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Time to get creative
This credit is your project’s opportunity to demonstrate leadership in the green building industry and to let your team contribute creative approaches to the field of sustainable design. It’s also a great way for your project to achieve up to five additional points.
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Three paths to points
There are three different ways to achieve points under this credit:
- Path 1 – Innovation in Design: Use an innovative approach to something not already covered in the LEED rating system. This approach must represent an innovative design approach to a problem, must be comprehensive in scope, and must have a quantifiable environmental benefit. Approach this path as if you were creating a new LEED “ID credit” from scratch.
- Path 2 – Exemplary PerformanceIn LEED, certain credits have established thresholds beyond basic credit achievement. Meeting these thresholds can earn additional points through Innovation in Design (ID) or Innovation in Operations (IO) points. As a general rule of thumb, ID credits for exemplary performance are awarded for doubling the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold. However, this rule varies on a case by case basis, so check the credit requirements.: Go well beyond the performance thresholds of existing LEED credits. As a general rule, you go to the next threshold level over the credit requirement. For example, in WEc3: Water Use Reduction, you receive points for 30%, 35%, and 40% reductions in water use, while the ID point is for a 45% reduction; and for MRc5: Regional Materials, you receive points for sourcing 10% and 20% of materials (by cost) locally, while the ID point is for 30% locally sourced materials. Projects can only earn up to three points through this path.
- Path 3 – Pilot Credit: Choose a pilot credit from USGBC's LEED pilot credit library, and try to achieve it while also documenting your work. This path was added to IDc1 in the July 2010 LEED addenda, and gives project teams a chance to help LEED evolve by testing credits that are still works-in-progress. LEEDuser offers guidance on all the pilot credits, and participation in LEEDuser's forum is a requirement.
“Creative” doesn’t have to mean “costly”
There are plenty of opportunities to earn Path 1 ID credits through no- and low-cost strategies. A great example is green cleaningGreen cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and practices., which requires the use of low-toxicity cleaning agents, cleaning machines that reduce impact on indoor air quality, and training maintenance staff in hazard reduction.
Take a close look at all the sustainability practices that your project is already planning or participating in and examine the possibilities of applying them to an ID credit. Some opportunities include recycling, composting, procurement and cleaning policies, landscape management, education initiatives, and many more.
Use LEED-EBOM as a resource
There is a consistent source of ID credit opportunities for all rating systems to be found in the LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance (EBOM) rating system (see LEEDuser's guide to EBOM for more information). Implementing operational practices and policies—for example, site management plans, purchasing programs, and green cleaning—can help you achieve ID credits and set the stage for successful, sustainable operation of your project building.
Operational credits fall outside the realm of design and construction, and the creation of a plan is easy with the available templates, but the commitment to implement the plan is just as important, if not more so.
Educational programs
It is common to use an educational program about the sustainability of the LEED project to earn a point under IDc1. Educational programs must consist of at least two separate components, including a kiosk, a website, a case study, a lecture series, signage, etc.
To meet the requirement of having two components, you should understand some key distinctions. For example, a kiosk in a building lobby is typically viewed as signage and would be part of an overall signage program, not a second component. The information presented on the kiosk may also impact how it is categorized—it should be unique from that which is presented elsewhere. For example, if a project team creates a website (educational outreach) and places a kiosk (signage) in the lobby, but the kiosk only includes a link to the website, both of these items would only count as one component of the educational program. In contrast, if a project team implements a signage program (signage) and a kiosk, but the kiosk includes an in‐depth case study (case study), this could be viewed as two individual components. The educational program must also be about building-specific strategies employed on the LEED project as opposed to a marketing or user education tool.
A staff sustainability team could be part of an educational strategy, but simply saying that one has been created in a narrative does not provide enough information. You should also provide specific information regarding the goals and methods of delivering the sustainable education component to the public or staff, such as work on signage, lectures, or outreach for home improvement, etc. Also, keep in mind that the group should distinguish itself from other strategies.
