-
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.
-
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.
-
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 New Construction and Major Renovations
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 Operations 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 for NC and CS, 1-4 points for Schools)
Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed in the LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations, LEED 2009 for Core and Shell Development, or LEED 2009 for Schools Rating Systems.
One point is awarded for each innovation achieved. No more than 5 points (for NC and CS) and 4 points (for Schools) 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 New Construction, Schools and Core & Shell prerequisite or credit that allows exemplary performance as specified in the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Design & Construction, 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 (1-4 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 4 Pilot Credits total.
Potential Technologies & Strategies
Substantially exceed a LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations 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.
Viewshed Protection Credit
Innovation in Design
Denali National Park and Preserve is the home to panoramic vistas that draw visitors from around the world. The intent of this innovation credit was to document efforts to protect and preserve the visitors center viewshed as part of the sustainable design of the facility.
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.
355 Comments
I have learned that the "new" LEED Form in EAc1 now includes ENERGY STAR equipment. I have had this ID credit for Energy Star appliances and equipment denied on three separate projects. GBCI's review teams have consistently agreed that the Energy Star equipment and appliances (although plug load and not regulated) contribute towards the overall energy efficiency of a building and has denied the credits even though the project team is not responsible for specing or purchasing the equipment. Guess we're all out of luck.
First LEED project in a Country
Is it possible to earn an ID if you are the first LEED registered project in a country?
Ray, I very much doubt it. You would have to demonstrate some environmental benefit, which would presumably be from education. In that case you should go for an education ID credit, which has well-established and more comprehensive rules.
ID Credit for 100% Outside air?
Has anyone tried pursuing an ID credit for using 100% outside air in the building's HVAC systems?
It has been a number of years (NC v2.1 actually), but I was told by the USGBC then that 100% outside air supplied through units, outside the context of natural ventilation, works against efficiency and optimal IEQ controls and so was NOT an ID. Things may hve changed since, but think about your project through those two lenses and perhaps you will find the best direction - every project is different after all.
Green Advantage Innovation Credit for 2009 BD&C & NC v2.2
Projects staffed with 30% or more of key personnel certified through Green Advantage are now eligible for award of 1 Innovation point. Posted under Inquiry # 5413 - IDc1, personnel categories include managers, superintendents, foremen, quality control, and proj. engineers involved in day-to-day activities. Designed to improve on-site collaboration and to increase the likelihood of achieving desired environmental and energy efficiency results, Green Advantage credentials now can contribute to overall point tallies. For Discussion - would you be more likely to hire personnel that have demonstrated knowledge of today's green building terminology, concepts and products and also, have you incorporated the Green Advantage Innovation Credit into your credit strategy?
Warm mix asphalt
Has anyone had luck going after an ID credit for using warm mix asphalt?
What is the environmental angle?
By reducing the mix temperature, energy use and the associated GHG are reduced as well.
Generally, use of a single "technology" is not sufficient to earn an ID credit. If you had a comprehensive plan for reducing GHG emissions during construction, I think that would have a much better chance.
Bio-Based Materials Credit
NAVFAC is 'requiring' that projects achieve an ID credit for Bio-based materials. Per the USDA (the referenced standards), this simply means using from a list of material types that amount to either wood-based or would otherwise show up in the rapidly renewableTerm describing a natural material that is grown and harvested on a relatively short-rotation cycle (defined by the LEED rating system to be ten years or less). materials credit. Does anyone have a sense of what sort of verification standard for compliance that the USGBC might accept as an ID credit? Even better, can anyone share a successful effort in achieving a credit like this - if one even exists?
Robert, I am not familiar with the NAVFAC requirements, but... LEED doesn't award ID credits for topics that are already covered by an existing LEED credit, except through the 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. path. You would need to earn the rapidly renewableTerm describing a natural material that is grown and harvested on a relatively short-rotation cycle (defined by the LEED rating system to be ten years or less). credit (MRc6), and you can earn IDc1 for doubling the MRc6 threshold. The MRc6 requirements are more restrictive in some cases than the USDA biobasedGenerally, classification of products and materials derived from plant and animal sources as opposed to minerals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has a program to promote the use of emerging biobased products that defines them more narrowly, to exclude products that already have established markets, such as food, animal feed, and lumber. materials, however.
