-
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 four additional points.
Two options
There are two different ways to achieve points under this credit:
- 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.
- 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 WEc3.1: Water Use Reduction, you receive one point for a 20% reduction in water use and in WEc3.2 you receive an additional point for a 30% reduction, therefore the ID point is for a 40% 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.
“Creative” doesn’t have to mean “costly”
There are plenty of opportunities to earn 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.
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-EBOM rating system?
Legend
- Best Practices
- Gotcha
- Action Steps
- Cost Tip
USGBC
Excerpted from LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations Version 2.2
ID Credit 1: Innovation in design
1-4 Points
Intent
To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to be awarded points for exceptional performance above the requirements set by the LEED for New Construction Green Building Rating System and/or innovative performance in Green Building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED for New Construction Green Building Rating System.
Requirements
Credit 1.1 (1 point) Identify the intent of the proposed innovation credit, the proposed requirements for compliance, the proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance, and the design approach (strategies) that might be used to meet the requirements.
Credit 1.2 (1 point) Same as Credit 1.1
Credit 1.3 (1 point) Same as Credit 1.1
Credit 1.4 (1 point) Same as Credit 1.1
Potential Technologies & Strategies
Substantially exceed a LEED for New Construction 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.
LEED Online Sample Template – IDc1.1
This template is the flattened, public version of the dynamic template for this credit that is used within LEED-Online v2 by registered project teams. This and other public versions of LEED credit templates come from the USGBC website, and are posted on LEEDuser with USGBC's permission. You'll need to fill out the live version of this template on LEED Online to document this credit.
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.
116 Comments
IDc1.2-Low Emitting Furniture
The technical advice for this credit for our NC project is to fill out the IEQc4.5 spreadsheet for all systems furnitureSystems furniture includes panel-based workstations comprising modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components, and drawer and filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items designed to work in concert.. There are a couple of furniture that we cannot provide Greenguard Certificate. So, the certification provided is about 93%. What is the minimum required for getting this credit, only 20%? Are we OK?
thanks
Na
The requirement for the initial credit is for "ALL" to meet this criteria, so no, you would not receive this credit, even for an ID, I believe. You are only accounting for the systems furnitureSystems furniture includes panel-based workstations comprising modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components, and drawer and filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items designed to work in concert. and seating (task and guest chairs used with the systems furn), correct? If you cannot get those items to meet either Greenguard or ANSI/BIFMA certifications, most likely you won't be awarded the credit.
Thank you Valerie! Just called 1 of the manufacture, instead of having greenguard certificate, they have SCS Certification which says indoor air qualifty / furniture gold. http://izzyplus.com/media/250296/izzyplus_iaq_tables.pdf
Will this be acceptable?
thank you.
Na
EBOM Green Cleaning as ID credit
I see the 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 and program plan template, that is very helpful. When applying for this as an ID credit under v2.2, should templates from 2009 IEQp3, IEQc3.1, and IEQc3.5 accompany the policy guide? Or is it acceptable to simply upload the policy and program plan to meet the requirements of this alternative approach? It is a little confusing since we are in v2.2 but using 2009 EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems.. Thanks for the guidance.
I'm working on a v2.2 project that is pursing 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. as an ID credit. Our reviewer told us we had to upload the 2008 versions on the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. green cleaning forms and clarify how our plan met each of the criteria listed in the template. In general, it seemed as if the reviewer expected our narrative to specifically point to the parts of our policy that met the LEED criteria.
Thanks, I'm having trouble locating those forms, any suggestion for where they can found? Thanks again!
We uploaded one of the sample forms we found here:
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2526
Environmentally Preferred Purchasing Policy ID credit
I was wondering if it is possible to achieve an ID credit for a comprehensive Environmentally Preferred Purchasing Policy in LEED NC. This specific project is part of a hospital and they have a really well developed plan.
Richard, an EPPEnvironmentall preferable products (EPP) are those identified as having a lesser or reduced effect on health and the environment when compared with competing products that serve the same purpose. policy is likely to succeed as an ID credit. A lot of teams have had success using LEED-EBOM credits as a model for requirements and documentation in a case like this.