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Consider these questions when approaching this credit
- Can your project achieve double the credit requirements, or the next incremental percentage threshold, for any existing LEED credits?
- Is your project undertaking sustainable design strategies that are above or beyond the intent of existing LEED credits?
- What makes your project special? Are there opportunities for innovation uniquely suited to your climate, region, building or use type, or project team?
- Is your building owner interested in pursuing sustainability goals through building operations and maintenance? If so, can your project adopt credits from the LEED-EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. rating system?
Innovation credit submittal process
Innovation credits are often denied, but GBCI typically encourages project teams to try another strategy if one they have proposed is not feasible to meet the credit requirements. The credit may be denied outright with instruction to submit an alternative strategy, or denied pending clarification with technical advice asking for more explanation of how the submitted strategy is viable or the option to submit an alternative. Project teams may attempt new strategies in the construction phase if a particular innovation credit was denied in the design phase.
Legend
- Best Practices
- Gotcha
- Action Steps
- Cost Tip
USGBC
Excerpted from LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors
ID Credit 1: Innovation in design
1-5 Points
Intent
To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to achieve exceptional performance above the requirements set by the LEED Green Building Rating System and/or innovative performance in green building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED Green Building Rating System.
Requirements
Credit can be achieved through any combination of the Innovation in design and Exemplary performanceIn LEED, certain credits have established thresholds beyond basic credit achievement. Meeting these thresholds can earn additional points through Innovation in Design (ID) or Innovation in Operations (IO) points. As a general rule of thumb, ID credits for exemplary performance are awarded for doubling the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold. However, this rule varies on a case by case basis, so check the credit requirements. paths as described below:
Path 1. Innovation in design (1-5 points)
Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed in the LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System.
One point is awarded for each innovation achieved. No more than 5 points under IDc1 may be earned through Path 1—Innovation in design.
Identify the following in writing:
- The intent of the proposed innovation credit.
- The proposed requirement for compliance.
- The proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance.
- The design approach (strategies) used to meet the requirements.
Path 2. Exemplary performance (1-3 points)
Achieve exemplary performance in an existing LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors prerequisite or credit that allows exemplary performance as specified in the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Interior Design, 2009 Edition. An exemplary performance point may be earned for achieving double the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold of an existing credit in LEED.
One point is awarded for each exemplary performance achieved. No more than 3 points under IDc1 may be earned through Path 2—Exemplary performance.
Path 3. Pilot credit (1-5 points)
Attempt a pilot credit available in the Pilot Credit Library at www.usgbc.org/pilotcreditlibrary. Register as a pilot credit participant and complete the required documentation. Projects may pursue up to 5 pilot credits total.
Potential Technologies & Strategies
Substantially exceed a LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors performance credit such as energy performance or water efficiency. Apply strategies or measures that demonstrate a comprehensive approach and quantifiable environment and/or health benefits.
Technical Guides
Guidance on Innovation in Design (ID) Credits
Supplementary description of ID credit compliance from USGBC.
Acoustical Design Credit
Innovation in Design
Enhanced acoustical design is only a prerequisite and credit in the LEED for Schools rating system only, but it is a good candidate for use as an innovation credit in other rating systems. Armstrong, a major manufacturer, pursued acoustics as an innovation path in its own LEED-EB certification in 2007. Shown here is a summary of how Armstrong earned the point.
Active Design Credit
Innovation in Design
An "active design" or "design for health" credit successfully earned an innovation point through IDc1 for a New York City project. The project wanted to comprehensively integrate into the design of the project features that would encourage regular physical activity in occupants, while also bringing environmental benefits. The project team hopes that other projects will use this thorough documentation as an example to pursue similar approaches.
LEEDuser is produced by BuildingGreen, Inc., with YR&G authoring most of the original content. LEEDuser enjoys ongoing collaboration with USGBC.