You have identified my big problem with what they are suggesting. If is was meant to simply be 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., wouldn't they have just listed that as a requirement rather than showing a completely new credit. Because it is in black and white in their written guidelines, I have to think that they have something in mind or have had a past team succesfully submit something. NAVFAC doesn't seem to know why themselves, so I am hoping that someone in LEEDuser might actually have one of these potential past successful submission.
Robert, you might also post this question to the MRc6 forum.
Removing Parking in a Major Renovation Project
I am working on a major renovation project in which the client has agreed to remove 25% of the existing parking spaces and replace the asphalt with native meadows. I think that removing parking is pretty innovative, but I am not sure if GBCI would consider this worthy of an ID credit. Thoughts?
Shannon,
While this is indeed admirable, I do not think you would get innovation for it because the strategy could contribute to earning a number of credits including SS 5.1, 6.1, 6.2, and 7.1. You may look to see if you could earn an ID for 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. for SS 5.1 (75% of remaining site restored or preserved / 30% of total site) or SS 5.2 (2x the amount of land required to be open space.
AASHE STARS / Climate Action Plan - Master Site Innovation
Any thoughts if an AASHE STARS rating for a college campus will earn you a Master Site Innovation credit?
What about being an ACUPCC signatory and having a Climate Action Plan?
These would be two easy Master Site credits for campuses who have completed both. Considering the effort to do these and the overall campus impacts, I think they are worthy of Master Site innovation....
To update: Both credits were denied by the GBCI. The reviews stated that they do not accept ratings from other "systems". They said that both were not measurable. I don't agree with the review. How is having a Campus Wide Climate Action Plan different from having 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 or an 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. Plan, both of which are in LEED EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. and eligible for Campus Wide ID credits. And how can completing all of the paperwork for STARS (which includes credits related to LEED) not innovative on a campus Level?
ID Credit for Renewable Energy
We are interested in pursuing an ID credit for our new building's onsite renewable energy, namely our PV system. While we are pursuing the EA credit for renewable energy, we have actually created a "mini-lab" with three different types of solar arrays (including bi-facial and thin film) tied together with a single inverter. We are also showcasing a product that facilitates the unique integration of the three different PV technologies into the same system through the single inverter. The product includes power electronics that operate each PV panel string in parallel, as opposed to in series, such that no single panel, due to shading or individual performance, limits the power output of the entire string. This concept would not normally be designed into a traditional PV system solution, but would provide a viable higher-performing PV power system to offset building electric load. Array performance can also be remotely monitored and alerts sent when system performance significantly changes. Finally, all of the companies providing these technologies were deliberately selected to be local to our area to support local economic development efforts. I don't see precedent for this sort of approach in the ID credit catalog- would this be a viable ID credit?
Dave, I think there is potential here. But I am not sure it would work, for a couple reasons:
– Not clear what the environmental benefit is, beyond what is already covered by EAc2. It sounds from your description like you have simply done a particularly thoughtful job around earning EAc2. Earning an existing credit innoatively is not a path to an innovation credit.
– The local angle for mechanical systems isn't supported by LEED.
– Not clear what you mean by a "mini-lab"—is there actual testing going on that will create environmental benefit?
Guest expert here Marcus Sheffer put it well: with ID credits, think quantifiable, verifiable, replicatable and documentable. I would add "comprehensive."
Multiple Innovation Points for Green Cleaning
Our Team is working on a project under NC 2009. In the past we have been awarded an innovation point for a green housekeeping program. But I am wondering, using Path 1 to borrow credits from another rating systems, could we get more than one innovation point for meeting the requirement of more than one of the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. 2009 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. points. As an example, if we are able to show compliance with EBOM IEQ Credit 3.1 - High Performance Cleaning Program, IEQ Credit 3.3 - Purchase of Sustainable Cleaning Products and Materials and IEQ Credit 3.4 - Sustainable Cleaning Equipment could we get 3 innovation points for one project under NC 2009?