Late Appeals
In the case where construction appeals phase has concluded, and a project is waiting for final approval by the team, and an ID credit is left open and not pursued, can it be appealed at the last hour to secure an additional point through the construction appeal process?
I think they would let you add an ID credit under another appeal. I would ask GBCI directly.
GBCI answered yes to this question. Thanks.
Sustainable Jobsite
The GC on a job I'm consulting for has suggested an idea for an ID credit that sounds interesting. The thought is to operate a "sustainable jobsite." Here are a few of the ideas:
- Green Trailers (high efficiency insulation/enclosure, lights on occupancy sensors, programmable tstats, etc…) – the upcharge for this would be approximately $8,000 but would still fall within our budget for construction offices; need to order in the next week or so to have on time.
- Waste Recycling Plan for Office Complex and General Waste (Construction Waste Recycling is separate)
- Timers and/or occupancy sensors on our temporary lighting for construction
- No Smoking Policy (confined smoking break area potentially)
- Carpool and alternative means of transportation – Subs will already most likely be bussing to the jobsite
- Jobsite Roads from Recycled Material
Is there a precedent for this out there? Any suggestions on what to add or how to document to make this successful?
Check the LEED Interpretations database. I believe this has been attempted before and not accepted by the USGBC.
Suggest you review the Green Guide for Health Care (tm). There are two construction process credits in the Green Guide that may help you define your goals. Having another Rating System as a benchmark can help. The Green Guide is available for free download from Practice Greenhealth, its sponsor.
Comprehensive Transportation management Plan.
We just got the following response to our application for a Transportation management plan credit:
"...However, the transportation management plan consists of only one component, subsidized costs for mass transit and carpooling. The transportation management plan must consist of at least two components."
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. 532 was referenced and I don’t see in the ruling where it says specifically that 2 components (in addition to SS credit achievements and a 5 year commitment) must be met. Furthermore, the interpretation lists the carpool database and the subsidized costs as separate components when the reviewer is saying that it is one component.
The reviewer is also saying that we have not demonstrated a 5 year commitment to the program-this is a federal project so we are basically demonstrating our ongoing obligation to participate in the 12 year old federal program. We provided the federal memos initiating the program for federal employees and paperwork describing the base’s implementation of the program-but there is no way that our client can guarantee that the program will be in existence for another 5 years because it is federally funded.
We were told that we could apply for a ‘different Design Strategy ‘ but I have no idea what that means. Has anyone had any success with federal projects and this credit? I feel that we provided a ton of documentation that we are not receiving credit for (database, vehicle use reduction, new employee paperwork, etc.)
Awards for LEED projects
Currently I am searching for awards for our project; however, I am only able to find plaques and etc.
Are their awards for projects achieving Gold NC is remote locations such as the Virgin Islands?
Melissa, can you clarify what you mean by awards? Does this apply to earning LEED certification, or getting extra recognition for it?
Our project will already be receiving certification. According to the Owner we could apply for additional awards. I am not sure what awards or additional recognition we could receive- very green when it comes to awards to marketing.
Our project is in the Virgin Islands and as a gov project it is very unique in that location for Sustainability/ LEED
any ideas?
Melissa, just within the scope of LEED and USGBC, you can purchase a plaque, certificates, and other "merch" at greenplaque.com. There is always the PR angle that can be worked, particularly focusing on unique project elements. There are design awards that your architect might be familiar with. Anything beyond that might be more local/regional and is beyond the scope of my expertise.
Exemplary Performance - limit on points
Could someone please refresh my memory? I know that LEED 2009 only permits a maximum of 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. I seem to remember LEED v2.2 limiting the EP points to 2, but I can't find anything to substantiate this. If anyone can direct me to where I could find something concrete to confirm or deny this, I would appreciat it. Thank you.
v2.2 is limited to the number of ID points. (four).