120 Comments
Zero-Waste Office as LEED CI ID Credit
I'm working on a CI project where the tenant is planning to run a zero-waste office space. A local recycle/compost/trash hauler (Eco-Cycle) offers this service. They even take hard to recycle items such as plastic bags, etc. Does this seem like something that could pass as an ID credit? I was thinking of modeling it off our existing solid waste management plan. Any tips, etc? Thanks!
You might want to look at LEED EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. MRc7 Solid waste management - ongoing consumablesOngoing consumables have a low cost per unit and are regularly used and replaced in the course of business. Examples include paper, toner cartridges, binders, batteries, and desk accessories., for its requirements. For more definite answer, you might want to submit LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org./
Thanks Jim. We do a lot of EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. projects, so I was planning on basing this zero-waste plan off our MRc7 waste management plan. The bigger question was if this stands a chance of achieving an ID credit and what tips, if any, folks had for increasing our chances. Thanks!
DEHP/PVC elimination from newly purchased equipment
If our healthcare clinic will be purchasing new medical equipment associated with this gut interior renovation, might eliminating DEHP/PVC from one of the product lines achieve an ID credit? This is one of the Healtier Hospital Initiatives, so it's a valid environmental benefit but not sure if it's too unrelated to the building construction to be an acceptable ID credit.
Any second opinions would be much appreciated! Thanks
Kathy,
The DEHP/PVC removal from medical equipment alone likely will not get you an innovation credit. Typically you need to show a comprehensive approach on elimination of those products throughout the project. Did you also eliminate PVC from your resilient flooring? What other HHI initiatives is the facility implementing?
I've been reviewing HHI work for awhile and looking to align LEED and HHI. We're going to try for an innovation credit ourselves. We can compare notes if you are interested offline.
Susan
PS: That 80% construction waste elimination standard in HHI is incorrect. It should align with the 75% LEED standard for MRc2.
Energy Star HVAC equipment
Is having energy star rated equipment enough for an ID credit? I wondered if it is in the LEED NC, my current project will be going for LEED CI.
Kasandra, if your project is LEED-CI, then Energy Star equipment is covered under EAc1. If your project is LEEED-NC, then this is a potential innovation credit, although there was some recent discussion on the NC IDc1 forum here that it was no longer considered innovative enough by GBCI.
EAc1.? Which part of EAc1? 1.4 excludes HVAC from energy star equipment and 1.3 doesn't mention it specifically.
I think Tristan meant EAc1.4. For LEED-CI, the EA prerequisite requires 50% Energy Star equipment, any percentage from 70-97% is given credit under EAc1.4, and an ID credit is available for 97% or more. Credit for energy savings from Energy Star equipment cannot be taken elsewhere in LEED-CI.
For LEED-NC Tristan is correct, Energy Star equipment will not qualify for an ID credit, but can count towards energy cost savings in the energy model for EAc1.
EA prerequisite excludes HVAC also. So I am specifically asking about making the HVAC equipment Energy Star if that would give me points any where? It would help with energy models but is that the only place?
That is correct.
Reuse of Light Fixtures and Mechanical Vents
I am wondering if the reuse of light fixtures and mechanical vents has ever been used towards an ID credit. I understand that these divisions are not counted towards any of the MR credits. However, I have had several jobs that a very large dollar amount and cubic yardage worth of these products have been reused. In all cases the fixtures were all relatively new and meet the current energy standards.
In several case the building design was designed around how many fixtures were available for reuse. If these had been thrown away and new ones purchased several dumpster loads extra of waste would have been put in a landfill.
Is this even worth attempting?
Caro, to me it seems reasonable and worth attempting. I think you would need to include all MEP materials in your calculations, and show that you diverted or reused a high percentage. (Choose a threshold that seems worthy of achievement, and exceed it.) I would certainly mention that they meet energy standards in your narrative.
I don't know for sure if this will work, however. Let us know how it goes, if you do it.
