LEED-Green-Associate Questions and Answers

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

The result of proper design and operation of buildings and neighborhoods is an increase in energy efficiency. Energy efficiency is the ratio of useful output to energy input for a system or process. Energy efficiency can be improved by using less energy to perform the same function or by using renewable or low-impact energy sources. Energy efficiency can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, energy costs, and dependence on fossil fuels1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Energy Efficiency

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 and point allocation process assigns 35% of the total points to climate change. References: LEED v4 Impact Category and Point Allocation Process Overview2; LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 9

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

ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager is an online tool developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that allows building owners and managers to measure and track the energy and water performance of their buildings, as well as benchmark their buildings against similar buildings nationwide. The tool uses a 1-100 ENERGY STAR score to rate the energy efficiency of a building relative to its peers, where a score of 50 represents median performance and a score of 75 or higher indicates top performance1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager

vocs are volatile organic compounds that can evaporate from paints, solvents, adhesives, and other building materials. They can cause health problems such as eye irritation, respiratory distress, headaches, and cancer. Limiting the concentration of vocs in the air protects the health of construction personnel by reducing their exposure to these harmful substances12.

References :=

• Occupational Hygiene - Occupational Exposure Limits | CCOHS
• 1910.1450 - Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals in laboratories. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Water Efficiency is the only credit category that does not have a prerequisite in LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction. Prerequisites are the minimum requirements that all projects must meet to be eligible for LEED certification. They are mandatory and non-weighted, meaning they do not contribute to the project’s score. The other credit categories have at least one prerequisite each, as shown in the table below:

References: LEED v4 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, p. 17 1; [LEED v4 BD+C Scorecard]

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.

References:

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

Occupant surveys are tools that can be used to identify indoor environmental issues and prepare a corrective action plan to make necessary changes. Occupant surveys are questionnaires that collect feedback from the building users about their satisfaction, comfort, health, and productivity in relation to the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) factors, such as thermal comfort, indoor air quality, lighting quality, acoustic quality, and occupant control. Occupant surveys can help to identify the sources and causes of IEQ problems, as well as the potential solutions and improvements. Occupant surveys are also required for some LEED credits, such as IEQc7.2 Thermal Comfort, Verification1, which requires a corrective action plan if more than 20% of the occupants are dissatisfied with the thermal conditions in the space2. The other options are not directly related to identifying indoor environmental issues and preparing a corrective action plan, as they involve different types of tools or metrics that are not relevant for measuring occupant satisfaction and comfort.

The feedback mechanism is a process of collecting and analyzing data from the building occupants to evaluate the performance of the building and identify opportunities for improvement1. Occupants are the primary source of feedback, as they are the ones who experience the building on a daily basis and can provide valuable insights on its comfort, functionality, and satisfaction2.

References := LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Feedback Mechanism - LEEDuser

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

An infill site within an existing neighborhood with substantial transit connectivity would maximize LEED points under Location and Transportation. An infill site is a site that has been previously developed or graded and is surrounded by existing development. An existing neighborhood is a geographic area with a variety of land uses, such as residential, commercial, educational, or recreational. Substantial transit connectivity means that the site has access to multiple modes of public transportation, such as buses, trains, light rail, or bicycles. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Location and Transportation category is to “encourage development within existing communities and public transit infrastructure” [1, p. 12]. References: [LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook], [Location and Transportation | U.S. Green Building Council]

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 for fertilizer, 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.

process water is water that is used for specific processes in industries, businesses, or buildings. Process water can include water used for cooling, heating, washing, rinsing, sterilizing, humidifying, or other purposes. Process water can also include water used for building systems, such as cooling towers, boilers, chillers, or irrigation123.

Process water is different from domestic water, which is water used for human consumption or hygiene, such as drinking, cooking, bathing, or flushing toilets. Process water is also different from wastewater, which is water that has been contaminated by human or industrial activities and requires treatment before being discharged or reused24.