Building as a Teaching Tool / Educational Outreach
We are working on a Community College LEED project: (three story classroom building on existing campus) Owner wishes to pursue ID credits for using the LEED project as a teaching tool. Per the discussion below we will provide a signage package, college website with information on the LEED credits utilized on the project. This will be for one credit. Owner wants to incorporate a community outreach component: Specifically, a series of Continuation High Schools in the area that would like to have their construction-trades students visit the College construction site, return to observe Commissioning testing, and meet with the Design team to discuss how LEED is performed from the perspective of the Contractor or subcontractor (which the High School/ Community College joint sponsorship is trying to encourage the students to become).
Can we use this joint- training excercise to pursue a second ID point separate from the "traditionial" education credit? Thanks
David,
I think it's likely these would all fall under the one ID credit.
Public Service Announcements and IDc1 Credit
We are seeking Silver certification on a new construction project and are developing the educational/public outreach program per the IDc1 requirements. We are considering using public service announcements (PSAs) that will consistently run on various LCD panels installed throughout the building. Does anyone know how much time the PSAs would need to run to meet the LEED education requirements outlined in IDc1? Many thanks.
Meredith, I am not aware of any official guidance at this level of detail.
For comparison, other projects have earned this credit using a kiosk in the lobby where the LEED/green information is always displayed. However, I think that by distributing screens throughout the building, your strategy may reach more eyeballs even if the announcements aren't on all the time.
LEED Project Profile ID credit - Green Building Education
Are there guidelines or a template anywhere for what information needs to be included in the LEED Project Profile as part of the ID credit for Green Building Education? There are numerous LEED Project Profiles posted under the "Resources" tab of USGBC's website, but I'm looking for specific guidelines. I recall seeing this information maybe 5 years ago, but can't seem to find it now. If anyone can find anything, please let me know. Thanks!
You might be able to find something at this link.
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2358
This USGBC publication lists numerous ID attempts and their respective rulings submitted by project teams before Summer 2007: http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3569 Below is an excerpt from page 27 and 28 (of 30) regarding the requirements for Educational Program. Please be aware of USGBC’s statement. This document is for guidance only and does not set any precedent for future rulings. Also look into LEED Interpretations dated 9/24/01: ID#5445 and ID#3115.
Two of the following three elements must be included in the educational program:
1. A comprehensive signage program built into the building's spaces to educate the
occupants and visitors of the benefits of green buildings. This program may include
windows to view energy∙saving mechanical equipment or signs to call attention to
water∙conserving landscape features
2. The development of a manual, guideline or case study to inform the design of other
buildings based on the successes of this project. This manual will be made available to the
USGBC for sharing with other projects
3. An educational outreach program or guided tour could be developed to focus on
sustainable living, using the project as an example.
ID EQ Credit for Post-Occupancy Survey
I have a building Owner which is interested in completing a post-occupancy survey of building occupants to gauge comfort over time. Does anyone know where I can get a sample survey or template to look at and help the Owner create a survey?
You may want to start over at Berkeley's Center for the Built Environment then see if Better Bricks has anything for you. Otherwise, see if you can PM me or post back and I'll put you in touch with a researcher I know.
Michael, did you ever find a template? Our firm is considering this ID credit and a templwte would definitely help. Thank you.
How is your planned approach different from what is covered under EQc7.2? (We have several resources under the Doc Toolkit for that credit, by the way.)
NC V2.2 Zero Energy Consumption or Innovative Energy Systems
Greetings, We have a building with domestic solar hot water, geothermal wells, and a massive solar PV array. We would like to get ID points for these high performance energy systems but cannot figure out exactly how to go about it. According to EAc1’s energy simulation model we have a cost/energy savings of 99.9%. According to EAc2, the percent of renewable energy equals 156.41% (The solar PV array is the only system included. Apparently, geothermal is not considered renewable, and solar hot water was excluded for convenience.). We have not yet submitted to GBCI but we are very experienced and very confident in regards to the accuracy of our model inputs.
It is understood that an ID/EP point can be achieved by reaching the next incremental threshold for EAc1 (45.5% for new buildings) and EAc2 (17.5%); and we have greatly surpassed both these thresholds. It is also understood that the EP rule of thumb for many credits is double the requirements. Are there any recommended approaches to earning additional points for this unique and highly sustainable situation? What about a “net zero” building approach?
Thank you very much.