Corporate Sustainability for Innovation
Can corporate sustainability be an innovation credit for LEED , if yes what kind of innovations would they look into.
Kevin, that's a broad question... you'll have to give us more to go on.
However, I would generally steer away from this direction. LEED focuses on the building, not the tenant's identity.
Task Lighting
Does anyone know of any IDc1 points associated with task lighting? It was listed on the cutsheet, which made me wonder what it could be for. The task light is a 6watt LED light that we are putting at every workstation and private office. If you have experience or ideas, let me know. Thanks.
Kara, I don't know of an IDc1 point for task lighitng. Cut sheets are notoriously generous in terms of assigning themselves LEED points. It seems to me that task lights are covered under various other LEED credits.
Thanks, Tristan!
Ceiling credit
now we are working on project Commercial interior in Egypt ,As you know that there is no credit related to ceiling , 80% of building was used the false ceiling and this ceiling was Meets CA Dept. of Health Services Standard Practice for The testing of VOC emission and is listed on CHPS high
Performance Products Database for Low-Emitting Materials. so can we earn innovation design for this or not?
Tarek, low-emitting ceiling systems would be a good candidate for an innovation credit. I would recommend following the requirements of LEED for Schools IEQc4.6.
Borrowing EBOM Credits for ID
We plan to borrow from the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. rating system for two of our ID credits, WEc4 Cooling Tower management, and MRc4 Reduced mercury in lamps. How have others successfully documented these credits for ID? Would a detailed narrative of the proposed programs be sufficient? We would like to be certified shortly after substantial completion, which means we'd like to avoid documenting a performance period.
Hi Daniel- I have a CI 3.0 project and earned EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. MRc4 Reduced Mercury as an ID point.
Just as with any "borrowed" credit for an ID point - we submitted the intent, environmental issues, requirements and approach behind the strategy. We then uploaded the calculations to prove compliance and the cut sheets of the fixtures.
I have another CI 3.0 project that just finished the design review including the same credit. We are anticipated to earn the credit using the same approach. I mention this to show there is successful consistency across our approach :)
Good luck to you!
Thanks for this response Michelle, we're looking to achieve the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. MRc4 as an ID credit for our NC project. Do you by chance know where can I find a good "sample purchasing plan" for the owner to sign?
Christine, I'm not exactly sure what you're looking for in terms of having the owner sign a sample plan, but LEEDuser offers several resources, templates, and spreadsheets tailored for achieving EBOM MRc4, under our Documentation Toolkit for that credt.
EV Charging Stations
We have a CI project on a University Campus in which we are trying to get an ID point for the use of charging stations located in nearby parknig structures (various places nearby) to the project area. The project is the third floor build-out of a recently constructed LEED Gold building. No new parking was built (for either project), but by local codes doing a SF takeoff, just 35 new spaces (3% of which equals ~ 1 EV charger) would have had to have been built if the building was a stand-alone structure.
Now, seeing as how there is no SSc4.3 for CI (and therefore not contributing to an existing credit), can we get this point? Does anyone know? Thanks in advance.
I think this is a great idea for an ID point. Although I have never tried doing this before for a CI project, I can see no reason not to try. The suggested credit is not addressed by any credit in the LEED CI ref. guide and thus eligible for an ID point. I think you will have an even easier time achieving this ID point simply because LEED has already recognized the benefits seen through SSc4.3. You already have the intent, requirement and doc submittals laid out for you by SSc4.3. I would suggest including a detailed narrative explaining the benefits of EV charging stations to the University Campus as a regular building as well as a school. I would also include a map of how close these EV stations are to adjacent buildings (specifically your LEED CI project). If they come back to you after 1st review, I would suggest doubling the credit requirement.
Bicycle sharing for ID credit
Dear all,
Our client is a manufacturer of "electric bicycle" and they are thinking of introducing electical bicycle sharing programme for their retail project, or donating electical bicycles to the base building in which the retail shop is moving in.