Jennifer, this is a great question, and I have never been clear on it. I think there is an excellent case for earning multiple points, and it should be allowed, but I haven't heard that for sure from a project that experienced this. I would encourage you to proceed and if you get some kind of official guidance on this, please let us know!
Interesting question. There is 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. dated 6/30/2003 with the following note added: "Projects using LEED 2009 rating systems should reference LEED 2009 Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance IEQp3: 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 when attempting green cleaning as an innovation strategy."
Since IEQc3.3 and IEQc3.4 are both referenced as requirements by IEQp3, my guess would be a project cannot acheive multiple ID points here.
But do let us know if you try it, and what you find out!
Exemplary Performance documentation
After filling out a credit form online, the summary section has a 'Y' after 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. points documented line. Do I still have to check the box saying: "The project team reserves one point in the Innovation in Design credit category for exemplary performance in EAc2." and fill out a ID credit form to get that point?
Thanks!
Ned, I do think you need to proceed as you described. The ID form is pretty short and it shouldn't be a hassle to fill out.
Is it possible to gain an ID credit by using Post Tensioning?
I am participating in a Value Engineering (VE) exercise for a potential LEED project that is in its final stage of design. Since the current project is designed as ‘concrete reinforced (CR)’, one of the const efficient and sustainability measures that our team intends to use is ‘post tensioning (PT)’ (PT reduces surface, material use, operational costs etc.)’ However, while PT can be considered in terms of sustainability, the PT Institute notes that PT does not explicitly contribute to LEED rating due to the nature of the rating system to “overlook structural efficiency” ...
Still, considering sustainability features of PT, does anyone know whether the PT approach can be filed as an innovation in design? Does it make sense to do so?
Amar, I would say offhand that you could have a good argument for doing so. Check the innovation credit catalogue (see Resources above) to see if anything at all like this has been approved. Think about how it can be documented—keep in mind you need to pretty much write a LEED credit, so think in those terms. See the other advice on this page for people attempting novel ID credits.
LEED Healthcare EQc2 - Acoustic Environment
We are working on a small clinic, and were considering pursuing EQc2, Acoustic Environment from LEED HC as an innovation credit.
We found that the project will be required to achieve an STCSound transmission class (STC) is a single-number rating for the acoustic attenuation of airborne sound passing through a partition or other building element, such as a wall, roof, or door, as measured in an acoustical testing laboratory according to accepted industry practice. A higher STC rating provides more sound attenuation through a partition. (ANSI S12.602002) rating of 50 to meet the credit requirements. However, we also found that we could only meet a STC rating of 50 through the use of a proprietary assembly, which we cannot use on federally funded projects. Instead, through the use of non-proprietary assemblies, which we can use on federal projects, we can only meet a STC rating of 49, unless we add an additional layer of gyp board to make "generic" assemblies compliant. Not only does this add significant costs to the project, but it also increases the amount of material, waste and labor generated in the building's construction - all for very little additional acoustic value. This doesn't seem to be the best approach by LEED for the credit, considering projects are using BMPBest Management Practice's to meet the credit's intent (and are really at an almost equivalent acoustic rating), but are limited as to whether the assembly used is propietary or non-propietary.
Does anyone have any insight as to why this might be the case? Would LEED be open to us pursing this as an innovation credit, considering we really are meeting the credit's intent?
Hi Matthew:
This sounds like a good question to be asked to LEED directly.
I really don't know how concerned they would be with an STCSound transmission class (STC) is a single-number rating for the acoustic attenuation of airborne sound passing through a partition or other building element, such as a wall, roof, or door, as measured in an acoustical testing laboratory according to accepted industry practice. A higher STC rating provides more sound attenuation through a partition. (ANSI S12.602002) 49 vs STC 50 assembly in this situation with all of the other factors you described.