I do not believe that you can earn additional points for way beyond 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.. The original idea behind them was to addresses issues that LEED missed. It clearly covers energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. Perhaps trying to think of some, other than energy benefits of the energy systems may be a way forward. Unfortunately the LEED innovation points are not about innovation and are therefore poorly named. They are mostly bonus points.
Have you thought about casting your ID point as zero carbon emissions? LEED hasn't offered a v2.2 credit for carbon and if you stay away form any connection with energy, you might be able to sell it on the basis of carbon offsetA fiscal unit measured in metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent (CO2e) representing six main categories of greenhouse gases. Aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, one carbon offset represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide (or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases). Carbon offsets are typically purchased by consumers of fossil fuels or products using fossil fuels, as a way to "offset" or negate their negative environmental impact.. How many years would it take to offset all of the carbon emissions from the use of energy during construction? Sounds like it may be a small project, what about all of the carbon emissions associated with tranporting materials to the site?
Just an idea - I know it would take some work to put it together but then innovation isn't easy.
Emissions from construction equipment
Has anyone developed an ID credit for using Tier IV compliant construction equipment in the building project?
David,
Check out the Green Guide for Healthcare (gghc.org). There was a credit in there regarding construction equipment that you can use to form your ID credit. The site should still be active, if not, let me know and I can send that out.
Thanks, Susan. On the GGHC site I found a document titled Low Impact Construction Practices Technical Brief, which mentioned low emitting construction equipment in passing. Is there something more substantive, like a case description similar to the one offered for Turner's CWM program?
The Turner program (which I've not read in a while so assume I know little) is likely cross polinated with the GGHC since their lead sustainable engineer sat on the GGHC committtee. I pulled out my hardcopy of the GGHC v2 and the credit is MR c2.4. They reference standards: CARBThe California Air Resources Board, part of the state government, is charged with maintaining clean air. This agency is unique at the state level: California was the only state that had such an agency before the passage of the federal Clean Air Act, and was allowed to keep it. zero emissions vehicle program (ZeVZero-emission vehicles.), Euro Union Blue Angel RAL-UZ 53 and Energy Star (which probably has to do with a different aspect of their credit). Under resources, they list the OSHA noice website and the EPA's Emission Reduction in Diesel Construction Equipment. Hope that helps. You may be on a cutting edge here and may not find too many bread crumbs. Perhaps between the GGHC and the Turner program, you'll have enough.
David,
Susan's advice is a good start. As the aforementioned "Turner sustainable engineer that sat on the GGHC Steering Committee . . ." MR c2.4 Utility and Emissions Control doesn't fit all that neatly in the MR category - but it sets a high threshold for sustainable construction practices across a broad range of environmental impacts from construction operations. There are three categories of Credit Goals - Temporary Utilities; Engine Use and Noise and Vibration. The credit requires a project to acheive any nine of the fourteen requirements and at least one in each of the three categories. Tier IV diesel emissions would only satisfy one of the categories and one of the nine requirements. Generally submitting a GGHC credit to GBCI for consideration as innovation doesn't allow for much tampering with the original credit requirements.
Furthermore, since Tier IV is phasing in as a requirement, asking for credit for something that will be a legal requirement may not excite the reviewer. However, if the project could demonstrate compliance with all of the other requirements of GGHC MR c2.4, it might fly.
The Turner CWM program tracks diversion of construction and demolition waste diverted from landdfill; LEED MR c2.1, c2.2.
Jim, I was hoping you would find this discussion!
David, I had one other possible source of information for you come across my desk. The 'Diesel Clean-Up Campaign' is a national coalition aiming to reduce diesel exhaust. The group behind it is the 'Cleanwater.org' folks. You should be able to google both things and hopefully come up with something meaningful to you.
ID credit - IEQc4.5 Low-Emitting Systems Furniture & Seating
Has anyone submitted an ID credit under the LEED-NCv2.2 rating system borrowing the IEQc4.5 Low-Emitting Systems FurnitureSystems furniture includes panel-based workstations comprising modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components, and drawer and filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items designed to work in concert. & Seatings from the LEED-CI v2009 rating system? Does the cost items in Division 12 (furniture) need to be included in MRc3-7? The IEQ and MR credits have zero relevence to each other. I was under the impression that if and ONLY IF the furnishings in Division 12 was used in one of the MR credits, then it needed to be used across all of the MR credits.
I am interested in hearing anyone's experience with this because I just got this ID credit denied on a project because the furniture costs were not included in the MR credits. I am actually considering putting in 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 related to this, because I think the reviewers' denial based on this is incorrect.
Hi Valerie,
On numerous previous projects, the low-emitting systems furnitureSystems furniture includes panel-based workstations comprising modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components, and drawer and filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items designed to work in concert. and seating credit was awarded as an ID credit on my non LEED-CI projects, however the past 3 non LEED-CI projects were also denied. I recently questioned this and explained that FF&E items are typcally NOT included in the scope of the design/build team and that I worked with the Owner to specifically purchase the Greenguard Certified systems furniture and seating. I was told that a GBCI staff person recently brought it to the attention ofall GBCI staff that under LEED-CI, the systems furniture and seating must be included in the MR credits. As a result GBCI staff are denying the low-emitting systems furniture and seating ID credit unless it is include in the MR credits. I do not agree with this an am disappointed because Greenguard Certified furniture is more expensive. AND IF the owner wants to move their furniture in prior to doing the IAQIndoor air quality: The quality and attributes of indoor air affecting the health and comfort building occupants. IAQ encompasses available fresh air, contaminant levels, acoustics and noise levels, lighting quality, and other factors. testig option for IEQc3.2 - CIAQ Prior to Occupancy, without having the Owner purchase low-emitting (Greenguard Certified) furniture, the IAQ tests are failing. I would strongly encourage you to put in 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 you need help, please let me know. I could site seveal project examples.
I received the response from my 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. It is as follows:
The customer is inquiring whether furniture must be included in the MR credits for LEED-NC 2009 projects when IEQc4.5: Low-emitting Materials – Furniture, from the LEED-CI 2009 Rating System is attempted as an Innovation in Design strategy. Yes, furniture must be included or excluded consistently throughout a LEED-NC project.
As stated in 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. 1605, “projects that include furniture in the scope of work are eligible to apply for an innovation credit based on LEED for Commercial Interiors (LEED-CI) IEQ credit 4.5, Low-Emitting Materials Furniture." This ruling has also been reviewed and approved recently by the MR TAGLEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG): Subcommittees that consist of industry experts who assist in developing credit interpretations and technical improvements to the LEED system..
There is a parallel post in the NC2009 ID category with a comment that projects attempting this ID credit do not need to include the furniture in the MR credits. Does anyone know whether this discrepancy is based on the rating system the project is registered under or just an inconsistency within the review process? The information on the two threads was posted within 30 days of each other.
Thanks!
I posted above my 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 response, which was returned on February 15th, 2012. I submitted that on Jan 30th, 2012.
Today, I received the LIR at long last. It states:
No, LEED NC projects are not required to include furniture in their calculations for MR credit 3-7 if using low emitting furniture for an ID strategy. 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. #3901 states that although furniture does not have a dedicated credit in the New Construction rating system "since furniture can have an effect on indoor environmental quality, projects that include furniture in the scope of work are eligible to apply for an innovation credit based on LEED for Commercial Interiors (LEED-CI) IEQ credit 4.5, Low-Emitting Materials - Furniture." For project teams pursuing this credit as an ID strategy, the cost of the furniture is not required to me included in the total materials cost in Materials and Resources credits 3,4,5,6, or 7. The intention of this ID strategy is to easily reference a set of rigorous Indoor Environmental Quality requirements relating to furniture. While it is not required to include furniture in Materials and Resources credits project teams are encouraged to look for sustainable criteria synergies when purchasing furniture.
So what does this mean to me? Does the decision to deny the initial point on the project get reversed? Does this mean I can and should get credit on future NC projects?
I posted a similar thread under LEED-CI 2009 IEQc4.5 (http://www.leeduser.com/credit/CI-2009/IEQc4.5) because I thought the expert at that forum would be more likely to answer it (and I missed seeing the thread in LEED-NC 2009 - http://www.leeduser.com/credit/NC-2009/IDc1). So glad I saw this thread highlighted as a Featured Comment in On Your Team!
I have a project that got the same GBCI review response back as Theresa and Valerie regarding including the costs of furniture in the MR credits, if I was pursing LEED-CI IEQc4.5 as an innovation credit in LEED-NC 2009. I was really flabbergasted by it. Valerie, thank you for taking the time and effort to submit 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.!!! There are 5 LI’s in the LEED Interpretations and Addenda Database - ID#10149, ID#10150, ID#10151, ID#10152, and ID#10153 - under MRc3, MRc4, MRc5, MRc6, and MRc7, respectively. All are dated 4/1/2012 and mirror your language above. I do find it odd that the LIs are dated prior to you receiving the response, Valerie.
I think you should be able to use the ruling to get the denial reversed - especially since you had to pay to get an answer. To me, it means that LEED-NC projects can get the ID credit without having to change the MR calcs. And I’m going to reference this LI ID# in my response to the GBCI reviewer - https://www.usgbc.org/leedinterpretations/LISearch.aspx?liaccessid=10153.
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 NC &CI. 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.
ID Credit for using SMART Certified Materials
I spoke with a linoleum rep last week and she sent me some information on how their products are SMART Certified and may qualify for an Innovation credit. She sent me a copy of 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 was submitted, but I don't know who submitted it or when. That document says that SMART certified materials should total 2.5% of total materials cost (Div2-10) in order to qualify.
Has anyone submitted for this particular ID credit before? Wondering what the success rate has been. This is for a V.2.2 project using a campus submittal approach.
We were having a conversation about this credit over on the v3 forum last week. I've not been able to document this credit but we have tracked it on several projects. It is tough to have enough money in Div 9 items to get this credit. My recommendation would be to look for additional items to contribute. As I recall they have a website on all the certified products.
Thanks, Susan - linoleum is the primary flooring material in the building, so there is quite a lot of it. I've asked the project manager for more cost info so I can do a quick calculation and see where we are. I tried looking through the website but couldn't find what I needed - a list of certified products. If anyone has a link that they can share, I'd appreciate it.
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 in question was an "administrative CIR" put out by USGBC a few years ago. I assume it is in the current LEED Interpretations database (search for Smart or under IDc1) and you could get more clues there on its continued applicability.
Great, thanks Tristan! The sales rep sent me a Word doc which looks like someone just copied and pasted 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 from somewhere....
ID credit
Can 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. Policy be used for an ID point (LEED NC ver 2.2)?
Hema, yes, that is possible. Your best bet is to use LEED-EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. credits SSc3 or IEQc3.6 as the basis for your submission.
ID credit for sustainable marketing collateral?
Does anyone know if we could contribute to an ID credit when designing marketing materials to promote the sale of a LEED condominium project? Could this qualify as it is in direct relationship with the building's success? ex. Using FSCIndependent, third-party verification that forest products are produced and sold based on a set of criteria for forest management and chain-of-custody controls developed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an international nonprofit organization. FSC criteria for certifying forests around the world address forest management, legal issues, indigenous rights, labor rights, multiple benefits, and environmental impacts. (Forest Stewardship Council) sourced papers, soy based inks, recycling initiatives for spec unit point-of-purchase materials (signage, floor plans, perspectives, etc) once the units are sold out. Marketing being an integral part of the promoters/developers towards building green, I am curious to find out if this is a viable addition?
Philippe, see my earlier responses on the topic of comprehensive. I am doubtful that a "green" marketing campaign for the building would qualify for an ID credit. With some work, though, I think you could do it.
Transform it into a educational initiative and add a couple of components and you are on a well-trod path to an ID credit.
Or make it about sustainable purchasing for the office and building and you could use EBOM MRc1 as a template.