Is this idea going to be an ID point? If so, how can we make it more effective/ contributing to the project?
Vickie,
Just offering bikes on site may not be enough unless you can show it is a comprehensive plan. See above under the Birds Eye View tab: "This approach must represent an innovative design approach to a problem, must be comprehensive in scope, and must have a quantifiable environmental benefit."
Material Avoidance ID?
I am working on a project where the design team wants to eliminate the majority of ceilings and flooring and go with painted deck above and polished concrete below. One of our client contacts said that he had heard of ID points being awarded for material avoidance (e.g, "the greenest material is the one you don't use"). I could not find any reference to that in the LEED interpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. database - does anyone have any knowledge or advice about that?
Jonathan, I haven't heard of this being attempted, but it's an issue that could really use some pioneering!
But first, it might be worth a look at the drafted LEED v4 MR credits. Perhaps USGBC would consider an LCA-based approach most valid on this topic?
Power Quality Meters
Has anyone gotten a point for installing power quality meters? We have the usual power quantity meters, but the client is asking if there is a LEED incentive for cleaning up the power. It does save energy, but maybe not enough.
David, I haven't heard of this, although it's possible someone has tried it.
However, my understanding is that products promising energy savings in this way are often oversold, and that acutal savings can vary an awful lot. So I would plan on providing a lot of documentation and expecting some skepticism from USGBC.
Green Cleaning Plan
I am working on a project where the building management has in place a green cleaningGreen cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and practices. plan developed for their LEED-EB certification. The tenant pursuing certification using LEED-CI is contracted to the building management's cleaning provider and therefore has green cleaning practices in their space. I am wondering if, since the green cleaning plan was developed and implemented by the base building rather than the tenant, GBCI will accept it as an innovation. In order for it to be accepted, would the tenant need to contract directly with a cleaning company and develop their own plan?
They will probably make you go above and beyond what was already in place; how you do that with Gren Cleaning, not sure. Hope that helps some.
LEED ID for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Is it likely that by providing 5% of the parking with electric vehicle charging stations we will be able to achieve an ID point? If so, how do I got about documenting it?
Jennifer, I always get a bit confused in LEED-CI about what you are supposed to pursue under SSc1 path 12 vs. under IDc1.
I would start by applying this under SSc1, but if you're maxed out there, then I think you should be able to achieve an ID credit. Treat it like you're complying with NC SSc4.3, and use the LEED Online documentation provided for that credit, which you can find here:
http://www.leeduser.com//credit/NC-2009/SSc4.3
Tristan, our project was maxed out under SSc1 path 12. So, we actually did exactly what you suggested to Jennifer, we provided appropriate documentation for NC SSc4.3 as an ID credit. However, after the first review, that ID credit turned out to be "pending" because the charging vehicle stations is a program for the base-building and not for our interior project, so they suggest that we can "apply for an alternative Innovation in Design credit for the Final Review"...What is an "alternative ID credit" and how can we go about pursuing it?
I haven't heard that language used—I don't know. Possibly they are referring to Path 12? I would email GBCI to get clarification. Let us know what you learn.
Generally "attempt an alternative ID credit" means that the attempted strategy simply doesn't meet the requirements/isn't applicable and that you can submit a completely different strategy instead. My understanding is that these credits is marked "Pending" so that teams don't get confused and think that they are not allowed to attempt something else in the next phase (i.e. one might be confused/think they couldn't change it if it was marked as "Denied").
That appears to be the case here from your description... Since the EV charging stations are a base-building program, it's not eligible for the ID category within LEED-CI. This is a nuance to LEED-CI as SSc1 can essentially award an extra ID-type point within Path 12 for base building strategies. As such, in LEED-CI, the ID category generally is supposed to be specific to the individual CI project pursuing certification; base building programs don't generally qualify as the CI project/team probably didn't have a role in the development of that base building program. Those base building strategies would be applicable in SSc1 under Path 12. Since you state that your project already maxed out the SSc1 Path 12 point, it sounds like you just don't have any opening to get credit for that additional base building EV program.