Personally, it sounds like there would be a good trade-off between ever-so-slightly increased acoustic performance and more sustainable/cost-effective construction. Or you cold find that they are, in fact, wanting a minimum STC 50 assembly. I don't know what the response would be.
Renovation versus Demolition
After much research and discussion it was decided to renovate an extremely decrepit farmhouse, portions of which date back to the 18th century. The renovation will serve as a visitor center with staff offices for a land based conservation non-profit. Does anyone have experience in filing for an ID credit for a similar undertaking?
Hi Sara, what would you propose for an ID credit?
If it's focused on building reuse, this could be uphill sledding since there are existing MR credits (MRc1, MRc2) that reward building reuse.
Admittedly razing and rebuilding would have probably been easier and maybe even more cost efficient. But would it have been more energy efficient? And from the viewpoint of an organization which values preservation and sustainability it was far more effective to respect the historical perspective as well as the embodied energy1. Embodied energy is the energy used during the entire life cycle of a product, including its manufacture, transportation, and disposal, as well as the inherent energy captured within the product itself. 2. The energy expended in the process of creating a product, often including the fuel value of its constituent parts as well as transportation to its point of use.. Renovating to highly energy efficient levels but still retaining many of the original windows! To quote Carl Elefante "the greenest building is the one already built".
Sara, I totally agree—I wrote an extensive article on sustainable preservation, with that same quote in the first sentence.
Preservationists have been complaining for years about LEED, and wanting more recogntion for saving buildings. And LEED 2012 has some stuff they should like.
I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but for LEED 2009, you will have to work hard to earn an ID credit for preservationist work that LEED doesn't already considered covered in the MR section. I don't know of a successful strategy in this area that has been done, but I would love to hear your ideas, or hear from any other LEED users who have done it.
ID Kiosk
If our project puts a Kiosk in the lobby showing a video of all the sustianable attributes of our project in addition to placing signs through out the building, would that count as two ID credits or 1?
One—those would both be parts of an educational program.
Just a note - as is mentioned in the body of the credit description above ("Educational Program"), the requirement for LEED is to have two distinct components, of which signage/kiosks at the building is only one - the intent is that both people at the building (seeing signs and kiosks) as well as others - seeing a case study, taking a tour -- will get this educational content.
Reducing Building Floor Space
I am involved with a project in which the design team would like to select compact storage bins. This strategy will greatly reduce the size of the building compared to an identical building with "regular storage bins".
Will this achieve an ID credit??
thanks for any input.
David, what kind of building is this? From the sounds of it, are the storage bins quite central to the building type and design?
I think the challenge here is going to be demonstrating through with credible analysis that this building type has a certain baseline, and that the "design case" uses a much smaller baseline through truly innovative process. If all buildings of this type are now using this kind of bin, I don't think this would work.
Even so, I'm not sure it would work, but I would give it a shot.
Hi Tristan.
I found what I was looking for in the Innovation Catalog, Building Downsizing may achieve an Innovation point.
INTENT: Reduce the impact of the building.
REQUIREMENTS: Identify opportunities to reduce the need for built space including shared facilities and better location.
SUBMITTALS: Narrative describing specific measures that lead to a reduction in built area and specific environmental advantages of the reduction.
The building will be a newly constructed office building. The owner's product line is "compact storage bins" (located as needed throughout the building). He asked about an Innovation point through building downsizing.
If they can significantly reduce the size of their building square footage, compared to a similar building, through compact storage devices an ID credit might be achieved.
Thanks for your response.
Green Housekeeping ID for UK developments
Hi,
Has anyone attempted the Green Housekeeping ID credit for a development in the UK? Also does anyone know if the EU Eco-Label scheme can be used as an alternative to the Green Seal scheme?
Any/ all info gratefully received!
Thanks. Kit
Kitty, generally LEED does not currently recognize standards like this that are not officially part of LEED. However, an "internationalized" version of LEED is in the works and I would not be surprised if this was allowed soon.