I'm on it, sounds like a solid path to explore ; ) Thx.
pool dechloraminating by UV-C rays
hi everybody, we are looking for a point under the innovation and design category in a sports center which has pools with a dechloraminating system by ultraviolet rays. we know that this kind of technologies are less harmful than the conventional chlorinated products because of the improvement of the air quality inside the space. so, is it possible to look for a point under this category? and, if it is, how can we support this achievement?. thanks in advance
Biagio, as Marcus says elsewhere on this forum, when thinking about ID credits, thnk quantifiable, verifiable, replicatable and documentable. I would add comprehensive. I would also note that specific technologies are generally not approved for ID credits. This case sounds like a specific technology, and one that does not have a comprehensive environmental benefit. Perhaps think about a more comprehensive approach to green water treatment in the facility?
I agree with others that you can apply for 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. credit on your project if the practices that are documented apply to your building, regardless of what is done at other buildings. In addition, if you have a campus-wide green cleaning policy it should help you complete the documentation for your building - check the requirements in EBO&M and use that credit if you are going after an ID credit. Also, consider the Application Guide for Multiple Buildings and On-Campus Projects for a path to document campus-wide credits that apply to multiple buildings.
Green Cleaning
I am working on a University campus project where it is a requirement that all new buildings must receive LEED certification. We are pursuing the 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. ID credit. I heard from other team members that because this credit may have been granted to prior LEED building(s) on campus, it would not be granted for my project. Would that mean GBCI does not take into consideration different project types and that each plan is catered differently per use? Any feedback would be appreciated.
The advice you're getting from other team members does not seem correct to me. Usually you can't double dip on site type credits. But for an entire building, you should be able to easily implement (and document) 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. Maybe the last time they documented the credit they took into account some campus wide initiative which you may not be able to double dip? You will need to focus on your project specifically. Try going to Harvard's online documentation and see if they've done this more than once. Here's hoping Harvard isn't your client.
Alan,
I would tend to agree with Susan. If you are using the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. guidance to implement 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 you should be able to tailor it to your building if you need to, while acknowledging that it is a campus wide plan.
ID Credit Ideas - Hotel
I am just about to submit for construction review and I have 1 ID credit left available. Any low cost ideas for me? The hotel uses Ozone for laundry, if that can fit anywhere. Just thought I would see if there were any suggestions before I leave it empty. We have already achieved the ID credits for MR C 7 (FSCIndependent, third-party verification that forest products are produced and sold based on a set of criteria for forest management and chain-of-custody controls developed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an international nonprofit organization. FSC criteria for certifying forests around the world address forest management, legal issues, indigenous rights, labor rights, multiple benefits, and environmental impacts. Lumber), SS C 5.2 (Max Open Space) and EA C 3 (Green Energy). Thanks for any input.
The one mentioned below on green building education is the most common ID credit beyond 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..
Also consider an operational credit like green housekeeping from LEED EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems.. Especially appropriate for a hotel I would think.
Beyond that you can get good ideas in the ID Credit Catalog on USGBC's web site - http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3569
Educational Prog.:University website & initiative for compliance
Our project is a tranportation hub that will be run by a University and owned by the city in which it is built. For an Educational Program ID credit, we were going to have a binderGlue used in manufacturing wood products, such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, and engineered lumber. Most binders are made with formaldehyde. using the building as a case study at the main desk for visitors and users. We were also going to have signage in the building addressing tactics employed.
Additionally, the Unviersity has a Green initiative and website listing sustainable courses and featuring each of the sustainable buildings on campus including the new transportation hub. The energy usage of all of the sustainable buildings is listed. They also include links to their 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 and tactics that other departments are doing. The City is the actual owner and they also have community outreach programs for the public.
My question is two-fold: First, are the case study binder and signage considered only one tactic? Second, assuming that they are, would the website that includes the new building be considered sutiable as a second tactic even though the focus and goal is larger than this single building?
The signs fall under the actively instructional criteria. The binderGlue used in manufacturing wood products, such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, and engineered lumber. Most binders are made with formaldehyde. could fall under the outreach criteria. The web site under the outreach and the promotional materials criteria.
Will the project actively seek to conduct tours of the facility? If so that would also be part of the outreach criteria.
When it comes to this credit the more comprehensive the coverage of at least two of the criteria the better.
Start a new LEED comment thread