Having not seen the full review comment, that's my best-guess for what that "attempt an alternative ID strategy" phrase means based on its usual usage. If that doesn't make sense in the context of the overall comment, you definitely should follow up with your review team to be extra sure. Wouldn't want to see you lose out on an ID point if you can come up with a different/new strategy.
Hope that helps!
Active Design- LEED ID credit Physical Activity- LEED NC & CI
You can earn a LEED ID credit by promoting Physical activity in your building. Most of the strategies are already in LEED CI& NC. Please contact baani00@yahoo.com for more information on this credit. Active Design Guidelines are free to download from www.nyc.gov/adg.
This Credit can be used for any building type- EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems.; Schools; Homes Multi-family; ND; Healthcare and more.Credit has been used for 6 projects and 20 more in pipeline.
NYC’s Active Design Program is lead by NYC’s Departments of Health, Design + Construction, City Planning, and Transportation and AIANY. As you may have heard, NYC’s Active Design Program is dedicated to improving opportunities for physical activity through improved design of our urban spaces, streets, and buildings, as a means to combating today’s obesity and related chronic disease epidemics.
Beehives on rooftops – ID credit?
I think I have a great idea for an ID credit (maybe someone already has tried it). For my CI-project I want to have beehives on the (green) roof. Do you think that it would qualify as an ID credit? Have you heard of anyone who has tried it?
I could explain how bees are dying globally because of a mite, that 80 % of our food would not be on our tables if we didn’t have bees pollinating our plants, that species of plants in our city parks are dying due to lack of pollinators etc. Bees are essential to our eco system!
Maria, this sounds like a fantastic idea, just (in my opinion) not something that LEED is likely to recognize as an ID credit.
Let's say you're using a super-innovative elevator on the project that saves a ton of energy... LEED will say that use of a single technology is not comprehensive enough to qualify for IDc1, and energy savings are already covered under EAp2.
Same thing here—putting beehives on the roof seems like using one 'technology" and is not a comprehensive strategy for sustainable food, habitat, or education. I could see the beehives contributing to a habitat credit or an ID point for education, or for food, using EBOM MRc6 as a model.
Tristan thank you for your reply
If I were to try this idea, what do you think would be my strategy to have it approved? I could submit it in design phase and get feedback.
I am planning on having lectures on the subject of the problem of global bee death and the importance of having bees. Then I am also planning on having the honey as educating gifts to both staff and clients of our company. One could have stickers on the jar educating people as well as letting them understand it was actually produced in the middle of a capital city. Signage in the building communicating the message could also be done. Do you think that would be awarded with ID credit? What else could I do?
Maria, this sounds to me like a good approach. I have not heard about other LEED projects focusing an education credit on one specific issue, so you're a little unique there, but the fact that you are providing comprehensive education on it and linking it to the building seems good. To be on the safe side I might also highlight any other habitat impacts of the building, to make the educational component even more comprehensive.
I did a great job in extending this approach to be educational and informational. But it was just denied in the first review without any comments on how to improve it!
Was there a reason given for the rejection?
To me it seems that you are only allowed to think inside the box, not outside. Three of my innovations were denied (and I know the criteria for an ID-credit). So I'm changing them to 'the old usual ones'. Review comments were: "The strategy consists of only one product and is therefore not comprehensive; the strategy is not quantified using a baseline and design case; and only those strategies that have significant environmental benefits - beyond standard sustainable design practices are applicable to Innovation in Design credits."