I have come across the same EcoLabel standard. Any cases of this being approved yet?
Wellness Facility
We are looking for ideas for a university Wellness Facility which will house the counseling, and health services for campus students. (similar to a healthcare facility).
Anyone of know of ideas for ID credits for healthcare related facilities?
Glenda, you might review the LEED for Healthcare rating system. Borrowing a credit from another LEED rating system is the most straightforward way I know of to pursue an innovation point.
ID credits and LEED Online Forms
We are attempting 5 innovative ID credits for a NC 2009 project. LEED Online is only allowing me to fill out one form for one credit. Am I missing something?
Laurie,
I'm having the same problem. Since I could not resolve this, I sent a message to the GBCI and will let you know what I find. Seems to me to be an error in the Credit Assembler.
Did you try going to the "add/remove credits" tab on the scorecard page? You should be able to do this - and if you're adding, for instance, an exemplary credit that's considered "design", you have to check the box to add a "design" phase ID credit.
I had forgotten to give everyone an update. The GBCI wound up updating that project's ID form. It was registered early in the process when more forms were buggy. However, this still can be confusing when teams go to add that second credit.
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. credits are tagged to the credit that they exceeded. LEED Online does not show the EP credit separately under ID. When you add another non-EP ID credit, that will show up and be the only one listed under IDc1 even though you may have several EP credits documented. I get how this is done from the GBCI's perspective. However, it is harder for team members less familiar with the inner workings to understand. It would be nice in the scorecard tab that EP credits were listed down under ID where they are scored. The EP credits also don't show up when you print their scorecard. This makes it appear that you can't add when you show it to a PM who doesn't do LEED Online. Not that has happened to me before!
Eco-Healthy Child Care Initiative
In case anyone is designing a child care facility, our team for the FDA Child Care Center recently achieved an ID credit for committing to the Eco-Healthy Child Care Initiative. If anyone is interested, let me know and I can forward the criteria. Eco-Healthy Child Care (EHCC) is a national program created by the Oregon Environmental Council. www.oeconline.org/ehcc.
Linda, would you be interested in having LEEDuser post the criteria and sample documents for others to reference? We'd love to do that. If so, send me a note.
Hi Linda,
I am working on a child Development Center and would love to know more about how you achieved an ID credit by committing to this initiative. Please let me know as soon as you are able what steps need to be taken.
Electronic Project Coordination
Has anyone attempted to get an ID point for putting together a narrative that describes project coordination through the use of project management software and electronic conferencing? We have a design build team that is located all over the world. The design team is from Minneapolis, MN, the construction team is from Chicago, IL, the owner is from Spain and the project is located in Amarillo, TX. To cut down on travel and paper we are using proprietary software for distribution of all Construction Drawings, Shop Drawings, Specifications, and Meeting Notes. We are doing 90% of our meetings using programs such as GOTO meeting. By using this technology we have dramatically reduced the amount of travel and printing for this project.
See 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. inquiry #2585 posted on 7-30-09.
It denies an ID credit for a project team that proposes to utilize a web-based platform to reduce resources consumed on administration and communication during the design and construction process.
Innovation in Design: Design or Construction?
We are considering three Innovation in Design credits for a supermarket in LEED 2009 for Retail: a Food Donation program to reduce solid waste; an in-store and online Education program; and 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. program. Which of these would be considered Design Phase submittals, and which would be Construction? Thanks!
Lewis, it depends on the details but I would think they could all be submitted under a Design submittal. This is beneficial in that you can make adjustments to them for the Construction submittal if they are not accepted.
Pilot Credits in LEED 2009 for Healthcare
There is some confusion around earning Innovation Points in LEED for Healthcare with pilot credits. Per the LEED for Healthcare rating system it is only possible to earn only one point with pilot credits – although you may implement more than one pilot credit on the project.
1- Can you clarify if it is possible to earn more than one point in the Innovation Category with pilot credits in LEED for Healthcare?