Process water is an important aspect of water efficiency in LEED certification. LEED v4.1 offers credits for optimizing process water use by reducing the demand or increasing the use of alternative sources of water, such as rainwater, graywater, or reclaimed water

A drip irrigation system provides maximum water efficiency for a building irrigation system. A drip irrigation system delivers water directly to the root zone of plants, minimizing evaporation, runoff, and overspray. This reduces water consumption and prevents water pollution from fertilizers and pesticides. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving water efficiency in landscaping is to “use efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation” [1, p. 14]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Drip Irrigation | U.S. Department of Agriculture]

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

Building orientation is the element of design that can be used to take advantage of natural ventilation, solar energy and daylight. Building orientation refers to the position and direction of a building in relation to the sun, wind, and other environmental factors. By orienting a building properly, it can maximize the benefits of passive design strategies such as daylighting, natural ventilation, and solar energy. For example, a building can be oriented to face the south or north in temperate climates to capture more sunlight for heating and lighting, or to face the east or west in hot climates to avoid excessive solar heat gain and glare. A building can also be oriented to align with the prevailing wind direction to enhance natural ventilation and cooling. Building orientation can also affect the shape, size, and placement of windows, doors, roofs, and other architectural elements that influence the performance and comfort of a building. References: Passive Design Strategies | Sustainability Workshop, section “Building Massing & Orientation”; Back to Basics: Natural Ventilation and its Use in Different Contexts | ArchDaily, section “Orientation”; Courtyard configuration to optimize shading, daylight and ventilation …, section “Introduction”

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

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

The Commissioning Authority (CxA) should be brought onto the project team early in the Schematic Design (SD) phase, as recommended by the LEED rating system1. This allows the CxA to participate in the design process and provide input on the owner’s project requirements, the basis of design, and the commissioning plan. The CxA can also help to identify and resolve potential issues before they become costly problems during construction or operation.

References:

• LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction, p. 36
• LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, p. 11
• Commissioning Authority Guide
• Commissioning Authority | WBDG - Whole Building Design Guide

The cost of commissioning (Cx) is often repaid with recovered energy performance. Commissioning is a process of verifying and documenting that a building and its systems meet the design intent and the owner’s project requirements. Commissioning can help improve the energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and occupant satisfaction of a building. According to a study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, commissioning can result in median energy savings of 13% for existing buildings and 16% for new construction, with payback times of 1.1 years and 4.2 years, respectively1. Therefore, commissioning can be a cost-effective investment that pays off with reduced energy consumption and costs over the life cycle of a building. References: Building Commissioning: A Golden Opportunity for Reducing Energy Costs and Greenhouse Gas Emissions1; LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Energy and Atmosphere, page 81

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

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 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]

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

LEED credits are weighted based on their potential environmental impacts and human benefits. Those that most directly address these areas are given greater weight in the scoring system. This approach is intended to prioritize actions that have the greatest positive impact on critical environmental issues such as climate change, water resources, biodiversity, air pollution, and human health. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

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

Regional Priority credits are awarded to encourage projects to address local environmental issues that are of particular importance or concern for the region where the project is located. These issues may include water scarcity, air quality, habitat protection, or human health. Regional Priority credits are not new LEED credits, but rather existing credits that have been identified by regional councils or chapters of USGBC as having higher priority or relevance for their areas. Projects can earn up to four bonus points by achieving Regional Priority credits. References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Introduction, page 13; LEED v4 Impact Category and Point Allocation Process Overview1

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.

References:

• Rainwater Harvesting for Landscape Irrigation
• Potable Water
• Clean Water
• Blackwater

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

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

Life-cycle costing (LCC) is a method of estimating the total cost of owning and operating an asset over its entire life span. LCC considers all costs associated with the acquisition, installation, operation, maintenance, and disposal of the asset12. LCC can help businesses make better decisions about purchasing, budgeting, pricing, and investing in assets2.

LCC does not quantify environmental impacts such as acidification, eutrophication, or global warming. These impacts are measured by life-cycle assessment (LCA), which is a method of evaluating the environmental effects of a product or service throughout its life cycle. LCA considers the inputs and outputs of materials, energy, and emissions at each stage of the product or service life cycle34. LCA can help businesses identify opportunities to reduce their environmental footprint, improve their sustainability performance, and comply with environmental regulations4.