Base building EBOM credits denied
I've had a pair of CIv2009 projects just denied (at first review) a couple of innovation points where the base building provides Green CleaningGreen cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and practices., Integrated Pest ManagementIntegrated pest management (IPM) is the coordinated use of knowledge about pests, the environment, and pest prevention and control methods to minimize pest infestation and damage by the most economical means while minimizing hazards to people, property, and the environment., and a Zero-Waste Plan to tenants. GBCI's comments say:
"The documentation provided indicates that this is a program developed and implemented by the base building rather than one developed and implemented by this LEED-CI project. Note that Innovation in Design credits are only available to programs developed and implemented by the specific LEED-CI project and that all base-building strategies may only be submitted under SSc1 Option 2 - Path 12."
I have a few problems with this: these projects are in a LEED-NC certified building (although the certification was only awarded while our CI project was under review) so we can't/aren't using SSc1 Option 2. Even if we were, we could only get one point and we are participating in a number of green operations. The SSC1 Option 1 certification is for NC so it actually doesn't cover these items. So is that a needless restriction on getting recognition for green operations?
Also, does anyone see where the Reference Guide says that innovation credits can't be earned just because some of these services are provided and organized by the base building? The tenants are effectively paying for these services with their rent -- why does it matter to GBCI if the janitorial or IPM contract is held by the tenant or the landlord as long as the space is managed green? In some cases, landlords require tenants to use their vendors -- if they are green, shouldn't this be worthy of special recognition, rather than disqualifying you for points?
Shared thoughts / experiences would be welcome.
Raphael, I have always been a bit confused about how USGBC sees Path 12 vs. IDc1. In my opinion the relationship is not clear and leads to situations like this that don't seem to really make sense.
I also agree with you on the base building issue.
However, I can't offer any insight in terms of a more successful way to frame these issues. I hope that others will weigh in here, or perhaps you'll get a LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. on this.
Green cleaning innovation points
In looking to another LEED rating system for potential innovation points, you find several credits for green cleaningGreen cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and practices. in the v2009 EB O+M rating system. Can a project pursue multiple green cleaning innovation points based on these multiple credits? For example, if the project fulfills EB O+M IEQ cr 3.1 with a green cleaning program and then put it into place, can they also pursue IEQ credits 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5, for a potential of 4 innovation credits?
You will have to submit this under SS1 path 12. see also Winni's questions here http://www.leeduser.com/credit/CI-2009/SSc1
We have recently received a similar denial comment for a LEED CI-2009 project in which we submitted an ID credit based upon two separate EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. credits (Green CleaningGreen cleaning is the use of cleaning products and practices that have lower environmental impacts and more positive indoor air quality impacts than conventional products and practices. Policy & Green Housekeeping Program). These were taken from one of our LEED EBOM projects we had recently had certified. We provided the documentation and the denial comment stated the issue related to base building strategies vs specific LEED CI projects. Is it possible the problem is we should change our description to reference that this innovation credit is intended only for the LEED CI space being submitted for. The distinction noted stated that base building focused ID credits are only pursuable under SSc1 Option 2 - Path 12. We plan to resubmit this ID credit with revised language stating it only applies to the LEED CI project area. Frankly this appears to be a contradiction as if we apply a policy related to our LEED CI space and extend it to capture the entire building doesn't the sustainability benefit for the entire building warrant consieration?
Have you received any response to your re-worded reply for these two innvoation credits? I submitted the same ID credits for a LEED CI-2009 project and they were denied with the same explanation noted. Since I was able to achieve our LEED certification without these two points I just dropped them without submitting an appeal. I believe the revised language response should be sufficient to gain approval of these ID credits. I am preparing another LEED CI project for submittal and would like to include these ID credits. Any update on your staus woudl be appreicated.
Carbon Offsets for LEED CI 2009 ID credit
Our project is currently pursuing LEED CI 2009 EA Credit 4 - Green Power. Would we also be eligible for an ID credit for carbon offsets based on a CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide for another rating system?
The documentation for the credit would calculate the projects energy use and offset at least 15% of the usage with the purchase of offsets. However the CIR refers to a project that offset the "use of natural gas, guel oil or on site coal burning systems". Our project is located in a building using electricity, would that still be eligible for offsets?