2- Is it possible to earn more than one point in any other rating system in the Innovation category for pilot credits?
Amy, the official LEED language for all systems has been that one pilot credit is available per project, even though that wasn't USGBC's intention.
That has been fixed in the LEED addenda released last week, such that HC projects can now earn 4 points via pilot credits. Other systems can earn as many IDc1 points as are attainable for that system (5 in NC, 4 in Schools, etc.).
Educational Program Options
LEED NC 2009
IDc1 has two paths you can follow.
Path 1:
Allows for (5) points max for LEED NC 2009 for an innovative approach to a particular item or issue.
Path 2:
Allows for (3) 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. points and are based on using existing credits by either doubling or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold of an existing credit. Not all credits have this option but some do.
Total max points allowed under this credit (IDc1 LEED NC 2009) is (5) and this can be accomplished through any combination of points following path one or two. My question is where does the Educational Program option fit into this credit, Path 1 or Patch 2? Is this considered either an innovative approach or an exemplary performance approach?
Thank you,
Lee
Lee, the eductional path is a very common "innovation" option under 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." is for existing credits where you are going above and beyond the basic requirements. Education doesn't exist as a regular credit.
By the weay, saying "any combination of points" through path 1 or 2 is not quite accurate. Path 2 is limited to no more than 3 points, and there is also a Path 3, for up to 5 points. See our guide above for more on that.
Perhaps the below is more accurate to say.
Max points for path 1 is 5
Max points for path 2 is 3
The combined max points I am able to earn for this credit is 5 points.
This includes per your note above 1 point for an Educational Program point following 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.". Thus the Educational Program point is 1 of 3 points possible following path 2 “Exemplary Performance”.
Lee, sorry, but I slipped up in my explanation there. I correctly said that education is an innovation-type thing, but incorrectly called it path 2. It is path 1.
This is all summarized quite succinctly in the diagram at the top of the page, although I just made an update to that diagram and I see it's not showing up properly -- will fix it now.
Machine Roomless Elevators
Has anyone gone after an ID point for using Machine Roomless Elevators?
Yes, there are CIRs on this topic. What are your thoughts/questions?
Yes, it is very easy to achieve and document. Request from the manufacturer information about process load/ energy performance savings and they should be able to provide for your support documentation.
Note about staff sustainability groups
I thought I would post this helpful tip I just learned about using a staff sustainability group to earn an innovation credit through the common educational path.
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. A narrative would need to include specific information regarding the goals and methods of delivering the sustainable education component to the public and/or staff, e.g. signage, lectures, etc.
More than 1 application for Innovation?
We have a significant office project (NC-2009), which is highly innovative and is carbon neutral, effectively disconnected from the water grid and contains a number of innovations, both world-first and national-firsts.
In order to ensure that we gain all innovation points, we would like to apply for more than the prescribed number of innovation credits. i.e. we would like to apply for up to 20 innovative aspects of the design, even though we know that only 5 points can be awarded.
Does anyone know if this can be done? Is it worth submitting 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?
If I understand your question, you want to get up to 20 innovation points validated, even though no more than 5 of them will count.
Simply due to the credits and points that are available, and the forms that match up with those, I can't think of a way to do this. Perhaps GBCI would do it as a special request, for a special fee, but I don't know -- you'd have to contact them and work something out, not through the 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 process.
Also, you didn't ask about this, but a standard piece of advice is to understand that innovation points are not given for doing something in an innovative way that's recognized under an existing LEED credit.
That all make sense?
Thanks Tristan,
Yep, understood. I'll contact GBCI and see what they have to say!
Transportation Management Plan
Is there official guidance on the components that are required to achieve an ID credit for TDM Plan other than the ID catalogue published in March 08 and / or the CIRs related to TDM? I am wondering if there is additional criteria for 2009 now that CIRs are no longer published. Any ideas?
No, there is not any official guidance on this topic. I think the idea is that it's a very project-specfic thing, and the burden is on the team to make it comprehensive and effective.
Start a new LEED comment thread