However, LCC and LCA are often used together to compare different alternatives based on both economic and environmental criteria. For example, a business may use LCC to estimate the energy costs of different lighting options, and LCA to estimate the greenhouse gas emissions of each option. By combining LCC and LCA results, the business can select the option that minimizes both costs and emissions.

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

When developing the project and building construction budget, the project team should incorporate time in the schedule for unique materials and systems. This is because some green building strategies may require materials or systems that are not readily available or familiar to the local market. For example, using recycled or salvaged materials may require more time for sourcing and delivery. Similarly, installing renewable energy systems or high-performance HVAC systems may require more time for design and commissioning. Therefore, the project team should plan ahead and allocate sufficient time for these aspects of the project. References: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Integrative Process, page 28

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

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 .

Good site design benefits a project in which of the following ways: makes occupants comfortable by providing green spaces. Green spaces are areas of vegetation that improve the quality of life for building occupants and visitors by providing natural views, fresh air, shade, noise reduction, and recreational opportunities. They also reduce heat island effect, improve stormwater management, and sequester carbon dioxide. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Sustainable Sites category is to “enhance occupant comfort by providing green spaces” [1, p. 13]. References: [LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook], [Green Spaces | U.S. Department of Energy]

Building-level energy metering is a prerequisite in LEED that requires the installation of energy meters to track the total energy usage of a building12. It helps to monitor and optimize the energy performance of the building and to report the data to USGBC3. Green metering, site evaluation data, and energy savings records are not terms used in LEED.

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

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.

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

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.

References:

• LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide
• LEED minimum program requirements
• LEED For Building Design And Construction (LEED BD+C) Rating Systems In Details

Renovating an existing building using recycled and salvaged building materials is an example of a life-cycle approach to development or design. A life-cycle approach is an approach that considers the environmental impacts of a product or a project from cradle to grave, or from extraction of raw materials to disposal or reuse. Renovating an existing building using recycled and salvaged building materials reduces the environmental impacts associated with new construction, such as land use change, resource depletion, energy consumption, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Materials and Resources category is to “promote life-cycle assessment as a means of evaluating environmental impacts” [1, p. 15]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Life Cycle Assessment | U.S. Department of Energy]

 Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are compounds that have a high vapor pressure and low water solubility, and are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids1. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects2. Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoors2. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products, such as paints, solvents, cleaners, fuels, pesticides, building materials, office equipment, etc2. Breathing VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, can cause difficulty breathing and nausea, and can damage the central nervous system and other organs3. Some VOCs can cause cancer3. Therefore, VOCs negatively impact the quality of indoor air, which is option B.

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

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

Using materials with a high recycled content is a strategy to reduce construction waste. Recycled content materials are made from pre-consumer or post-consumer waste that has been diverted from landfills or incinerators and reprocessed into new materials. Using recycled content materials reduces the demand for virgin materials, saves energy and resources, and prevents waste generation. The other options are not strategies to reduce construction waste. Performing a waste stream audit is a strategy to measure and analyze the types and quantities of waste generated by a building or project. Developing a construction waste management policy is a strategy to establish goals and procedures for diverting construction waste from landfills or incinerators. Hiring a consultant to sort construction waste off site is a strategy to outsource the responsibility of separating recyclable or reusable materials from construction waste, but it does not necessarily reduce the amount of waste generated. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 26; USGBC, [Materials and Resources], page 2.

LEED prerequisites are the minimum requirements that a project must meet in order to be eligible for LEED certification. Prerequisites are mandatory for all projects and cannot be substituted or waived. If a project does not meet a prerequisite in one credit category, it does not qualify for certification, regardless of how many points it earns in other categories123.

A project that does not meet a prerequisite in one credit category does not forfeit all points in the same credit category, as points are awarded for meeting optional credits, not prerequisites. A project cannot file a CIR (Credit Interpretation Request) to seek clarification or exception for a prerequisite, as CIRs are only applicable for credits. A project cannot substitute a prerequisite from an alternative rating system, as prerequisites are specific to each rating system and reflect the minimum standards for that system

A 100% vegetated roof coverage best addresses both heat island effect and rainwater runoff from the roof only. A vegetated roof, also known as a green roof, is a layer of living plants that covers the roof surface. A vegetated roof reduces the heat island effect by providing shade, evapotranspiration, and insulation, lowering the roof temperature and the surrounding air temperature. A vegetated roof also reduces rainwater runoff by retaining and absorbing precipitation, decreasing the volume and peak flow of stormwater leaving the roof. The other options are not as effective as a 100% vegetated roof coverage in addressing both heat island effect and rainwater runoff from the roof only. A 100% high-albedo roof reflects more solar radiation than a conventional roof, reducing the heat island effect, but it does not reduce rainwater runoff. A 20% high-albedo and 80% conventional roof has a lower reflectance than a 100% high-albedo roof, resulting in a higher heat island effect, and it does not reduce rainwater runoff either. A 50% standing seam copper and 50% vegetated roof has a lower vegetated area than a 100% vegetated roof, resulting in less shade, evapotranspiration, insulation, retention, and absorption, leading to a higher heat island effect and more rainwater runoff. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 27; USGBC, [Sustainable Sites], page 3.

Social responsibility is one of the factors that contribute to the triple bottom line. The triple bottom line is a framework that measures the performance of an organization or a project based on three dimensions: environmental, social, and economic. Social responsibility refers to the ethical obligation of an organization or a project to consider the impacts of its decisions and actions on society and stakeholders, such as employees, customers, communities, and future generations. The other options are not factors that contribute to the triple bottom line. Global security is a broad concept that encompasses various aspects of international relations, such as peace, human rights, justice, and cooperation. Project balance sheet is a financial statement that summarizes the assets, liabilities, and equity of a project at a given point in time. Green metrics and verification are tools and methods that quantify and validate the environmental performance of a project or a product. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 31; USGBC [LEED v4 Impact Category: Triple Bottom Line], page 1.

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

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

The minimum program requirements (MPRs) are the basic characteristics that a project must possess in order to be eligible for LEED certification. One of the MPRs 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

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

The location valuation factor is a concept that applies to several credits under the Materials and Resources credit category in LEED v4. It means that if the purchased products or materials are extracted, manufactured, and purchased within 100 miles (160 kilometers) of the project, LEED will award the project in the credit calculations by valuing those products at 200% of their cost1. This is to incentivize the purchase of products that reduce transportation emissions and environmental impacts associated with long-distance shipping2.

References: 2 LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Materials and Resources, p. 487-4881 LEED 2009 vs. LEED v4: Regional Materials - LaForce, LLC.

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

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.

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

High reflectance roofing materials can help reduce heat gain and peak air temperatures by reflecting more sunlight away from the building, thereby reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. This can lead to lower cooling loads and energy use for air conditioning. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

Graywater includes wastewater from lavatory faucets, whereas blackwater includes wastewater from toilets and urinals. This describes the difference between graywater and blackwater according to LEED. Graywater is wastewater that has been used for non-potable purposes, such as washing hands or dishes, but does not contain human or animal waste. Blackwater is wastewater that has been contaminated with human or animal waste from toilets or urinals. Graywater can be reused for certain purposes after minimal treatment, such as irrigation or toilet flushing, whereas blackwater requires more advanced treatment before reuse or disposal. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving water efficiency is to “use non-potable water (graywater) for sewage conveyance” [1, p. 14]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Graywater vs Blackwater | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

Energy use intensity (EUI) is a measure of energy use per unit of floor space. It is calculated by dividing the total energy consumed by the building in one year (measured in kilowatt-hours or kilo-British Thermal Units) by the total gross floor area of the building (measured in square feet or square meters). EUI is a useful metric for comparing the energy performance of different buildings or benchmarking against national averages. EUI can vary depending on building type, climate, occupancy, and other factors. Generally, a lower EUI indicates better energy efficiency and lower environmental impact. References: What is Energy Use Intensity (EUI)?2; Energy Use Intensity (EUI)3

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.

The best way to prevent a building’s indoor pollutant(s) is to eliminate or control pollutants at the source. Indoor pollutants are substances or particles that can adversely affect the indoor air quality (IAQ) of a building and the health, comfort, and productivity of the occupants. Indoor pollutants can originate from various sources, such as building materials, furnishings, cleaning products, combustion appliances, outdoor air, or occupant activities. Eliminating or controlling pollutants at the source can prevent them from entering or spreading in the indoor environment, which can reduce the exposure and risk for the occupants. Some examples of source control strategies are: using low-emitting materials, installing local exhaust ventilation, sealing combustion appliances, implementing green cleaning practices, and prohibiting smoking13. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, EPA’s Indoor Air Quality3

LEED certification can provide financial benefits for a building, such as qualification for tax rebates, zoning allowances, and other incentives from local and state governments. These incentives can help offset the initial costs of green building and encourage more projects to pursue LEED . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide

Gallons per minute or liters per minute refers to the amount of water used by flow fixtures in LEED. Flow fixtures are fixtures that deliver a constant stream of water, such as faucets, showerheads, or hose bibs. The flow rate of these fixtures is measured in gallons per minute (gpm) or liters per minute (L/min), which indicates how much water flows through them in a given time period. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving water efficiency is to “use low-flow faucets and showerheads (maximum 2.5 gpm at 80 psi)” [1, p. 14]. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, [Water Efficiency | U.S. Department of Energy]

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

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

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

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 geographically specific 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 for Certified 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.

References: =

• LEED certification for neighborhood development
• LEED Reference Guide for ND
• LEED for Neighborhood Development - Wikipedia
• LEED rating system
• LEED for Neighborhood Development - Infrastructure Tool Navigator

LEED Building Design and Construction Homes and Multifamily Low-rise is a rating system that applies to single-family homes and multifamily buildings between one and three stories. This rating system covers the design and construction phases of residential projects that are intended for human occupancy12. Projects that have more than three stories are not eligible for this rating system, but may qualify for other LEED rating systems, such as LEED Building Design and Construction Multifamily Mid-rise, which applies to multifamily buildings between four and eight stories

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 project team should have selected LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance Rating System, as the operational and maintenance phase has begun for a newly constructed school in operation for one year and undergoing minor improvements. The LEED rating systems are designed to address the specific needs and characteristics of different types of buildings and projects. The project team should choose the most appropriate rating system for their project based on the scope, scale, and goals of the project. The LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance Rating System is intended for buildings that are already in use and want to improve their performance and sustainability through best practices in operation, maintenance, renovation, and occupant engagement1 . References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 O+M Reference Guide

An integrative design process is a collaborative and holistic approach that involves the project team and stakeholders from the early stages of the project to identify the project goals, analyze the site and climate conditions, explore multiple design options, and optimize the performance and cost-effectiveness of the project. By applying an integrative design process, a LEED project can achieve higher levels of sustainability and efficiency, as well as reduce the risks of errors, delays, and change orders12. References: LEED v4 Green Associate Candidate Handbook1, LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide2

A charrette is an intensive planning session where citizens, designers, and others collaborate on a vision for development. It provides a forum for ideas and offers the unique advantage of giving immediate feedback to the designers. More importantly, it allows everyone who participates to be a mutual author of the plan. This should be conducted first to ensure all stakeholders are aligned on the project goals and strategies before proceeding with detailed analyses or modeling. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, U.S. Green Building Council resources

A project can earn up to four maximum points under the Regional Priority credit. The Regional Priority credit is a bonus credit that rewards projects for addressing environmental issues that are of regional importance. The USGBC regional councils and chapters have identified six environmental issues for each zip code in the United States, and projects can earn one point for each issue they address, up to a maximum of four points. The other options are not correct. One, two, or three points are possible, but not the maximum number of points under the Regional Priority credit. References: LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook, page 30; USGBC, [Regional Priority], page 1.

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