Michele, do you only use electricity, or are there other energy sources being consumed?
The building is electric, there are no other energy sources.
Since RECs are not equivalent to carbon offsets, I would say that these approaches are not redundant and the ID credit would be approved, if you have found a CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide that supports this approach.
For future reference we were denied the ID credit for Carbon offsets. The comment was: " calculations provided appear to only address the carbon emissions as a result of anticipated electrictiy consumption ( as opposed to on-site fossil fuel combusiton) which is already addressed by EAc6 Green Power".
The review comment cited LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. 2248 "However it does not appear that the on-site fuel consumption in the case of the project building would be of the required significance to demonstrate compliance with LEED Interpretation 2248.
We will move on. Thanks for the help, this site is great.
sustainable purchasing policy
If your company has a sustainable purchasing policy for things such as paper and vehicle leasing could that qualify for an innovation credit?
Christi, there is definitely potential for that. I would look at LEED-EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. credits (see that portion of this website) as a model, and use the ongoing consumablesOngoing consumables have a low cost per unit and are regularly used and replaced in the course of business. Examples include paper, toner cartridges, binders, batteries, and desk accessories. credit, for example, as your ID credit.
Tristan, we are considering implementing the Sustainable Purchasing - Durable GoodsDurable goods have a useful life of 2 years or more and are replaced infrequently or may require capital program outlays. Examples include furniture, office equipment, appliances, external power adapters, televisions, and audiovisual equipment. - Furniture credit from EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems.. We definitely meet the criteria for the credit on the basis of the recycled content of the furniture, however I'm concerned that there might be a conflict if we also pursue MRc4 (Recycled content) for the project as a whole. Is this going to be an "either/or" situation or do you think we can pursue both credits?
Michael, I would assume that if you are capturing credit for recycled content in MRc4, you cannot use that same recycled content for credit in IDc1. If you wanted to pursue both credits I think you would have a better shot if you only counted the recycled content for one of them.
CI and District Heating and Cooling
My project is on a Campus that has used a District Heating and Cooling System and has achieved LEED ID credit in the past. They want me to use this as an ID credit for our CI project. But we are not performing "energy modeling" ours is a small space in a very large building. Would you still seek and ID credit with District Heating and Cooling and wouldn't we need to demonstrate our little space's overall energy use?
Sue, I am not sure on what basis you would seek an ID credit in this case.
Can you say more about what the ID credit was achieved for in the past? Maybe I am having a brain block, but I can't recall seeing that simply the existence of district cooling/heating is sufficient for an ID credit. As you point out, in the case of a small CI project without energy modeling, the connection would be even more tenuous.
Tristan thanks for the reply- this system has gained several NC projects an ID credit as well as helped with overall energy efficiency. It's just that they are asking me to apply it to this CI project too, and I can't think of the angle we'd use....
Sue, I would need more info to provide advice on that. How has it been earned on NC projects?
I don't have permission to post this to LEEDuser because it was provided by Davis Langdon for an NC project on campus- did receive credit as an "alternative" compliance path for the energy credits. There was also a CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide written on compliance.
Sue, I don't think that an alternative compliance path (ACP) equates at all to an Innovation credit. So I don't see how one take an ACP for EAc1 under NC, and apply it as an ID credit under CI.
LEED ND offers GIBc12 District Heating and Cooling that could perhaps qualify for a BD+C ID credit, but I don't see how it to leverage it for this LEED CI project above and beyond LEED CI EAc1.3 HVAC.
Following up on this thread, I have a similar project that is LEED-CI with the tenant occupying >80% of the shell and will be doing some innovative energy saving measures with sensors. I wonder if anyone has come across an alternate compliance approach to document energy savings than what is required by EA c1.3, specifically, using a whole building model to evaluate all of the TI's systems. I stumbled across this thread, thinking an ID credit would be most appropriate. Thoughts?
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