area that was altered by human activity before the project2.

References := NC-v4.1 SSc2: Protect or Restore Habitat | LEEDuser, LEED CERTIFICATION- REQUIREMENTS FOR SS CREDIT: PROTECT OR RESTORE …

In addition to temperature and air movement, humidity is another factor to consider when implementing thermal comfort strategies. Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air, which affects how warm or cool people feel. High humidity can make people feel hotter and more uncomfortable, while low humidity can cause dryness and irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. Thermal comfort strategies should aim to maintain an optimal level of humidity that balances human comfort and health with energy efficiency and moisture control. The other options are not factors to consider when implementing thermal comfort strategies. Methane off-gassing is the release of methane gas from organic matter decomposition or anaerobic digestion, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Carbon dioxide concentrations are a measure of indoor air quality that indicates the level of ventilation and fresh air supply in a space. Combustion processes from vehicles are sources of outdoor air pollution that emit carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and other harmful substances. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 29; USGBC, [Indoor Environmental Quality], page 2.

Shielded light fixtures are designed to direct light downwards and prevent it from spilling over into areas where it’s not wanted, such as beyond the project boundary. This helps to prevent light trespass, which can be a form of pollution that disrupts ecosystems and human sleep patterns. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources