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LEED v2009
New Construction
Innovation in Design
Innovation in Design

LEED CREDIT

NC-2009 IDc1: Innovation in Design 1-5 points

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Tristan Roberts

LEED AP BD+C, LFA

Vermont House of Representatives
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Credit language

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Requirements

Credit can be achieved through any combination of the Innovation in Design/Operations and Exemplary Performance 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.
Credit substitution available
You may use the LEED v4 version of this credit on v2009 projects. For more information check out this article.
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What does it cost?

Cost estimates for this credit

On each BD+C v4 credit, LEEDuser offers the wisdom of a team of architects, engineers, cost estimators, and LEED experts with hundreds of LEED projects between then. They analyzed the sustainable design strategies associated with each LEED credit, but also to assign actual costs to those strategies.

Our tab contains overall cost guidance, notes on what “soft costs” to expect, and a strategy-by-strategy breakdown of what to consider and what it might cost, in percentage premiums, actual costs, or both.

This information is also available in a full PDF download in The Cost of LEED v4 report.

Learn more about The Cost of LEED v4 »

Frequently asked questions

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Addenda

1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the second line of the second paragraph, remove the quotation mark so the text becomes "...PATH 2 - Exemplary Performance."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/14/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Insert the following section:Path 3. Pilot Credit (1 point)Attempt a pilot credit available in the Pilot Credit Library atwww.usgbc.org/pilotcreditlibrary. Register as a pilot credit participant andcomplete the required documentation. Projects may pursue more than 1pilot credit; however, a maximum of 1 point will be awarded.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the last sentence of the paragraph with "NC and CS projects may pursue up to 5 Pilot Credits total, Schools projects may pursue up to 4 Pilot Credits total."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the second line of the second paragraph, remove the quotation mark so the text becomes "...PATH 2 - Exemplary Performance."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, insert the text "Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed" before "in the LEED 2009 for New Construction..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/14/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Insert the following section:Path 3. Pilot Credit (1 point)Attempt a pilot credit available in the Pilot Credit Library atwww.usgbc.org/pilotcreditlibrary. Register as a pilot credit participant andcomplete the required documentation. Projects may pursue more than 1pilot credit; however, a maximum of 1 point will be awarded.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, replace the text "LEED 2009 for Schools" with "LEED 2009 for New Construction, Schools and Core & Shell"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the header, change "(1 point)" to "(1 - 5 points for NC and CS, 1 - 4 points for Schools)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, insert the text "Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed" before "in the LEED 2009 for New Construction..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, replace the text "LEED 2009 for Schools" with "LEED 2009 for New Construction, Schools and Core & Shell"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/24/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Green Building Educational Component This project intends to provide a two-part educational package as part of its process. This will consist of the following: 1. A display system comprised of small iconographic signs throughout the facility highlighting where green strategies have been employed. These icons will then be complemented by a display panel in the main cafeteria space which highlights what the green building strategies are, and some of the impacts. Rather than put text-based signs throughout the facility, the icons will remind people as they move through the space that there is something green there. All employees go to the cafeteria several times a day, and this way the centralized panel can highlight the environmental impact of each piece of the building. For example an icon at the parking lot can highlight how much the hybrid vehicle parking spaces are reducing emissions. An icon at the toilet rooms can highlight how many gallons of water are going to be saved each year. By having the icons spread throughout the facility we can illustrate how pervasive our green strategies are. 2. A case study book or website, tied in to graphics of the building, which will highlight materials and strategies used throughout the facility. It will be cross-referenced with synergistic efforts made in the owner\'s corporate office center, also under construction and also seeking LEED certification. This resource will include both materials used, design strategies employed, and local suppliers and professionals involed in the project, such as construction entities, local waste recyclers, etc. This case study book or website will be shared with the USGBC and the Pittsburgh Green Building Alliance (GBA). Please review and let us know if this approach will meet the intent of the CIR from 9/24/2001 regarding educational programs for Innovation in Design points, and whether this approach is likely to be awarded a point if submitted.

Ruling:

To meet the requirements for an innovation credit for education, as outlined in previous CIR rulings, signage must be built into the building\'s spaces and comprehensively addresses the green building strategies employed in the project. A case study must inform the design of other buildings based on the success of this project. The strategies described meet this intent. Credits are not awarded through the CIR process and achievement will be based on the documents formally submitted. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This is not for ID but for a Administrative CIR, as there was not a Adminstrative section listed on the LEED on-line submittal options. 03/23/2007 Credit Interpretation Request Our project is a 310,796 s.f. mixed-use project. It is designed as a podium structure with subterranean parking. The mixed-use element includes 298,296 s.f. of residential and 12,500 s.f. of tenant. The entire project have been designed and constructed to potentially achieve various LEED v2.2 credits. The tenant space will consist retail, but the spaces will not be fully designed until they are leased. The owner would like to achieve LEED certification prior to the build-out of the tenant space. Based on several previous CIR rulings, we would like to create guidelines for the future retail to support the LEED credits that we have attempted to secure in the constructed space. This guideline will include "specific performance goals, information, and resource leads, as well as required elements where applicable". Some of the credits that we are pursuing will require us to assume a hypothetical maximum or minimum (whatever is most restrictive) occupant load to calculate usage rates for the entire building. (Example: Innovative Waste Water Reduction WE Cr. 2 sewage conveyance reduction requires an assumed fixture count for the future tenant space) Our project is registered under LEED -NC v2.2. We are trying to confirm that the approach we are proposing will be acceptable for a LEED certification submission in the near future. Please refer to Administrative CIR Rulings dated 2/22/2005,10/4/2004, 5/24/2004, and 5/17/2002.

Ruling:

< This ruling was revised on 6/23/2007 > For the applicant\'s mixed use project, if the owner/tenant occupies more than 50% of the building\'s leasable space, the building shall fall under the NC rating system. Please refer to the rulings referenced in the CIR (NCv2.1 Administrative Inquiries dated 2/22/2005,10/4/2004, 5/24/2004, and 5/17/2002) for guidance on using tenant guidelines for the future retail space. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Integrated HVAC for Building & Greenhouse This CIR proposes an innovation design credit for a design to integrate the HVAC system between the greenhouse and the main building of the new Pacific Garden Mission (PGM) facility in Chicago. The intent of the proposed design innovation is to: 1) use the greenhouse vegetation to help improve the air quality in parts of the main building; 2) pass the building exhaust air through the greenhouse to provide carbon dioxide enriched air to help in plant growth in the greenhouse. The new PGM facility includes a men\'s and a women\'s greenhouse attached to the south wall of the facility. The design calls for an HVAC system that can operate in the following three modes modes: 1)Exhaust building air from the adjacent 1st floor rooms through the greenhouse to help heat and cool the greenhouse, keep it positively pressurized to avoid infiltration. Our preliminary energy modeling indicates that this mode of operation will result in annual avoided heating costs of at least $2,500 or over 1% of the projected energy costs for the current building design. Exhausting building air through the greenhouses will promote plant growth by supplying greenhouse with CO2-enriched building exhaust air. 2)Draw air through the greenhouse so that it can be tempered and supply part of the make-up air required for the dining/kitchen area. 3)Divert the air from the adjacent rooms through the greenhouse to clean, humidify it, and enrich it with oxygen before it returns back to the building. Our approach is to include the energy saving aspects of these design features in the energy model of the building that has been prepared for EA Credit 1 Optimized Energy Performance. Therefore, our proposed Innovation Design Credit is for the environmental benefits of this design that integrates the HVAC systems of the greenhouse and main building. We look forward to the USGBC\'s guidance on this exciting potential innovation in design.

Ruling:

It is not clear that circulating air through the greenhouse will improve IEQ. It is equally as likely that the greenhouse could introduce allergens. Some of the supposed benefits (humidity control) are already addressed by existing credits. To better understand the air quality benefits of exhausting building air into the greenhouse, and more importantly, drawing recirculated air through the greenhouse for use in the occupied building, the team would have to provide additional evidence to earn an Innovation in Design Credit. Modes 1 and 2 above will provide energy savings and should be included in EAc1. Mode 3 would require evidence, such as monitoring, demonstrating that the air returning to the building is cleaner and enriched. As to humidification of the air, humidity sensors, awarded under EQc7.2, would be required to substantiate the claim and ensure that the air does not have too high of a moisture content. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/6/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We request a Credit Interpretation for an Innovation and Design credit for Exemplary Recycling Performance. In a CIR Ruling dated 3/8/04, you state that a recycling ID credit can be achieved if there is a ".substantial and measurable environmental benefit." You mention that previous projects have achieved an innovation credit by calculating the amount of material recycling achieved by MRp1 and then calculating the percent improvement over that recycling rate they achieved by recycling/reusing additional materials.Our question relates to applying this credit to a university campus where many of the facilities are shared. Our project is a renovation of a residence hall. In addition to recycling the basic recyclables required in MRp1, we offer collection of wooden pallets, old electronic equipment, furniture, batteries and other materials. We also have an extensive, university-wide composting program that collects organic cafeteria scrap and landscaping waste. The cafeteria is a separate building that serves students, faculty and staff on campus. The landscaping waste is collected from the entire campus, including our project site. In fiscal year \'05 every building on campus collected the basic recyclables mentioned in MRp1, collecting 195 tons of material (173 tons paper, 11 tons cardboard, and 11 tons cans and bottles). We recycled an additional 453 tons of other materials (167 tons landscaping waste, 186 tons food waste, and 100 tons other recyclables), for a 233% increase in our overall recycling rate.We understand that ID credits are not awarded through the CIR process, but we would like to know if an ID credit can be achieved for campus-wide exemplary performance. The students who will live in our residence hall are also using our cafeteria and using the landscaped common areas that contribute to the composting collection. The residence halls, classrooms, libraries, cafeteria, and common spaces within our campus collectively represent one community and our recycling efforts are geared towards this community. We would also like to know the target percentage for exemplary performance in recycling. By how much must a project increase their recycling collection compared to what is collected for MRp1 to achieve an ID credit?

Ruling:

According to the IDc1.1 ruling on 3/8/04, the concept in your proposal is viable. In addition to the doubling of the Prerequisite 1 minimum materials benchmark (by weight, volume or recycling rate), an overall campus-wide recycling rate of 40% must be achieved in order to qualify for the point (40% is taken from LEED-EB MRc5). Landscape waste must not be factored into the volume of waste collected, as it is standard practice (and often regulated) to compost landscaping waste instead of sending it to landfill. All regulated wastes must also be excluded. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/23/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a three story laboratory facility in the city of Port St. Lucie Florida. The project has used an exterior coating system with a higher heat reflectance value than the values of conventional coatings. This credit interpretation request is to inquire about submitting the coating system used, to apply for a credit for reduced heat island effect for non-roof surfaces. The Total Solar Reflectance (TSR) values of the exterior coatings used in the building were tested using a D&S reflectometer according to ASTM C1549-04. The TSR value of the BML-01 "White" color used was 82.9% and the TSR value for the PPG522-3 "Water Chestnut" color used was 74.5%. To prove merit for one point under LEED, we have followed the guidelines of the LEED reference guide to document Sustainable Sites Credit 7.1-Heat island effect non-roof. The baseline case and design case were calculated using the exterior wall surface area and 50% of the site hardscape area. The baseline case was calculated using 43.7% solar reflectance for conventional beige paint to match the color used in the building and 35% for new gray concrete hardscape. The design case was calculated using 74.5% solar reflectance for the Water Chestnut coating used and 5% for new asphalt hardscape. Using Ecotect and site specific data the building was modeled with the correct north orientation. Ecotect calculated the incident solar radiation that strikes the north, south, east and west walls, and the hardscape surfaces annually in Wh. The incident solar radiation value for the four facades and the hardscape were added, and multiplied by the solar reflectance values to determine the site reflected solar energy. The analysis showed that 61% of solar energy would have been reflected using conventional paint and new gray concrete, but instead we are reflecting 77% of the total solar energy incident on the site using a coating with a higher heat reflectance value. We would like to know if this approach of using exterior coatings with higher reflectance values to lower heat island effect on non-roof surfaces will be acceptable to document one innovation in design point.

Ruling:

The project is proposing to earn an innovation point for using high heat reflectance value exterior wall surfaces. Please note that Innovation & Design points are not awarded through the CIR process. As described, this approach is not eligible for an ID credit at this time. Currently, no standard methodology, metric, or baseline assessment exists for exterior wall heat island effect reduction. The proposed methodology (EcoTect modeling), metric (solar reflectance), and baseline do not address heat island effect reduction as currently outlined in the LEED Rating System (using solar reflectance index - SRI). Furthermore, as this proposal is suggesting a modified exemplary performance compliance path, the requirements of SSc7.1 would first need to be met. Based on the details provided above, it is not clear if SSc7.1 would be achieved. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We submitted the following narrative as part of an ID credit in the design application for our project. The USGBC reviewer commented that ". the complexities of the assumptions made for this difficult calculation are beyond the scope of this review to evaluate. This [.] should be addressed by the CIR process to evaluate [.] credit achievement." We request a technical review of the submitted credit to confirm or deny whether the project can be awarded this credit. Reduced Embodied Energy - Reduction in Material for Interior Finishes Intent: To reduce the total energy use of a building\'s lifetime by reducing the initial and recurring embodied energy through the reduction of materials used in interior finishes. Requirements: Total initial and recurring embodied energy associated with interior finishes should be reduced by 40%. The requirement can be met through reduction in use of interior finishes compared to conventional practices and/or use of lower embodied energy products for interior finishes. This project reduces the relative proportion of interior finishes (compared to a more conventional design) to reduce material usage. This produces initial embodied energy savings and energy savings associated with recurring refurbishment and maintenance activities. The project applies finishes to 72% of floors, 74% of walls, and 29% of columns compared to a conventional Czech Republic building, which is 100% finished. Ceilings of the project (excluding glass areas) are 100% finished. Analysis of energy savings related to reduction of interior finishes is based on life cycle assessment (LCA) studies of embodied energy use in office buildings. For the purposes of this analysis, energy use consists of initial embodied energy (energy to create the building), recurring embodied energy (energy to maintain the building over its lifetime), operating energy (energy to operate the building) and demolition energy (energy to demolish the building upon end of lifetime) (as proposed by Cole and Kernan, 1996). Initial embodied energy applies the initial embodied energy coefficient to finished areas. It compares the design to the baseline case, which assumes 100% finished interior surfaces. The baseline case represents typical construction practices for Czech Republic office buildings, while the design case utilises the project\'s finished areas. Initial Embodied Energy Coefficient: Carpet (floors) 0.273 GJ/m2 Plaster (columns) 0.0114 GJ/m2 Metal stud (24" OC) gypsum board & latex paint (walls/ceiling) 0.341 GJ/m2 Source: University of Bath, 2006 and Athena Institute EcoCalculator, 2007. Total recurring embodied energy (for a 60-yr service life) is calculated based on the relative significance of recurring embodied energy compared to initial embodied energy in the life cycle of energy uses. The baseline and design cases are calculated by applying the initial embodied energy coefficient to the finished areas described in the total initial embodied energy, and subsequently recurring embodied energy, as follows: Associated Initial Embodied Energy: Baseline - 67,937 GJ Design - 33,820 GJ Associated Recurring Embodied Energy: Baseline - 90,356 GJ Design - 44,981 GJ Total Embodied Energy of Applied Finishes: Baseline - 158,203 GJ Design - 78,801 GJ The project shows 50.2% savings on total embodied energy related to finishes against the baseline. Typically, initial embodied energy of materials for interior finishes makes up ~13% of the total initial embodied energy of concrete office buildings. Thus, the reduction of materials for finishes represents 6.5% (50.2% x 13%) savings on initial embodied energy. Recurring embodied energy of materials for interior finishes represents ~30% of total recurring embodied energy across the 60-yr lifetime. Thus, the reduction of materials for finishes represents 15.1% (50.2% x 30%) savings on total recurring embodied energy in the project. Total savings across total life cycle including operational energy: Total Initial Embodied Energy Savings 6.5% x 17% = 1.1% Total Recurring Embodied Energy Savings 15.1% x 23% = 3.4% Total Saving Across Whole Life Cycle 4.5% The approach indicates that significant savings can be achieved by reducing the quantity of materials for interior finishes. The approach is logical and replicable for other buildings.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting the approval of an innovation credit based on the use of interior finishes with lower embodied energy, as compared to a conventional baseline. Although the project team has demonstrated that they have used materials with lower embodied energy than the baseline, it is not clear that embodied energy is a good indicator of total environmental impact. Embodied Energy is a single attribute describing how much energy is required to make a unit of material. While energy consumption typically has an associated environmental impact, the reduction of embodied energy alone does not identify or equally quantify the downstream environmental impacts, such as carbon dioxide emissions, air pollution, water eutrophication, etc. In a comparison of two materials in which one product uses more energy than the other, it does not automatically mean that the product with lower embodied energy is more environmentally friendly than the other. There are other factors that must be considered, such as the type of power that was used in the production of the material, e.g. green power compared to coal fired or nuclear generation. Please see CIR rulings dated 2/25/2003 and 1/13/2003 for more information and guidance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2003
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Transportation Management Plan The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternate Transportation through the use of a Transportation Management Plan. The proposed REQUIREMENTS are to include the following features in the Transportation Management Plan: Rideshare Matching Assistance, Subsidized Regional Transit Pass ( In lieu of providing 3% with Alternative Fuel Vehicles ), Bike Subsidy and User Groups, Amtrak Subsidy, Guaranteed Ride Home Program. The required SUBMITTALS would require all features listed in the Requirements to be summarized in a narrative and in the form of the LEED letter templates. Possible DESIGN APPROACHES would include working with the local Transportation Management Association or local agency to figure out which options are best suited for the occupants of the building. The following paragraphs further explain of how the requirements will be met. Per the Transportation Management Plan filed with the City of Sacramento, and DPR\'\'s subsequent commitment to participate in and financially support the South Natomas Transportation Management Association (TMA), the following programs and services will be available to all DPR South Natomas employees as well as employees of any subtenant occupying 2480 Natomas Park Drive. Rideshare Matching Assistance The South Natomas TMA supports and uses the regional carpool database, www.1800COMMUTE.org to provide matches for short-term emergencies or long term carpool arrangements. Additionally, we will provide personalized transit trip planning assistance, providing employees a detailed explanation of how to take the bus from home to work, and back again. Prior to DPR relocating to the new South Natomas facility, all occupants will provide their names and nearest cross streets, so that carpool database will generate a personalized transit trip and/or carpool matchlist for each occupant of the building. Subsidized Regional Transit Passes We have a cooperative agreement with Regional Transit to provide photo identification Regional Transit passes to ALL member employees. This is similar to the requirement in SS4.3 to provide alternate fuel vehicles for 3% of the building. By subsidizing the Transit Pass for ALL occupants we feel that we are meeting the intent of the Alternate Transportation credits. This RT pass is valid on Regional Transit light rail and buses for both commute and non-commute trips. YoloBus, Placer County Transit and also accept this pass. Bike Subsidy and Users Group The Bike Users Group is a result of the Bucks for Bikes Program, which provides South Natomas TMA members commute bike purchase subsidies. The South Natomas BUG also provides a voice for cyclists throughout the South Natomas area, advocating safer trails and road conditions, and supporting education for current bicycle commuters and encouragement for fellow cyclists new to commuting by bike. DPR\'\'s bike lockers will complement the employees\'\' participation in our bike-related activities and support bicycle commuting. Amtrak Capitol Corridor Subsidy We offer up to 10 monthly subsidies of $28 each, or the full fare, whichever is lower, to member employees for reimbursement of an Amtrak Capitol Corridor monthly pass or multi-ride ticket. Employees have the option of either transferring to RT # 88/87 (with their Regional Transit pass) to connect to/from the Amtrak station and South Natomas or riding a bike through Discovery Park. (Amtrak has generous facilities for riders to bring bikes on board). Guaranteed Ride Home Program This program provides employees who rideshare two or more days per week and experience a mid-day emergency, or who have to work unexpected overtime, with a free guaranteed ride home using a taxi or rental car service up to 6 times per year.

Ruling:

**Update 7/1/2015: removed reference to LEED Interpretation 1547
Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is provided as guidance about the likely outcome if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. The applicant is inquiring about the potential for achieving an innovation point for exemplary performance in alternate transportation by instituting a comprehensive Transportation Management Plan (TMP). The project is likely to be awarded the innovation point as long as: (1) SS Credits 4.1, 4.2, and 4.4 are achieved; (2) the commitment requirements listed below are met; and (3) all commitments are adequately and officially documented. Components of the TMP that were found useful toward achieving this innovation credit include: active use of the regional carpool database; a "guaranteed ride home" program for carpoolers; transit trip planning assistance; and subsidizing regional transit passes, Amtrak commuter train tickets, and bicycle purchases for bicycle commuters. Specific details and additional requirements are as follows: Use of the regional carpool database contributes toward exemplary performance, if personalized carpool match lists are provided for all current occupants, as well as for new occupants, and the "guaranteed ride home" program is implemented. Official documentation (e.g., a signed letter, or an excerpt from company policy or employee manuals) must show at least a 5-year commitment to these programs. Please note that the practice of subsidizing regional transit passes and Amtrak tickets for occupants IS NOT equivalent in SS Credit 4.3\'s requirement to provide alternate fuel vehicles (contrary to your assertion), even though it displaces vehicle use. However, the transit subsidization program can count toward exemplary performance in relation to SS Credit 4.1, Public Transportation access, if a 5-year (or longer) agreement has been signed and a copy of the agreement is submitted with the LEED application. Transit trip planning also counts toward exemplary performance. State the number of employees that are initially provided personalized trip information and document the policies/procedures that ensure the same service for new employees. Bicycle locker installation is standard practice for SS Credit 4.2. Bike purchase subsidies for bike commuters contribute toward exemplary performance, if a commitment for at least 5 years or 50 bicycles (whichever comes first) is shown via LEED application submittals.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/20/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The goal of this CIR request is to confirm that it is viable for a project filing under LEED-NC v.2.2 to look to credits and credit requirements under LEED-EB v.2.0 (specifically three credits under the heading of Building Operation & Maintenance) as the basis of one of its ID credits. Specifically, a large private university in the mid-west has a growing commitment to sustainability and green design. It is currently constructing several new dormitories and student support/activity spaces (5 buildings total) which are targeting LEED-NC v. 2.2 Silver at a minimum. This university realizes that sustainable practices don\'t end when construction of these new dormitories and buildings is complete and they receive their LEED certification. Consistent with their plans to use the LEED for Existing Buildings program in the future to enhance campus operations and maintenance of buildings, this university plans to extend sustainable practices into the life and maintenance of these new dormitories and student support/activity buildings by adapting "appropriate operations and maintenance of buildings and building systems so that they continue to deliver target building performance goals over the long term." (LEED for Existing Buildings v 2.0 Reference Guide, page 213.) Also important, this university is looking to its experiences building and implementing a long-term Building Operation and Maintenance Plan at these new dormitories and student support/activity buildings as a test case for all five of its campuses. Basis of Building Operation & Maintenance at these new Dormitories and Student Support/Activity Buildings: This university looks to LEED-EB v. 2.0 for the basic standards in it Building Operations and Maintenance Program: Specifically: 1. LEED-EB, v 2.0 EA Credit 3.1: Building Operation & Maintenance, Staff Education; 2. LEED-EB, v2.0 EA Credit 3.2: Building Operation & Maintenance, Building Systems Maintenance; and 3. LEED-EB, v2.0 EA Credit 3.3: Building Operation & Maintenance, Building Systems Monitoring; This university also looks to LEED-NC v. 2.2 standards and monitoring criteria. Specifically: 1. LEED-NC, v2.2 EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning; 2. LEED-NC, v2.2 EA Credit 5: Measurement & Verification; and 3. LEED-NC, v2.2 EQ Credit 1: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring. Action Plan: Within the context of the above LEED-EB v. 2.0 and LEED-NC v. 2.2 standards, Building Operations and Maintenance at this university will follow the following four basic strategies: 1. Commissioning, through design and 10 months into occupancy; 2. Maintenance & Operations Staff Continuing Education and Training; 3. Building Systems Maintenance; and 4. Building Systems Monitoring (M&V, Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring, Johnson Controls). In terms of the ID credit filing for this project, the project team describes how this university and this new dormitory and student support/activities spaces project meets and, in some cases, exceeds the credit criteria for the above three LEED-EB EA Credits 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. Is this a viable ID credit for its LEED-NC v. 2.2 filing?

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for meeting or exceeding the credit criteria for the three LEED-EB v2.0 EAc3 Building Operation & Maintenance credits: EAc3.1 Staff Education; EAc3.2 Building Systems Maintenance; and EAc3.3 Building Systems Monitoring. The project is purposing to integrate the design with the operations and maintenance of the building to continue good practice and promote energy efficiency during operations. The proposed credits from LEED-EB 2.0, have been modified for the current version. And the credits are now awarded for strategies that would receive credit under LEED-NC EAc5 Measurement and Verification. Therefore meeting the requirements of LEED-EB EAc3.1 & 3.2 is not sufficient for achievement of an ID credit. The proposed building staff education is a required component for LEED-NC EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning, and therefore also not sufficient for achievement of an ID credit. However, if the project wishes to implement other strategies from the current LEED-EB rating system for which credit is not already awarded under LEED-NC, the project is encouraged to do so. In addition, please note the LEED EB rating system has been upgraded as LEED EB: Operations and Maintenance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Is it acceptable for a LEED-NC multi-family residential project to receive an innovation point if it achieves the requirements of LEED for Homes credit EAc9.1 Energy Star Appliances?

Ruling:

The project is seeking an innovation credit for improving unregulated energy usage through the use of Energy Star appliances. The project cannot earn additional innovation credit for improvements to unregulated energy usage. The energy cost savings achieved by Energy Star appliances should be documented under EAc1. To achieve EAc1 credit, the improvement in energy achieved from energy star appliances should be documented using the Exceptional Calculation Method (G2.5). Reasonable assumptions must be applied for the Baseline & Proposed case, and these assumptions must be described in the Exceptional Calculation Narrative on the EAc1 template.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
10/16/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is concerned with the integrity of LEED boundary when office spaces and laboratory spaces designed in same building, take place concurrently and adjacent to one another. The GSF of our project is around 211,144 sq.ft - excluding mechanical room and parking space - which comprises the main lab volume of 57,899 sq.ft (19,353 sq.ft underground, 38,546 sq. ft above ground) and office volume 153,245 sq.ft all above ground) which goes up to 7 floor levels above ground and 3 levels below ground. The above ground levels will be occupied by office spaces, part of laboratory spaces and supporting facilities mainly. The below ground levels will be occupied by part of laboratory spaces, car parking, mechanical plant room and back of house (BOH) areas. The entire building will be developed and occupied by single Ownership as the goal is to pursue LEED NC 2.2 Platinum level by all necessary measures. Our project team wants to clarify that Is it possible to have a LEED boundary which covers only certain portion of the building? 1. If it is possible..... 1) In what way, the demarcation and zoning of the boundary has to be made between each program-> Lab and Office? (Separated by each floor level? Or Grouped together as either above or underground level?) 2) How shared facilities such as parking spaces, mechanical rooms, restrooms are attributed for each program and to what extent, it should demonstrate physical barrier? 3) How outdoor landscape area and open space should be designated using GSF ratio of each program? 2. If it is NOT possible.. 1) How should the special circumstances of the Lab be addressed in LEED rating system? (EA and IEQ) 2) Can Lab21 Environmental Performance Criteria contribute to additional LEED point? Or officially considered as credit reference? The main reason why we would intend to exclude the Lab zone from the LEED boundary can be summarized as below 1. Most of the tests within the Lab require non-traditional lab facilities related to construction industries and deal with hard construction materials. 2. The Lab building itself is meant to be acting as a test-bed for on-site experiments which requires flexible fa

Ruling:

The applicant seeks clarification on whether the lab spaces in a lab and office complex can be excluded from the LEED site boundary. The lab and office spaces are integral to the same building as they share many systems including parking, mechanical equipment, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. As noted in LEED-NC v2.2 IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 5/23/2007, "LEED for New Construction is intended to be used as a whole-building Rating System. All NC applications should include data for the entire building..." Therefore, it is not be possible to exclude parts of the building from the LEED site boundary. As such, the labs will need to be accounted for under all LEED credits that are attempted. The lab areas should be evaluated in LEED prerequisites and credits based only on the design, not based on assumptions about the operational use of the spaces. While Lab21 Environmental Performance Criteria is a good guide, it cannot be used as a reference standard in LEED. All applicable LEED reference standards should be used. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to establish a precedent for using the LEED Innovation in Design (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity on LEED projects across LEED Rating Systems. 1. Intent of CreditPromote the health and fitness of residents and staff through building design and operation, while achieving synergistic environmental benefits.2. Why this Credit is NeededRegular physical activity is associated with reduced rates of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some cancers and reduced health care costs. Obesity, and with it type 2 diabetes, are epidemic in adults and children, and are rising rapidly in the U.S. These conditions, along with cardiovascular disease and cancer, are leading causes of death and health care costs in the U.S. Physical inactivity and poor diets are second only to tobacco. LEED has taken an early leadership role in banning indoor smoking to control environmental tobacco smoke as a perquisite in 2000. As the leading causes of premature deaths in the U.S. Cardiovascular diseases have also now overtaken infectious diseases as the leading causes of death globally, physical activity in our built environment can help slow society\'s second biggest killer, inactivity.Research has shown that improvements in building design and operation have measurable impacts on occupant physical activity, and are important, alongside neighborhood design, for reducing health problems associated with physical inactivity. 3. LEED Projects Already Approved with ID Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical ActivityThe LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity has already been implemented and approved on several LEED projects such as Via Verde & Riverside Health Center, which were both LEED NC projects, and 2 Gotham which was a LEED CI project. Sample Submittals for LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity:http://brightpower.biz/greenbuilding/ID-designforhealth http://www.1100architect.com/ (see "Burn Calories not Energy" in the "Sustainability" section)4. Development of CreditThis ID Credit was developed as part of the Active Design Guidelines (www.nyc.gov/adg) by an interagency team including the Active Design Team, which provides technical assistance to LEED projects to assist them in implementing Active Design and The LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity on LEED projects.5. Synergistic Benefits in the Design For Health Through Increased Physical Activity Strategies:* Recreation time spent in physical activity rather than TV viewing lowers energy consumption as TVs are projected to overtake refrigerators as the main source of household appliance electricity use in New York State* Elevators routinely account for 3-10% of a building\'s total energy use, by promoting use of pedestrian modes of vertical circulation such as stairs and ramps over motorized modes of vertical circulation such as elevators, escalators, and moving platforms, energy use can be greatly reduced. In Riverside Healthcare, which previously earned this LEED ID Credit Design For Health Through Increased Physical Activity, the facility found that elevator energy use during non-operational times (10 pm to 6 am) was 35% of elevator energy use during building operation times, suggesting an energy savings of up 65%, if elevators are not routinely used. * Energy savings are expected to be a supplement to the other primary benefits of this proposal, which are health benefits for occupants and the surrounding community, and benefits to society in reducing health burdens and health care costs (akin to the LEED Prerequisites for Environmental Tobacco Smoke and credits for Low-VOC finishes).Articles documenting benefits related to Green Building & Physical Activity:http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=77#public_health Quantifiable Benefits Matrix &Associated Reference List:http://brightpower.biz/files/Quantitative%20Benefits%20Matrix.pdf http://brightpower.biz/files/Design%20for%20Health%20-%20Reference%20Lis... 6. Further Information about Health & Active Design in Green BuildingThe Active Design Team recently hosted a webinar from USGBC\'s headquarters in D.C. about the LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity and benefits of physical activity through routine daily use of our built environment.Health and Active Design through Green Building Webinar:https://video.webcasts.com/events/usgb001/37845

Ruling:

This inquiry has also been submitted as a User-Generated Pilot Credit Application and will be reviewed by the Pilot Credit Library Working Group through the pilot credit process. The Working Group evaluation will include an in depth weightings exercise and prioritization. If the credit is approved for use in the Pilot Credit Library, it will be available to all applicable projects and rating system types. If the credit is not approved, it can be revised and resubmitted through the Pilot Credit process, but cannot be resubmitted as a precedent setting LEED Interpretation without major revision.
**Updated 10/1/13 for rating system applicability.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/26/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The commercial office project is designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The project is located in Providence, Rhode Island. We are seeking an innovation in design credit (ID) for a Comprehensive Transportation plan based on the ID credit previously approved on 5/9/2003 The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternative Transportation and reduce the drive alone trips through the use of a Transportation Management Plan set forth by the Owner. The project is currently pursuing three SS 4 baseline credits including: a. Project is located within 1/4 mile of Bus service and directly across the street from train station. Direct route into Boston also. b. Bicycle Storage and shower facility is provided for employees. c. Preferred Parking is provided for low emitting/ fuel efficient vehicles. Please note that the project locations offers bus service beyond 2 lines [ >50 lines available from this location ]. In addition, the train station offers a direct line to the airport. The Comprehensive Transportation Plan will include the following additional elements: a. The employer is providing free bus passes to 30% of the employees [equivalent of 300 passes]. b. The Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority [RIPTA] provides a number of transportation amenities/ alternates for its residents and information on the same will be available through the employer\'s intranet. Information and amenities include: 1. Maps/ schedules/ contact info for Public Transportation 2. Information on incentives provided by RIPTA includes: a. RIPTA/Google Trip Planner b. Carpools: carpooling options c. Commuter services Submittals will include: a. Copy of RIPTA pamphlet outlining available public transportation amenities. b. Commitment letter from the employer to provide 300 public transportation passes.

Ruling:

Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is to provide guidance about the likely measures and documentation that would need to be included in the credit application. This CIR is being submitted based on the merits of a Transportation Management Plan that will be instituted by the administration of the building. The program is part of the owner\'s efforts to reduce drive alone trips. This inquiry has utilized IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 5/9/2003 as a basis for its program requirements. As presented in this inquiry, the Transportation Management Plan does not meet the standards established in the referenced CIR. The CIR of 5/9/2003 presented a comprehensive TMP that included the following elements: Rideshare Matching Assistance, Subsidized Regional Transit Pass ( In lieu of providing 3% with Alternative Fuel Vehicles ), Bike Subsidy and User Groups, Amtrak Subsidy, and a Guaranteed Ride Home Program. The above noted program provides a less comprehensive package, providing only bus passes for a percentage of total employees and information on nearby mass transportation options. Additional provisions should be included, such as passes for a larger percentage of employees, rail transit subsidies and programs for carsharing, bikesharing, and vanpools. In order to meet the standards of CIR 5/9/2003 the existing program would need to be expanded. Alternatively, the project team could investigate an exemplary performance Innovation & Design credit for SSc4.1 As described, the project is in the direct vicinity of multiple mass transit options. The exemplary performance guidelines for SSc4.1 are available in the LEED v2.2 reference guide. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/3/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTRODUCTION This project is a new multi-story, high-rise inpatient healthcare facility which will use a variety exterior cladding materials. While Energy & Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 refers to the building envelope as "an important component of a facility which impacts energy consumption, occupant comfort and indoor air quality," this prerequisite does not provide guidance or measurable goals for improving the building envelope through commissioning. In order to address items that go beyond the scope of EAp1 such as quality control, maintainability, rain penetration control, mold prevention, building longevity, and ultimately building sustainability, we propose an innovation strategy using NIBS Guideline 3-2006 to direct the envelope commissioning process. This strategy shall follow commissioning metrics including documentation, performance criteria, test procedures, and checklists. Specifically, the process shall explore requirements such as the impact of the building exterior enclosure on visual comfort, and IAQ. Documentation including a summary of the assumptions for accessibility to building exterior enclosure systems (maintenance, cleaning, etc.), and allowable ranges of operations for the building exterior enclosure (number of days/year that the owner is willing to accept condensation, etc), quantify goals and provide the owner with enhanced control of the building. With incorporation of the building envelope into the commissioning process, we propose this innovation credit will improve the inter-relationship of the exterior enclosure system with other building systems and ultimately ensure adequate and quality functioning of the exterior enclosure system throughout its expected service life. INTENT Verify that the building exterior enclosure systems are designed, installed, and perform according to the OPR, BOD, and construction documents. BENEFITS OF COMMISSIONING THE BUILDING ENVELOPE Benefits of building envelope commissioning include: better building documentation, improved coordination of envelope components, enhanced resistance to water infiltration, improved maintainability, improved indoor environmental quality and verification that the systems perform in accordance with the OPR. REQUIREMENTS 1. Adherence to commissioning requirements and activities. Inclusion of building envelope quality assurance criteria and documentation emphasizing: a. Visual comfort and indoor air quality b. Rain penetration control c. Durability d. Constructability e. Maintainability f. Sustainability 2. Field review of aesthetic and functional mock-up(s), including review of both the unique interface conditions and general interface conditions. Verify the design intent is met and the level of water and air tightness of the exterior enclosure is as specified in the OPR. 3. Periodic construction monitoring, especially during roof transition/ roof termination installations, initial installation of sealants, and the specific project interfacing conditions (below grade waterproofing, differing material interfaces - green roofs and fenestration expansion joints, etc). 4. Performance testing of building envelope, including but not limited to: a. Infrared scanning of constructed building to identify thermal leakage. b. Water infiltration testing to identify leakage and prevent heat, air, moisture, and mold (HAMM) issues which will improve IAQ. c. Additional testing as identified per envelop system. 5. Validation that performance parameters for each exterior enclosure system meet the OPR. 6. Development of a Systems Manual for each major building exterior enclosure system, including but not limited to: a. Roof/Garden Roof b. Exterior walls c. Windows d. Doors e. Sealants and expansion joints f. Control joints g. Flashings 7. Training: maintenance of the exterior enclosure (window washing, inspecting and repairing joints/weather-tight seals, etc). We intend for the Enhanced Building Envelope Commissioning credit to follow the same basic scope parameters as EAp1 (design review not required, etc.). Given this, we propose that this credit will not be contingent on any other credits including EAc3. Please confirm all the above strategies could constitute a valid ID credit. If denied, please state under which conditions the credit could be achieved.

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for commissioning the building envelope. The approach described in the request is likely satisfactory for award of an ID credit, provided the submittal documentation meets the requirements of EAp1 - Fundamental Commissioning, as stated in the LEED CSv2.0 Reference Guide. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/27/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This innovation credit is being sought by addressing a significant environmental benefit that the Lutron Quantum system provides. The Lutron Quantum system is a complete-project light and energy management system that will be installed in the confidential client\'s space. The Quantum system provides the following:

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting a potential ID credit for the use of an advanced building lighting and energy management system. Many of the benefits that this system provides are accounted for in other LEED credits, such as energy conservation, daylighting, and measurement and verification. However, based on the description of the lobby/entryway real-time energy consumption display, it seems like this strategy may be considered as part of a comprehensive educational ID credit. Refer to the LEED-NC v2.1 IDc1.1 CIR Ruling dated 9/24/2001 for more information on the requirements for a Green Building Education ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/9/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

EDITED 5/7/07 to include CSI Masterformat 1995 Division 12 in calculations. INQUIRY: In an effort to help stimulate the development of environmentally focused product evaluation and certification tools for use by building professionals, USGBC is seeking to establish an innovation point for specification of products certified under the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) program. This program is explained at http://www.mbdc.com/certified.html. C2C Certification provides manufacturers with a means to measure achievement in environmentally intelligent design and helps customers purchase and specify products that are pursuing a broader definition of quality. Through C2C, this means using environmentally safe and healthy materials; design for material reutilization, such as recycling or composting; energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy; efficient use of water, and maximum water quality associated with production; and instituting strategies for social responsibility. If a candidate product achieves the necessary criteria, it is certified as a Silver, Gold or Platinum product or as a Technical/Biological Nutrient (available for homogeneous materials or less complex products), and can be labeled as Cradle to Cradle. USGBC suggests the following Intent, Requirements and Submittals for this Innovation in Design application: Intent: Help stimulate the development of environmentally focused product evaluation and certification tools for use by building professionals. Requirements: Use Cradle to Cradle Certified building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. The "cost value" of products for the purposes of this calculation will be discounted by 50% for Silver level products and those identified only as "technical or biological nutrients", and doubled for products certified at the platinum level: Cost value of products = ((Silver & nutrients) x 0.5) + Gold + (Platinum x 2) Submittals: Spreadsheet matrix with the following information: DEFAULT MATERIALS VALUE Total construction costs (hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ Default materials cost (total Divisions 2-10 and 12** construction cost x 0.45): _______ OR ACTUAL MATERIALS VALUE Actual materials cost (excluding labor and equipment) hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ - Material Name/Description - Manufacturer - Total Material Cost ($) - Percent Of Product C2C Certified (% by Weight) - Compliant Product Value - Adjusted value (Silver and nutrients x 0.5, Platinum x2) Total "cost value" ($) of C2C certified materials: _______ C2C certified material value as a percentage of total materials cost*: _______ *To qualify for this ID credit the percentage of C2C certified materials must be at least 2.5% of the total materials cost **CSI Master Format 1995 Division 12 may be included in calculations if materials from Division 12 are used consistently with calculations in credits MRc3-7 in LEED-NC or MRc3-6 in LEED-CS. LEED-CI projects are required to include Division 12 components in the calculation of this ID point, as these components are required for calculations in CI credits MRc4-7. Please refer to the LEED-CI Reference Guide\'s credit calculation instructions for guidance in calculating these credits.

Ruling:

RULING by the MR TAG (April 6, 2007): The MR Technical Advisory Group has determined that the proposal encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given proper documentation upon LEED application. In approving this proposal, the TAG notes the following: 1) The TAG has concerns about the lack of transparency in the C2C certification process; 2) There are other product evaluation and certification tools that may be considered for similar acknowledgment through the CIR process; 3) The TAG and others intend to work towards establishing a set of criteria for product evaluation and certification tools that are referenced in LEED, whether in innovation points or in rating system credit language; and 4) Once those criteria have been established, it will be necessary to revisit whether or not proposed innovation points based on this draft language should continue to be approved.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
3/21/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 103,000 sf addition and remodeling of a healthcare facility that will provide acute care for cancer patients. We are requesting information and guidance for a proposed Innovation and Design point for the re-alignment and re-meandering of an existing creek that borders our campus boundaries. Our facility has entered into partnership with the local watershed management district authority to provide for the re-alignment and re-meandering of Minnehaha Creek - (Minnehaha Creek is a tributary of the Mississippi River located in Hennepin County, Minnesota that extends from Lake Minnetonka in the west and flows east for 22 miles (35 km) through several suburbs west of Minneapolis and then through south Minneapolis. Including Lake Minnetonka, the watershed for the creek covers 181 square miles (469 km

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting guidance and direction regarding a proposed Innovation and Design credit for the re-alignment and re-meandering of an existing creek that borders the project\'s campus boundaries, a strategy which does not have precedent in LEED. It is possible, however, for stream restoration to be an alternative compliance path to meet Sustainable Sites Credit 5.1, Protect or Restore Habitat or, potentially, an Innovation and Design credit for exemplary performance within this credit. For innovation or exemplary performance strategies that are not currently covered in the reference guide, there are three basic criteria (please refer to the complete guidelines in the LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide). The project must demonstrate quantitative performance improvements, the process or specification must be comprehensive, and the formula that the project develops must be applicable to other projects. The proposed strategy does appear to be comprehensive, however, is not quantitative and may not be applicable to other projects. The project team is encouraged to further develop their strategy. Stream habitat quality is typically measured through use of state and federal guidelines describing common indicators and measuring criteria. The most readily identifiable indicators and criteria address stream bank stability, the presence of pools and riffles, and the extent of stream vegetation cover. Suggesting documentation for capturing an ID credit through this strategy include a stream monitoring plan to address these issues. Also, the project team is encouraged to seek out references such as the USGS WRI Report 98-4052 Revised Methods for Characterizing Stream Habitat in the National Water-Quality Assessment Program.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/10/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Maximum Masonry Construction This CIR is for a proposed Innovation Design credit--Optimal Masonry Construction (OMC)-a design approach developed by the International Masonry Institute (IMI) and the project Architect for the new National Training Center in Bowie, Maryland. This design approach will: 1) enhance the building energy and acoustical performance, 2) minimize the use and cost of construction materials, 3) minimize construction waste, 4) reduce building operation & maintenance costs, 5) enhance the durability and useful life of the building. These benefits are achieved by the following design elements used in the new IMI National Training Center in Bowie, Maryland: 1. Improve building thermal and acoustical performance. Use concrete masonry units (CMUs) for all structural walls-exterior and interior. Their high thermal mass improves indoor temperature control by dampening indoor temperature swings. This also reduces energy costs as the thermal mass acts to store excess heat and "coolth" and then release it to the indoor environment when it is useful. Our DOE-based building energy model does not fully model the effect of thermal mass on building energy use and comfort. So we estimated the effect of thermal mass by increasing the R-value of the masonry components of the walls by 20 to 30% according to industry guidelines.1 The resulting energy savings was about 5% of the total annual heating, ventilation and cooling costs for the two buildings. Using autoclaved aerated concrete results in additional thermal resistance due to the myriad air cells the cured concrete. (We used the same wall system in the Base Case energy model as per the ASHRAE 90.1 guideline for energy modeling-- the energy savings due to masonry construction is "buried" in the prescribed energy savings analysis.) Masonry walls provide superior acoustical isolation that can be further enhanced by filling the CMU cavities with grout or with a poured or foamed thermal insulation. 2. Minimize the use and cost of construction materials. a. Eliminate drywall & acoustical tile. At IMI drywall use was reduced by 97% to lower construction waste, lower project material costs due to fewer wall material components; lower installation costs due to the elimination of cutting, taping, plastering, and sanding steps; lower housekeeping costs, lower Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and life-cycle costs; and reduced likelihood of moisture and/or mold accumulation resulting in higher indoor air quality. This approach eliminates the waste and environmental disturbance caused by the manufacturing of drywall. Not using acoustical tile or any type of ceiling finish also reduces project costs and construction waste. It avoids the cost of maintaining the ceiling finish and improves access to the building infrastructure located at the ceilings; b. Avoid wood and wood-based materials to avoid harvesting old growth forests. Avoid wood-based products and their associated manufacturing processes and binders/adhesives that can adversely affect the indoor and public environment. The IMI project virtually eliminated wood by using steel, stone or concrete lintels and frames. Optimal Masonry Construction makes it more affordable to use small amounts of FSC-certified wood products or drywall with a very high recycled material content.; c. Use high recycled content masonry units (CMUs) that have at least 40% post-industrial recycled content; d. Avoid floor coverings. Over 95% of the floor area will be either durable concrete or terrazzo masonry floors sealed and protected by low or non-VOC coatings. The remainder is synthetic rubber flooring and a small amount of carpeting. For the new IMI National Training Center-the exposed masonry approach avoided an estimated $ 825,000 in construction costs due to eliminating entire building systems. 3. Minimize construction waste. Optimize the masonry system by coordinating the dimensions of the building, the thickness of the wall insulation and the rain screen air gap to minimize/eliminate the number of masonry cuts. This reduces masonry construction waste, construction costs and housekeeping costs. At the new IMI National Training Center this was done by half-overlapping the 8-inch face brick and selecting wall lengths so that there is no need to cut any of the bricks at the exterior corners. 4. Reduce Building Operation & Maintenance costs. This is done by: a. Improved moisture control. The 8-inch brick size and 1/2 overlap pattern used at the new IMI facility leave a four inch space between the outside of the concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls and the inside surface of the face brick. It makes it convenient and affordable to provide a 2-inch wide air gap for good moisture control-considered good practice in the industry.2,3 As described in Part 2a above, eliminating drywall and acoustical tile layers eliminates potential areas for moisture and mold build-up; b. Improved thermal insulation. The 4-inch space also allows for at least a 2-inch layer of continuous rigid board insulation over the CMU wall that greatly enhances the thermal properties of the walls. This is in addition to the added thermal insulation resulting from the high density of masonry walls; c. Decreased maintenance of exterior and interior finishes. As described in Part 2a above, the all-masonry construction and "naked architecture" design approach will reduce the cost of cleaning the building and the cost of periodic refurbishing interior surfaces and finishes. The materials require minimum maintenance except for tuckpointing that is done over 10 year or longer periods. The exposed building systems are easier to access and maintain. 5. Increased building safety, durability and longevity. All--masonry construction ensures the use of materials with high durability and damage resistance that also provide enhanced protection to occupants. Exterior and partition walls of masonry and stone, whether in the form of block, bricks, or poured concrete, are more resistant to damage from natural catastrophes and afford greater protection to the occupants than do drywall and wood products. Masonry and stone walls also afford greater protection to occupants from wind-borne projectiles under tornadic conditions as well as greater fire protection than typical drywall/framed wall systems. Masonry and stone construction make for a durable and long-lasting building. The proposed Innovation Credit would require satisfying at least six of the following design elements: 1) Drywall and acoustical tile cover less than 10% of all interior walls and ceilings 2) Use masonry construction for at least 90% of the structural and partition walls 3) Avoid using wood or wood-based products in the building or furnishings 4) Use aerated concrete for at least 5% of the total wall mass 5) Use a face brick pattern that eliminates avoid brick cuttings at exterior wall corners, 6) Provide at least a 2-inch rain shield space in the exterior walls 7) In climates covering areas such as Bowie, Maryland and further north, install at least 1-inch or continuous rigid insulation outside of at least 66% of the exterior walls mass 8) Use floor coverings are on less than 10% of the conditioned floor area 9) Expose at least 80% of all electrical and HVAC distribution systems. 1. Technical Notes 4A&B - Heat Transmission Coefficients & Energy Code Compliance of Brick Masonry Walls. The Brick Industry. Sept. 1997. 2. Masonry Cavity Walls: Systems and Construction. Section 2.12.4 Technology Brief of the International Masonry Institute. October 2000 3. Technical Notes 27 - Brick Masonry Rain Screen Walls. The Brick Industry. August 1994. p15 Please provide the IMI Project Team with a ruling that will let us know the likelihood of the aforementioned ID Credit Proposal being successful.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is centered on the use of masonry as a core material to enhance the performance of the building in various ways. While some of the resultant impacts of using masonry are commendable, the approach needs refinement. To warrant an innovation credit, quantifiable environmental benefit must be demonstrated through a comprehensive effort. The overall design approach and the list of 9 design elements (of which only 6 are cited as being the target) represents design strategies but do not necessarily lead to quantifiable environmental benefits beyond what is already awarded in existing LEED credits. Materials with recycled content contribute to MRc4. Energy savings is awarded through EAc1, and minimizing construction waste is awarded through MRc2. Though the cost saving strategies are applauded, they do not necessarily represent environmental achievement. In terms of replacing other structural elements such as wood or metal studs with CMU, it is not clear whether CMU, based on a life-cycle assessment, has a lower environmental impact than the other materials noted. Increased safety and better moisture control are beneficial design elements, but again, do not provide quantifiable environmental benefits. Similarly, enhanced acoustical performance is noted but has not been substantiated in terms of meeting acoustical requirements for specific spaces above conventional practice. The strategy of minimizing the use of construction materials may qualify for an innovation point if the reduction can be quantified and the applicant can demonstrate that an intentional, comprehensive effort was made throughout the project design to reduce construction materials. It must be clearly demonstrated that the strategy is above and beyond conventional practice. To substantiate the claim that choosing a CMU structural system represents a significant environmental benefit, the applicant could show that several structural systems were evaluated in a number of measurable categories to determine that the CMU system represents an innovative structural system. It should also be noted that the potential energy savings from using increased thermal mass is accounted for under EAc1 as per ASHRAE 90.1-1999. Changing R-value to reflect increased thermal mass is not an accurate method of accounting for the effects associated with mass, particularly the re-radiation of heat to space over time. R-value is an instantaneous phenomenon while thermal effects of mass are more transient in nature. In addition, the same effect that allows space with thermally massive construction to stay cooler also has the potential to cause radiant asymmetry and cause discomfort. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/26/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project is a major downtown office development on a site that will require constant dewatering due to the excavation depth and underground parkade. This is a common problem in the downtown area of our city. We are attempting to obtain City permission to capture and reuse the heat (cooling) from the water to loop through the building prior to discharging it back into the City storm system (this is a City requirement as it ensures that projects do not reduce the the normal aquifer depth). Our question however is this: Can this project - a 38 story concrete office building - qualify for an Innovation Credit for non-potable (i.e ground water) water use during construction? We would write the credit to preclude using potable water for construction activities - from vehicle wash down to cleaning concrete formwork, cutting masonry and stone etc, and save millions of litres of potable water as a result. We would do the calculations to estimate the amount saved, etc.

Ruling:

The intent of reducing potable water use for construction activities is commendable, but the proposal language is not sufficient to show environmental benefit. In order to achieve an innovation point, quantifiable water savings must be demonstrated and environmental benefits need to be addressed. These issues include the water quality resulting from construction activities as compared with the existing groundwater quality; where the water from construction activities is directed after use; whether the water is to be treated before it is discarded; and whether all of the groundwater is used for construction materials. The project team will need to present a comprehensive approach to demonstrate that potable water savings and environmental benefit can be achieved with this strategy. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTENT The construction phase has many opportunities to improve and should be more greatly weighted to drive new innovations and processes. With most of the scoring based on design aspects, there is not a strong push for contractors to implement new strategies. This is further evidenced in the fact that there are few credits that are construction activity based. One area that has not been addressed is the impact of temporary buildings servicing the project. Many of the same challenges, and thus opportunities, exist during the construction process as they do during the design, construction and life of a building. We propose the use of "green" trailers during construction on LEED projects to reduce the ecological footprint of these facilities. APPROACH Through the use of green trailers we will reduce energy use, raise awareness and educate our staff and project partners, improve occupant comfort, and reduce the ecological footprint of the trailer\'s infrastructure (i.e fewer replacements of lighting, heating equipment, etc.) The trailer will, at minimum, be constructed with the following components: motion sensors for lighting in the project offices T-8 lighting fixtures bulbs for reduced electricity use, programmable thermostats for thermal comfort control increased weather stripping to reduce heating and cooling loss Increase window area to allow for daylighting in the space Further Measures: Project trailers will also aim to reduce water usage, either through the installation of added low-flow fixtures or alternatively through a written Water Conservation Plan for the project site and trailers. Air quality is being addressed through improved filtration and material waste reduction through an Office Supply Selection & Waste Reduction plan for the project offices. Proposed Submittals: - Proof of onsite signage regarding water conservation or water restriction guidelines/regulations when low-flow fixtures not installed - Comparisons of energy use between regular and "green" trailer - Documentation of energy bills (or statement from client regarding increased energy cost when power being drawn from existing system) providing level of use - Narrative on Further Measures and use of green trailers in general We believe that Green Trailers are a true innovation in project delivery that not only aims to reduce energy use onsite and throughout construction, but also educate and change behavior through the consistent application of LEED principals across all project activities. Through the development of three different trailer models of increasing efficiency and overall performance, we also endeavor to push the industry as a whole toward more efficient equipment and offices during the construction process.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on the merits of using "green" trailers during the construction phase. The "green" trailers will incorporate sustainable measures, such as motion sensors for lights, efficient lighting, programmable thermostats, increased weather striping, increase window area, low-flow fixtures, and increased filtration. Other policies such as a Water Conservation Plan or Office Supply Selection & Waste Reduction plan will also be adopted. It is envisioned that these collective measures will also provide educational opportunities about green design. While these measures are commendable, it is unclear if these measures as described will result in significant and measurable environmental benefits. The energy savings and water savings anticipated for the trailers will need to be significant relative to the overall amount of energy and water used during the entire construction phase, and should not be isolated to the amount used for the trailers alone. Further, the listed energy efficiency measures do not appear to address the overall building envelope (including glazing type) for the trailer, the HVAC systems, or address consideration for passive strategies, such as optimum site orientation and layout, natural ventilation, effective daylight strategies (balancing light while minimizing heat gain). The strategies identified also do not address the type of materials used for the trailer, or the use of on-site renewable energy sources. If additional measures like these were implemented, demonstrating significant, measurable environmental benefits (relative to the overall construction process), an innovation credit would likely be granted for these "green" construction trailers. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project is an approximately 40,000 sqft research and development building designed to develop and test air and water cooled chillers, compressors and heat pumps for a multinational manufacturer of HVAC equipment for the commercial, industrial and institutional building market. The principal focus of the energy consuming systems is to create a precise simulation of a wide range of ambient conditions and simulated building loads on the tested equipment to meet national and international testing protocols. In addition, the facility tests the equipment to research and develop innovative technologies for the HVAC industry. Control of the testing conditions is critical to the function of the facility. The facility\'s large process heating and cooling plants are used to simulate heating and cooling loads on the tested equipment. The subsequent heating and cooling energy created from the tested equipment is then rejected to the environment. This research and testing system is highly energy intensive. Recognizing the opportunity for energy use reduction, the owner\'s research and development team and the project\'s design team developed a process heating and cooling system that reduces the energy use of the system while maintaining the ability to simulate ambient conditions and building loads. Heating and cooling energy created by tested equipment is captured and reused in the process heating and cooling plants. Closed-loop heat recovery systems connect evaporator and condenser systems of the process plants to the tested equipment to reduce energy usage. Variable flow pumping and varying temperature control provide the necessary control functions for testing. For this project, the process energy associated with the research and testing system is greater than 90% of the total energy load. If the reductions in process load are not included, the opportunities for energy reduction are minimized. The project utilizes commercially available energy reduction strategies, including enhanced envelope systems, premium efficient chillers and high efficiency boilers for process loads, high efficiency comfort heating and cooling equipment, variable frequency drives on fans and pumps, and higher efficiency lighting systems. Building energy simulations indicate that minimal energy reduction is achieved (

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting approval of a modeling methodology that would allow credit for waste energy recovery from process loads. Per the LEED NC 2.2 Reference Guide, page 183, "project teams may follow the Exceptional Calculation Method (ASHRAE Std 90.1- G2.5) to document measures that reduce process loads. If credit is taken for process loads, the calculation must include reasonable assumptions for the baseline and proposed case." ASHRAE 90.1-2004, G2.5 further states "Applications for approval of an exceptional method shall include documentation of the calculations performed and theoretical and/or empirical information supporting the accuracy of the method." Insufficient information has been provided above regarding the process energy savings strategies to verify whether they would qualify for credit using the Exceptional Calculation Method under EAc1. However, any modeling approach used for the building systems should include the following: 1. Tested equipment should be modeled using identical types, quantities, efficiencies, controls, and pump power in the Baseline and Proposed Case. 2. In the Baseline Model (prior to applying any exceptional calculation measures), the process heating and cooling plants for simulating test conditions should be modeled with the identical quantities and capacities of equipment in the Baseline and Proposed Case, identical pump power, identical controls, and identical schedules of operation. However, equipment efficiencies for the Baseline Case process equipment should reflect those listed in Tables 6.8.1A-J. 3. Other baseline assumptions used for the Process heating and cooling plants should reflect standard practice for newly constructed facilities with similar functions. These assumptions should be modeled identically in the Baseline and Proposed Case, and then modified in the Proposed Exceptional Calculation Method model. The Exceptional Calculation Narrative must provide sufficient information to verify that the efficiency measures modeled are not standard practice for this type of facility. 4. The Proposed Case Exceptional Calculation Method Model should reflect any parasitic energy associated with waste energy recovery, but this parasitic energy should not be reflected in the Baseline Model. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/28/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Green Advantage certification

Ruling:

USGBC has assessed the Green Advantage certification program against our established requirements for recognition in LEED and found Green Advantage to be in compliance. As such, LEED project teams who comply with the following requirements are eligible for award of 1 Innovation point for LEED v4, and 2009 BD&C and LEED-NC v2.2 projects:1. Prior to and throughout the construction phase of the project, 30% of the General Contractor\'s or Construction Manager\'s personnel will be Green Advantage Certified. Personnel must be actively involved in the day-to-day activities and of the following classifications as applicable: a. Contractorb. Construction Manager including Project Executivec. Project Manager d. Project Engineer e. Quality Control Managerf. Mechanical/ Electrical/Plumbing (MEP) Coordinatorg. Superintendenth. Assistant Superintendent i. General Foreman2. Prior to and throughout the construction phase of the project, 30% of Subcontractor personnel will be Green Advantage Certified. Personnel must be actively involved in the day-to-day activities and of the following classifications: a. Project Managerb. Superintendentc. Project Engineerd. Quality Control Managere. General Foremanf. Trade Foreman(removed 4/1/2011: Architect\'s on site representative)Note that this LEED Interpretation is in line with the guidance for \'Recognition of Third Party Personnel Credentials and Certifications in LEED\', which can be found at usgbc.org and is also linked below.added 4/1/2011:Submittals:1. Provide a complete list, aggregating General Contractor\'s and Construction Manager\'s personnel, noting each person\'s role in the project and who is Green Advantage Certified. (For multiple-prime contracts, provide separate lists for the Construction Manager and each Prime Contractor.) Calculate the percentage of Green Advantage Certified personnel. 2. Provide a complete list, aggregating Subcontractors\' personnel, noting each person\'s role in the project and who is Green Advantage Certified. (For multiple-prime contracts, provide separate lists for each Prime Contractor\'s Subcontractors.) Calculate the percentage of Green Advantage Certified personnel. 3. For each Green Advantage Certified individual, provide a copy of the Green Advantage certificate. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/7/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Fly Ash Blended Cement We are looking to score one innovation credit for the use of fly ash blended cement. However, we are looking to use approximately 10% of normal, non-blended cement (300 cy out of a total of 3,000 cy)due to coordination and timing issues. If we then use approximately 90% blended cement, would we still be eligible for the innovation credit?

Ruling:

To achieve an environmental benefit, it is critical that fly-ash REPLACE cement content, not just be added as a filler. Adding fly-ash to a concrete mix without reducing cement content has only limited advantages to the environment. It is unclear from the question whether the project is actually off-setting cement use. The Credit Ruling Committee has suggested that a 40% REPLACEMENT of cement with fly-ash would qualify for an innovation credit. Lower levels of fly-ash use are more typical, and would not be considered innovative enough to warrant an innovation point. Note that there are many complexities of fly-ash use with respect to concrete strength requirements that factor into the discussion of what constitutes an innovation. Regardless of the percent used, fly-ash content would count toward MR Credit 4; Recycled Content Materials.Modification Note as of July 1st, 2012: The applicability of this LEED Interpretation has been modified to indicate that it is applicable to LEED 2009 projects. However, USGBC and GBCI will be phasing this Innovation strategy out. While this strategy is acceptable for LEED 2009 it will not be acceptable for LEED 2012 because the environmental benefit(s) of replacing cement with alternative cementitious material will be captured in available credits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We recognize that ID credits cannot be granted achievement via the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Please provide insight as to the type & level of documentation required to pursue such an ID credit. Title Use of new facility to promote enhanced waste recycling programs significantly beyond the LEED criteria Credit Intent The promotion of waste recycling programs beyond the requirements required by LEED. The new facility will allow expanded programs of recycling to be practiced at the facility. The company has implemented innovative donation and recycling programs to address the recycling of wastes generated by it\'s manufacturing operations. The new facility will provide the waste storage and processing capability to extend and improve these programs. Credit Requirements To extend the size of the facility to incorporate improved waste management facilities and provide expansion space for new recycling projects. Project Approach The operation of the current waste recycling programs is limited by the storage and processing facilities of the existing facility. Construction of the new facility will be used to enhance the existing programs and provide factory space to investigate new programs Programs Waste to Energy Project - conversion of previously land-filled carpet scrap into energy to fire Cement kilns Waste Yarn Donation Program - Donation of waste yarn to charitable organizations in North East Thailand to convert into Hammocks. Example: The yarn donation program has helped to develop economical income for those who previously were limited. On average the production of 2 hammocks per day earns approximately 200$ or 4,000 - 5,000 Baht per month per family. There are approximately 500 people involved in this program now. Waste Tile Donation - Slight seconds donations to charitable organizations; Temples, Schools etc. Cardboard Cone recycling - Reclaim and sale to supplier. Comprehensive documentation / metric results are available for all of these programs.

Ruling:

Adding square footage in the building is not enough by itself to warrant an innovation credit, and the proposed credit requirement language is unacceptably vague. However, the proposed activities may be still be eligible. To achieve an innovation credit, the LEED submittal must clearly demonstrate quantifiable exemplary performance. The NCv2.1 IDc1.1 ruling dated 9/6/05 provides a compliance path for you. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/20/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are requesting confirmation of the intent, requirements, and documentation for an Innovation in Design point that we wish to include in a forthcoming LEED design submittal. The project is a 500,000 SF replacement hospital with both inpatient and outpatient services that will be built in phases on a large site in a business park. We have developed a comprehensive master plan that will accommodate the growth and future expansion of the hospital for several decades. We believe the project merits the award of an Innovation in Design point for the conservation of resources because the project has been designed to accommodate future expansion in a flexible and adaptable manner. This design approach will facilitate the efficient use of resources over the life of the facility because the first phase of our building has been designed to accommodate future changes and building additions in a manner that will minimize the need to demolish and remodel significant portions of the first phase of our project as the campus is expanded over the next fifty years. We propose to meet the intent, and requirements of the 2007 Green Guide for Health Care (GGHC) v2.2 MRc7.1, Resource Use: Design for Flexibility credit. We propose to meet a minimum of (3) out of the (8) goals that are listed as the goals in this GGHC credit to fulfill the requirements of this Innovation point. We propose to submit this with our LEED Design submittal, and we will document the point with floor plans, site plans, and calculations to confirm compliance with the GGHC point requirements. Since this point addresses a unique environmental attribute, that is not currently included in LEED, we believe it merits an ID point that is not contingent on the approval of any other points in our LEED submittal. Please confirm that our proposal warrants an Innovation in Design point.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on the 2007 Green Guide for Health Care (GGHC) v2.2 MRc7.1, Resource Use: Design for Flexibility credit, and is a credit under consideration for the new LEED for Healthcare rating system, currently in development. This is an acceptable innovation credit specifically for healthcare facilities using LEED-NC, provided the specific requirements of that credit are met, and the appropriate documentation is provided during the submission process. When LEED for Healthcare has been balloted and approved, its corresponding credit and documentation requirements will be eligible for ID credit in other LEED rating systems. At that time, the GGHC credit will be ineligible for ID credit.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/22/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

PULSED POWER TECHNOLOGY [Alternative Process Water Treatment] Intent: Reduce the impact of potentially hazardous chemical discharges to the environment by eliminating conventional means of process water treatment in HVAC equipment. Reduce amount of water consumption from conventional recirculating water systems such as cooling towers, hydronic HVAC systems, or process water systems by decreasing the need for make-up water caused by evaporation and system blowdown (or bleed). Requirements: Provide an integral chemical-free water treatment technology in place of conventional water treatment which uses potentially toxic chemicals which may also produce potentially hazardous chemical byproducts. Provide documentation in the form of a letter from the project engineer that includes a narrative description of the chemical-free water treatment system used and how the system works. The narrative shall specifically state the environmental benefits of using the chemical-free process in place of the conventional chemical water treatment system; state specific chemicals and their estimated quantities eliminated by substituting the chemical-free process; state the methods and quantities of process water discharge as an estimate of potential water savings. Rationale: Recirculating water systems used in building mechanical processes such as HVAC heat rejection in cooling towers and hydronic heating and cooling systems often use chemical infiltration using manual or automatic injection processes in order to chemically treat the water contained in them. Chemical treatment is typically used for a wide range of functions such as the prevention of mineral scale formation, control of microbiological populations, and to inhibit corrosion. These functions may be equally served by the introduction of an electronic process known as pulsed power technology. Environmental benefits of the pulsed power technology are achieved simply with the elimination of potentially hazardous chemicals and their toxic byproducts used to prevent formation of mineral scale, control of microbiological populations, and inhibit corrosion. Conventional chemical treatment systems often ultimately cause the release of potentially hazardous substances into the environment through water discharge such as evaporation, spills, spray, and drift. In conventional process water systems such as open cooling towers chlorine or other biocides are used to control biological activity which is rapidly discharged to the atmosphere as chlorine gas. Corrosion inhibitors such as zinc, molybdenates, and phosphates are discharged in the drift from the cooling tower and spray settling to the ground as well as through the sewer system through blowdown draining. Water softeners, not needed in pulsed power processes, are typically used to prevent scaling and discharge quantities of salt brine as part of the softener process. The use of an alternative means of process water treatment in HVAC equipment such as the pulsed power technology is estimated to yield the following benefits and savings when applied to our building project: - the elimination of potentially hazardous chemicals and their toxic byproducts with the elimination of conventional chemical water treatment processes - saves the use of approximately 186 gallons per year of industrial strength chlorine bleach, 5 to 6 gallons of isothiazine, and 115,000 gallons of water containing 2 ppm zinc and 20 ppm phosphate from being discharged into the environment - saves the requirement for approximately 90 lbs. of chlorine per year (most of which is evaporated to the atmosphere) - Annual water usage savings of approximately 67,275 gal/yr when compared to a typical open system water cooling process (cooling tower) of the same capacity with conventional chemical treatment processes Please confirm attainability of this credit.

Ruling:

The environmental benefits presented are worthy of an innovation credit. However, the type of technology you are referencing may be one that has been controversial in regards to actual results. Your LEED documentation must provide the information above, plus proof that the technology truly works: a copy of a third-party analysis and/or letters from at least two of the vendor\'s previous clients (building engineers or facility managers) that confirm the equipment is operating successfully. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/24/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

ID Credit Title: BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM) Credit Intent: Implement an integrated 3D model to optimize material usage and reduce overall construction waste. The general contractor and subcontractors will be able to plan for more prefabrication rather then onsite fabrication since the 3D model will provide accurate quantities, measurements and final location of material in the building since the project has already been built once digitally. The prefabrication of materials in return will reduce the amount of material used due to fabricating it correct the first time and the amount of waste that is generate onsite. Benefits to the project - reduced rework from conflicting trades, reduction of unused or extra material, and opportunity to make corrections before an element is buried by other trades. Requirements for Compliance: Implementation of a BIM plan that identifies trades, site logistics and owner furnished elements where 3D planning and coordination will be used. Staff must be in place that can facilitate the extension of the typical 2D detailing and coordination into a 3D model based coordination and planning process. The staff must be able to help integrate individual trade models into a single consolidated model for review on a weekly basis. Systematic evaluation of each consolidated model will be used to identify and resolve conflicts. A final consolidated model must be agreed to by all parties prior to material release and pre-fabrication. - Model Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Sprinkler, Stairs, Exterior Skin, Site and Interior Partitions in 3D - Consolidate individual models into a single model on an iterative basis - Test all elements for conflicts, collisions, and access - Translate 3D model information into field layout coordinates - Verify installations against the 3D model as trades complete work Submittal: Confirm trades are fabricating, planning and installing based on the agreed properties in the coordination 3D model. Include list of participants in 3D modeling. Submit list of items that will be pre-fabricated for the project.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of using an integrated 3D model to optimize material usage and reduce overall construction waste. While the benefits of this appear to be compelling, significant quantifiable environmental benefits must be demonstrated to warrant an innovation credit. The quantification of environmental benefits may address the amount of material waste that was reduced as a result of using BIM in the design of the project, such as a reduction in paper used in the design process, reduction in materials due to pre-fabrication and reduction in materials due to better integrated design. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/24/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We propose that a LEED Innovation & Design Process (IDP) point be awarded to any project that combines the two transportation strategies of public transportation and third party car sharing from a company like WeCar by Enterprise (http://www.wecar.com/) or an equivalent program. By providing the car sharing program MORE employees can utilize public transportation because employees will be less tempted to drive their own cars to work for out of office meetings/business that may not be accessible by public transportation and will also reduce parking demand in the vicinity of the tenant space. The tenant owner would pay for a monthly public transportation pass (or equivalent) to employees and also offer a third party car sharing program in which cars are strategically placed around the city; accessed electronically by participants; booked online; available 24 hours a day seven days a week and utilize hybrid cars. Below is an outline of the potential Innovation Credit. Intent: Reduce pollution and land development impacts from automobile use. Promote use of public transportation and car sharing. Proposed requirements for compliance: Tenant to promote use of public transportation by offering to employees a stipend to cover the cost of a monthly public transportation pass cost or equivalent. AND Offer a third party car sharing program to employees for business related travel. The car sharing program will utilize fuel efficient hybrid automobiles and demonstrate that there will be enough cars available in the area to supplement the need from the tenant space. Proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance: Car sharing lease agreement, area plan showing location of cars realtive to tenant space, and signed letter from owner stating that they will provide a stipend for employees to purchase a monthly public transportation pass or equivalent. Technologies and Strategies: Perform a transportation survey of potential tenant occupants to identify transportation needs. Choose a building near mass transit and located near a car sharing program. Considerations: Offering to pay for staff members public transportation cost will help promote use of public transportation and reduce carbon emissions. Car sharing is becoming a popular way to pool transportation resources and have access to an automobile without owning one.

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring as to whether providing transit passes and access to a car sharing service warrant an ID credit. If these actions are part of a Comprehensive Transportation Management Plan, similar to that outlined in LEED-NC v2.1, IDc1.1 CIR Ruling dated 5/9/2003, then credit achievement would be anticipated. In addition to meeting the requirements of the referenced CIR, two of the three SSc3 Credits must be awarded for CI projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking approval of an Innovation and Design Credit for implementing a system which protects the tenants of the building from increased Electromagnetic Field (EMF) exposure due to the presence of high-current busways, electrical panels and switchgears within typical commercial buildings that are not protected for by any local, state, or federal building codes or regulations. Extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields are generated from commercial building electrical power distribution systems and it has been shown that over-exposure to elevated and high ELF magnetic fields can have adverse affects on human health as well as interference with other sensitive electronic and electric control systems. The proposed EMF Shield to be incorporated into the project is to reduce the amount of EMF tenants are exposed to, thereby creating a healthier working environment. As demonstrated in the Intent Justification at the end of this CIR request, there have been hundreds of studies about the effect of EMF on a persons\' health and while there are a broad range of opinions on the quantifiable effects, there is an accepted belief that exposure to elevated and high levels of EMF can have a negative outcome on individuals health. The ID credit Intent, Requirements, and Documentation Requirements we have developed to impose on the project are outlined below. The Proposed Design Solution and Standards, and Intent Justification, are provided as ID validation following the Intent, Requirements, and Documentation Requirements. Intent Reduce building occupants and visitors exposure to EMF thereby supporting preventing and mitigating potential associated harmful effects of EMF on individuals to improve overall building Indoor Environmental Quality. Requirements Identify and adopt recognized design standards to protect building occupants from the potential harmful effects from EMF exposure. Implement design strategies, and/or products, and or systems that result in building occupant protection from EMF exposure that exceed the recommended level of protection dictated by accepted EMF protection design standards. Documentation Requirements Summarize and document EMF potential harmful effects on building occupants. Provided copy of recognized design standards to protect building occupants from the potential harmful effects from EMF exposure. Provide design drawings, specifications, and product/system submittals that demonstrate that the design standard of protection has been met or exceeded. Proposed Design Solution and Standards AC ELF magnetic shielding systems will be installed in the Main Switchgear Room and in all nine electric closets to attenuate (reduce) the magnetic field levels within the future building areas to 5 mG and less measured from the shielded surfaces during peak summer building loads assuming the ground/net currents are minimal. The proposed AC ELF magnetic shielding systems are designed to exceed the 10 mG standard recommended in Section 8.4.1.3 option 3 in the National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) draft report published in the July/August 1995 issue of Microwave News (visit the Microwave News Homepage www.microwavenews.com for the entire draft report) as follows: 8.4.1.3 Option 3: An exposure guideline of 1

Ruling:

Though the aim of protecting building occupants from unsafe levels of electromagnetic radiation is laudable, at this time it is not likely that an ID credit would be awarded for the strategies outlined. There is not scientific consensus that EMF exposure at the levels typically experienced in household or work environments causes detriment to building occupants. As this field of study further develops, USGBC may chose to address the issue in future versions of the LEED rating system. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/15/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for implementing a comprehensive water filtration system that will reduce occupants\' exposure to contaminants generally present in tap water. In the same way that Indoor Environmental Quality credits address the reduction of airborne contaminants found in building interiors, this system addresses waterborne contaminants that are commonly found in local water supplies. This system also obviates the need for occupants to purchase bottled water products, which can help reduce the over 60 million plastic bottles that are discarded everyday in the United States. The system we are considering combines an extremely water-efficient building-wide first stage water filter that removes 100% of particulates 10 microns or larger and approximately 50% of particulates smaller than 10 microns, with a secondary stage consisting of individual "point-of-use" filters in the apartment kitchens. The point-of-use filters use a multi-stage filtration system that includes pulverized activated carbon which significantly reduces organic chemicals and a membrane that removes particulates 0.5 micron and larger. By preventing particles larger than 10 microns from ever reaching the .5 micron kitchen filters, the primary filtration system significantly extends the effective life of the secondary filters (approximately a 300% increase in filtration cartridge longevity), thus reducing maintenance and ensuring a higher flow rate and quality of water. The secondary system has been tested and certified by NSF/ANSI to reduce VOCs and trihalomethanes (THMs) which the EPA classifies as a "probable human carcinogen," by 99.86 percent. Trihalomethanes are the byproduct of municipality-introduced chlorine interacting with organic material in the source water. It also has been shown to reduce cysts, such as Cryptosporidium, by 99.99 percent. A 1993 Milwaukee outbreak of Cryptosporidium left 400,000 ill and 70 dead. This is likely to become more important since water borne disease is seen as a probable consequence of the increasing hydrologic events and flooding caused by climate change. The following list of contaminant reductions has been certified by NSF/ANSI (42 & 53): - Chlorine: Avg. Reduction-96.8% - Volatile Organic Chemicals, including Trihalomethanes (THMs): Avg. Reduction-99.86% -Asbestos fibers >10 micrometers in length: Avg. Reduction-99.86% -Cysts: Avg. Reduction-99.99% -Chloroform (VOC surrogate chemical): 98.6% This combined filtration system improves occupant health and reduces the amount of resources typically required to achieve this level of water purity. Therefore, it should be eligible for an innovation point. Suggested Credit Title: Comprehensive Drinking Water Filtration Intent: Reduce the exposure to potentially harmful waterborne contaminants. Requirements: Provide building-wide water filtration that removes particulate contamination equal to or smaller than 10 microns AND Provide point-of-use water filtration that is NSF/ANSI tested to reduce Chlorine, VOCs, Asbestos fibers, Cysts and Chloroform by at least 95%.

Ruling:

While the potential health benefits of a water filtration system are laudable, water filtration systems are relatively common, and there is no precedent for rewarding ID for such a measure. It is possible that an ID credit could be earned for the reduction of waste/transportation impact/etc. due to the use of filtered water rather than individually purchased water or company purchased water cooler service. The applicant would have to submit defensible calculations demonstrating the quantities of waste and/or pollution averted through point-of-use water filtering, and provide a description of programs or policies that encourage facility users to take advantage of the filtered water rather than purchasing bottled water. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

It appears that most data centers that have recently pursued LEED certification have been successful using a \'mixed use\' model, in which the data center is a component of a larger office building. Based on this model and the definition of \'Process Load\' in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-99 ("energy consumed in support of a manufacturing, industrial or commercial process other than conditioning spaces and maintaining comfort and amenities for the occupants of a building"), it is our interpretation that the energy required to power and cool the data center electronics is not included in the baseline energy calculation under the Energy & Atmosphere credit category. (Ref: CIR 4/11/2003 and Ruling 5/5/2003). This leads us to believe that an appropriate venue for credit contribution associated with data center energy reduction initiatives is in the Innovation & Design category. With the rise in bandwidth requirements, optical fiber versus copper has significant energy savings advantages. Energy savings associated with power and cooling of a 10Gbyte/s optical network vs. 10G copper network can range from 75-85% depending on port count. Further, innovative high fiber count pre-terminated optical solutions vs. traditional patch-cord solutions reduce cabling congestion and optimize air flow in the server racks and raceways further reducing cooling energy requirements. Will Innovation & Design credits be considered for the following? 1. Installed cabling infrastructure that provides improved energy efficiency over another. 2. A Pre-Terminated high fiber count optical solution vs. Patch-Cord optical solution.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation whether the installation of more efficient network components (i.e., high fiber count pre-terminated optical connections) in data centers may be considered for an innovation in design credit. Copper based data transfer media is increasingly being replaced by fiber optic lines in the data transfer industry. As such, the proposed strategies are not innovative strategies for energy savings, and are therefore not eligible to achieve an innovation in design credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Please advise on the viability of the following Innovation and Design Process credit: Intent The intent of this Innovation Credit is to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) impact of building materials and products, and increase the market demand for climate neutral products and materials. Products and materials are climate neutral when there is zero net greenhouse gases (GHG), such as CO2, from the entire life cycle of the product. The manufacturer calculates the total GHG impact utilizing life cycle analysis and then obtains carbon emission reduction credits (ERCs) such as through green power off-set purchases or carbon sequestration projects. The offsets must equal or exceed the GHG produced during extraction, processing, manufacture, transport and end use of a product, and be certified by a recognized third party using sound scientific and accounting principles. Climate neutral products must also deliver climate benefits "above and beyond" the standard version of these building materials, thus making them distinct and separable from all other sustainability features that these materials might also possess, such as recycled content. The development of market demand for climate neutral products provides several environmental benefits: Reduce the GHG impact of building materials, and thus address the embedded climate impacts inherent in a building or interior fit-up materials. Support USGBC\'s desire to move towards a more life-cycle based approach. Reward proactive suppliers who take a climate leadership position with their products. Ensure that climate benefits can be delivered on a credible, measurable and transparent basis. Support the emerging market for carbon and other GHG trading. Requirements Specify 5% of the project\'s total material value with products or materials, which are third party certified as climate neutral. Submittals Provide a spreadsheet indicating the total material value of the project, including furniture and list each climate neutral material or product, indicating its material value in dollars, manufacturer and third-party certification. Calculate the percentage content of the climate neutral products and materials in relationship to the overall project material value. For products in which a portion of the total product is certified climate neutral, the calculation is based on the percentage of the climate neutral material in relationship to the total material or product cost. The percentage of climate neutral products must be greater than or equal to 5% of the total project value. See formula below: Total climate neutral material value ($) / Total project material value ($) = Project percentage of climate neutral materials (%) Provide cut sheets or other documentation demonstrating climate neutral compliance for each product. Potential Technologies & Strategies Research and specify products and materials that are climate neutral and have third party life cycle analysis and certification, which has determined that there is no net addition of greenhouse gases CO2, from their from their extraction, processing, manufacture and end use. Establish a project goal for climate neutral products and identify suppliers that can achieve this goal. Select products, which met all other project performance criteria including other environmental benefits, such as recycled content, distance from project site to place of manufacturer and extraction, VOC content and other measurable criteria. Supporting Documentation This innovation credit recognizes that tools are becoming available to more clearly state the environmental benefits of product and materials which offer a climate neutral stance in regard to greenhouse gas impact. For the purposes of this credit climate neutral products and materials are climate neutral when there is no net addition of greenhouse gases, such as CO2, from their extraction, processing and/or manufacture, or the manufacturer has purchased carbon or other greenhouse gas offsets such as through green power purchases. The Climate Neutral Network (www.climateneutral.com) is an independent non-profit organization which certifies climate neutrality under its Climate Cool brand mark for products, materials, processes and enterprises. The process of certification is rigorous, quantitative and based on established, clearly stated and repeatable standards and principles, similar to the rigor of the Greenguard and Forest Stewardship Council, although with a difference emphasis. Based on the particular products and/or amount of material specified, manufacturers can calculate the amount of CO2 permanently retired by the specific use of a Climate Cool product or material. The achievement threshold for this proposed innovation credit is 5% of total project material cost. Given the current limited amount of climate neutral products available on the market, this threshold is significant in that to achieve this level a designer will need to seek out and consciously choose these products and materials over their non-climate neutral counterparts. This threshold is the same as the current LEED-CI threshold for rapidly renewable materials, which currently represent a similar sized share of the building material market.

Ruling:

NOTE: This CIR and ruling can apply to projects registered in other rating systems other than LEED-CI. Your innovation credit proposal for use of climate neutral products is acceptable provided that: 1. Each third-party certifier of climate neutral products is a reputable, independent entity. An example of a climate neutral product certifier is the Climate Neutral Network. Purchases from carbon offset retail programs must be of the quality explained in Appendix A, below. Any credible environmental claim certifier can utilize the path described in Appendix B to certify climate neutral products. 2. The product\'s entire line of supply and manufacture must be climate neutral. It is not sufficient that a manufacturer purchase offsets solely for the units that are purchased and installed in a specific building; the continuous process that enables a specific product\'s availability to the market must be climate neutral. Minor variables such as color choices do not constitute a separate product. As already stated in your proposal, the full lifecycle of the products needs to be addressed and the products must also deliver climate benefits "above and beyond" the standard version of these building materials, making them distinct and separable from other sustainability features that these materials might also possess, such as recycled content. To demonstrate a product\'s climate neutral status, include in your submittals the certifier\'s verification of climate neutral product status with a summary of the carbon footprint formulation and means used to achieve climate neutral status. Include a copy of the inventory summary used by the USEPA Climate Leaders program. USGBC recognizes that this is a rapidly evolving field and so this ruling may not have long standing as a precedent for other requests. The ruling will be revised as the standards of quality and certification advance. ----------------------------- APPENDIX A There must be a 100% offset of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.* The following is acceptable for Scope 1 and 3 emissions*: Emission reduction ("ERs") offsets must be generated from acceptable project categories which must be independently verified by a recognized verification entity. The manufacturer must provide full disclosure on the type of emission reduction offsets applied. Allowances should be excluded as should any "business as usual" ERs where additionality is questionable. Acceptable offsets are as follows: 1. Any project that is determined to be an eligible Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) provided by article 12 of the Kyoto Protocol. 2. Any project sanctioned by a U.S. State, group of U.S. States (e.g., RGGI), or the Federal Government, where the carbon reduction is assigned or otherwise stated. 3. Any project that is verified and registered as a Gold Standard project (www.cdmgoldstandard.org). 4. Any approved Joint Implementation (JI) project as provided by article 6 of the Kyoto Protocol. 5. Any approved European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) project. 6. Any project that is verified to meet the Voluntary Carbon Standard (www.v-c-s.org). 7. Carbon offsets certified by Center for Resource Solutions (www.green-e.org) or Environmental Resources Trust (www.ert.net). 8. California Climate Registry carbon credits or offsets. 9. All types of offset projects are allowed except for HFC-23 destruction. 10. Acceptable offsets from a demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). The following is acceptable for Scope 2 emissions,* considered indirect electricity emissions: Any direct offsets acceptable for offsetting Scope 1 emissions as well as renewable energy certificates (RECs) certified by Center for Resource Solutions\' Green-e program, Environmental Resources Trust\'s EcoPower program, or demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). -------------------------------- APPENDIX B An environmental claim certifier can use robust and verifiable internationally accepted standards to classify a product as carbon neutral. Use ISO 1404x series of standards for life cycle assessment (LCA) as necessary to formulate the product\'s carbon footprint. Use guidance from USEPA Climate Leaders program, the WRI/WBCSD Greenhouse Gas Protocol, or ISO 14064** as needed for accounting and reporting of emissions and offsets. Complete a copy of the inventory summary used by the US EPA Climate Leaders program. Account for the complete lifecycle (including the product\'s anticipated lifespan). The product\'s entire line of supply and manufacture must be climate neutral. It is not sufficient that a manufacturer purchase offsets solely for the units that are purchased and installed in a specific building; the continuous process that enables a specific product\'s availability to the market must be climate neutral. Minor variables such as color choices do not constitute a separate product. Once this inventory of the product\'s carbon footprint is completed, there must be a 100% offset of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.* The following is acceptable for Scope 1 and 3 emissions*: Emission reduction ("ER") offsets must be generated from acceptable project categories which must be independently verified by a recognized verification entity. The manufacturer must provide full disclosure on the type of emission reduction offsets applied. Allowances should be excluded as should any "business as usual" ERs where additionality is questionable. Acceptable offsets are as follows: 1. Any project that is determined to be an eligible Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) provided by article 12 of the Kyoto protocol. 2. Any project sanctioned by a U.S. State, group of U.S. States (e.g., RGGI), or the Federal Government, where the carbon reduction is assigned or otherwise stated. 3. Any project that is verified and registered as a Gold Standard project (www.cdmgoldstandard.org). 4. Any approved Joint Implementation (JI) project as provided by article 6 of the Kyoto Protocol. 5. Any approved European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) project. 6. Any project that is verified to meet the Voluntary Carbon Standard (www.v-c-s.org). 7. Carbon offsets certified by Center for Resource Solutions (www.green-e.org) or Environmental Resources Trust (www.ert.net). 8. California Climate Registry carbon credits or offsets (www.climateregistry.org). 9. All types of offset projects are allowed except for HFC-23 destruction. 10. Acceptable offsets from a demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). The following is acceptable for Scope 2 emissions,* considered indirect electricity emissions: Any direct offsets acceptable for offsetting Scope 1 emissions as well as renewable energy certificates (RECs) certified by Center for Resource Solutions\' Green-e program, Environmental Resources Trust\'s EcoPower program, or demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). SUBMITTALS: Submit the certifier\'s verification of climate neutral product status with a summary of the carbon footprint formulation and means used to achieve climate neutral status. Include a copy of the inventory summary used by the USEPA Climate Leaders program. ------------------------------------------------ * DEFINITIONS: (Source: WRI/WBCSD GHG Protocol. See the GHG Protocol for expanded definitions.) Scope 1 emissions: Emissions from sources under direct control, i.e. at premises under your control or in your vehicle fleet, etc. Scope 2 emissions: Emissions from electricity that is generated elsewhere (i.e., independently, off-site). Scope 3 emissions: Other indirect emissions that are not from owned emission sources, e.g. from the related supply chain, business travel, transportation of purchased fuels, and use of sold products and services. ------------------------------------------------ ** REFERENCED STANDARDS

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/18/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We propose that a LEED Innovation & Design Process (IDP) point be awarded to any project that uses only carpet products designated as Environmentally Preferable Products (EPPs) by achieving either \'Gold\' or \'Platinum\' certification as per NSF Standard 140-2005 - Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard (a draft Standard developed by NSF International, presently in its trial use and comment period) Specifically, we intend to use a Collins & Aikman ER3 Modular Tile product for our LEED-CI (Commercial Interiors) Project. The entire line of ER3 Modular Tile products are SCAS NSF-140 \'Platinum\' certified. The Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard (SCSA) is the first nation-wide certification program that evaluates all measurable aspects of the environmental performance of carpet products. SCSA seeks to promote products that provide comprehensive environmental, economic, and social benefits while protecting and enhancing the needs of future generations, public health, welfare and the environment over their full commercial cycles, from raw materials extraction to final disposition, and ensuring that such products are also equivalent in performance and quality to other carpet products. Carpet products that carry SCSA \'Gold\' and \'Platinum\' level certification have the added credibility of being subject to regular, independent third-party audits. Upon completion of the trial use and comment period, SCSA will be revised as necessary and submitted to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for approval as an American National Standard. In the baseline LEED Rating Systems, carpet products are evaluated per their indoor VOC emissions, plus the extent to which they might have some recycled content, regional material content, and/or rapidly-renewable material content, thus contributing to the associated Materials & Resources credits. While valuable, such criteria are somewhat limited in scope. By contrast, SCSA takes a broad, life-cycle-based approach to product evaluation, thoroughly examining such varied issues as the environmental impact of the manufacturing processes, social concerns such as the rights and working conditions of company employees, and what happens to carpet products at the end of their useful lives. The draft Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard consists of the following major categories: Safe for Public Health and Environment Addresses the reduction of inventory pollutants that adversely impact public health and the environment, over the entire supply chain of any given carpet product. Energy & Energy Efficiency Addresses energy use and greenhouse gas emissions associated with carpet production and recognizes the use of renewable energy sources and implementation of conservation and efficiency measures. Bio-based, Recycled Content or Environmentally-Preferable Products Addresses more environmentally-benign feedstocks used to manufacture carpet products and is applicable to either natural or synthetic fiber construction. Manufacturing Addresses company-wide environmental stewardship via reporting and certification protocol, such as adoption of an environmental policy, use of an environmental management system (EMS) and public declaration of performance as per ISO 14001. Reclamation and End-of-Life Management Addresses product reuse and reclamation opportunities as well as installation and maintenance procedures that extend product system life. We feel that this strategy warrants a LEED IDP point because SCAS sets a high benchmark for environmental accomplishment, is comprehensive in nature, and specifically references many other third-party standards to set specific performance criteria. Furthermore, there is precedence for acceptance of such holistic standards for IDP points. In recent CIR Rulings, USGBC has favorably recognized whole product evaluation standards such as MBDC C2C, the California Gold Standard and the Climate Neutral Network Climate Cool Certification. The Project Team hopes that adoption of such a rigorous standard in the carpet industry will stimulate development of similar standards to guide other industries involved in the manufacturing of building products and materials. NSF Standard 140-2005 - Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard can be accessed on-line at: http://www.nsf.org/business/standards_and_publications/pdf/NSF_140-05-DS....

Ruling:

The suggested criterion encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given that the specific threshold listed below is met and proper documentation is provided upon LEED application. However, the point system proposed does not align with LEED Innovation Points (1/2 Innovation Points cannot be rewarded, and only 1 ID point may be awarded per each green strategy attempted.) The threshold for attaining one (1) Innovation Point is as follows: - use NSF/ANSI 140-2007 certified carpet for all carpet products installed in the project, AND - When silver level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 5% of the value of the project OR - When gold level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 2.5% of the value of the project OR - When platinum level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 1.25% of the value of the project. Please see NCv2.2 CIR Ruling dated 6/6/2007 (for IDc1.1) for additional information on the intended direction of the LEED Rating System. **The USGBC has updated the ruling to this CIR as of 1/22/10 to state that the 1 year sunset provision established in the original Credit Interpretation Ruling related to the NSF/ANSI 140-2007 carpet certification program is hereby extended to all pre LEED-2009 projects , pending the development and adoption of criteria and processes for recognition of third party certification programs in LEED. Said criteria will apply to all currently recognized and proposed future programs. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for implementation of innovative, environmentally beneficial measures through active intervention in the zoning and land development process of the larger community. In the end, a 16,000 s.f. project was able to leverage over 200,000 s.f. of LEED Gold. Background While St. Stephen\'s was in the design process for its LEED project, a local developer proposed to build on the vacant lot located one property lot away to the south. The project team learned that the developer was preparing to present the building design drawings at an upcoming Harrisburg Planning Commission meeting, during which variances would be requested for significantly exceeding the height and setbacks allowed by city zoning code. St. Stephen\'s publicly opposed providing a variance for these excesses primarily because the neighboring building would cut off access to sunlight that the St. Stephen\'s project team was planning to collect for day lighting and PV arrays. Given the developer\'s and St. Stephen\'s prestige in the community, St Stephen\'s requested a meeting with the developer to discuss the issues to see if the height could be lowered or setbacks aligned with zoning requirements. The outcome was that the developer agreed to meet with the St. Stephen\'s team. Initially the developer brought in his architect to explain the designs. The St. Stephen\'s team also presented its sunshade studies. The developer agreed to examine stepping the new building back between the 5th and 8th stories so that the St. Stephen\'s complex would not be in shadow so often. Ultimately, no accommodations for setbacks were provided and it was acknowledged that the developer had no intention of making it a sustainable or LEED building. Soon thereafter, the developer divulged that the tenant would be Pennsylvania Housing and Finance Authority (PHFA). Resulting LEED Achievement During the time period that followed, St. Stephen\'s thought that there was an opportunity in this to leverage their position and negotiate a greater good by supporting the proposed zoning variances. At the time in 2002, very few PA state agencies were pursuing LEED certification for their buildings, with the exception of DEP. The project team thought that fighting the developer and PHFA might ultimately gain the 16,000 s.f. St. Stephen\'s school daylight, but rather than be "penny wise and pound foolish" the project team realized that there would be a much greater benefit if they could convince a public agency to make greater accommodations that would benefit the larger Harrisburg and Pennsylvania community in the name of environmental responsibility. They believed this could be especially important given that the agency is the PHFA that would deal with the future housing in the state. As a result, the St Stephen\'s project team invited the PHFA representatives to join in the discussions with the developer. During the subsequent meetings, the St. Stephen LEED design team educated the building\'s developer and its tenant, the PHFA, about sustainable design buildings and negotiated a formal agreement. This agreement accomplished 1) a minimum silver rated building for a state agency, 2) a smaller building that was "stepped back" so that it would relate better to the surrounding small and historic buildings within the neighborhood and not leave them all in shadow, 3) higher density in the neighborhood by allowing a smaller setback and taller building than zoning permitted, and 4) greater access to solar energy for the Episcopal school by granting St. Stephen\'s rights to harvest solar energy from the PHFA roof, which is much larger than St. Stephen\'s and would see more daylight than St Stephen\'s would otherwise due to surrounding buildings and trees. As a result of the St. Stephen\'s project team efforts, the developer and PHFA were prompted to enlisted their architect to redesign their project to include sustainable design features and achieve the minimum LEED silver rating that St. Stephen\'s demanded as part of the negotiated agreement, which is why sustainable design became one of the inherent development goals of the PHFA building. The PHFA building ultimately received LEED Gold Certification in September 2005.

Ruling:

The USGBC does not consider this proposal alone to merit an innovation credit. However, a comprehensive public education program on LEED rating system and the benefits of green building is a laudable strategy worthy of an innovation credit. A green education program must meet the requirements of CIR ruling dated 9/24/2001. The proposed narrative outlining the educational outreach program undertaken by the project, can contribute as one of the educational elements. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

For our high rise multifamily project, we propose a slightly different approach to earning an ID point for education and awareness. This is a hybrid of (a) the approach described in LEED CIR rulings IDc1.1-9/24/2001 and IDc1.1-2/4/2003 for LEED-NC projects, and (b) requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant. We believe this will be the most effective approach for a multifamily community. Please confirm whether this strategy is likely to earn an ID point if appropriately implemented and documented, and if not, what additional activities would be necessary to earn the credit. (1) We will provide "operations training" similar to that outlined in LEED for Homes AEc1. A package of information distributed to all residents upon move-in will include (a) operations guidance for the energy efficient equipment and other "green" features of the apartment home, (b) additional information such as energy- and water-saving tips, waste reduction/recycling tips, guides to energy-efficient appliances and home electronics, guides to sustainable furniture choices, and information on green cleaning products and strategies, and (c) copies of the building\'s LEED checklists. Building managers will do a walk-through/tour with all new residents, showing the LEED features of the apartment and the building. In addition to the mandatory (1) above, we propose to implement two of the following five activities to promote public awareness for residents, visitors, and the broader community (selection of specific items will depend on further analysis of opportunities and interest in the community): (2) Build a comprehensive signage program into the building\'s spaces to educate the occupants and visitors of the benefits of green buildings. (3) Implement procedures for leasing/marketing staff and property managers to educate (through conversations and building tours) potential residents and other visitors on the building\'s sustainable design and construction. All leasing/marketing staff and property managers would receive instruction and training on how to use the guides during all leasing and promotional activities. (4) Offer a workshop to interested residents and members of the community approximately six months after occupancy, providing attendees with actively instructional, educational information on sustainable living. (5) Generate a newspaper article highlighting the new building\'s sustainable design and construction. The article will have two goals: educate the general public on the benefits of green buildings, and share our successful strategies with other developers interested in building LEED apartment communities. (6) Publish a web site with at least two pages that provides detailed information about the features and benefits of the LEED project. (Same two goals as (5) above.)

Ruling:

It is acceptable to use requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant as a basis for an innovation credit for Education and Awareness for residential projects under LEED-NC v2.2. To earn this credit, projects must fully comply with the requirements of AEp1.1 and either AEc1.2 or AEc1.3. Project teams must also show that they have provided the training for ALL occupants, whether new or existing. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/1/2013
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can a project team earn an Innovation credit for increasing the efficiency of necessary energy use during construction?

Ruling:

Project teams may pursue an ID credit for reductions in construction energy use related to lighting and temporary heat if the following conditions are met:For tables, see https://www.usgbc.org/resources/temporary-lighting-and-heat-leed-interpr.... Must show construction energy savings over duration of project exceeds 2% of predicted annual building energy use (EA1 design case energy model or CBECS if no energy model).2. No credit given for adjusting schedules or shutting down lighting and equipment during non-construction hours. It is assumed that standard practice is to turn lights and temporary heat off when not in use. 3. No credit given for permanent building systems used for lighting or temporary heat. 4. For temporary lighting: a. Calculate savings based on actual run times for all lamps compared to the same run times assuming lamps with an efficacy of 40 lumens per watt.i. Example: If a project uses 100 LED lamps of 12 watts, 800 lumens each, for 10 hours per day for 100 days, they would use 1,200 watts (1,200 kWh) to produce 80,000 lumens. A base case with 40 lumens per watt would use 2,000 watts (2,000 kWh).b. Security and life safety lighting must be on separate circuits from general lighting and only security and safety lighting can be on during unoccupied hours.5. For temporary heat:a. Demonstrate that temporary heating is required.b. Calculate savings based on actual run times for all heating compared to the same run times assuming a baseline system with a thermal efficiency of 78%.6. For all other conservation measures demonstrate that proposed measure is not standard practice by referencing the construction practices of three similar projects in the same location of the project building within the past 2 years.7. The submittal documentation shall include:a. A holistic, construction energy management plan including descriptions of all energy conservation measures.b. Quantitative performance analysis for each measure comparing the implemented energy conservation measure versus a standard baseline (typical construction practices) to demonstrate how the project team arrived at savings calculations.c. Product data for installed equipment.NOTES:The 2009 IECC requires that 50% of all permanent lamps be high efficacy lighting. The 2009 IECC, chapter 2 defines high efficacy lamps as compact fluorescent lamps, T-8 or smaller diameter linear fluorescent lamps, or lamps with a minimum efficacy of: 60 lumens per watt for lamps > 40 watts, 50 lumens per watt for lamps > 15 watts and ? 40 watts, and 40 lumens per watt for lamps < 15 wattsApplicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Bamboo flooring demonstration: exceptional effort in researching new sustainable materials Our design team is dedicated in introducing sustainable materials that are not familiar with the industry to the project, such as stained concrete, wheatboard, recycle-content ceramic tiles and rubber flooring. In particular, bamboo is a rapidly renewable material and has been used widely in gyms in Europe, but the client was not very comfortable of incorporating the material. In order to convince the client/ users to use bamboo flooring in lieu of hardwood for sports flooring, we installed a demonstration racquetball court. Users are provided with information of the new product and can try playing on the bamboo flooring. At the end, although bamboo is not used for the basketball courts and racquetball courts, they are used in the aerobics area and other common circulation space. Along the line of USGBC\'s policy of "no work, no point", we feel that this is a significant effort by the design team to introduce unfamiliar materials to the client. And we would qualify for an Innovation and Design Credit. Please advice on the feasibility of the credit.

Ruling:

This does not meet criteria for an innovation point. However, if the demonstration component is extended to other facets of the building, it may be appropriate to pursue an innovation credit for whole building demonstration. Please see IDc1.1 CIR dated 9/24/2001 for a complete outline of associated requirements. Your assertion that USGBC has a policy of "no work, no point" is not accurate; USGBC has no official policy in this regard. USGBC does however base innovation credits on approaches that demonstrate environmental performance. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The New Census Bureau Headquarters Office Building has purchased its officer furniture from Knoll, Inc. whose system furniture is certified by GREENGUARD. The materials specified and utilized for the assembly of the office furniture are environmental sound furniture which includes high recycled content, local/regionally manufacture materials, and local/regionally extracted materials. The design strategies were based on the following life cycle analysis: Low impact materials, clean manufacturing, healthy workplace/indoor air quality, waste reduction/efficient use of resources, durability/extended product life, reuse and refurbishment, ease of disassembly and material product recyclability. INTENT: Reduce the use of materials and finishes assemblies that may release indoor air contaminates that are odorous or potentially irritating and might be deleterious to the installer and occupant health, comfort, and well being. REQUIREMENTS: - Use office furnishings whose components meet the LEED version 2.1 requirements. - Eliminate toxins from the manufacturing process. Lead, heavy metals and hazardous chlorinated compound are completely eliminated from the manufacturing processes. - VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are eliminated from the manufacturing processes. - Water bases paints and adhesives are used for the assembly of office furniture. - 100% percent recyclable fabric is used on all furniture. - All furniture used is GREENGUARD certified. - GREENGUARD certified products will help reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier interior environment.

Ruling:

The applicant is presenting a potential innovation credit for low-emitting furniture. Although innovation credits are not awarded through the CIR process, low emitting furniture can be applied toward an innovation credit following the criteria of LEED-CI EQ Credit 4.5, as noted in Admin CIR ruling dated 1/21/2003 and IDc1.1 rulings dated 10/23/2006 and 12/1/2003. Please note that under LEED-CI EQc4.5, all systems furniture and seating introduced into the project space that has been manufactured, refurbished or refinished within one year prior to occupancy must be considered in order to earn the credit. Systems furniture is defined as either a panel-based workstation comprised of modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components and drawer/filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items and their components that have been designed to work in concert. Seating is defined as task as desk chairs used with systems furniture. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/27/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent: Utilize Salmon-Safe certification to inspire and deliver bioregionally significant environmental protection critical to the survival and recovery of imperiled Pacific salmonids and the restoration of West Coast watersheds.

Proposed Requirements: For site development and management applications ranging from corporate & university campuses to large-scale residential development, golf courses, manufacturing sites, and park systems, address all Salmon-Safe certification requirements, and additional restoration requirements as outlined by Salmon-Safe's independent Ph.D.-level science team in their Evaluation Report.

The following criteria will be met: Site selection & design to protect habitat & water quality beyond SSc1. Salmon-Safe standards require protection of rare, threatened, or endangered salmonids and their habitat, as well as the siting of new development consistent with enhancement of overall site hydrology and landscape ecology. Zero increase in stormwater run-off. Salmon-Safe requirements for design of stormwater facilities mandates that pre-development runoff conditions be met. Salmon-Safe requires dispersion and infiltration, where technically feasible, rather than flow concentration and retention. Salmon-Safe performance requirements for treatment of water quantity and quality include various LID strategies that diffuse, store, and filter stormwater runoff. This is more stringent than SSc6.2's requirement to treat and filter 90% of the average annual rainfall. Landscape management that protects water quality & wildlife habitat.

Salmon-Safe mandates a biologically-based and peer-reviewed Integrated Pest Management Plan and Fertilizer Management Plan, as well as the exclusion of pesticides (synthetic or naturally derived) with ingredients listed on Salmon-Safe's "high risk" pesticide list of inputs harmful to salmon and their aquatic ecosystem. Water conservation to protect aquatic species. Salmon-Safe mandates water conserving irrigation technology, limitations in the size of the landscape area to receive irrigation, the use of less water dependent native plants in landscaped areas, and the use of soil management practices such as composting and mulching to reduce irrigation requirements. These requirements protect and restore habitat as well as conserve open space, exceeding SSc5 requirements. A site-wide trend of declining water use is verified by Salmon-Safe on an annual basis. Submittals: Salmon Safe Independent Science Team Evaluation Report Reports, plans, policies, and other documentation addressing precondition and conditional requirements Salmon Safe Certification certificate Environmental Benefits: Salmon Safe mandates low impact principles for new development. Certification is based on the professional judgment of a team of expert, Ph.D.-level and independent certifiers.

The program provides a stringent property evaluation, provides pre-condition requirements, requirements, and recommendations to ensure on-going certification, exceeding LEED Rating System requirements in key water quality and habitat protection areas. After a project is certified, Salmon-Safe ensures the long-term environmental performance of certified sites through an annual verification process. This process includes habitat restoration progress, stormwater system performance, environmental design of any planned expansion, and other program elements to make sure the project is functioning as designed. Salmon-Safe certification incorporates, and significantly expands upon, previously approved LEED innovation credits including Integrated Pest Management, Monitor Threatened and Endangered Species, and Green Landscaping, just to name a few. Salmon-Safe Certification meets the three requirements of an Innovation & Design Credit. The Certification program provides quantitative performance benefits for environmental enhancement, is comprehensive to the project, and is readily applicable to other projects.

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring about achieving an innovation point for achieving Salmon-Safe certification for their campus. Though some of the Salmon-Safe certification requirements are already receive credit under existing LEED credits, other requirements provide environmental benefits beyond the requirements of LEED, such as integrated pest management, on-going erosion control, and landscape management requirements. Therefore, the achievement of Salmon-Safe certification is eligible for an innovation credit. The projects proposed submittal documentation is adequate to demonstrate achievement of the Salmon-Safe certification and for achievement of an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/7/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Interpretation Request: Exceptional Construction Waste Management and Neighborhood Rebuilding Intent: The intent of the proposed innovation in design credit is to show exemplary urban redevelopment building reuse efforts and exceptional construction waste management. The project is a 13 level healthcare facility located in an urban setting in the northeastern United States. The hospital is sited in a mixed-use community complete with institutional and commercial facilities, as well as residential. The sought innovation in design is for the relocation of six residential structures on the project site that were completely reused and re-sited to areas of the neighborhood that were missing buildings. Through the creation of the project, the homes were completely recycled, and an urban neighborhood was renewed and strengthened. Design Approach: The neighborhood rebuilding innovation in design credit brings together several aspects of the project\'s sustainable design goals. The first is urban redevelopment. The project is an expansion of an existing urban healthcare facility. The hospital will utilize amenities and infrastructure available to the existing facilities rather than build on Greenfield site at the urban fringe. The hospital is committed to making a positive impact on the neighborhood it serves, and rebuilding the neighborhood is aligned with this strategy. The site is conveniently located within a few hundred feet of train, bus and shuttle lines thus reducing the need for automobile traffic and associated pollution and augmenting a pedestrian friendly area. It is a hospital goal to maintain high-density development without adversely impacting the surrounding neighborhood. The six houses occupied two back-to-back city blocks across the street from the existing hospital. All six houses are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over time the two blocks where the homes were located deteriorated. Two of the relocated houses had been separated from the rest of the residential part of this neighborhood by three vacant lots and a surface parking lot. The two homes are now located in a completely residential part of the neighborhood. One of the houses was an infill of a vacant, run down lot and provided a needed facelift to the South side of this street. The other house was relocated to a short block that had two houses on each side of a vacant lot, strengthening the residential presence on this street. The remaining four houses replaced the surface parking lot filling on the block to make it entirely residential, rejuvenating the area. All of the houses were moved and interspersed with five vacant lots. Specific environmental advantages not otherwise recognized by LEED and exceeding measurement thresholds set forth by LEED: Relocating the houses helped mitigate the negative impacts vacant lots can create such as the dumping of trash, vandalism, squatting, loitering, etc. The relocation effort of the six houses has a net positive impact on the construction waste management calculations. The homes will be included in the calculations for Materials and Resources credits 2.1 and 2.2: Construction Waste Management. The goal of the project is to exceed the 75% total of recycling/salvaging construction waste for the project by 15% so that in total 90% of construction waste will be recycled or salvaged. The total cost relocating the six houses was approximately 2.5 million dollars. Proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance: (1) Construction waste calculations will be provided. (2) The six historic residential structures were moved in a manner consistent with Moving Historic Buildings by John Obed Curtis (US Department of the Interior, 1979) and were properly documented for the rehabilitation/reconstruction of historic features prior to moving the buildings. (3) Before and after maps will be provided with the submission.

Ruling:

The combination of urban redevelopment efforts, a 90% diversion rate for the project and the multiple house relocation is consistent with the quantifiable additional benefits necessary to earn an Innovation credit. Note: this interpretation is specific to your project description and does not establish the precedent that any combination of a lower total diversion rate and relocation program will be acceptable. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This request seeks ID credit approval for an energy- and resource-saving, paperless, Web-based collaboration solution for architecture, engineering and construction project team members from multiple organizations (i.e. owner, construction management firm, general contractor, architecture firm, engineering firm, subcontractors, suppliers, etc.): our Virtual Project Office. We have used our experience with delivering consulting services and training on project management technologies to develop this customizable, easy-to-use Microsoft SharePoint-based tool; it is a private, secure, project-specific Web site. Our innovative solution helps project participants efficiently share and process vital documents like drawings, RFIs and contracts--all while slashing printing, shipping and travel energy- and resource-usage. Owners and contractors from multiple organizations can collaborate to make informed and timely decisions when they exchange and store data in a project\'s own secure, neutral, Web-based \'office,\' rather than using paper to print draft after draft of large files (i.e. drawings, specs, contracts, change notices, payment estimates, submittals, RFIs, correspondence, safety bulletins, contact directories, schedules, calendars, announcements, transmittals, progress photos, progress reports, meeting minutes, etc.) Any and every process our project requires can, and will, be incorporated into our Virtual Project Office. For example, when the project team is ready to request bids from contractors, we will use our paperless, Web-based Virtual Project Office to issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs), provide bidding instructions, and announce up-to-date questions and answers. We will be able to post downloadable construction documents such as drawings and project specs. Contractors will then upload their bids electronically, automatically notifying the bid manager--via e-mail--of their submission. Housing all bidding information in one secure, collaborative online workspace dramatically reduces the typical energy and resource consumption of the bidding process, supports confident contract-award decisions, and gets the project off to a successful start. We will use our collaboration solution to: Connect team members across organizational and geographic boundaries so they can collaborate regardless of their time and place of work--without spending energy, resources, money or time on paper, shipping or travel. Streamline review-and-approval processes (i.e. RFPs, RFIs, submittals, change notices, payment estimates, etc.) and make them electronic, eliminating the energy costs and delays of printing and shipping multiple copies of paper documents back and forth among project participants. Notify collaborators automatically via (paperless) e-mail when virtual documents are added and updated. Reduce energy- and resource-consuming litigation by mitigating all parties\' risk exposure with automatic auditing of revisions, ball-in-court requests, and responses. Protect private information using our secure, neutral collaboration platform, limiting each party\'s vulnerability to energy- and resource-consuming claims. Take advantage of seamless interoperability, configuration, training and support--eliminating potential energy and resource expenditures associated with printing and shipping training manuals and/or booking travel for consultants, instructors and attendees. Archive automatically--online--to incorporate Best Practices and Lessons Learned as standards, and build on the project team\'s successes.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of using a Web-based platform for document management, reducing the energy and resources consumed on administration and communication during the design and construction process. While it is agreed that this has the potential to reduce resource and energy use over the conventional project administrative process, it is not considered innovative as many project teams have adopted this technology. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/13/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is being submitted to assess whether this proposed ID credit may qualify for a point assuming that all proposed standards are met and all documentation is made. ID Credit Title: Low-Emitting Exterior Materials: Paints and Coatings Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Reduce the quantity of air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers. Increase the demand for Low VOC materials for exterior applications. Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Paints and coating used on the exterior of the building shall comply with following standards: Architectural paints, stains and coatings. Do not exceed VOC limits set by Green Seal Standard GS-11 - Flats - 50 g/L - Non-Flats / Primers - 150g/L Anti-corrosive paints, stains, and coatings. Do not exceed VOC limits set by Green Seal Standard GS-03. - 250 g/L Clear wood finishes, floor coatings, stains, and shellacs. Do not exceed VOC limits set by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Rule 1113 - Clear wood finishes: varnish 350 g/L; lacquer 550 g/L - Floor Coatings: 100 g/L - Sealers: waterproofing sealers 250 g/L; sanding sealers 275 g/L; all other sealers 200 g/L - Shellacs: clear 730 g/L; pigmented 550 g/L - Stains: 250 g/L Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: Require all exterior paint applications to meet the same standards as for interior paint applications. Exterior paint applications will include but are not limited to exterior hollow metal doors, soffits, fascias, metal roof touch-up, metal cap flashings, metal lintels, and vent grating. The coating for our metal roof will be a factory applied finish.

Ruling:

The strategy proposed for earning an Innovation in Design credit for Low-Emitting Exterior Materials: Paints and Coatings has merit. In order to achieve this credit, the approach must be comprehensive in nature and include VOC limits for concrete sealants and caulks, exterior paints, wood stains and sealers, and metal stains and sealers. Please refer to the LEED NCv2.2 IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 10/23/2006 as well as LEED EB: Operations & Management SSc2 for further guidance on how to approach this credit in a comprehensive manner. The first item in the Materials Selection section of the LEED ID Credit Catalogue (Page 19) offers general guidance for VOC content in material selection when applying for an ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/8/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The purpose of this CIR is to request approval for one ID credit for an innovative approach to material reduction by using QuietRock soundproof drywall in lieu of multiple layers of traditional drywall. INTENT: To minimize the total quantity of new gypsum wallboard (drywall) used in acoustically sensitive buildings through accurate performance specifications, enhanced materials, and efficient design. The innovative approach will be applied to walls and partitions specified as acoustically high performance for interoffice privacy and/or noise control (sound transmission class 50 or higher). In some cases, a single layer of soundproof drywall can be used to replace up to five layers of traditional drywall. This product and design approach will result in a significant reduction in the total embodied energy of the materials used in the building. (The BEES software from NIST has reported that a single panel of drywall represents between 150,000 to 300,000 Btu\'s of embodied energy). REQUIREMENT: Minimize amount of building materials used by designing walls meeting the sound isolation requirement with QuietRock soundproof drywall. Demonstrate at least a 20% savings in the quantity of gypsum wallboard used compared to the baseline design using conventional, techniques and materials. SUBMITTALS: Architectural plans, details and specifications, a letter signed by the architect or acoustical engineer outlining the acoustical performance requirements identified in the design, the measures implemented in the approach, photographs of soundproofing measures under construction, bills of sale of soundproofing drywall materials purchased, and calculations demonstrating at least a 20% savings in the quantity of drywall used compared with conventional, baseline construction techniques and materials. DESIGN APPROACH: For a two-story multi-purpose commercial building, areas of the floor plan require additional noise control (due to amplified lecture halls or private workspaces). Well established performance specifications required that these walls perform to an STC 50 or higher. These partitions have been designed using QuietRock, an innovative soundproof drywall, so that an over 20% material reduction is achieved. The process was as follows: 1. All walls with a sound isolation requirement have been reviewed by a qualified professional to assess/confirm minimum performance requirements and alternate, material-optimized assemblies were recommended. 2. Acoustical walls requiring multiple layers of gypsum drywall have been redesigned using layer(s) of soundproof drywalls in their place. 3. Architectural details have been added that address acoustical seal and closure best practices for optimal sound isolation. 4. Per CIR 12/6/2002 and 1/9/2003, the basic steps for Boeing to achieve an ID Credit for Material Reduction will be: - Provide documentation, such as a narrative and drawings, to prove on the validity of the baseline to which the project is compared. - Provide a convincing and thorough analysis of this condition by a knowledgeable professional, such as an acoustical engineer or an architect. - The actual bill of materials purchased and a spreadsheet comparing quantities & costs. - A letter signed by a responsible party enumerating and certifying the product and building methods. Should this credit be audited, the applicant also should be prepared to provide photographs of the soundproof wallboard installation in the field.

Ruling:

It should be noted that innovation credits can not be awarded in the CIR process. The approach with one material is not enough to warrant an ID credit. If the project team can submit a holistic approach which includes walls, ceilings, etc., we would consider granting an ID credit. Please note that USGBC does not certify, endorse or promote any products, services or companies, nor do we track, list or report data related to products and their environmental qualities. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/31/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The Innovation in Design Credit Catalog describes a potential ID credit as Common Area Services. The intent of that credit is to demonstrate innovative performance by enhancing the quality of life for campus occupants while reducing vehicular traffic out of campus. CREDIT REQUIREMENTS: The requirements appear very specific and include requirements to incorporate a comprehensive design for a centralized facility to house a cafeteria, gym, travel agency, credit union, printing/publishing services as well as laundry services. While our project includes many of these specific items, a cafeteria, a wellness suite, and potential for travel planning and purchase in the computer lab, it would be redundant for our facility to provide other services provided elsewhere on campus, such as laundry facilities and gymnasium. The Student Center has been designed with the intent to enhance the quality of campus life, build community between students, faculty, staff and the community, and bring a large number of facilities and services under one roof. Prior to designing this building, when interviewed, students complained that there was nothing to do outside of classes and they wanted healthier food choices. The New Student Center was designed to minimize the need for students (as well as visitors, faculty and staff, during office hours) to leave campus to go to Easton Mall and other places to obtain the described services. In addition to the items listed above, the building will provide a convenience store, a bookstore, study and social lounges, a campus radio station, a computer lab for personal usage, small, medium and large meeting rooms s available for on-campus group meetings, and the project encloses the pedestrian access to the gym, basketball courts, dance area, showers and lockers in an adjoining facility less than 200 feet away. PROJECT APPROACH TO ACHIEVING CREDIT: In providing the documentation for this innovative design credit, we propose to: - Estimate the reduction of vehicular usage by providing these additional services to the campus and surrounding community by the addition of this new building. - Calculate the environmental benefits and the reduction of impacts in comparison to a conventional campus complex including how many people visit each facility/day and the subsequent reduction in CO2. - In addition, we will provide an itemized list of other facilities and services currently available on campus within walking distance of the new student center.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification as to whether an innovation credit can be awarded based on the provision of a centralized facility that includes various basic services, in the core area of a university campus. The project team is proposing to demonstrate that the centralized facility will reduce the CO2 associated with student/visitor commuting. While the incorporation of the various services into the centralized facility is commendable, it is common practice for educational institutes to incorporate a variety of services within a centralized facility like this, to serve the needs of the student population on campus. It is further unclear as to how the project team would reasonably establish a baseline for comparison, and therefore it is also unclear how the proposed approach would demonstrate significant quantifiable environmental benefits through the expected CO2 reduction. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit language is intended to demonstrate accomplishment of Comprehensive Formaldehyde Reduction above and beyond requirements set forth in existing LEED credits. We recognize that an ID credit cannot be granted achievement through the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability and appropriateness as written to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Proposed Title: Comprehensive Formaldehyde Reduction Intent: Provide a safe and healthy environment for both construction teams and building occupants. Requirements: Meet the requirements of existing LEED credits associated with formaldehyde reduction AND comply with the additional measures outlined below in order to obtain a comprehensive formaldehyde reduction in the building. To accomplish this, the following are required: ? Specify low formaldehyde emitting products/appliances for each of the following if/as incorporated in the project: o Composite wood and agrifiber- meet LEED-NC EQc4.4 credit requirements o Formaldehyde free insulation ? Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control- meet LEED EQp2 credit requirements ? Thermal Comfort: Design- meet LEED-NC EQc7.1 credit requirements Submittal: In addition to all corresponding submittal requirements for existing LEED credits, document specific efforts to reduce formaldehyde, and describe how a comprehensive formaldehyde reduction throughout the building that address control and mitigation has been realized. Design Approach: ? Source Control: minimize formaldehyde sources from being introduced to the building interior ? Mitigation: maintain indoor air quality with low formaldehyde presence ? Identify sources of formaldehyde within the building design above and beyond insulation, and specify low formaldehyde or formaldehyde free alternatives. ? Consider appropriateness and occupant need for mechanical and/or natural ventilation while evaluating site conditions and building design. Avoid venting to areas of heavy traffic, nearby polluting industries and neighboring waste management sites. ? Minimal use of foamed in place insulation ? Wash durable-press fabrics before installation (e.g.: drapes) ? Systems furniture and seating- meet LEED-CI EQc4.5 credit requirements ? Increased ventilation- meet LEED-NC EQc2 credit requirements ? Maintain moderate temperature and humidity levels o Controllability of systems: Thermal Comfort- meet LEED-NC EQc6.2 credit requirements ? Minimize gases from combustion sources from entering interior spaces o Combustion venting- meet LEED-H IEQc2 credit requirements o Vehicles emissions protection- meet LEED-H IEQc10 credit requirements ? Monitor air quality o Outdoor air delivery monitoring- meet LEED-NC EQc1 credit requirements o Install formaldehyde sensor

Ruling:

The proposed requirements for an ID credit related to formaldehyde would not justify achievement of an ID credit. The proposed requirements add insulation to the materials regulated in EQc4.4 and require simultaneous achievement of a prerequisite (EQp2) and EQc7.1. These proposed requirements do not represent a comprehensive approach to control of formaldehyde contents and emissions. Items mentioned in the "Design Approach" do, however, represent potential ID credits. For example, projects may earn an ID credit for using systems furniture and seating that meets LEED-CI EQc4.5. Also, an enhanced indoor air quality monitoring system that includes formaldehyde and other VOC measurements may justify an ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/4/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The City of Richmond, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is undergoing an important redevelopment of its centrally located Civic Center Complex. This revitalization is a multi-phase project involving several buildings and parking structures and will act as a community showcase for energy and environmental leadership. As part of this effort, every attempt has been made to maximize the potential for energy efficiency and for renewable energy in the form of solar photo-voltaic (PV) panels. The existing buildings that make up the Civic Center Complex are currently individually metered for electric services from the local utility, PG&E. The key buildings involved in the first phase of work are the City Hall and the Hall of Justice which will have 2000kva combined electrical loads. Our project will include installing a 12kV system to loop several existing buildings together including these two buildings, providing two primary benefits to the City: (1) it will consolidate several buildings\' loads to a common meter at a higher voltage service, and (2) allow us to install additional PV panels. The latter is important as the Hall of Justice lacks adequate available roof space for much PV. By looping this building with other nearby buildings with the 12kV system, we can install PV on another building on the loop, the Auditorium, and permanently assign the generated power to the Hall of Justice. The Auditorium provides ample rooftop area to site enough PV panels to meet at least 7% of the proposed load for the Hall of Justice. An individual meter for the PV system will track its production of electricity. The 12kV loop also provides measurable innovative energy efficiency performance benefits by replacing the single source feeds that are now fed from the existing Hall of Justice at 208/120V with a primary based distribution system to each building. This will reduce the line losses in the Complex saving considerable energy not accounted for in other energy efficiency calculations for this project. Based on voltage drop calculations and a rough distance between the involved buildings, the energy savings will be on the order of 100 KW at full facility load. The 12kV loop is also being designed to accommodate future buildings, greatly adding to the reduction of total line losses when complete and allowing us greater flexibility for future siting of additional PV. Our question is if the 12kV loop will qualify as an innovation credit for innovative energy efficiency performance under the LEED guidelines.

Ruling:

Request Denied. The project team is asking if a 12kV loop will qualify as an innovation credit on account of increased energy efficiency due to reduced line losses. Adding a higher voltage loop is a standard consideration when redeveloping an existing complex for reasons listed above (i.e., common meter at a higher voltage service, often at a reduced rate, future expandability, etc.). While it is a good practice with quantifiable energy savings, it is necessitated by programmatic requirements and cannot be viewed as an innovation. LEED credit will be taken under EAc2 for the additional PV added to the auditorium roof and "permanently assigned" to the building, which will not be possible if it were not for the 12kV loop. These EAc2 points provide adequate incentive and reward for the 12kV loop addition. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/11/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

BACKGROUND Under LEED EB EQ Credit 3.9, a point can be earned for achieving Green Cleaning: Integrated Indoor Pest Management. As LEED EB has identified the requirements for Integrated Indoor Pest Management, it does provide a point of reference and reduces the amount of invention/discovery required to create a green pest management program, particularly in light of the absence of a comparable foundation on this subject within the existing NC Reference Guide and CIRs. INTENT Award a point for achievement of an Integrated Indoor Pest Management program by adoption and execution of the intent, requirements, and submittals of EB EQ 3.9 for the purposes of achieving an Innovation and Design Credit under NC 2.2.

Ruling:

A project may earn an innovation credit based on an applicable credit in another LEED rating system, provided the specific requirements of that credit are met, and the appropriate documentation is provided during the submission process. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/26/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

On-site combustion of natural gas releases climate-changing greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere, and Energy and Atmosphere Credit 6 (Green Power) only addresses electric power sources, not on-site natural gas use. GHG emissions are the largest environmental impact associated with burning fossil fuels, and purchasing high-quality greenhouse gas emissions offsets will significantly and quantifiably reduce greenhouse gas emissions beyond purchase of renewable power, further reducing the climate impact of a building\'s energy use. Therefore we propose an Innovation in Design Credit for balancing out the greenhouse gas impacts of a building\'s natural gas use as follows: Intent: Reduce climate impacts associated with a building\'s fossil fuel energy use. Requirement: Participate in a program with rigorous standards that balances out 100% of the climate impact of the building\'s actual natural gas use by purchasing an equivalent number of high-quality greenhouse gas emission reductions for a period of two years. Submittals: Provide a copy of the energy bill verifying enrollment in the program; provide a letter from the owner committing to participation in the program for a period of at least two years. Design Approach: Participate in Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)\'s ClimateSmartT program (http://www.pge.com/climatesmart), through which we achieve a greenhouse gas offset equal to 100% of the emissions from our building\'s natural gas use. 100% of our building\'s natural gas supply comes from PG&E, and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with our natural gas use are calculated based on the actual amount of natural gas our building uses each month, and the greenhouse gas intensity of PG&E\'s natural gas supply. The independently certified emission rate is 13.446 lbs carbon dioxide (CO2) per therm. We pay PG&E to purchase greenhouse gas emission reductions on our behalf from new projects (after December 14, 2006) that would not have otherwise occurred. The projects from which PG&E purchases reductions must demonstrate that they are real, additional, verifiable, and permanent, and the projects must not be counted towards any GHG emission reduction caps specified in any mandatory local, state, national or international GHG regulatory structure or cap-and-trade program, or in any voluntary cap-and-trade program. The projects are also independently verified, audited, and registered with the California Climate Action Registry ("Registry") and all emission reductions are permanently retired in the Registry\'s publicly accessible Climate Action Reserve tracking database. Projects must be based in California and meet the stringent requirements of one of the Registry\'s project protocols, which include capturing methane gas from dairy farms or landfills and conservation-based forest management. All projects that PG&E invests in absorb or reduce GHG emissions from the atmosphere; the amount of emission reductions purchased through the program on our behalf is equal to the actual amount of GHG emissions from our building\'s natural gas use. Purchasing a percentage of renewable energy under the Green Power credit lowers the climate impact of energy use only by the amount of green power purchased. This program goes further by offsetting 100% of the actual greenhouse gas emissions associated with our building\'s natural gas use, making our natural gas energy use "climate neutral."

Ruling:

Increasing the scope of greenhouse gas (GHG) offsets to include those emissions resulting from natural gas consumption is an acceptable innovation proposal. Consistent with CIR Ruling 9/20/02, projects that elect to offset GHG emissions associated with natural gas consumption must demonstrate that the total quantity of GHG emissions associated with natural gas offsets is greater than or equal to the total quantity of GHG emissions that could be offset through the purchase of green power for EAc6. For this particular project proposal, the ClimateSmarT program offered by the local utility is an acceptable provider of GHG offsets for natural gas based on the fact that the utility meets the following criteria:

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/10/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

LEED-CS v2.0 Innovation & Design Credit 1.2: Exterior Shading Devices Our project is a high-rise core and shell development consisting of 900,000 square feet of office space and 60,000 square feet of retail space located in Manhattan, New York. The design team is seeking an innovation credit for the exterior sunshades provided on the south and west fa

Ruling:

While the benefits of exterior shading devices are numerous, the quantifiable environmental benefits attributed to them should be captured within existing LEED Credits, for example the reduced cooling load is recognized in EAc1, while glare control is addressed within EQc8.1. The design and installation of sunshades cannot, unto itself, garner an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/15/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Prior to submitting the full Template and supporting documentation for this Innovation & Design Process Credit, we would like to request an evaluation to ensure we are on the right path for this credit. Our project is a mixed-use facility with residential units at 7 levels, retail at the ground level and parking below grade. We plan to integrate an Educational Outreach Program, following the guidelines as defined in IDc1.1 inquiry dated 9-20-01. The following is the Outline of our Program: I. Interpretive Signage Program A signage permanent signage program will be designed and installed to communicate the major sustainable design aspects of the project to the visitors and customers of the facility, highlighting the various sections of the LEED program - Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Materials and Resources, Energy & Atmosphere and Indoor Environmental Quality a. Retail - Signs to be located at the Paseo area between the two buildings and will highlight the sustainable design features of the project, including: 1. Water Efficiency - reduced water consumption and irrigation by captured ground water 2. Stormwater reduction and Heat Island reduction: Rooftop gardens and Green Roof - reduces Stormwater quantity, reduces heat islands at the roof and provides the residents with a gardening plot. 3. Recycled materials & low VOC materials as well as Construction waste diversion from landfills. 4. Alternative Transportation - preferred parking for HOV, secured bicycle parking for residents, adjacency to bus stops and ferry service. A signage program will be designed and installed to communicate energy and water efficiency data on a monthly basis to the residents. The intent is to encourage residents to make a concerted effort towards reducing energy and water consumption. b. Residential - Signs to be located at Residential Common Lobby Areas II. Project Manual for Sustainable Design features for the project a. Manual will include narratives and supporting graphics documenting the design approach for the 5 sections of the LEED NC v2.2 Submission b. The LEED Checklist and Templates submitted to the USGBC will be included in this Manual for reference by others. III. Educational Outreach Program a. The Home Owners Association will sponsor Educational Programs (Organic Gardening, Organic Cooking, Sustainable Living Practices, Energy Consumption Reduction) will be held at the facility in the meeting room for residents to further their awareness of sustainable living.

Ruling:

The provided description has met the precedent set forth in CIR Ruling dated 9/24/01. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/2/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Interpretation Request This is a general guidance Credit Interpretation Request, not specifically addressing ID credit. This credit interpretation was filed under ID because there was not an appropriate category. We are requesting a ruling on the application of NCv2.2 for the future interior fit-out of a project owned, occupied and operated by a single tenant. Our project is a four story, 155,000 sq.ft, commercial office building in the midst of construction. Although the project was initially intended to be complete in its entirety, the client has chosen to isolate a portion of the interior fit-out on the 4th floor for future fit-out. All exterior roof, walls, glazing, sun screens, etc. for the entire building and the interior fit-out for floors 1, 2, 3 and over 50% of the 4th floor will be installed prior to occupancy. The remaining unfinished interior is approx. 16,500 s.f. or 9.5% of the total building s.f. The furniture fit-out, interior walls, interior finishes, raised flooring, under floor air distribution, plumbing, ceilings, lighting and all technology will be completed at a future date. The unfinished space will only consist of the shell, sprinkler system and emergency egress route per code. 1. Could you please confirm that our proposed compliance path is acceptable. a. Based on other CIR rulings we feel it is appropriate to proceed with certification of the project under the LEED-NCv2.2 Rating System. b. Our initial calculations for the Energy modeling and the FTE were based on a completed building. Our intent is to use the total FTE and entire build-out of MEP systems for the whole building (including future fit-out) in an effort to pursue prerequisites and credits. c. Regarding materials, finishes, plumbing fixtures, luminaire, furniture etc., include only materials installed as part of the final project and exclude any future fit-out materials from calculations and credit templates. d. We will develop a set of Tenant Guidelines -as indicated in the CIR ruling amended on 6/23/2007- Please note that 100% of this project is and will be single owner occupied. 2. Could you please help define the guidelines and options in pursuing LEED NCv2.2 certification, and provide us with direction regarding steps needed to document the exclusion of the future fit-out. For example, is it accurate to assume that, a. Sustainable Sites Credits will not be affected by the future interior fit-out exclusion since the FTE of the whole building (100% completed) will be used in required calculations. b. Water Efficiency Credits 3.1 and 3.2 calculations will only include the 90% completed building since fixtures to the future fit-out space will not be installed at occupancy. c. Energy & Atmosphere calculations will be based on the whole (100%) building. i. Please note: How would Enhanced Commissioning and M&V be executed when only 90% of the building is complete during initial occupancy? d. Materials & Resources calculations will not include materials for the future fit-out space. e. Indoor Environmental Quality Credits will include the whole building except for the following credits: EQc 4 (which pertains to material selection), EQc 6 and EQc7 (which relate to controllability of systems and Thermal Comfort) and EQc 8. i. Daylight and Views have been carefully considered throughout the building. The Glazing Factor Calculation of the total building (including the future fit-out) demonstrates that the project complies with EQc8.1 and EQc8.2. Therefore, do we calculate the entire building as if it were 100% complete? If not, is the area of the future fit-out space ignored altogether or is the area defined as "Non-Occupied Space"?

Ruling:

The project team is seeking clarification for an unfinished space core and shell space in a primarily fit-out building. Projects, such as this one, that are developing greater than 50% of the interior spaces should pursue LEED-NC certification. For unfinished tenant spaces, tenant guidelines must be established ensure that future build-outs will meet the prerequisites and credits that have been pursued. Credits that will not be affected by the future tenant build-outs, such as the site credits do not need to be included in the tenant design and construction guidelines. Credits based on anticipated savings of performance that would be part of the future build-outs (WEc3 or EAc1), must be calculate as neutral (same as the baseline) or proposed savings can be included in the calculations if the performance requirements are included in the tenant guidelines. Credits not based on performance, should include the requirements to meet the prerequisite or credit in the tenant guidelines for the future fit-out. Materials credits (MR credits and EQc4) should be based only on the materials used during construction, and exclude future work. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/21/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Exemplary performance in Landscape & Exterior Design to Reduce Heat Islands / Non-Roof. Intent: The intent of this proposed Innovation in Design credit(s) is to show exemplary performance as it pertains to Heat Island mitigation. The project is a Campus Dining facility located on a 3 acre site with heavy pedestrian traffic and thru-way circulation. The sought innovation in design is for taking 2 incremental steps above the 30% LEED compliance totaling 98% High-Albedo surfaces across the entire 3 acre site. Design Approach: The project is proposing to use Concrete paving with an initial reflectance of .4-.5 for 98%, or 36,852 sq.ft., of the sites impervious non-roof surfaces. Only 2%, or 863 sq.ft,. of the site will be asphalt paving. Please note also that 18.5% of this already compliant concrete paving will have additional shading by proposed native vegetation. Lastly, the roof surface is covered by a High Albedo LEED compliant roof surface for a total 91% of the roof surface equaling 16% greater than LEED compliance. This makes 65,604.5 sq.ft. of the 3 acre sites total impervious surface of 69,230 sq.ft. constructed with High Albedo materials for a grand total of 95% (this does not include the added benefit of shading by trees 18.5%). Based on the LEED intent for these credits, we feel as though we are good candidates for (2) or more innovation points for exemplary performance. Please advise.

Ruling:

One Innovation Credit for Exemplary Performance is available for LEED-NC Version 2.1 projects that demonstrate 60% or more of the total non-roof impervious surfaces have a reflectance of 0.30 or higher. The project team should consider alternatives to reduce impervious surfaces that could reduce storm water management and heat island while still meeting the hardscape design intent. Utilizing such a design strategy can reduce both heat island and stormwater runoff and potentially increase the project\'s points toward certification. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/30/2001
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation Question, Breaking Down Barriers to Mass Transit:The Block 225 project is part of a 5 building campus for the State of California. A portion of the response to the neighborhood in the EIR was that the State would contribute funds to the improvement of the local park, Fremont Park, for renovation and restoration. The funds are to be used for a specific function, that of restoring historic diagonal pedestrian links across the park. The benefit to the entire project, including Block 225, is that the contribution will be used to restore a connection from the project to the light rail system, thereby encouraging the use of mass transit. Without these links, a barrier to mass transit would exist.Question: Could this response to neighborhood concerns regarding open space and mass transit be considered an innovation credit?

Ruling:

It is possible to allocate portions of a campus project to its subservient buildings on a square foot basis. The two performance measures mentioned however are already part of the LEED Rating System, and would not constitute innovation, which can generally be taken to mean new and previously unthought of ideas. Use the open space features allocated on a square foot basis towards Credit SSc5.2 Site Preservation, Maximize Open Space, and apply for the Alternative Transportation Credit, Public Transportation Access.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
12/15/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following Innovation & Design CIR is being submitted to assess whether the following criteria could qualify for a ID credit if all standards are met and documentation recieved. ID Credit Title: Low Emitting Materials: Building Insulation Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well being of installers and occupants. Demonstrate that for all insulations used in the project that none of the insulations contain urea formaldehyde resins. Submit manufacturer / MSDS information, and material invoices indicating the purchase and delivery for all insulation materials Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Building insulation products used in the building shall contain no added urea formaldehyde resins. Building insulation products include: thermal batt insulations, sound attenuation batt insulations, rigid insulations, blown-in insulations, and foamed-in-place insulations. Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: Formaldehyde is a well-known carcinogen and is highly toxic, having been linked to respiratory ailments and throat cancer. Further eliminate the use of urea formaldehyde from the building by eliminating the use of insulation containing urea formaldehyde. The project will be specifying a batt insulation (both thermal and sound attenuating) that is formaldehyde-free. Batt type (blanket) insulation is used extensively throughout this project. Also, the project will be using a foamed-in-place insulation injected into the cores of the masonry block after masonry work has been completed. Many foamed in place insulations used in masonry applications use a urea formaldehyde resin as one of their components. These are classified as urea formaldehyde foam insulations (UFFIs). UFFIs were banned in 1982, but later that ban was over turned in 1983. Since then, UFFIs have been banned in several states. The state that this project is located in does not have a ban on this material. The foamed-in-place insulation used for this project will not contain urea formaldehyde. Other rigid insulations such as polyisocyanurate and extruded / expanded polystyrene do not contain urea formaldehyde in their manufacturer. This project is specified to use extruded / expanded polystyrene for rigid insulations.

Ruling:

This CIR is asking if adding insulation to the materials regulated under EQc4.4 is sufficient to earn an innovation credit. As written this proposal does not represent a comprehensive approach to control of formaldehyde contents and emissions and as such would not warrant an innovation credit. Please see the ID CIR under LEED NCv2.2 dated 10-23-06 for guidance on related approaches that may warrant an Innovation Credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

AMD\'s new Austin Campus will include a "Halo Studio", a virtual meeting room that is equipped with the latest telepresence technology and is optimized for video collaboration between globally dispersed teams. AMD\'s telepresence system will utilize broadcast-quality cameras and optics to deliver seamless, no perceived delay collaboration around the world, eliminating the need for airplane and automobile travel for in-person meetings. Telepresence recreates face-to-face meetings virtually so employees and partners can build relationships, review products and documents and make decisions faster without leaving their offices. Halo users can interrupt one another, express their emotional reactions when they feel them, and otherwise, act as they would in a regular face-to-face meeting. The end result: everyone feels as if they are in the same room, when in reality, they may be thousands of miles away on different continents. By reducing employee travel, these systems minimize the greenhouse gas footprint for Halo-enabled buildings while improving worker productivity, satisfaction and health. In addition, Halo rooms use US EPA Energy Star rated plasma displays and revert to standby mode when not in use, reducing energy use by 40%. AMD\'s offices are spread around the country and around the world. "Americans make more than 405 million long-distance [over 50 miles] business trips per year, accounting for 16% of all long-distance travel" (from "America on the Go", U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics, October 2003). Halo rooms have the potential to significantly reduce the number of long-distance trips made by business travelers and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions. Bill McGee writes in USA Today of a Consumer Reports study on carbon footprints for air travel: "We used 11 leading carbon calculators to assess our footprint using the standard measurement of pounds of CO2. For a flight from New York to Los Angeles, we found that one passenger generated anywhere from 1,924 pounds to 6,732 pounds." (from "On the Road with Bill McGee", USA Today, online: http://www.usatoday.com/travel/columnist/mcgee/2008-01-30-fuzzy-math_N.htm) These statistics indicate that a single "Halo Studio" meeting with a mix of attendees from around the country and within Austin can divert roughly 15,512 lbs. or 7.8 tons of CO2. Over the course of a year, this single "Halo Studio" could divert hundreds or even thousands of tons of CO2. (Calculation: 4 cross-country round trip plane flights= 1,924 lbs. CO2 x 2 trips x 4 attendees = 15,392 lbs. CO2; 4 short distance car trips = 15 lbs CO2 per mile x 2 trips x 4 attendees = 120 lbs. CO2; total = 15,392 + 120 = 15,512 lbs. CO2) Telepresence systems are offered by several companies including Hewlett-Packard, Cisco, Teliris and Polycom. AMD\'s Halo system was developed by Hewlett-Packard. These systems are distinct from traditional videoconferencing due to the immersive quality of communication provided by the telepresence solutions. For example, the offerings from HP utilize multiple display screens, broadcast quality cameras, a fiber optic network and include technology that enable people to connect to multiple sites around the world at the same time, offering everyone a "same-room" communication experience. There are up front investment requirements, including the cost of the studios (pricing varies depending on the type of telepresence solution, but top of the line HP studios, for example, list for $349,000 USD per studio) and some systems also have a monthly service fees. We would like to establish a precedent Innovation in Design credit that recognizes telepresence technology and significant efforts to reduce the ecological footprint of meetings in standard business practice. Is this an appropriate innovation credit?

Ruling:

The concept of virtual meetings, either via conference calls, or other technological means, has become common practice for organizations located in multiple locations. While the telepresence technology is a superior way to facilitate meetings remotely, it does not directly relate to design and construction, but addresses operational practices for a company. Innovation credits are awarded to projects for exceptional performance above the requirements set by the LEED Rating System, or innovative performance in green building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED Rating System. As the use of this technology appears to be a core part of the organization\'s normal business practice, it would not warrant an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Clerestory to bring natural light into subterranean space: exceptional IEQ Our project is a 250,000SF subterranean sports facility. Due to the site and security constraints, we are unable to incorporate windows in the space. However, the design team feels strongly about the importance of natural light, especially in a sports facility, where users are exercising and relaxing. Therefore, in the design, we introduce 4 clerestories, designed with internal reflectors, along the sports facility to bring in natural light. As a result, the daylight factors of the major interior spaces are as follows: Natatorium: 7% Indoor track: 29% Indoor basketball court: 14% This is remarkable results for an underground facility. the clerestories also serves as fresh air intakes for the mechanical systems, therefore reducing the need of constructing a separate aerial way. We strongly believe that this will be qualified for an Innovation and Design Credit.

Ruling:

The incorporation of daylight is a strategy which is addressed in EQc8 and is a design option in most building types, including underground facilities. It appears that the design strategy outlined will meet the criteria for EQc8.1 for natural light in 75% of regularly occupied spaces and does not warrant a separate credit for innovation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/22/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Intent: Implement a "Green Office Program" for building tenants who commit and prove they are operating as a "Green Office". The program will encourage tenants to operate more sustainably even if they are not performing a renovation (LEED-CI) for their office space. The goal is to provide method for tenants to move into the direction of sustainable operation, and with supporting documents showing achievement, be rewarded by the property management office. This will also encourage tenants to perform conduct cost-benefit analysis for improvements that can be achieved at nominal and/or no cost. Even credits that have a cost may still have that cost returned through reduced operating expenses. The "Green Office Program" is promoted through the building tenant guide and distributed by building managers, which encourages tenants to identify and implement no-cost and low-cost alternatives to operating in a standard indoor office environment. Scored on a scale of 100, offices are evaluated in seven categories: Energy Efficiency, People & Atmosphere; Travel & Commuting; Reduce, Reuse & Recycle; Cleaning; Remodeling & Construction; and LEED. When a specific strategy or improvement has been implemented, participating tenants earn "Leaf Credits." If an office achieves "70 Leaf Credits", it is then designated as a GREEN OFFICE. Here are a few items (entire program will be submitted with ID): Energy: - Set computers to "energy save" mode - Lower blinds in summer; raise blinds in winter - Install occupancy light sensors - Replace End of Life computer monitors with Energy Star Equipment - Set "sleep mode" for office equipment - Install compact fluorescent/low mercury light wherever possible People and Atmosphere: -Organize office employees to participate in a sustainability-focused community project once per year -Keep you local office employees updated quarterly about what green efforts you have achieved, your future sustainable goals, and how they can assist in reaching those goals Travel & Commuting: - Instead of traveling for meetings, reduce emissions by encourage teleconferencing and videoconferencing when possible - Ensure 25% of employees carpool or use mass transit to commute to work Reduce/Re-use/Recycle: - Use mugs and tumblers to save waste on disposable cups and plastic bottles - Participate in E-recycle Day for buildings annual e-recycle drive - Transition from petroleum-based or non-compostable products (ex: Styrofoam) to biodegradable products - Do not order any bottled water. Procure bottle-less water coolers to provide cool and hot filtered municipal water Remodeling & Construction: - Certify your office space as LEED-CI - Standardize workspace configuration to accommodate future change that will minimize remodeling and construction - Shift from "closed single offices" to efficient "open-office work plans" Requirements: Every 2 years, the tenant office manager would submit a scorecard to the property manager listing "green opportunities" achieved. Supporting documentation must be provided to achieve the credit. The tenant representative would also be required to attend quarterly building management/tenant meetings to updates to "Green Office Tenant Guidelines" and how they can promote sustainable office/business operation. As you can see, our goal is not to replace LEED-CI. Our program will not only encourage tenants seek LEED-CI, but also help grow our sustainable culture among building occupants beyond the built environment. Many tenants want to operate more sustainably. This program will be their guide.

Ruling:

The described approach would qualify for an Innovation in Operations point due to the comprehensive and extensive education and outreach to building occupants and tenants around sustainability issues. Please note that this initiative falls under the umbrella of green education, and only one education-related IO point can be awarded per project. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/24/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation & Design Process: Exemplary Performance in Alternative Transportation - Hybrid Vehicle Reimbursement Program Intent Reduce pollution and energy impacts from automobile use. Requirements To receive an innovation point, the project team will demonstrate that a comprehensive hybrid vehicle reimbursement program is in place with clear performance goals, including: 1. A statement of purpose describing what the program is trying to achieve from a health and environmental standpoint, focusing on reduced carbon emissions. 2. Procedural requirements for employees who participate in the program to comply with the guidelines. 3. A clear set of acceptable performance metrics by which to measure progress or achievement, such as a sample request for reimbursement form stating all data gathered (i.e. miles driven, vehicle purchased, vehicle replaced, vehicle fuel consumption, etc.), and calculated statistics, including equivalent pounds of carbon dioxide NOT released, compared to the baseline (vehicles driven, fuel consumed, and emissions released, prior to the program). 4. Documentation of the program\'s vehicle and procurement specifications, including a list of approved vehicles, and employee eligibility guidelines. Demonstrate that the vehicles purchased and miles driven result in improved environmental impact. Submittals 1. Copy of program guidelines and eligibility requirements. 2. Copy of request for reimbursement form. 3. Calculations illustrating number of participating employees, vehicles purchased, vehicles replaced, miles driven each week for commuting purposes, and whether the program influenced the decision to purchase a hybrid. 4. Calculations quantifying equivalent pounds of carbon dioxide NOT released. Design Approach As part of a corporate commitment to reduce its environmental impact, as well as a comprehensive effort to improve its leadership on environmental issues, including LEED-CI certification of its Corporate Center interiors, Bank of America announced on June 7, 2006 that it will reimburse Associates living within 90 miles of Charlotte, Boston, and Los Angeles and purchasing a new hybrid vehicle $3,000. Available to more than 49,000 associates, the program addresses a correlation between air quality, limited travel options (other than single-rider vehicles), and commute length. As of September 7, 2006, 200 Bank of America associates, including 118 in Charlotte, have taken advantage of the program and the Bank expects up to 100 more will participate by the end of 2006. The program is available to all associates working in the Bank of America Corporate Center and it is possible to monitor how many of those associates take advantage of the program. We request a ruling on whether implementation of this program would achieve an Innovation & Design credit, since it is available to ALL Bank of America Associates living within 90 miles of Charlotte, where the Bank of America Corporate Center Renovation Pilot Project is located.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an innovation and design credit for Exemplary Performance of SSc4.3, Alternative Transportation based on an incentive program for those employees purchasing new hybrid vehicles. The USGBC would like to clarify that under LEED-CI there is no credit titled SSc4.3. In LEED-CI, Alternative Transportation credits fall under SSc3.1, SSc3.2 and SSc3.3 with no direct correlating credit to LEED-NC SSc4.3, Alternative Transportation: Low-Emission & Fuel Efficient Vehicles. The LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide states that projects may be awarded one innovation point for Exemplary Performance in alternative transportation, SSc4, by instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan that demonstrates a quantifiable reduction in personal automobile use through the implementation of multiple alternative options. Following this criteria under LEED-CI, an innovation point could be awarded for the incentive program, as long as it is part of a comprehensive transportation management plan that takes into account other modes of alternative transportation. The incentive program would also need to be redefined to align with the LEED-NC v2.2 definition of low-emission and fuel-efficient vehicles which are either classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide. Based on LEED-NC v2.1 CIR ruling dated 5/9/2003, components of a transportation management plan that might be useful toward achieving an innovation credit include: active use of a regional carpool database; a "guaranteed ride home" program for carpoolers; transit trip planning assistance; and subsidizing regional transit passes, Amtrak commuter train tickets, and bicycle purchases for bicycle commuters. Please note that the achievement of credits SSc3.1, SSc3.2 and SSc3.3 will increase the likelihood of achievement of an innovation credit for exemplary performance of Alternative Transportation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/20/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

For our multifamily project, we propose the following approach to earn an ID point for transportation management. Please confirm whether this strategy is likely to earn an ID point if appropriately implemented and documented, and if not, what additional activities would be necessary to earn the credit. We propose to implement a two-part program to encourage bicycle use and reduce automobile use. Due to our suburban community\'s lack of a comprehensive, convenient public transportation system, we believe biking will be residents\' preferred alternative transportation mode. (Please note that this means we may not meet SSc4.1 requirements for public transportation access, but will meet 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4). (1) Implement a bicycle check-out program by which the apartment community loans bikes to residents to use for free. We expect the bikes would be used for errands and other periodic trips (when public transportation may not be practical), reducing automobile use for these trips. The bikes would also be used for recreation/exercise, contributing to a healthier community. For a 500-person community, we would purchase 5 bikes. (2) Subsidize residents\' purchase of bicycles for daily commuting. The check-out program would not be able to serve regular bike commuters. For these residents, the property will subsidize 10% of the purchase cost (up to $100) of a bicycle. Per LEED CIR ruling IDc1.1-5/9/2003, the program will continue for at least 5 years or 50 bicycles, whichever comes first.

Ruling:

Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is to provide guidance about the likely measures and documentation that would need to be included in the credit application. The intent of the comprehensive transportation management innovation credit is to implement multiple measures towards achieving a reduction in single passenger vehicle usage and the associated emissions. The proposed bicycle sharing and subsidies will contribute towards a comprehensive transportation management plan, but are not sufficient to qualify on their own. To develop a comprehensive transportation management plan the project team should incorporate measures to increase the use of carpooling and low-emitting vehicles similar to those listed in CIR ruling IDc1.1-5/9/2003. Furthermore, the bicycle subsidy program should offer a discount of at least 20% per CIR ruling SSc4.3-7/5/2007. Although, this CIR refers to parking discounts the same incentive would be necessary to be meaningful in all potential markets. The project team may also want to consider pursuing an innovation credit for exemplary performance under SSc4.2. This credit may be achieved in a residential development by providing covered storage facilities for at least 30% of the building residents, and by demonstrating adequate demand for the additional bicycle storage capacity and the existence of nearby destinations accessible by bicycle and/or the existence of bicycle infrastructure such as bike lanes or bike paths.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
3/11/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for the use of low-emitting insulation material. Intent Reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, potentially irritating and/or harmful to the comfort and wellbeing of installers and occupants. Requirements All insulation used in the building interior (defined as inside of the weatherproofing system) shall meet one of the testing and production requirements below: Option A: California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for The Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scaled Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. OR Option B: GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification (requirements are more stringent than those set forth by the Cal DHS Standard Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small-Scaled Environmental Chambers) Submittals Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer or responsible party, listing all the insulation used in the tenant space and stating that they meet or exceed the applicable testing and product requirements. Background The basis for our request is that within LEED for Homes MRc2.2 Insulation is awarded 0.5 points if it complies with California Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small Chambers. The effective use of insulation to minimize energy costs and improve control of environmental comfort with placement in the walls and above drop- ceilings of high-performance buildings has led to insulation being a highly utilized individual material in many LEED-CI buildings. Therefore, now more than ever, the assurance that insulation is not off-gassing harmful chemicals is an important step in assuring the health of all building occupants. Insulation is listed as one of a three component system under Option 6 - Ceiling and Wall Systems (LEED for Schools EQc4). We are proposing to have insulation identified as a stand-alone material due to its abundant use within a building. It is understood that LEED for Schools EQc4 allows up to 4 points for low-emitting materials. It is requested that insulation, by itself, as allowed in LEED for Homes MRc2.2 be eligible as an ID credit. To be consistent, this would be an option only if the project has not already received 4 points for low-emitting materials.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that an innovation credit can be awarded for projects using building insulation that meets the California Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small Chambers and/or is GREENGUARD Children & Schools certified. This strategy is acceptable for projects when the LEED project scope includes the installation of all roof, floor and wall insulation, and where all building insulation meets the indicated criteria. For CI projects where any roof, floor, or wall insulation is installed outside of the LEED project scope, and where all building insulation meets the indicated criteria, this strategy is only acceptable under SS Credit 1, Option L: Other Quantifiable Environmental Performance.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/4/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ergonomics Strategy

Ruling:

Intent: To create and maintain a flexible ergonomic environment that properly accommodates building users and promotes healthy, comfortable and productive work.
Requirements: Develop and implement a comprehensive ergonomics strategy that will have a positive impact on human health and comfort when performing daily activity for at least 75% of Full Time Equivalent building users. This strategy must include the four components listed below.
1. Identify activities and building functions for which ergonomic enhancement (i.e., ergonomic strategies which exceed standard industry practice) is both possible and desirable through education and equipment. -. Building users should be consulted on their preferences wherever possible. NOTE: Project teams are encouraged to consult one or more of the existing ergonomics standards and guidelines when identifying ergonomic enhancement opportunities. For computer workstations, these include the BIFMA G1, the ANSI/HFES 100-2007, and CSA Z412-00. The US Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed ergonomic guidelines specifically for the following industries: Shipyards, Poultry, Retail Grocery Stores, Nursing Homes, and Meatpacking. OSHA also provides helpful information for many other industries in addition to those listed here (please see the Resources section below).
2. Define a set of performance goals and expectations for the ergonomics strategy that address productivity, comfort, and health. Develop a plan and design process to meet them. Provide procedures to track and report the results of the ergonomics strategy, ensure that the performance goals have been met, and identify areas of potential improvement. These should include the following actions: a) Make the performance goals and ergonomics plan available to building users b) Provide a feedback system to collect anonymous responses and respond to them. This should be informal and ongoing. c) Maintain ongoing building user access to appropriate ergonomics METWA's, furnishings, and accessories and education. d) Conduct a survey of user satisfaction. This should be more formal than the feedback system, and occur periodically. The survey must be collected from a representative sample of building occupants making up at least 30% of the total occupants.
3. Provide machine, equipment, tools, work-aids (METWA's), furnishings, and accessories that reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and are acceptable to a wide range of building users. In a setting where building users that spend 50% or more of their time at computer workstations, the following four areas must be addressed: display, computer peripherals (keyboard/mouse), work surface, and chair. Computer workstations include areas in which workers interact with screens or monitors of any kind.
4. Provide ergonomics education to building users Provide at least two opportunities for building users to understand and take advantage of ergonomic features in their environment. At least one of these opportunities must be interactive, and at least one must include an explanation of the provided METWA's and furnishings, preferably by the manufacturer. Post-education evaluations must be conducted. Education opportunities may include, but are not limited to: a) Participatory classroom sessions conducted by an ergonomics professional b) Access to literature on products and basic ergonomic knowledge relevant to the building user's tasks c) Repetitive or regularly-scheduled workstation evaluations d) Interactive internet-based products such as assessment and training tools e) Hands-on experiences, such as access to the showroom of an ergonomic furnishing supplier
Submittals:
1. Provide a narrative that speaks to the requirements listed above. It should include: - descriptions of the steps the project team has taken to identify ergonomic enhancement opportunities. - a sentence or two verifying that it is possible to exceed standard industry practices to achieve an ergonomically superior workplace. - descriptions of the performance goals and expectations, and the steps the project team has taken to meet them - descriptions of the procedures put into place to track and report the results of the ergonomics strategy. Describe how each of the required actions, listed in #5 of the requirements section, will be take place. Describe the collaboration with the management team that will carry out these procedures. - description of how purchased METWA's and furnishings will benefit the building users as they conduct routine tasks and activities, the selection criteria used for choosing the products (i.e., how the safety and health of the building user was considered), and how the products will accommodate a wide range of size needs. Size needs can typically be met by buying products that come in 'families' (small, medium, large) or are highly adjustable. - descriptions of two ergonomics education opportunities made available to building users, including the objectives and content.
2. Provide a list of purchased METWA's and furnishings that minimize the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Include cut sheets and manufacturer information for each. For project certifying under LEED for Existing Buildings : Operations and Maintenance, at least one survey must be conducted during the performance period, and documented survey results and corrective actions to address issues identified through the surveys must also be provided.
Potential Technologies and Strategies: In general, consider METWA's and furnishings that will: - reduce awkward, non-neutral work postures (e.g. neck, shoulders, hands-wrist, low back, elbows, lower extremities) - reduce duration of sustained/static work postures (e.g. leaning forward, elevated arms, continuous grip) - reduce grip and pinch forces associated with required tasks (e.g. correct tools) - reduce the repetition and duration of tasks, especially those with non-neutral postures and/or higher forces - reduce contact stress - resting soft tissues of the body on hard or sharp surfaces. To address the four required areas for building users that spend 50% or more of their time at computer workstations, consider the following strategies: Display adjustability - The display centered directly in front of the body. - The top of the display screen placed no higher than the eyes. - The ability to place the display screen 18 to 36 inches from the eyes - Control over the tilt angle of the screen and its' position on the work surface - The capability to position the display low enough to accommodate individuals with bifocals or progressive addition lenses (PALs). This may be significantly lower than eye height reduced glare - The use of technologies such as flat-screen or anti-glare devices - The display positioned such that light sources will not create glare Peripherals - Paper documents placed on a document holder immediately to the left, right or below the display - The keyboard positioned so the home row (row with F and J keys) is no higher than the elbow - The ability to adjust the keyboard angle and set the slope of the keys flat, if so desired - Enough room for the mouse or pointing device to be used adjacent to the keyboard (left, right or in front). If a separate adjustable keyboard support is used it must have space specifically designed for using a mouse or pointing device; preferably the mouse pad should have the capability to be positioned flat if the keyboard is tilted - The arm used to control the pointing device supported, either on the work surface or armrest of the chair - Ergonomically correct keyboards, mouse, phones and other supporting peripherals purchased when possible Surface - Enough work surface to properly support the computer and peripherals. Provide a surface with minimum dimensions of 28 inches wide by 24 inches deep - Enough clear space under the surface to allow the legs and feet to be positioned in multiple postures - Furnishings in multi-occupant workstations that allow the user to control surface and support heights, with surface height initially at proper seated elbow height. If workstations are single-occupant it is acceptable for facilities management to adjust the heights of surfaces Chair - Range of chair types or chair features that optimize employee fit and task requirements. - Chairs with a wide range of adjustibility For building users that work in an industrial setting, consider: - Height adjustable work-surfaces (e.g. desks, work benches, fume hoods) - Pneumatic vs. electric vs. manual tools, material handling aids, such as lifts, height adjustable pallet jacks and hand trucks. - Range of hand and power tools sizes and weights that improve employee fit and function while reducing ergonomic risk factors, for example: grip diameter, multi-finger activation and vibration isolation For ergonomics education provided to building users, consider including information on: - The possible causes of musculoskeletal discomfort - Changing the workstation or work habits if discomfort is experienced during or after work - Benefits of taking work breaks either through altering tasks performed or leaving their workstation - Benefits of resting the eyes every 20 minutes - How to properly position and adjust display height and angle, keyboard height and angle, mouse location, use of task light and chair adjustments - Acceptable postures for the head, neck, shoulders, upper arms, wrists, back, legs and feet - Benefits of regularly changing posture either through adjusting the furnishings or altering the tasks performed - How to manage glare on the computer screen - A point of contact if discomfort becomes frequent (multiple times per week)
References: Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/index.html, Human Factors and Ergonomic Society http://www.hfes.org, Canadian Standards Association http://www.csa.ca, The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer's Association http://www.bifma.org/, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/, American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists http://www.acgih.org/, International Organization for Standardization www.iso.org please reference the ISO 9241 standard, The Hewlett Packard Safety and Comfort Guide http://www.hp.com/ergo/ HealthyComputing.com, http://www.healthycomputing.com/office/setup/, 'Effect of Office Ergonomics Intervention on Reducing Musculoskeletal Symptoms ' Amick B., Robertson, M., Derango, K., Bazzani, L., Moore, A., Rooney, T., Harrist, R., , Spine 2003, 23: 24, pp 2706-2711. This study demonstrates that an office ergonomics intervention can reduce a workers perceived level of pain and increase their productivity. 'A Prospective Study of Computer Users: II. Postural Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Disorders' Marcus, M., Gerr, F., Monteilh, C., Ortiz, D., Gentry, E., Cohen, S., Edwards, A., Ensor, C., Kleinbaum, D., , American Journal of Industrial Medicine 2002, 41: pp 236-249 This landmark study reports on the body postures and work practices that increase or decrease the odds of computer users experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort and disorders.
Definitions: METWA : machine, equipment, tools, work-aids.
**Update October 1, 2013: There are only four required components, the text previously mentioned five. Applicable credits were also updated.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/26/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTENT We believe that the proposed storm water management system design exceeds LEED\'s storm water goals and intent in both quantity and quality by 1) maintaining on-site infiltration and managing additional off-site storm water runoff, and 2) improving water quality by removing pollutants from on-site and off-site storm water runoff. Additional measures were taken to assure the storm water management system was designed to maximize treatment of storm water runoff from adjacent properties. DESIGN APPROACH The proposed new construction is located on 13.7 previously developed acres consisting mainly of hard-turf soccer fields, gravel parking, and a small abandoned building. Existing site best management practice\'s (BMP\'s) consist of one vegetated swale and there are no rate or volume control measures. Adjacent to the site, along the south and east borders, are 5.0 acres of residential development and county road that currently receive no treatment. The proposed 13.7 acre site and the adjacent off site 5.0 acres share a 48" culvert located in the southeast corner of the proposed site. The proposed on-site storm water management system consists of 4 infiltration/settlement basins, 2 vegetated swales and 1 detention pond. The system is designed to route water from the building roof and parking lots through pre-treatment infiltration basins located on the east and west ends of the parking lot. Water from the west end parking lot infiltration basin will outlet to a vegetated swale which will flow to the detention pond on the southern edge of the site. Water from the east end parking lot infiltration basin will outlet to another infiltration basin near the southeast corner of the museum, which then outlets to a vegetated swale before entering the detention pond on the southern edge of the site. The additional 5.0 off-site acres of storm water runoff will be rerouted to enter the site at the infiltration basin at the southeast corner of the site. As explained above, after treatment in this infiltration basin the runoff flows through a vegetated swale and in to the detention pond. All storm water will then pass through one additional infiltration basin before exiting the site. PROPOSED COMPLIANCE After the construction of the project and its site appurtenances are completed, the impervious areas of the site will consist of a 0.9 acre building footprint, 1.4 acre parking lot, and 1.2 acres of trails, patios, turfed surfaces, and sidewalks. The remaining 10.2 acres of the site will consist of various types of native and adaptive vegetation along with BMP\'s. The 5.0 off-site acres will be rerouted to be incorporated in the BMP\'s of the proposed site. The project team intentionally designed the storm water management system to maximize treatment of on-site storm water runoff and to handle 5.0 additional acres of runoff (approximately 35% additional area) from an off-site residential area and section of county road currently receiving zero treatment. Through hydraulics/hydrology models we have confirmed that the site will reduce peak discharge rates for the 1 and 2 year 24 hour storm events by 30%-15% respectively. The site will also reduce discharge volumes for the 1 and 2 year 24 hour storm events by 50% and 25% respectively. Through water quality models we have confirmed that the site will reduce the total suspended solids by 85% and total phosphorus by 60%. We are confident the combined interaction between the infiltration basins, swales and the detention pond assures that the project site exceed LEED goals and intent for both storm water quantity and quality. PROPOSED SUBMITTAL Site Plan Landscape Plan Hydrology Model Report As a result of our efforts, we believe that the design and implementation of the project\'s storm water management system and the treatment of 5.0 additional acres of off-site runoff should be granted 1 LEED ID point. Please confirm compliance.

Ruling:

As the described measures appear to meet credit intent while exceeding credit requirements an Innovation and Design credit could be achieved. Please provide detailed plans and calculations clearly illustrating how the measures on the project site meet credit requirements while treating an increased volume of at least 35% from offsite sources. Please be certain to document how the offsite water will be channeled to the site and that this offsite project will be completed concurrent with the completion of the project seeking certification, or that appropriate permits have been obtained and funds have been allocated for the completion of this offsite project. Please provide complete stormwater calculations for the offsite area, illustrating, among other things, that this offsite area will not overload the onsite systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project is a laboratory building being constructed in an existing building. As part of the design process, the Labs21 EPC and the LEED Draft Application Guide for Labs were used as a guideline for sustainable design features of the labs. Towards that end, we are proposign the following for ID Credit 1.1: ID CR 1: Laboratory Safety: Intent: Insure the health and safety of laboratory employees Requirements: Design laboratories to ensure contaminants are contained and workers are protected (relates to AGL EQ Pre-Requisite 3 and Credits 9.1 and 9.2) 1. Ensure minimum requirements for safety and worker protection are met through compliance with ANSI / AIHA Z9.5 latest version. 2. Conduct Fume Hood commissioning including ASHRAE-110 method for testing performance of Laboratory Fume Hoods (latest version). This includes field testing each of the new fume hoods as well as each of the existing fume hoods scheduled to remain in the new construction. 3. Design all alarm systems in the laboratory to be inherently self-identifying and fail-safe Submittals will be 1. Letter certifying ventilation design is in compliance with ANSI / AIHA Z9.5 latest version 2. Specifications and Fume Hood Commissioning report 3. Fume hood controls and alarm system diagrams and schematics from design documents Please advise if this suggested point will meet the requirements of the Innovation in Design Credit 1 and will be likely to be awarded to this project.

Ruling:

ASHRAE 110 commissioning of fume hoods is acceptable for an ID credit on your project. To meet the requirement, ALL fume hoods on the project must be commissioned, and commissioning must occur with permanent HVAC systems in place and operating. Your team should be aware that ASHRAE 110 commissioning requires tracer gas testing, which may require the discharge of relatively large quantities of Sulfa Hexafluoride, a climate change gas. Teams using ASHRAE 110 are encouraged to seek alternative testing methods involving other gases, or the use of higher sensitivity sensors so that lower quantities of gases can be used. *Please note a previous ruling to this CIR was posted and has since been revised by the IEQ TAG.* Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/18/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This is a general guidance Credit Interpretation Request, not specifically addressing ID credit. This credit interpretation was filed under ID because there was not an appropriate category. Our project is a 396,000 s.f. mixed-use project designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The mixed use components consist of residential units, residential parking and commercial tenant space. The commercial tenant space will occupy approximately 10,000 s.f. (2.5% of the total building square footage). The scope of this project only provides a shell for the tenant spaces which will be designed and built out by future tenants. The fact that the completion of these spaces is outside of the scope and schedule of this project complicates application for certain LEED-NC credits. According to the Administrative Credit Interpretation Request dated 3/23/07 (Ruling dated 4/20/07) it would be acceptable to "withdraw the retail portion from the project scope of work under LEED-NCv2.2." As we have not found any direction for clearly defining and excluding portions of the building from the "project scope of work under LEED-NC 2.2," we are asking for direction. We propose to exclude all future tenant spaces and occupancy from LEED NC documentation and calculations for all credits across the board. Considering the above referenced CIR and the fact that future tenant improvements are indeed outside of the scope of this building project, this seems to be a reasonable strategy. Please confirm that our proposed compliance path is acceptable, and please give us direction if any special steps need to be taken to document this exclusion.

Ruling:

The inquiry states that the subject project is mixed-use containing both residential and commercial space. The commercial space accounts for 2.5% of the overall floor area. The inquiry is asking if this space can be excluded from the NC application as it will not be improved within the scope of the initial project. The inquiry references a CIR ruling (IDc1.1 dated 4/20/07) that allowed projects to either exclude the unimproved tenant spaces from the application or to postpone submittal of the project until all build out is completed. The referenced CIR ruling was amended on 6/23/2007. The revised ruling indicates that if the owner/tenant occupies more than 50% of the building (50% minimum tenant improvement is completed in the initial building scope), then the entire project should be submitted using the NC Rating System and tenant improvement guidelines should be produced to inform future tenant build-out. Please see the revised IDc1.1 ruling for additional guidance. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Activated Carbon Filters for Low-Cost Demand Control Ventilation and Energy Efficiency This CIR proposes an innovation design credit for a suite of design features and a design procedure that will reduce the cost of demand controlled ventilation (DCV). The procedure is based on a combination of: scrubbing the air with activated charcoal (AC) filters to reduce the number of critical rooms in a building that will require CO2 sensors; using air-to-air heat recovery for the building air: using time-of--day control of ventilation for the building zones. The proposed design procedure will enable selecting the minimum number of CO2 sensors to control the amount of delivered outside air. This will reduce the initial cost as well as the annual cost of maintaining their calibration. The new Pacific Garden Mission building in Chicago will house an average of 800 homeless people on any given night. The design calls for using activated carbon filters in the main air handling unit for the entire building to help control the peculiarly strong body odors of the guests and to reduce the required outside air and associated energy use. Three "hot boxes" will also be used to disinfect by 180oF+ heat all the clothes of the incoming guests as part of the thorough laundry process. The activated carbon filters are capable of reducing these outdoor air rates by over 70%. This was determined by applying the Indoor Air Quality procedure described in Section 6.2 of ASHRAE Standard 62-1999 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality1 To be conservative, we will assume that only a 50% reduction in outside air will be feasible because additional outdoor air may be necessary to control body odors by dilution. Besides reducing the cost of conditioning the ventilation air an additional benefit of the activated carbon filters will be to help reduce the number of CO2 sensors needed in the building for effective and affordable demand control ventilation. By reducing the required outside air by 50% the number of "critical rooms" is reduced. We define "critical rooms" as the rooms having a required minimum fraction of outside air, say 0.50, as calculated using the Ventilation Rate Procedure for multiple spaces and the Indoor Air Quality Procedure in ASHRAE 62,2-20012. The rationale for not installing CO2 sensors in rooms with outdoor air fractions below a specific number, say 0.50, is: 1. if regularly occupied rooms with outdoor air fractions above 0.50 are getting sufficient outside air, the rooms with lower fractions should automatically get sufficient outside air. 2. one air handling unit serves the entire PGM building. Therefore, a small number of CO2 sensors can control the outdoor air fraction throughout the building. (The air handler is equipped with multiple fans--their redundancy makes it acceptable to serve a building this size, approx. 118,580sf net interior floor area with one air handler.) 3. The design will also include air-to-air heat recovery at the main air handling unit using either run-around-coils or heat pipes. 4. For major parts of the day CO2 sensor control of the supply and outside air quantities for particular space will be overridden by direct time-of-day control by the central EMS. The building program is arranged so that during the daytime the lower two floors will be occupied and conditioned for occupancy. The upper two floors are dormitories that will be unoccupied and their environment will be kept at unoccupied settings, including just enough supply air to slightly pressurize these floors relative to the outside. Conversely during the evening hours, the lower two floors will be unoccupied and their environment will be kept at unoccupied settings with the minimal required supply air to temper the space and control building pressurization. The central EMS will be used to control the supply air to these large blocks of the building. (This will also allow using a very low diversity factor to size the main air handling unit since it will be used to condition about 1/2 of the building at any one time.) 5. The limiting factor in determining the minimum acceptable amount of outside air may very well be the perception of odors by the occupants. This may require higher amounts of outside for dilution of odors than what would be called for by the CO2 sensor. This will be determined empirically after occupancy begins. In summary, the above design features and program requirements make it possible to reduce the number of CO2 sensors at this job by at least 50%. This will be documented in the summary table of the Ventilation Rate Procedure analysis. As such, the use of activated carbon filters makes demand controlled ventilation economically viable. Our first question is whether the above package of design features and approach is acceptable for reducing the number of required CO2 sensors and the cost of DCV and whether this would be considered an Innovation in Design and suitable for receiving a a LEED credit. Our second question is whether we can calculate the energy savings due to the activated carbon filters using the same analysis method approved for demand control ventilation. The % reduction due to the DCV would be calculated by subtracting saved energy from DCV in the numerator and using the Base Case energy cost without DCV in the denominator. Our preliminary energy modeling indicates annual savings of at least $10,000 per year or about 5% of the projected energy costs of the Current Design. These savings would be included under EA Credit 1 Optimize Energy Performance. We look forward to the USGBC\'s comments on this potential innovation in design and on the savings calculation method for the activated carbon filters. 1. ASHRAE 62.2-1999 Section 6.2 and Appendix E 2. ASHRAE 62.2-1999 Section 6.1.3.1 Ventilation Procedure for Multiple Spaces

Ruling:

Based on the description provided, it does not appear that there are additional environmental benefits from this design approach that would qualify for an Innovation in Design credit, for the following reasons. LEED requires compliance with the Standard 62 using the Ventilation Rate Procedure (VRP). Reducing outdoor air rates is only allowed using the Standard\'s Indoor Air Quality Procedure. To comply with EQp1, outdoor air rates cannot be lower than those prescribed by the VRP, whether charcoal filters are used or not. Unfortunately the VRP tables do not have a category for "homeless centers." If they did, the rates would be quite high given the source strength. The closest occupancy in terms of body odor source strength is a "health club/weight room" which requires 20 cfm/p plus 0.06 cfm/ft2. In any case, the designers may have to request help from ASHRAE SSPC 62.1. Based on EQp1, the ASHRAE 62 Indoor Air Quality Procedure cannot be used to reduce ventilation rates. CO2 sensors should be used to monitor air quality; an alternative method for monitoring air quality has not been substituted outside of manual control in response to odors. EQc1 requires CO2 monitoring in densely occupied areas for air handlers serving multiple spaces with varying occupancy. As long as your design meets this requirement, then it will qualify for a point under EQc1. CO2 DCV must be customized to this application since the project requires a much higher ventilation rate compared to the activity level. The standard assumptions used in determining CO2 setpoints assume CO2 concentration tracks bio-effluent concentration and that bioeffluent/CO2 emission rate tracks activity level. This works for typical projects, but it would not be true for a homeless center. The project team may want to reconsider application of CO2/DCV for this project. Under EAc1, the ASHRAE 90.1 methodology calls for the same outdoor air rate for both the budget and proposed building. If DCV is used on this project, the energy savings can be demonstrated through the "exceptional calculation method" allowed by the standard. The energy cost savings would be included in EAc1. Strategies such as CO2 and humidity monitoring are addressed under existing credits within the LEED Rating System. Please note that another issue unrelated to Standard 62 is disease control. Homeless people are often carriers of disease (e.g. TB) and can be highly susceptible due to health conditions. In this case, the recirculation of any air in a homeless center may not be desirable. While very good particle filters (e.g. MERV 15) can remove most bacteria and droplet nuclei carrying viruses. 100% outdoor air with heat recovery may be a better solution. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/13/2003
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation Credit Inquiry for PVC Intent: To eliminate the use of PVC to the extent possible due to the hazards of PVC production and disposal. Description: One of the program goals for this project was to eliminate the use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to the extent possible. The Pentagon Renovation Program required in their statement of work that PVC should be eliminated unless: a. There was not an alternative product b. Alternative product selection compromised performance c. Alternative product selection had an unacceptable impact to budget or schedule (note that the program did pay more for some non-PVC products). The purpose for attempting to eliminate PVC is as follows: Toxicity liabilities: The manufacturing of PVC burdens the environment with numerous environmentally undesirable byproducts. - The lifecycle of PVC production creates four persistent organic pollutants that are identified for phase-out under the United Nations Environment Program POP Treaty. - Ethylene dichloride (EDC) and vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) which are released to air and water during manufacture of PVC are toxic and carcinogenic. - When PVC is incinerated as part of a Municipal Solid Waste strategy, toxic dioxins are formed as a byproduct of incomplete combustion. - Chemical additives called phthalates are added to PVC to enhance performance characteristics such as flexibility. These compounds are typically DEHP and MEHP which affect bronchial contracting receptors and thereby generates a hyper reactive condition in the lungs. Because these additives are not chemically bonded, they tend to leach out of the PVC causing indoor air quality to be compromised. Lack of market stewardship: According to the Worldwatch Institute, global PVC production exceeded 25 million tons in 1999. By 2002, it is estimated that the figure will rise to 33 million tons. Accordingly, although 250 million tons of PVC are in use today it is estimated that over 100 million tons have been landfilled or incinerated. The production of one ton of chlorine requires about 3,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity. Since 40 percent of chlorine is attributed to PVC production, the energy burden for PVC is about 1,800 kilowatt-hours per tons of product. Because the PVC industry does not promote any kind of product stewardship initiatives, from the perspective of both resources and energy consumption, there is no credible proactive effort to enhance the properties of PVC to characterize it as a sustainable material. Reclamation deficiencies: In the document Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste, the EPA estimates that 970 thousand tons of PVC were generated in 1999 of which only a "negligible" amount was recovered. So small is PVC recycling, in fact, the amount recognized for discards equals the amount of material generated. Because PVC must be produced with a number of additives such as lead and cadmium to produce unique characteristics, it is difficult and expensive to reclaim resins. Most recycling that does occur is post-industrial which means that nearly everything that has entered the consumer market will eventually be landfilled or incinerated. The project team did evaluate the environmental impacts of those materials that were specified in lieu of PVC. For this project, a number of different products were specified where PVC might have conventionally been a "default" selection. These included, but were not limited to: - High density polyethylene (HDPE), for wastewater, potable water, foundation drainage and sprinkler systems. - Bentonite waterstops in lieu of PVC waterstops. - Linoleum (rapidly renewable material), in lieu of PVC flooring - Carpet tile with recycled PVC backing Could an innovation credit be achieved for the elimination of PVC (including the use of contract language to eliminate PVC) to the extent possible on this project?

Ruling:

PVC is an enormously controversial issue. To help resolve how the LEED program will deal with this issue, the Technical and Scientific Advisory Committee has been charged with reviewing the information sources available and to advise the LEED Steering Committee on whether (and if so how best) to give credit under LEED for the exclusion or minimization of PVC products in LEED buildings. Until this review process is completed and the determination made by the Steering Committee, the USGBC will not award a credit for minimization of PVC-containing products. For more information about the process under way to address this issue, see the following: http://www.usgbc.org/leed/tsac/pvcvinyl.asp Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/19/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Grants for PV Panels The Design Build Team for a government office building in California was given a stipulated sum for the entire scope of the project. In an effort to incorporate green strategies to the project that would otherwise not have economically feasible with the limited budget, the Design Build Team sought out new sources for funding, outside the Project stipulated sum, including federal, state and local grants and industry incentive programs. One identified source was a local utility that would donate photovoltaic panels under the stipulation that the panels had to be incorporated into the architecture, and not just added onto the building. The design team re-designed parts of the exterior, and worked with the exterior building envelope sub-contractors and the PV panel suppliers to develop systems to incorporate the PV panels directly into the exterior curtain wall. As a result, over 300 PV panels were incorporated into the project at no cost to the Owner. The PV wall system includes both structural butt-glazed panels and captured panels, which kept intact the original design intent. Question: Would the seeking out of funding sources for green features be considered an innovation point?

Ruling:

No, securing additional funding for green building features does not constitute an innovation. Rewarding projects that buy down first cost through incentive programs is contrary to the LEED objective of demonstrating green building performance within conventional cost assumptions. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/19/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 320,000 s.f. mixed-use project being designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The mixed use components consist of residential units, residential parking and commercial tenant space (shell only). The project is located in Solano County, CA. We are seeking an innovation credit for a Comprehensive Transportation plan based on the ID credit previously approved on 5/9/2003 The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternative Transportation and reduce the drive alone trips through the use of a Transportation Management Plan. The project is currently pursuing three SS 4 baseline credits including: a. Project is located within 1/4 mile of Bus service. b. Bicycle Storage is provided for residents and retail customers and employees. c. Preferred Parking is provided for low emitting/ fuel efficient vehicles . The Comprehensive Transportation Plan will include the following additional elements: a. The developer will provide free conferencing facilities to accommodate flexible work schedules and reduce the drive alone trips. A conference room with infrastructure for video conferencing/ telecommuting will be provided for use by residents. b. The Solano County Transportation Authority provides a number of transportation amenities/ alternates for its residents and information on the same will be displayed in the lobby and included in the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. Information and amenities include: i. Maps/ schedules/ contact info for Public Transportation ii. Information on incentives provided by Solana County Transportation Authority including: 1. Emergency Ride Home Program 2. "Bucks for Bikes" program (Up to 60% -$100 max of the cost of a bicycle) 3. Commuter Check Program 4. Carpool/ Vanpool incentives (Up to $100 Gas Card) c. The developer will provide 10 free bicycles for the use of residents. Bicycle maintenance and replacement will subsequently be part of the Home Owner\'s Association Submittals will include a. A floor plan showing conferencing facility within residential development. b. Copy of CCRs outlining available public transportation amenities. c. Commitment letter or receipt from developer for 10 bicycles.

Ruling:

This CIR is requesting that the project\'s listed transportation management measures be evaluated for compliance with an innovation in design credit. Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is provided as guidance about the likely outcome if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. The project is likely to be awarded the credit if the following items are clearly documented: 1) Achievement of SSc4.1, 4.2, and 4.4. 2) Access to the on-site workspace for all occupants for at least five years. 3) Construction and maintenance of the transportation information kiosk, including information on: rideshares, commuter checks, local transit options, and guaranteed ride home programs for at least five years. 4) Bike purchase or subsidies for 5 years, or 50 bicycles, whichever comes first. This ruling assumes that the mixed use project is essentially residential for the purposes of the credit. Per the SSc4.4 CIR ruling of 4/4/2005, the project is considered residential if the commercial square footage is less than 10% of the entire building. For further reference, a number of transportation management compliance strategies have been outlined in the "Innovation in Design Credit Catalog" available at http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3569 in addition to the precedent identified in the CIR ruling of 5/9/2003 cited. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

From the Innovation in Design Credit Catalog (March 2008), we find that a previous project received an ID credit for "building elevators with innovative technology that does not use hydraulic fluid, eliminating the need for a machine room and reducing the energy required [including demonstrating] the associated reduction of energy use." Our project is a large destination resort which includes 18 service and passenger elevators: 14 high-rise and 4 low-rise. Compared to conventional traction (high-rise) and hydraulic (low-rise) elevators typically specified for this type of project (based on a recent similar-scale resort project located near our project), the elevators for the project will have these benefits: Annual process energy cost will be reduced by 65% compared to that of conventional elevators: $8,400/yr vs $23,900/yr. The coated steel belts used in the proposed fourteen high-rise elevators have a lifespan twice that of conventional hoist-rope assemblies. This means that, for the fourteen high-rise elevators, the owner will need to replace 12,600 feet of steel belts half as often as for conventional elevators. The proposed fourteen high-rise elevators do not require lubrication because they do not have hoist ropes and machine rooms. This will eliminate, for each elevator, 1 gallon of petroleum-based and 3 -4 gallons of synthetic-base oil each year. Compared to the conventional approach of four low-rise hydraulic elevators, the proposed four traction elevators will use no hydraulic fluid, for a savings of 320 gallons. Elevator hydraulic fluid is typically a hydrocarbon. From BuildingGreen.com: "Leaking hydraulic oil, like all spilled oil, poses environmental risks in the form of soil and water contamination. Cleanup of hydraulic-oil-contaminated soils is a difficult and costly task.." All these elevators do not require a machine room. If we were including conventional elevators in our project, these machine rooms would total 3,200 sf. This additional space would require additional construction, including structural steel and framing, concrete, exterior and interior finishes, roofing, and electrical systems, for an added project cost of $1,120,000. Will this combination of benefits be sufficient for achievement of an ID credit?

Ruling:

The project team is requesting that an Innovation in Design credit for savings associated with using non-traditional elevators thereby reducing the annual energy cost, removing the use of hydraulic fluid, reducing the maintenance required for the steel belts, and eliminating the capital cost of installing elevator machine rooms. Some of the benefits proposed are already accounted for in other credits, and therefore not eligible to also contribute towards an innovation point. The cost savings associated with the elevator should be accounted for in an exemplary calculation as part of Energy and Atmosphere credit 1. Also, the capital cost reduction associated with removing elevator machine rooms is not typically used as support for an ID credit, which is awarded for a strategy that provides a significant and quantifiable environmental benefit. The proposed reduction of the decreased need to replace the steel belts and reduction of the hydraulic oils may be worthy of an innovation point, however further information will be needed for certification. For certification, please provide the calculations for the baseline of the use of steel belts and the hydraulic oils, as well as the reductions that can be seen from the proposed strategy. Additionally, please provide quantifiable information on the environmental benefits of the proposed strategy such as the associated carbon emissions reduction, or specific information on soil and water contamination reduction from the proposed strategy. Also, please include cutsheets for the proposed elevators. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to submit the following inquiry: will utilizing well system for irrigation of the landscaped portion of the school project\'s site qualify for "innovative performance"? The credit intent is to utilize well pumping water for irrigation from ground water aquifer instead of providing water for irrigation from storm water basins, so the storm water basins area can be utilized as a green space, except during rain. Although designed on the site dry storm water basins can be easily utilized as water detention ponds collecting rainwater to irrigate selective landscaped areas (playfields), the water well was used instead for this purpose. The following are requirements for "Innovative Performance" and description, how the proposed design\'s approach would meet these requirements: 1. Quantitative performance improvements. Location of the well in the middle of the playfields minimizes the irrigation piping. Ground water aquifer allows continuous, uninterrupted supply of filtered water. In the pumphouse adjacent to the well there is on-demand irrigation controller and AC Tech Variable Frequency Speed motor drive which controls well pumps. Both of these controllers allow for easy interface between the ground water well supply and the irrigation demand read by the irrigation controller\'s soil moisture sensors. 2. Comprehensive process and specification: Well system for irrigation addresses other aspects of the project in addition to irrigation. In the baseline approach, the source of irrigation would be rainwater collected in storm water basins - detention ponds. These standing water ponds would need to be enclosed for safety reasons on school premises, they could be also a breeding ground for mosquitoes, foreign matters collection and prone to contamination. By utilizing well for irrigation the dry storm water basin areas can be treated as green spaces at any time except for rain. They can be used for educational purposes such as play areas, PE practice fields, marching band practice, science projects, amphitheater and other uses. Also the green grassy spaces will generate more CO2 and will have direct positive benefit to the environment. The calculations that show water well system is sufficient and necessary supporting data will be provided as a part of credit submittal. 3. The credit is applicable to all other projects where climatological, soil and ground water data prove it viable.

Ruling:

No, utilizing well pumping water for irrigation from ground water aquifer does not qualify as innovative performance. The credit intent of WEc1, Water Efficient Landscaping, is to "limit or eliminate the use of potable water, or other natural surface or subsurface water resources available on or near the project site, for landscape irrigation". In addition, NC v2.2 WEc1 CIR ruling dated 9/19/2006 and NC v2.1 WEc1.2 CIR rulings dated 1/20/2004 and 11/5/2005 all state that the use of surface water or water drawn from receiving waters is not an acceptable way to meet the credit intent. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking approval of a concept for an innovation point for low emission office systems furniture and seating. Our project is a 280,000 SF office building that is registered for certification under LEED-NC v2.1. A developer is building the base building core and shell and a single tenant will lease the building. The project is currently in the design phase, and it is our goal to achieve LEED-NC EQ credits 4.1 through 4.4. Since over 75% of the floor area of the project will be occupied by open office systems furniture, and emissions from these systems will have a significant impact on IAQ, we plan to specify a low emission furniture system that complies with the requirements of LEED-CI EQ cr 4.5 (Low Emitting Materials, Systems Furniture and Seating). We believe that this merits an innovation point because LEED-NC does not address emissions from furniture, and in our project these emissions will have a significant impact on IAQ. In order to demonstrate compliance, we are proposing to comply with the intent, requirements, and submittals of LEED-CI EQ cr 4.5. We are requesting that the approval of this innovation point not be contingent on our project achieving any of the points in LEED-NC EQ cr 4. We are requesting this condition because we believe that even without the attainment of LEED-NC EQ cr 4, our proposed innovation point will significantly enhance IAQ, and it is above and beyond the scope of the EQ points in LEED-NC. We are also requesting that the attainment of this innovation point not be contingent on the attainment of LEED-NC EQ cr 4, because we can not be certain that we will actually be able to attain any of the points in LEED-NC EQ cr 4 until the construction of the project has been completed.

Ruling:

The project is inquiring about submitting a Low-Emitting Furniture proposal for an Innovation & Design point. It is acceptable for an NC project to achieve an ID point for Low-Emitting Furniture. As indicated in CIR Ruling 1/21/03, "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." To ensure a successful credit submittal, be sure to comply with the established credit intent and requirements of LEED-CI EQc4.5. Credit achievement will be independent of LEED-NC EQ credit 4, Low-Emitting Materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/7/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The IT department proposes moving the current server network to a virtual server network. The move would produce immediate benefits to both the IT department and Harris construction as a whole. Virtualization is a proven software technology that is rapidly transforming the IT landscape and fundamentally changing the way that people compute. Today\'s powerful x86 computer hardware was originally designed to run only a single operating system and a single application, but virtualization breaks that bond, making it possible to run multiple operating systems and multiple applications on the same computer at the same time, increasing the utilization and flexibility of hardware. In essence, virtualization lets us transform hardware into software. The use of software such as VMware ESX will allow us to transform or "virtualize" the hardware resources of an x86-based computer-including the CPU, RAM, hard disk and network controller-to create a fully functional virtual machine that can run its own operating system and applications just like a "real" computer. Multiple virtual machines share hardware resources without interfering with each other so that you can safely run several operating systems and applications at the same time on a single computer. Power Consumption Energy consumption is a critical issue for Harris IT today, whether the goal is to reduce cost, save the environment or keep our datacenter running. In the United States alone, datacenters consumed $4.5 billion worth of electricity in 2006. Industry analyst Gartner1 estimates that over the next 5 years, most enterprise data centers will spend as much on energy (power and cooling) as they do on hardware infrastructure. Virtualization allows us to reduce our energy costs and consumption by 80%. Most servers and desktops today are in use only 8-15% of the time they are powered on, yet most hardware consumes 60-90% of the normal workload power even when idle. VMware virtualization has advanced resource and memory management features that enable consolidation ratios of 15:1 or more which increase hardware utilization to as much as 85%. Once virtualized, a new feature of VMware Distributed Resource Scheduler (DRS) called Distributed Power Management (DPM) monitors utilization across the datacenter and intelligently powers off unneeded physical servers without impacting applications and users. With VMware virtualization we can dramatically reduce energy consumption without sacrificing reliability or service levels. Reduce the Environmental Impact of IT For Harris this equates to every server virtualized, we can save about 7,000 kilowatt hours, or four tons of CO2 emissions, every year. This means our 12 servers could be reduced to 4 servers through virtualization. The reduction in servers along with the savings in electricity with the reduced cooling requirements equate to as savings of 49,000 kilowatt hours, or 28 tons of CO2 emissions every year. Currently 60 cents of every dollar spent for data center energy is used for cooling equipment and not powering it. Conclusion In short the five major reasons to virtualize the Harris IT servers are: Server Consolidation and Infrastructure Optimization: Virtualization makes it possible to achieve significantly higher resource utilization by pooling common infrastructure resources and breaking the legacy "one application to one server" model. Physical Infrastructure Cost Reduction: With virtualization, we can reduce the number of servers and related IT hardware in the data center. This leads to reductions in real estate, power and cooling requirements, resulting in significantly lower IT costs. Improved Operational Flexibility & Responsiveness: Virtualization offers a new way of managing IT infrastructure and can help IT administrators spend less time on repetitive tasks such as provisioning, configuration, monitoring and maintenance. Increased Application Availability & Improved Business Continuity: Eliminate planned downtime and recover quickly from unplanned outages with the ability to securely backup and migrate entire virtual environments with no interruption in service. Improved Desktop Manageability & Security: Deploy, manage and monitor secure desktop environments that end users can access locally or remotely, with or without a network connection, on almost any standard desktop, laptop or tablet PC. Virtualization is a technology that can benefit Harris Construction. The employment of virtualization solutions will reduce IT costs while increasing the efficiency, utilization and flexibility of their existing computer hardware.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that the implementation of virtualization in data centers may be considered for an innovation in design credit. Virtualization is a software technology that allows servers to run multiple operating systems on one server at a time. The strategies outlined in the request primarily focus on increased resource utilization, increased operational and application flexibility, and improving manageability and security, among other things. Other savings are just a by-product of the technology. This is not eligible for innovation in design credit. A similar CIR has been posted related to data transfer media dated 9/30/2008, under NCv2.1. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can a project earn ID credit for being in a LEED ND neighborhood? What level of certification or stage or review must the project have completed?

Ruling:

Yes, a project can earn ID credit for being in a LEED for Neighborhood Development certified project. The LEED-ND project must be certified, not just registered. LEED-ND projects at any certification level (Certified through Platinum) and any stage of certification (Stage 1, 2, or 3) are eligible.
**Update October 1, 2013 - The ruling below is no longer valid for project registered after 7/1/2013. As many prerequisites and credits within LEED-ND and LEED-NC address similar concepts, simply locating a NC project within LEED-ND neighborhood is not considered innovative and in some cases, can lead to double-counting the use of the same strategy in both Rating Systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/22/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Title: Whole Building Double Water Filtration to Obviate the Need for Bottled Water Intent: To minimize or eliminate the use of plastic water bottles in buildings by providing the purity levels afforded by bottled water through comprehensive building water filtration. The bottled water industry has grown substantially in the past decade. About 74% of Americans drink bottled water; one in five drinks only bottled. Demand is outstripping recycling capacity. According to the Container Recycling Institute, each year an ever smaller proportion of plastic bottles are recycled; from 2 out of 5 in the mid \'90s, to only 1 out of 7 today. Seventy million water bottles are disposed of each day, with 60 million going into landfills, oceans or incinerators. Our project plans to implement a two-stage water filtration system that provides water purity equal to or better than bottled water. Implementing water filtration technology is an answer to the severe environmental impact of bottled water, because it reconciles people\'s desire for pure, safe drinking water with the imperative of reducing waste. By installing two-stage water filtration - first at the main (point-of-entry, POE) and then downstream within kitchen cabinets (point-of-use, POU) -- and educating our occupants about the health and environmental advantages of the system, we anticipate a dramatic reduction in the purchase of bottled water in our building and associated waste. The two-stage configuration, and the specific equipment selected, are designed so as to minimize environmental impact by 1) at POE using negligible water for self-cleaning, and 2) at POU achieving significant filter cartridge longevity. Requirements: - Provide building-wide point-of-entry water filtration that removes particulate contamination equal to or smaller than 10 microns; AND - Provide point-of-use water filtration at 0.2 micron (fine enough to remove bacteria) and NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and 53 certified. AND - Educate building occupants about the system, how it works and its substantial environmental benefits. Benefits: - Obviate the need for bottled water by providing high performance and low impact two-stage water filtration that will substantially reduce the amount of plastic water bottles going to waste from our building. - Reduce the exposure to potentially harmful waterborne contaminants for the entire population through universal access to filtered water. - Reduce the energy required to heat water by screening out particulates that over time negatively impact system efficiency. - Reduce the amount of pollutants released in the manufacture and transportation of bottled water attributable to our building. There are 70 million bottles of water consumed in the US per day. Dividing that number by the total population of approximately 306,000,000, means that 23% of the US population is drinking one bottle of water a day. We believe this estimate to be conservative and that widespread adoption of two-stage water filtration could have a much bigger impact, especially in areas with known water quality problems. We estimate that our 1200 apartment project will have 2130 occupants. Therefore, 23% of 2130 = 479 people drinking one bottle of water a day times 365 days/yr = 174,835 bottles for this one building resulting in a reduction of 149,858 (6 out of 7) bottles going to landfill, oceans or incineration. New occupants will be given an orientation session at the time of lease by the property manager explaining the dual system, the POU maintenance requirements and why the cost and environmental impact of bottled water can be avoided in the building. The tenant environmental guideline will also detail the environmental impact of bottled water and describe the system benefits and performance. The filtration system will be a highlighted feature on all leasing and green building tours.

Ruling:

Installation of a water filtration system, with the intent of eliminating the use of plastic water bottles is an acceptable effort for achieving an Innovation in Design credit, as long as calculations and policy/program descriptions are provided as required by posted CIR ruling dated 11/15/2007, showing the quantifiable benefits that may result from the reduction of waste and transportation. Please provide the policy/program document which details the environmental impact of bottled water use and describes the system benefits and performance. Policy/program descriptions must also confirm that the building?provided filtered water will be available at 100% of kitchen sinks throughout the building, and that maintenance of all filtration system components and point?of?use filter replacement will be provided by the building owner per manufacturer\'s guidelines. For core and shell projects, these requirements will need to be part of a legally binding agreement with the tenants, such as a tenant lease or sales agreement. As part of the program/policy document project team will be required to outline an orientation program to educate building occupants about this sustainable feature of the building and the expected use of filtered water from sinks instead of bottled water; consider adding other green features on the building to this orientation. Documentation of the filtration system, education policy, and sales or lease agreement will need to be provided for certification. ***This CIR Ruling has been updated on 9/14/2009*** Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit is intended to demonstrate that Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) designed for distribution of natural gas and LPG (propane Gas) systems saves time, reduces cost, and is environmentally friendly where integrated in a holistic approach to a building project. This innovative technology is the only standard based natural gas and LPG (propane gas) system manufactured, designed sized and installed under the ANSI LC1 certification process. CSST is IAPMO, ICC and CSA listed; IFGC, UPC and NFPA-54 approved as a gas-piping material. This system is installed with fewer fittings eliminating leak paths in the natural gas or LPG (propane gas) system, thus making the system safer within a structure. The inherent flexibility and light weight will reduce costs and help prevent job related accidents. Most manufactures\' of CSST incorporate a fitting which uses a metal to metal seal with no gaskets or O-rings and features which allows for maintaining of the integrity of the Polyethylene jacket protecting the system from corrosion and harsh environments. The Polyethylene jacket, as required by ANSI LC1, is constructed to meet the ASTM E84 requirement for Fire /Smoke (25/50) making the system safer in the event of fire. This innovative technology eliminates the need for welding of natural gas and LPG piping and the dangers associated with such procedures, such as toxic fumes from welding gases, flux and brazing rods and smoke and soot caused by welding. This technology reduces respiratory problems associated with inhaling the toxic fumes resulting from welding of natural gas and LPG piping and eliminates the dangers of fire associated with welding of natural gas and LPG piping. It also eliminates personal injury associated with the use of welding and threading equipment. It is our intent to submit for this credit as a system which exceeds the LEED-NC performance as related to a safer environment during construction and safer system within a structure, for the life of the structure.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification as to whether the use of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing for distribution of natural gas and LPG warrants the award of an Innovation in Design credit. While the benefit of reduced exposure for construction workers and building occupants are laudable, this concern is addressed in EQ Credit 3.1: Construction IAQ Management Plan - During Construction. As stated on page 325 of the NCv2.2 Reference Guide, "This credit is not eligible for exemplary performance under the Innovation in Design Section". Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking further clarification on an Administrative CIR dated 8/10/2007 with a response dated 8/27/2007. Our project is also a mixed use project with a for sale residential component, parking and retail. The retail is 8% of the total building square footage. The tenant space is described as "a cold dark shell". The tenant will be responsible for the total fit-out including the mechanical systems. As noted in the referenced CIR we are also excluding any interior build-out work from the LEED rating. We have included energy and water use calculations for the building rating. Since the systems are undefined we assumed the most restrictive criteria. We will also provide a tenant guideline that will allow the tenant but not require the tenant to meet the LEED prerequisites and credits that the base building is pursuing. Please confirm as noted in the CIR Response, that the project guidelines will not require the tenant to meet the LEED prerequisites and credits, Including but limited to Prerequisites EA.1 EA.2 IAQ 2.

Ruling:

Yes, your interpretation of the CIR ruling dated 8/10/2007 is correct in that the tenant guidelines do not need to require FUTURE tenant fit-out work to meet any LEED prerequisites and credits. However, the tenant guidelines should include specific performance goals, information, and resource leads to help ensure that future tenant fit-outs CAN meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits pursued by the project. Please note, however, that any tenant fit-out work being done as part of the project scope does need to be included in all credits and prerequisites being pursued for LEED certification. In the CIR request above, it is unclear if ALL interior build-out work is being excluded or only the tenant build-out work associated with the 8% of retail space. If all tenant fit-out work is being excluded than the project would fall more appropriately under LEED for Core and Shell, as the general rule of thumb for use of LEED-NC is that the owner/developer is fitting-out at least 50% of the building\'s square footage. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/6/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INQUIRY: To help stimulate the development of sustainable product evaluation and certification tools by building professionals, we are seeking to establish an innovation point for specification of products certified under the SMART & California Gold Sustainable Product Programs explained at: http://mts.sustainableproducts.com/SMART_Building_Product_Standard SMART & California Gold provide manufacturers with a transparent measure of sustainable product achievement through consensus based standards. They help customers purchase and specify products that are pursuing a broad definition of quality. Through SMART and California Gold, this broader definition of quality means using products and materials safe for public health and environment as measured by LCA and 12 life cycle impacts; using renewable energy and energy efficiency; using recycled and biobased organic materials with EPA best management practices; increased water conservation; facility and company achievements; social equity; and product reuse and reclamation. SMART & California Gold meet all 24 Sustainable Product Certification Criteria (SPC Criteria) found here: http://sustainableproducts.typepad.com/Sustainable_Product_Certification.... To qualify for this CIR, SMART Gold & California Gold must have at the manufacturing facility 60% Green-e Power or 60% conventional energy reduction from the baseline. SMART & California Platinum must have 80% Green-e or 80% conventional energy reduction for both the manufacturing facility and suppliers. Eighty percent of all SMART & California Gold credits reduce climate change pollution. If a candidate product achieves the necessary criteria, it is certified as a Silver, Gold or Platinum Sustainable Product and must complete independent third party global auditing requirements of manufacturer and supplier facilities. The following Intent, Requirements and Submittals for this Innovation in Design application are suggested: Intent: Help stimulate the development of certified sustainable products for use by building professionals. Requirements: Use SMART or California Gold Certified building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. The "cost value" of products for the purposes of this calculation will be discounted by 50% for Silver level products, and doubled for products certified at the platinum level: Cost value of products = (Silver x 0.5) + Gold (1.0) + (Platinum x 2) Submittals: Spreadsheet matrix with the following information: DEFAULT MATERIALS VALUE Total construction costs (hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ Default materials cost (total Divisions 2-10 and 12** construction cost x 0.45): _______ OR ACTUAL MATERIALS VALUE Actual materials cost (excluding labor and equipment) hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 only): _______ - Material Name/Description - Manufacturer - Total Material Cost ($) - Percent Of Product SMART or California Gold Certified (% by Weight) - Compliant Product Value - Adjusted value (Silver x 0.5, Gold x 1.0, Platinum x2) Total "cost value" ($) of SMART or California Gold certified materials: _______ SMART or California Gold certified material value as a percentage of total materials cost*: _______ *To qualify for this ID credit the percentage of SMART or California Gold certified materials must be at least 2.5% of the total materials cost. **CSI Master Format 1995 Division 12 may be included in calculations if materials from Division 12 are used consistently with calculations in credits MRc3-7 in LEED-NC or MRc3-6 in LEED-CS. LEED-CI projects are required to include Division 12 components in the calculation of this ID point, as these components are required for calculations in CI credits MRc4-7. Please refer to the LEED-CI Reference Guide\'s credit calculation instructions for guidance in calculating these credits.

Ruling:

Yes, the suggested criterion encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given proper documentation upon LEED application. Note that the MR TAG and others intend to work towards establishing a set of criteria for product evaluation and certification tools that are referenced in LEED, whether in innovation points or in rating system credit language; and once those criteria have been established, it will be necessary to revisit whether or not proposed innovation points based on this draft language should continue to be approved. Regardless of the state of above-mentioned process, this CIR proposal\'s approval sunsets one year from the ruling posting date, at which time it is to be considered for renewal. **** The USGBC has updated the ruling to this CIR as of 9/28/09 to state that the 1 year sunset provision established in the original Credit Interpretation Ruling related to the SMART and California Gold sustainable product certification programs is hereby extended to all pre LEED-2009 projects, pending the development and adoption of criteria and processes for recognition of third party certification programs in LEED. Said criteria will apply to all currently recognized and proposed future programs. **** Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/21/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 296,000 sf medical center. We are requesting consideration and guidance for a potential Innovation and Design point for the inclusion of a Healing Garden and Outdoor Place of Respite in the design of the building and site. Using criteria from the Green Guide to Healthcare Guideline system we have created a Healing Garden on site that provides patients, visitors, and staff accessible outdoor Places of Respite that takes into account: security and safety, supervised, sun orientation and other microclimatic factors, direct connection to the natural environment and garden spaces, noise of mechanical equipment, accessibility, way finding and orientation, strength and stamina of patients, activity and interest, privacy and security and proximity to building entries and restrooms. The Garden also provides choices and variety in the design of spaces, engaging the senses of sight, sound, touch, smell and is integrated with native plantings and garden elements. The intent of the garden is to provide places for quiet reflection that assist in the process of healing of patients and provide for the physical, emotional and spiritual well being of all users. The garden is sized appropriately to meet the needs of patients. Interior lobbies and public spaces adjacent to the garden space allow for viewing of the garden in passing throughout the day as well as during inclement weather. A growing body of research shows that patients, medical staff and other care givers experience positive health benefits from access to daylight, landscape views and garden spaces. Providing a variety of spaces for people to pause and experience their natural surroundings is an important design and whole-healthcare objective. The spaces are universally accessible and provide a variety of seating areas for both ambulatory and wheelchair users. Suggested Documentation includes: Area Tabulations and ratios that show: - Net program summary. - Site Plan(s) highlighting public outdoor places of respite equal to 5% min. of project net program area. - Floor Plans and site plans highlighting indoor and outdoor places of respite dedicated for staff/occupants use equal to an additional 2% of project net program area. - Garden Plans and sections illustrating orientation, accessibility, proximity to interior services, Plant material types and quantities, hardscape material types, textures, etc.

Ruling:

Although Innovation in Design credits are not awarded through the CIR process, the proposed strategy is similar to LEED for Healthcare SSc9.1 Places of Respite. An innovation credit would be considered based on the requirements of this LEED credit. In addition to the requirements outlined in the inquiry above, please note that there are some additional requirements under LEED for Healthcare. For the complete credit requirements, please see http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3468.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Title: Educational Outreach Program Intent: To broaden the public\'s knowledge and awareness of green building strategies from a lessons learned perspective and to use the facility as a full scale example. The intent of the design team is to submit for an Innovation and Design Credit for an Educational Outreach Program. The project is a Car Wash & Maintenance Facility (hereafter referred to as the Facility) for a major Metropolitan Transit Agency. Due to the nature of the Facility the building is not generally open to the public. Use of the facility is limited to staff and organized visitations, thus onsite general public education would not be lucrative. Instead of an onsite educational program the Agency has accomplished / will be accomplishing the following: Educational Outreach: Project was featured in the Agency\'s "Going Green" brochure that was distributed on Earth Day. The use of captured rain water at the new Facility was a component of the Agency\'s "Earth Day" car posters distributed throughout the car fleet. The Agency\'s web site prominently features the Facility and has an animation of the Car Washer showing the captured / recycled rain water feature. Also, this website has recently been upgraded, as required by an Executive Order of the Governor, to be "accessible" to the hearing/visually impaired. Educational flyers on the Building will be available at the main lobby to visitors. Presentations: Presented a paper on the project at the Railroad Environmental Conference at UIUC in 2002. (University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign) "Green" features of the new Maintenance Facility and Car Washer were part of the Transit Agency\'s "Building for Tomorrow" brochure and presentation at the UITP Conference on Sustainable Design. This was also presented at the APTA conference on the environment given in NYC. Tours: A delegation from MetroVal (Valencia Metro, Venezuela) went on a tour through the facility. There are also additional plans for a group of engineering students from Colombia University to tour the Facility. Awards: Applied for and received a "Green Apple" award (honorable mention) from NYC/DOB and the US-EPA for Green Building Design. Design Guidelines: Established Design Guidelines for "Sustainability" for implementation throughout the Capital Program that were a direct result of the Green Design efforts on this project. We propose to submit copies of all the brochures created as part of this outreach program as well as website information for viewing. This project is not the typical project for which LEED NC was originally designed. As a major Metropolitan Transit Agency - the project is very high profile and thus contributes to the expansion of green building into the mainstream. As such, we feel that these efforts should obtain an Innovation & Design credit. Please let us know if these efforts will garner us an additional credit and if not, what we may do to accomplish this under this specific type of facility and ownership. Additionally, we would also like to know what submittals will be necessary to establish sufficient evidentiary information for the USGBC review.

Ruling:

Your education and outreach program is eligible for an innovation point. It meets the general requirements established in the credit ruling dated 9/24/01. To document these strategies in your LEED certification submittal, please include the information from your CIR narrative and provide a copy of the Design Guidelines for Sustainability and other materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/2/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 26,000 square foot tenant space for a confidential client, a news provider. We will be utilizing LEED-CI. We\'re wondering if our limited-wall office space qualifies for an Innovation Credit. The space plan for the office will not include walls/partitions. The entire space will utilize an open office furniture system. Obviously there will be walls for restrooms and mechanical spaces but private offices and kitchen areas will not have hard walls. Intent Minimize materials and construction waste due by avoiding the construction of walls for private offices and kitchen area. Requirements We will calculate the amount of material (gypsum, metal studs etc.) our project will save (as well as construction waste avoided) based on the assumption that other offices similar to ours consist of 25% hardwalled areas. We will quantify the amount of CO2 saved from the extraction, manufacturing, and shipping of material which we will be saving by not constructing any hard walls.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an innovation in design credit for limiting constructed walls within a 26,000 square foot tenant space. While space planning such as this has clear advantages, it is simply good facilities management practice where "churn" is inevitable. The proposed strategy, while laudable, does not warrant the award of an innovation credit. Please refer to IDc1.2 CIR ruling dated 11/3/2006. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following Innovation & Design CIR is being submitted to assess whether the following criteria could qualify for an ID credit if all standards are met and documentation received: Intent - To provide a mechanism to support novel ideas to improve the environment at Union College. Through a competitive grant-based initiative, members of the Union College community have access to a $16,000 per year pool of funding to either make Union operations more sustainable or to conduct research that will make specific contributions to sustainability at the regional, national or global scale. Grant proposals are required to detail rationale, a project/research plan, anticipated outcome, detailed budget, and timeline, and are rated based on the benefit to environmental sustainability and feasibility. In the 2008-2009 academic year, ten different projects proposed by students, staff and faculty were awarded between $500 and $2000. With the opening of a new USustain headquarters located in Wold Science Center, the office of President Stephen Ainlay has committed to funding for two more academic years. Projects that directly impact the design and operations of the Wold Science Center or research projects that would be undertaken at the Wold Science Center will be especially encouraged. Requirement - Union will support grassroots sustainability ideas for the period 2009-2011. Supported projects will include specific reporting guidelines and communication procedures. The period of funding shall cover a period of no less than two academic years, for a total monetary amount of $48,000. Submittals - Presidential Green Grant RFP (Sept. 2008); Summaries of 2008-2009 proposals funded by Presidential Green Grants.

Ruling:

The innovation credit is based on the merits of the Union College providing funding in support of grassroots sustainability ideas that can impact the operations of the Union, or support research that contributes to sustainability at the regional, national or global scale. While the grant program is clearly focused on environmental issues and is commendable, it is unclear how this directly correlates to the design, construction or operations of the LEED project itself. It should be noted that for the LEED for New Construction rating system, innovation credits are awarded for green building strategies (not covered in the rating system) that demonstrate a comprehensive approach with significant, measurable environmental benefits. If the grant program was specifically (and only) focused on making the operations of the LEED project more sustainable, it may be possible to earn an innovation credit if specific measures were adopted based on the LEED for Existing Buildings Operations and Maintenance rating system for example. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent of credit: ---- Reduce operations related carbon footprint and encourage organizations associated with LEED projects to do likewise. Requirements for compliance: ---- Identify operational sources of carbon emissions not otherwise addressed by LEED. Establish the operational carbon footprint of the occupants of the LEED project verified by a recognized authority. (See CIR dated 6/29/06 for list of authorities). Obtain carbon offsets for the carbon footprint associated with operational sources of carbon emissions equal to or greater than 50% over 2 years**. Submittals: ---- 1. Signed letter template declaring that offsets equivalent to at least 50% of operational carbon emission loads associated with air travel, car travel, and natural gas for a period of at least two years have been obtained. 2. Narrative describing the project\'s approach to addressing carbon loads. 3. Calculation used to determine carbon emissions, resulting equivalence data, and quantity of offset measures required. 4. Certification document from a recognized source of carbon offset credits. Design Approach (Strategies) / Narrative: ---- Reliable analysis of construction related life cycle carbon emissions is difficult to obtain and verify at this time. Emissions data related to operations are more readily available and recognized authorities exist that can quantify the carbon emissions related to operations based on established metrics. This credit addresses carbon emissions other than those addressed by LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power. The following steps describe the actions needed to achieve this credit: Research currently available carbon emission measurement standards and offset options. Identify recognized service providers. (See CIR dated 6/29/06 for list of recognized authorities) List carbon emission sources specific to operations associated with the project in question. Run calculations on offset measures needed. Obtain carbon offset credits at least equivalent to 50% of operational carbon emission loads associated with natural gas, air travel, and car travel for a period of at least two years. This innovation credit meets the three basic criteria for innovation credits as described in the LEED Reference Guide: 1. Quantitative performance improvement: A baseline evaluation of the operational carbon footprint using methods specified by a recognized authority (Green-e for instance) establishes a starting point and is used to calibrate the quantity of carbon offset measures needed. 2. Comprehensive program: The program addresses business related carbon emissions related to air travel, car travel, and natural gas, not covered by LEED and augmenting similar efforts related to electrical loads achieved by meeting LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power requirements. 3. Applicability to other projects: This innovation credit provides an outline for any organization interested in addressing their operational carbon footprint. Similar ID credits related to post occupancy efforts are listed in the USGBC\'s Innovation & Design Credit Catalog (1 December 2007), including credits addressing: Green Cleaning; Monitoring Threatened & Endangered Species; Donation and Protection of Open Space (not assoc. with project site); Alternative Transportation Management Plan; Employee Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Food composting; Occupant recycling program; Waste reduction operations; Work at home program; LEED post-occupancy performance evaluation; Employee wellness; Educational program; Student report; Carbon offset; Environmentally preferable services; and Off site environmental benefit. ** Time period and % based on those established for the LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power credit.

Ruling:

The applicant submitted a CIR proposing an innovation and design credit in which projects would offset the emissions associated with tenant space operations. While this proposal does demonstrate environmental benefits, it cannot be approved at this time due to the complexities surrounding carbon accounting. USGBC is performing research in this area and will update this CIR ruling as necessary. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/22/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can Credits defined by one LEED Rating System be used as Innovation in Design Credits for other LEED Rating System? Example: Sustainable Purchasing - Reduced Mercury in Lamps

Ruling:

**Update 1/27/2017: This item is no longer valid. Please reference the Innovation Catalog: http://www.usgbc.org/credits/innovation-catalog instead**
The viability of innovation point applications using credits from other LEED Rating Systems will be considered on a case by case basis. LEED-EB MRc6 can by used for an innovation credit within LEED-NC. UPDATE 10/1/2012 - The availability of innovation point applications using credits from other LEED Rating Systems are posted on the GBCI website Reviewer Tips pages http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/building-certification/resources.aspx#tips. Additionally, please note that a Sustainable Purchasing - Reduced Mercury in Lamps strategy is allowed via LEED Interpretation 5500 which requires that projects comply with an average mercury content limit of 80 picograms in order to achieve an ID point. LEED ND credits applied to D&C projects are still reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and projects may request a CIR if they choose to. Also, now applicable to NCv2009.Since LEED-EB is a whole building rating system, the strategy must be applied to the entire project building.

see Innovation: Additional toxic material reduction - reduced mercury in light bulbs for guidance.

Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/31/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Summary: Interpretation ruling regarding (3) Innovation Credits: (2) credits for significantly exceeding MR Credit 5.1 & 5.2 (1) Credit for utilizing water efficient process load appliances, significantly impacting overall water usage within the residence hall buildings. Context: The scope of the project incorporates new construction of four residential halls on a college campus, which house more than 250 students and staff. Three of the buildings are three stories, and the other is four stories. Description: The following outlines the current calculation status for the project pertaining to MR Credits 5.1 & 5.2, and the impact of the water efficient clothes washers utilized: MR Credit 5.1 (Local regional materials) exceeds 65% of material cost baseline Material cost baseline was derived by subtracting mechanical, electrical, fittings & equipment, and conveying system costs from the direct cost, and then isolating the material costs (from labor). MR Credit 5.2 (Harvested) exceeds 150% of MR 5.1 baseline (50% of 20% benchmark). Based on CIR 12/1/2003, which was a clarification on CIR 10/18/01 stated: To have a consistent and comparable performance standard for all LEED projects, the requirement for MR Credit 5.2 is 50% of the minimum 20% benchmark needed for achieving MR Credit 5.1. Water Efficient Process Load Appliance Use Based on CIR 3/9/2004 (WE) process loads are not to be included in the calculations for the water efficiency credits, and only those fixture types covered under the Energy Policy Act of 1992 are to be included. A total of twelve clothes washing machines (3 per building) are included in the residence halls, which create a significant amount of water usage. In an attempt to reduce the water used, the owner purchased water efficient appliances (~30% less water used than standard appliances for this class). A range of standard washing machines of this class from different manufacturers would be gathered (and submitted) and averaged to establish the baseline. In comparison to the baseline load calculated for water usage covered under the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the clothes washers account for an amount equal to 46% of this load (8 loads per machine, per day). Therefore the use of water efficient washing machines is reduced by ~ 14%. Proposal: If both credit calculations substantially exceeds the next performance levels for each of the credits (also mentioned in CIR 12/1/2003), would (2) innovation credits be achievable with the appropriate support documentation? If the owner has taken action to not only reduce water usage for the fixtures (WE C3.1&3.2), but is also pursuing water reduction for the second largest use category of water for the buildings (showers are no.1), even though it is a process load, would (1) innovation credit be achievable if steps proposed above for establishing a baseline for the clothes washers were implemented?

Ruling:

The project is requesting verification that three separate strategies would each earn an innovation credit. Typically these should be addressed in separate CIRs. The project is correct that separate innovation credits can be earned for both MRc5.1 and MRc5.2. To achieve an innovation credit for MRc5.1, the total percentage of locally manufactured materials must be at least 40% of the total materials cost; for MRc5.2 the percentage must be at least 20% of the total materials cost. It is possible to achieve an innovation credit for reducing process water on the project. In order to achieve this credit, a whole building approach to process water must be used (including washing machines, dish washers, drinking fountains, cooling towers, etc.) The project must demonstrate a process water savings that is equal to or greater than 10% of the regulated water usage as calculated in WEc3. The project should obtain information on the average amount of water use for each type of equipment to determine an appropriate baseline and demonstrate that the increased efficiency compared to the baseline exceeds the 10% WEc3 threshold. Required submittals for this innovation would include: 1) A narrative explaining what strategies were used and how the baseline was developed. 2) Calculations demonstrating performance compared to the baseline. 3) Cut sheets showing water usage of equipment used. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable internationally.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is now applicable to LEED NC v2.2 and NC v2009 rating systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We recognize that ID credits cannot be granted achievement via the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Please provide insight as to the type & level of documentation required to pursue such an ID credit. Title Pursuit of Company\'s Mission Zero objectives through the application of sustainability programs to new building construction and operation. Credit Intent To incorporate the building into the Owner\'s Company Mission Zero objectives, the new facility has been designed & will be operated under the site\'s ISO systems. This includes the application of the Owner\'s unique corporate programs; QUEST, EcoSense and Ecometrics, to ensure the new facility is operated to high standards of sustainable practice. These proprietary programs form part of the Owner\'s Mission Zero program to reduce the footprint of a manufacturing facility to a virtual zero point by 2020. The project is the first in Asia to operate under such programs, covering all aspects of waste, materials & utility reduction as well as addressing less tangible social aspects of sustainability. Credit Requirements Consideration of the requirements of operating the new facility under the Company\'s Mission Zero programs has been applied in a holistic manner to the design. The choice of pursuing the LEED certification for the building was a key aspect of this approach, other considerations were the overall building design to incorporate a natural ventilation system, submetering of utilities, drainage system, improved staff facilities, etc Project Approach The building & all operations will be under the company\'s ISO systems and Mission Zero initiatives. These programs have been operating since 1998 for the current factory. The programs to be applied under Mission Zero are: ISO9000 Internationally recognized Quality Assurance program ISO14000 Internationally recognized environmental management system where all environmental aspects are encompassed, managed for environmental responsibility, audited & verified. The management system is used to administer all the sub-programs as follows: Ecometrics Comprehensive monitoring of the utilities / materials usage of activities in the facility & relating these to output of the plant. The program facilitates benchmarking, driving & verify of results in the pursuit of the Mission Zero goal. It is utilized to drive, monitor & demonstrate reduction in resource usage for the output of the operation and target of reducing the footprint of the operation to virtually zero by 2020. Materials usage & percentage recycled content Utility Usage & percentage renewable usage Waste generated & percentage recycled Transportation Energy costs QUEST System of financial accounting of the waste reduction programs which operates from a benchmark point to reduce costs of waste by 10% per annum The program monitors performance in the following areas Internal Off-Quality External Off-Quality Correction Costs Process Waste Material Usage Variances Energy Costs - Renewable / Nonrenewable Inventory Losses Packaging Costs Non-Quality related correction costs EcoSense A program to drive less measurable but important aspects of sustainability addressing areas such as Operation to recognized Quality & Environmental standards (ISO9000 & ISO 14000) Sustainability Awareness of Shareholders; Employees, Customers, Suppliers, Neighbors Safety standard improvements Transportation impacts - commuting/business travel/supply chain Sociometrics - monitoring of the efforts to improve the social aspects of sustainability Waste & Energy Reduction Projects - encouraging both large & small scale improvement projects to reduce Emissions Reduction - auditing of all facility emissions Life Cycle Assessment programs The intent of all of these company initiatives area a comprehensive strategy w/ triple bottom line quantifiable benefits beyond the manufacturing industry standard - documentation of metric results are available for all of these programs.

Ruling:

It is not clear how the requirements outlined in the proposal demonstrate quantitative environmental benefits beyond the requirements set by the LEED NC Rating System, and thus do not qualify for an innovation credit. Green strategies related to operations and maintenance policies are addressed through the LEED EB Rating System. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/8/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to propose an innovation point for having a hotel use environmentally conscious and socially accountable textiles. Intent: To reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with textiles Requirements: Develop a procurement policy for facility purchased textiles (bedding and towels) that requires that at least three of the following product types be used for ALL associated textiles purchased for the facility: - Organic cotton (certified by be Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)) sheeting - Organic cotton (certified by be Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)) bathroom linens - Bamboo sheeting - Bamboo bathroom linens - Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certification (a globally uniform testing and certification system for textile raw materials. The tests for harmful substances comprise substances which are prohibited or regulated by law, chemicals which are known to be harmful to health, and parameters which are included as a precautionary measure to safeguard health) - Vegetal dyes (made from vegetables) - Kapok filled pillow inserts (Kapok is an all-natural fiber pulled from the seed pods of the kapok tree) Submittals: For the three compliant product types, please submit the following: - List manufacturer and product line - Item description (bedding, bathroom linens, etc) - Form of compliance (GOTS, Oeko-Tex, etc) - Letter from the manufacturer or manufacturer literature verifying compliance

Ruling:

The project is inquiring about achieving an innovation point for an environmentally responsible purchasing polity for hotel textiles. While this is an admirable pursuit, this credit intent goes beyond the design and construction scope of LEED-NC 2.2, and addresses areas that fall under operations and maintenance for the project. To achieve an innovation credit, the project must create a comprehensive sustainable purchasing policy that addresses environmentally friendly purchases for the hotel\'s ongoing consumables - including bedding and linens, housekeeping, and toiletries and amenities. To receive an innovation point, the project team will need to provide 1. A statement of purpose describing what the sustainable purchasing policy is trying to achieve from a health and environmental standpoint. 2. A copy of the sustainable purchasing program indicating contractual or procedural requirements for operations staff to comply with the guidelines. 3. A clear set of acceptable performance level standards by which to measure progress or achievement, such as Green Seal standard GS-37 (see www.greenseal.org) or California Code of Regulations, Title 17 Section 94509, VOC standards for cleaning products (go to www.calregs.com, click on "California Code of Regulations" and perform a keyword search for "94509") and other 3rd party certifications for other products (as indicated above). 4. Documentation of the sustainable purchasing policy, including a list of approved and prohibited products and practices. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Low-Cost HVAC For Green Buildings According to the R.S. Means Square Foot Costs, 25th Edition, the HVAC cost for a single-story office building 7,000 to 20,000 square feet in size will be $13 to $17 per square foot. This cost range is for a typical HVAC system that meets minimum building code requirements, but can not meet ASHRAE Standards 62 or 55. Our intent was to provide an HVAC system that met ASHRAE Standards 62 and 55 and used less energy while costing at least 20% less than a standard system. Our design approach combined air-to-air energy recovery with furnace/air conditioning units. The air-to-air energy recovery units deliver 1,648 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of outdoor air at constant volume or 38 cfm for each building occupant. This ventilation rate is almost twice the rate required by ASHRAE Standard 62. In addition, the air-to-air energy recovery units allow moisture transfer between the exhaust and outdoor air streams, helping to meet ASHRAE Standard 55 for comfort all year long. The total cost of the HVAC system is just $99,120 or $8.30 per square foot which includes all overhead and profit. This cost is 35% less than the lowest figure published by R.S. Means. Furthermore, the system uses 30% less cooling energy and 10% less heating energy than a system that just complies with ASHRAE Standard 90, and the system uses non-chlorinated refrigerant. This system is green and very cost effective.

Ruling:

Your proposal is not sufficient for an innovation credit. However, the system contributes towards the achievement of various other LEED prerequisites and credits. The ventilation rates and thermal comfort criteria relates to EQp1 Minimum IAQ Performance, EQc1 Carbon Dioxide Monitoring, EQc2 Ventilation Effectiveness, and EQc7 Thermal Comfort. The efficiency of the air-to-air heat exchanger can be accounted for under EAc1 Optimized Energy Performance. With all verifiable environmental benefits of the proposed system accounted for in the existing credits of the Rating System, the cost savings of the system itself does not demonstrate additional environmental benefit, and would therefore not qualify for an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/27/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

ID Credit Title: DIGITAL FACILTY MANUAL Credit Intent: Implement an electronic documents tool that will provide for easy access to all record documents of the facility. This paperless tool shall assist the facility manager in maintenance productivity since the documents will available for view in seconds. This tool will be provided at project turnover and the manual will aid the facility group in long term efficiency in energy and systems operations. Requirements for Compliance: Develop and implement a digital facility manual which will be used for facility operation and maintenance in lieu of traditional three-ring binder and as-built drawings. It shall also incorporate guidance on operating metrics and testing frequency. This tool shall include all divisions of work and provide hyperlinks between the equipment submittals and drawings so the facility operators can access record documents easily and thoroughly. The digital facility manual shall include: - All as-built drawings - All approved equipment submittals - All test records and reports - Preventative maintenance tasks and schedules Submittal: Confirm that a digital facility manual is being used and has replaced the need for hard-copy operations and maintenance documentation. Confirm that all as-built drawings, equipment submittals, test records and reports, preventative maintenance tasks and schedules are accessible through the digital facility manual. Provide letter from facility manager or owner the digital facility manual is being used.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of creating a digital facility manual to be used by facility operation and maintenance staff, in lieu of the traditional three-ring binder and as-built drawings. While this is commendable, the reduction of paper for this facility manual is relatively insignificant compared to the quantity of paper over the duration of the project\'s design and construction phase. As comprehensive, significant environmental benefits have not been identified, this proposal does not meet the requirements of an innovation credit. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/19/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ecologically Based Landscape Design and Pest Control: The project site is an urban infill site located in Sacramento, California. The project is an office building for the State of California, housing the Department of Education. Prior to the design and construction of the new office building, the site was a surface parking lot with a few trees surrounding the site on the perimeter. Adjacent to the project is a six-story apartment building and across from the site is the California State Capitol mall, a park like setting, with many differing plants and tree species represented. Contained within the project is a small pocket park, which separates the office building from the adjacent apartment building. The park was selected as a site for the State Arts in Architecture program, and a nationally known artist was selected for the art commission. In response to community outreach efforts, and in response to neighborhood concerns about open space, the Design Team for the project worked with the artist to develop a unique response. The team worked on the development of the landscape design using specific features listed below, coupled with the strategy of an ecologically based landscape management and maintenance program. The team also sought to use the project landscape as a means to educate and promote the use of organic based urban landscaping and agricultural farming and the use of beneficial insects as a substitute for pesticides. Features of the Ecologically based Landscape Design and Pest Control include: - An interpretive fountain and sculpture that uses gray water and that reflects the culture and environs of the Sierra Foothills; - Native plant materials, selected for their appropriateness to the climate, low water requirements, adaptation of the native cultural landscape of the region, and aesthetic appeal. Plant material was also selected for its ability to provide habitat for beneficial insects; - Organic landscape specifications including soil mix management, sub-surface drip irrigation, gray water and organic fertilizers; - An irrigation system that utilizes high efficiency drip technology and reduces water consumption by 63%; - A fertilizing and feeding plan, which includes a biological nutrient management using compost tea, injected into the irrigation system; - The project also has a retail component, designated as restaurant space. Once restaurant tenants are identified, the Design Team will work with the tenants to develop a composting process to recycle organic waste streams from the building and the restaurant tenants, including food waste, landscape pruning, etc. - Training of the building and grounds maintenance staff to monitor for insect pests and plant disease. Training the staff to release beneficial insects as the primary means of pest control, and training the staff to use soft pesticides and to avoid toxins. - Educational stations with plaques and graphics delineating the ecological methods utilized, beneficial insect and plant identification and their symbiotic relationships. - Consultation on pest problems and supplying beneficial insects to the project for the duration of the two-year warranty period. Question: Could this interpretive pocket park, developed with neighborhood concerns, educational goals and coupled with organic practices be considered an innovation point?

Ruling:

Yes, this project could attempt an innovation credit by addressing the education value of the "green" features of the park. A previous LEED Interpretation on the issue of an educational program in relation to buildings to achieve an innovation credit: please see Inquiry Number 0121-IDc11-092801. To summarize the earlier ruling, your project must be ACTIVELY instructional by including two of the three following elements: 1) comprehensive signage program to educate; 2) manual, guideline or case study to inform the design of other projects; 3) educational outreach program or guided tour focusing on sustainable living. As outlined in your inquiry, most of these elements are planned or already incorporated into the program in a very comprehensive way that reaches across many credit categories. Rather than focusing on a sustainable building education program as described in the previous inquiries, this project could focus on a sustainable site educational program that highlights green features throughout, as suggested in your narrative. You must be vigilant in your documentation of the measures described and provide adequate photos/drawings and other documentation along with narratives explaining your intent, the requirements, the submittals and the design approach, as directed in the Reference Guide. The opportunity to achieve innovation credits is designed for just such projects that either lie outside the existing LEED credits or exemplify exceptional performance in sustainability.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/3/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Design for Increased Physical Activity Credit Intent: The obesity epidemic is a major health crisis facing the American public, leading to the increased incidence of type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease among other ailments. Increased physical activity, as little as two minutes of stair climbing each day, could significantly reduce the rate of obesity in the country. Extensive studies by the Center for Disease Control and other independent researchers* have shown that there are four major elements of building design which encourage greater physical activity: A) Stairs - Signage prompts encouraging the use of the stairs. - Improved stairwell aesthetics through use of color, artwork, music, etc. - Favored central locations for stairwells. B) Access to exercise facilities - Weekly exercise classes - On-site walking trails - Gym or exercise room C) Improved streetscapes - Sidewalks/traffic safety - Comfort lighting - Aesthetic landscaping D) Community location - Urban density - Mixed use - Connectivity of pathways to destinations *Full text of these reports is available via email as files cannot be posted with CIRs. Credit Requirements As LEED already accounts for the items listed in C & D, we propose that the ID credit be earned through meeting 4 of the 6 items listed in A & B. Submittal A LEED-Online letter template including the project compliance narrative and floor plans highlighting the design elements included. Project Approach The Riverside Health Center is a partial renovation and addition project that will provide the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene with a contemporary facility to serve their Health Academy, Nutrition, Primary Care Clinic, STD Clinic, Family Daycare, and School Health programs. The building design will include a centrally located stair, signage prompts containing info on the benefits of taking the stairs. The stairwell itself has been enlarged to encourage greater use, will feature added ventilation, operable windows, and is to be included as a site for expressing the project\'s 1% for the arts. The 1% for arts is a city funded program that matches 1% of a project\'s construction budget towards a public art project. In addition to fulfilling all three stairwell improvements, the building features an exercise room, will offer weekly yoga classes, and includes an on-site community garden with landscaped pathways to encourage outdoor exercise.

Ruling:

Along with statistical data, additions to your approach could earn you an innovation credit. Currently, while the overall intent is laudable, it is unlikely that the proposal described above would earn an innovation credit. To earn an innovation credit, project teams must demonstrate innovative performance in Green Building categories not specifically addressed by the rating system. An example to enhance the approach might include design of the site to ensure that there are sidewalks of some minimum width to promote walking. These innovations need to be comprehensive in nature and have significant, measurable environmental benefits. This proposal focuses on fitness, health, and lifestyle related issues that are generally considered outside the scope of the LEED Rating system; LEED does promote productivity and overall wellness of building occupants. In addition, as written, it is unclear how the project team would demonstrate quantitative performance improvements for environmental benefit (establishing a baseline of standard performance for comparison to the final design). Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Low-Water Nursery Growing System for Plants Used in Landscaping The Southface Eco-Office project is requesting an Innovation and Design credit for the use of Gro-Eco plants in their landscaping. Growing plants for market in this manner requires four and a half times less water daily, and requires up to thirty percent less growing time when compared to traditional methods using overhead irrigation. The estimated water savings for the 400 plants used on site, with an average growing period of a year, was almost 70,000 gallons. The Gro-Eco system uses raised beds that are built and covered with weed cloth. Pockets are then dug in the beds to accommodate nursery pots of various sizes - only the upper third of each pot extends above the top of the bed. Irrigation drip tape runs down each row of plants along the tops of the containers, while another drip tube, buried under the cloth in the center of the bed, helps keep the roots cool. Moderating the temperature of the roots improves the health of the plants and further reduces the amount of water needed. Auxiliary benefits of such a system include: thirty to forty percent less chemical use and drastically reduced runoff, elimination of retention ponds and nitrogen leaching, less need for fungicide due to the elimination of excess moisture on leaves, lower energy costs, and less invasive site design due to the flexibility in drainage topography. For more information on the Gro-Eco process, please view the Florida Agriculture video produced for the 2007 Environmental Leadership Award. http://www.florida-agriculture.com/news/agen_fraleighnursery.htm The requirements for this credit would be to document all plants obtained from Gro-Eco for use on the Eco-Office project, and to provide evidence of the estimated water savings being claimed.

Ruling:

The projects proposal of selecting planting material which is grown in a method of growth which reduces the water, energy and chemical usage worth of an innovation credit, since this is not awarded under other material credits. However, to achieve an innovation credit the project must demonstrate that the proposed approach is a significant portion of the overall project materials budget. A possible approach could include: 1) Calculations showing the baseline water, energy and chemical use and documentation for how that was determined. 2) Calculations showing the alternate growing method and the significant reduction (such as a minimum of 50% reduction in potable water used for irrigation) in water, energy and chemicals. 3) Calculations showing that the landscaping which contributes to the water, energy and chemical reductions make up a minimum of 1% of the total materials based on cost for the project [Please add: the project team must meet the requirements and achieve WEc1.1 and 1.2 in order to be eligible for this ID credit proposal.] Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/4/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 198,000 square foot, high-rise dormitory on a university campus in an area with constant, prevailing trade winds. Due to its location, the project has provided natural ventilation for its building corridors as well as operable windows for all student apartments. In order to provide a comfortable environment for building occupants, we have undertaken a wind tunnel study, which is not typical design practice for this type of building. Two approaches were undertaken in this wind tunnel study: numerical calculations and a wind tunnel test. The numerical calculations considered input parameters such as wind speeds, wind pressure coefficients, air temperatures, opening sizes for doors and windows, and different air permeability rates for the windows, doors and cracks. The wind tunnel test was conducted by creating a 1:150 scale model of the building complex based on the drawings of the architects. The model of the planned building complex was instrumented with approximately 500 pressure taps to test for pressurization, and it was exposed to 36 different wind directions spaced 10 degrees apart (0 to 360 degrees). The building model was mounted on a turntable with a large inertial mass, allowing any wind direction to be simulated by rotating the model to the appropriate angle in the wind tunnel. The wind tunnel study resulted in a change to the project\'s natural ventilation design. It was determined that several windows needed to be moved to different fa

Ruling:

The applicant has requested confirmation of a potential Innovation and Design credit for a wind-tunnel study performed during project design. Though it is commendable for a design team to apply advanced analytical techniques to push the envelope of building design, the environmental benefits attributed to the results of such an analysis are already addressed within the rating system and therefore do not qualify for additional points. The comfort of the building occupants is adequately addressed in EQ Credits 7.1 and 7.2 for naturally ventilated buildings. Other benefits are addressed under EA Credit 1, EQ Credit 2 and EQ Credit 6.2. Applicable Internationally

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent: "To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to be awarded points for exemplary performance above the requirements set by LEED-CS Green Building Rating System and/or innovative performance in Green Building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED-CS Green Building Rating System." We are presenting this CIR in order to receive guidance about the likely outcome of the proposed Innovation Credit if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. INTENT To educate tenants on lifestyle changes that can improve their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing; build a sense of community; enhance the work environment; and promote alternative modes of transportation. REQUIREMENTS Provide tenants with access to a Working Well Program (WWP) for a minimum of three years. Provide a WWP coordinator on site three days per week. He/she shall be responsible for; organizing all activities, marketing events, conducting monthly special events, and recruiting other wellness experts as required, preparing regular reports for evaluation by management and an annual executive summary highlighting participation and tenant feedback, and delivering a wellness activities plan to the tenants on a monthly basis. SUBMITTALS Provide the letter template signed by the developer declaring that a WWP coordinator has been engaged for a minimum of three years. Provide a copy of the agreement between the Developer and WWP coordinator demonstrating that the Program will be provided for at least three years. If an audit is requested during the certification process: Provide a copy of the annual activity plan, including a brief description of each event and schedule. Provide a copy of tenant agreement sections or information package outlining the structure and costs of the WWP available to the tenant. DESIGN STRATEGIES The Program will serve to educate employees on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Seminars and activities should be used to promote alternative modes of transportation such as walking and cycling for increased fitness and reduced pollution. The public transportation and bicycle storage and shower facilities available to tenants will be promoted through the WWP, thus increasing their use and furthering the intent of the Sustainable Sites credits. The health and wellness information and activities should be selected such that they increase productivity through improved morale, reduced sick-time, and reduced workplace injuries. Communication between the WWP Coordinator and the Tenant should be ongoing to assess the demand for certain activities and information sessions to increase employee involvement. A tenant representative should be appointed to ensure that the needs of the tenant are being met by the WWP. Environmentally-friendly activities should be emphasized and specialists in sustainable living should be included in the education aspect of the Program. Sample WWP activities and features include:

Ruling:

The applicant is asking whether the proposed Working Well program is likely to be accepted as an innovation credit. Although innovation credits are not awarded through the CIR process, this proposal does not provide adequate justification of the environmental benefits of the program, and the human health benefits do not directly relate to the design, construction or operations of the building, which are the focus of the LEED-CS rating system. As stated in the CIR, the program is provided as an option for all tenants - there is no requirement or guarantee that any will participate. Further, the benefits of alternative transportation are already awarded through existing SSc4 credits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent To utilize a comprehensive Sustainability Plan for a televised event that extends LEED guidelines from building to an annual event. Proposed Requirements Develop and implement a Sustainability Plan that reduces consumption, increases recycling and reuse, offsets fossil fuel energy use and implements Green Education. Provide resource use and disposal baseline quantities and track improvements. Submittal to demonstrate compliance a) Provide resource consumption baselines for a timeline that includes pre-event preparation and the event itself. b) Provide quantifiable improvements for the event using the same timeline as the baseline. Summary of project design approaches The Live Television Production is a temporary facility for an annual single evening event lasting 10 days. - SITES - Transportation: all participants (presenters and production staff) were provided with GM flex fuel and hybrid vehicles. - WATER Conservation: All urinals are waterless at the venue saving 7 million gallons per year. Lavatory sensors are provided for premium seating restrooms - ENERGY: 10% energy reduction with an incremental decrease of 1% per year for 10 year commitment: Production lighting is designed to reduce electrical usage. 2 million kilowatt-hours of Green Power was provided that met three times the electricity needs of the award broadcast 666,000 kwh were used for the broadcast. - MATERIAL: Reuse: 100 % of all building material on the production set is donated to non profit foundations and memorabilia. - MATERIAL: Recycled content - All paper products had recycled content - Invitations, Posters and Programs are printed on Endeavour Recycled Paper, which is 30% post consumer waste, 50% recycled and is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. (1 LEED point for 50% FSC ) - Souvenir Telecast and awards celebration. Tickets are printed on stock that is 40% post-consumer waste and 60% recycled. - Tissue products 100% recyclable post-consumer napkins were used for five (5) full days of crew meals and craft services. vi) MATERIAL - Waste: 35% of waste is diverted from landfills by weight - Event generated 1,029 tons of trash, diverted 360 tons from landfill - Event is in compliance with assembly bill 2176 AB-2176. vii) IEQ -- Green Housekeeping: Venue uses two cleaning products that are green seal certified "Hillyard Chemicals. viii) Green Education - The promotion of all the "green" attributes of the event . Naras to confirm if the greening was indicated on any of the print material used for the event - Raise awareness of the availability and benefits of Green Power in Los Angeles and beyond. Green Volunteer Team responsible for placing recycling containers in key staff and public facing areas and educating people on what goes in the bins. In addition to managing the recycling stations, each volunteer had a document on hand to speak to the other aspects of the events that were green. ix) FOOD - Water sponsored by PRIMO, whose bottles are made from American grown corn oil, not petroleum - The 100% of food packaging is nature based and environmentally sustainable - 100% Sustainable Food for crew & parties - Regional, Organic, humane and environmentally-friendly food and food practices, including seafood, dairy, and produce - 100% Reusable service materials and accessories. Reusable service materials such as ceramic plates, glass tumblers and silverware included at crew meals and craft services. - Food Waste -- 100% food waste from the event was sorted, compacted and managed by New Market Waste Solutions for donation and composting. - Food Donation. Venue Concessionaire Partner donates edible left over food to the Angel Donation program at a local mission. Un-used food from the after-party (& crews) donated to local organization to feed the homeless in local shelters.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation on whether an innovation credit may be awarded based on sustainable practices relating to an annual event. Innovation credits are reserved for green building strategies that demonstrate innovative performance in green building that are not specifically addressed elsewhere in the rating system and/or demonstrate exceptional performance beyond existing credit requirements. While it is laudable that environmentally preferable practices be implemented for events, it does not appear that the proposed credit is related to green building practices and is therefore not eligible for an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/18/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to pursue an innovation credit for implementing an enhanced preventative maintenance and operations training program for our multifamily project, ensuring ongoing accountability through detailed education and training for building managers. Per the ID Credit Catalog, precedent has been set for NC projects earning credit for enhanced preventative maintenance and operations. Before developing the program and submitting the ID credit template, we would like to confirm our approach. We propose following the education guidance in LEED for Homes AEc2, Education of Building Manager, which is written specifically for multifamily buildings. Submittals will include a copy of training materials and other educational documents, a copy of the standard operating procedures manual, and a narrative about why this program goes beyond typical practice. Please confirm whether this is likely to earn an ID credit if appropriately implemented and documented. If not, please provide guidance as to what else would be needed to earn the ID credit.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting approval of the methodology presented for achieving an Innovation in Design (ID) credit based on credit requirements for AEc2 of the LEED for Homes rating system. While it is common for projects to apply for ID credits based on applicable credit requirements from alternative rating systems, the proposed ID credit is not acceptable. Several of the credit requirements for AEc2 in LEED for Homes overlap with requirements already included in EAc3 and EAc5 of LEED-NC v2.2. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 3 story multi-family apartment building in a metro area. Part of the site was previously developed and contained two houses. In lieu of demolition of these structures, one of the houses was moved from the property - being sold to a 3rd party who has moved the house to a new location and is continuing to use the house as a residence - thereby extending its useful life and purpose. The second structure was in poor condition and was unlikely to continue to be used as a residence. This structure was donated to the local municipality for use by the public safety/fire department as an educational/training tool as part of a live fire training exercise. This of course means that the house was burned as part of the training exercise and is no longer on the property. Our question is two fold: 1. The house that was moved rather than demolished and diverted from the waste stream continues to be used as a house and serves a family of four. We consider this a benefit as a family is provided affordable housing without the use and extraction of additional material resources. Also, because the house was moved it is being used in its entirety - diverting even more waste than would normally be realized through job site recycling. Should we include the weight of this house in our calculations for credit MR 2, and if so, how should we best estimate the weight of the structure? We will not be able to separate the weights of the various materials and components but will rather need to estimate the weight of the house en masse and list as a separate line item. or, should we apply for an Innovation and Design Credit for the reuse of the house? 2. The house that was donated to the local municipality for use by the public safety/fire department as an educational/training tool also diverted waste from the landfill. We understand that incineration of building materials and waste is not considered to meet the intent of MR 2 unless it is used as a biomass fuel generation source as determined by the ruling on 3/23/2004. However, use of this structure benefits the public good - by providing firefighters necessary educational and lifesafety training experience so that they are better prepared to fight fires and rescue people in danger - the use of the house in this manner thereby helps to save lives and extend the public good beyond the material value of the structure. All of the burned material was removed from the site prior to the contractor\'s mobilization and control of the site. May we apply for an Innovation and Design Credit for this work? Supporting documentation will include narratives, a statement of activity by the public safety/fire department and an environmental report stating that the house contained no hazardous materials at the time of the fire fighting exercise.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing two measures: to include a relocated house in the calculations for MRc2 or to receive an innovation point for this measure, and to reuse an existing house for a fire department training use and achieving an innovation point using this strategy. The relocation of the first structure mentioned warrants an innovation point, as this reuse measure achieves a higher environmental impact than recycling of the materials of the house alone. Alternatively, the house can be included in MRc2 calculations; if the total project\'s diversion rate for MRc2 is 95% or higher, an ID point for exemplary performance can be pursued. The proposal for the second structure (donation for public safety/fire department use) can be included in the MRc2 calculations but does not warrant an innovation point alone. Consulting a structural engineer on the weights of both houses for these calculations is encouraged in order for the weights of the materials to be the most accurate.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ozone System in Lap Pool and Spa: exceptional IEQ Our project is a sports facility with a 6-lane, 25m swimming pool and 2 spas. Instead of the conventional chlorine system, we are using an ozone system to treat the water. The Ozone system has the following advantage: - Destroys bacteria, mold and mildew - Eliminates spores, yeasts, fungus and inactivates viruses - Aids the removal of minerals such as iron and manganese - Water is softer and has neutral pH - Leaves no unpleasant chemical or smell, no chloramines build-up, the by-products of ozone are heat and pure oxygen - No irritation to the eyes, nasal passages or throat - Will not cause dry skin, bleached hair or faded swimwear - Reduce chlorine consumption to a minimum, saving money on maintenance, and avoid storing such toxic chemical on site. To summarize, the system reduces the use of chlorine greatly (50-75% depending on splash limit). Unlike chlorine, ozone leaves no unpleasant odors or residual chemicals in the pool and spas. It eliminates the problems of red and irritated eyes, dry skin, faded swim wear and other problems associated with chlorine. We believe that this system has significantly increased the indoor environment quality of the project, especially when the pool and spas are frequently used being in a sports facility instead of a private residence. And a large amount of occupants will be benefited. Therefore, we would like to use this for one of our Innovation and Design Credits. Please advice on the feasibility.

Ruling:

The proposed strategy, if incorporated properly, may warrant an innovation credit. The use of an ozonation system that is properly sized and integrated into the swimming pool treatment system will allow ozone to act as the primary oxidizer and disinfectant. Since there is no uniform standard which has been established for ozonation of pools, ozone design criteria for disinfection in the United States is based primarily around US EPA Drinking Water Guidelines. Dose rate values between .4 mg-O3/l are normally cited and .8 mg-O3/l is commonly used. While LEED encourage approaches that reduce the use of toxic chemicals, additional information is required to provide a complete assessment of credit achievement in this case. Please describe limited reduction of chlorine (e.g., state if regulations require a minimum level of chlorine), and provide detailed explanation and proof of substantial environmental benefits (quantified as much as possible). See IDc1.1 CIR review dated 5/21/2003 for further guidance on this issue including appropriate documentation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation and Design 1- Biodiesel for Construction fleet We are seeking approval for an ID Innovation and Design credit for mandating all vehicles and on-site equipment operated during construction to run on B20 Biodiesel fuel instead of diesel. INTENT Reduce air pollution and health impact associated with construction transportation. REQUIREMENTS Project construction vehicles and on-site equipment are required to use B20 as primary fuel source. Supplier transportation vehicles would be required to provide proof of purchase for another trip equal or more in distance. CREDIT DOCUMENTATION SUBMITTALS - Written contract between construction managers and biofuel supplier to maintain provision of Biodiesel B20 storage on site. - Proof of purchase from sub contractors and material suppliers for distance travelled for said project. APPROACH AND IMPLEMENTATION All vehicles built after 1990 have the ability to run B20 without requiring any retrofit to use B20. On site storage of Biodiesel B20 upto 500 gallons will ensure all construction vehicles and on site equipment have direct access for refueling. Sub contractor vehicles need to submit receipts as proof of purchase. All other vehicles arriving at the site without using B20 will be required to purchase B20 for equal or more distance. Local biofuel suppliers have been identified and to be introduced to all subcontractors. A detailed education and training session will be carried out with General Contractor and sub-contractors prior to commencement of the project. Partnership with local groups like Space Coast Clean Cities Coalition, Federal Department of Energy and Clean-Cities will introduce the idea of using bidiesel to the community. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES - 1 unit of energy used to produce biodiesel B100 gives output of 3.24 units of fuel energy, diesel outputs 0.8 fuel energy. - Petroleum based diesel is a non-renewable fuel. - Construction vehicles travel through local communities causing smog and ground level ozone due to the air pollutants and particulate matter emitted. - EPA\'s study carried out in 2002 notes B20 blend of biodiesel vehicles are observed to emit 20% less Hydrocarbons and 12% less Carbon Monoxide (CO), and 12% less Particulate Matter. - Non-road engines are also expected to emit less Particulate Matter (PM) and CO when operated on Biodiesel B20 blend. - Biodiesel is produced from agricultural resources. They are renewable, local and cause less pollution in production and transportation. Purchase and use of Biodiesel supports the local economy and farmers growing the crop. HEALTH ISSUES - As per research carried out by EPA, the impact of biodiesel on total toxics is beneficial, i.e. total toxics are on average reduced when biodiesel is added to conventional diesel fuel. - B20 reduces emission of cancer causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nPAH) as compared to diesel operated engines. - Other chemicals borne off petroleum based diesel like formaldehyde and benzene are absent in Biodiesel.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an ID credit for the use of B20 biodiesel fuel for vehicles and on-site equipment operated during construction. Based on the description of utilizing an alternative fuel strategy (such as providing bio-diesel B20 for the various construction-type equipment), this would represent a reasonable innovation credit. However, the credit and documentation would need to support a comprehensive approach and demonstrate significant and measurable environmental benefits. Below is a list of some recommended guidelines that can be used to support the overall strategy\'s benefits. 1.) Identify the proposed innovation credit\'s intent and requirements. Establish the performance threshold above baseline and include the submission requirements and the design approach used to satisfy the requirements. 2.) Quantify the environmental benefits based on recognized scientific data for the fuel type, such as the cited EPA research study. 3.) Establish a baseline of the amount of diesel used (in gallons) during the construction process and compare that to the amount of bio-diesel used in the same time period. 4.) Compare and quantify the environmental benefits, e.g. reduction in various pollutants and gases (CO2, NOx, CO, SOx and particulate matter) of the bio-diesel B20 strategy versus standard fossil based diesel fuel. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/14/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project team is seeking clarification as to whether an enhanced Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) would qualify as an Innovation Credit. The General Contractor, Hensel Phelps Construction Company, has developed and implemented a program to monitor construction pollution prevention and ensure soil erosion and sediment controls during construction. Hensel Phelps developed a trial program in 2007 to assess their effectiveness in assuring compliance with specified pollution prevention strategies. Results of the trial indicated dramatic performance improvements in the implementation of pollution prevention practices during construction. Consequently, the company has adopted this program as standard practice for all of its projects. The Prerequisite for Sustainable Sites requires prevention of: 1. Loss of soil during construction by stormwater runoff and/or wind erosion, including protecting topsoil by stockpiling for reuse, 2. Prevent sedimentation of storm sewer or receiving streams, and 3. Prevent polluting the air with dust and particulate matter. While all construction sites attempt to fulfill this prerequisite by putting in place controls, these precautions are rarely monitored and thus not repaired when necessary. Hensel Phelps Construction actively evades this negligence by implementing a much more thorough Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. The program contains a comprehensive plan for ensuring compliance through extensive training, routine audits, documentation, and maintenance. An HPCC employee not on the project team is employed to audit the site\'s SWPPP Program. Three to seven days after the initial assessment, a follow-up inspection is conducted. Throughout the lifetime of the project, at least one HPCC employee that is part of the construction crew is assigned to oversee the upkeep of the soil erosion and sediment control measures on a monthly basis. This surveyor will walk the site to ensure that the control measures are in good shape. Documentation guidelines and performance metrics are also included to allow for thorough monitoring and assessment of the plan\'s effectiveness. Reports from the third party inspections of the SWPPP are forwarded to the Vice President, General Superintendent, Project Superintendent(s) and the Area Superintendent(s) to ensure that it receives the appropriate attention. Then the monthly inspections are recorded in detailed reports called "Stormwater Risk Management- Construction SWPPP Field Inspection Report." The report includes general information and summarizes the number of findings, the severity of these findings, calculations of how the findings are scored, and the percentage of the corrections made due to the findings. The summary is followed by maps of the construction site with markings of problem areas. The report then progresses into further detail with documentation of each finding including a deadline for correction. The follow-up inspection section indicates if any correction was attempted, any necessary explanation, and the follow up finding severity rating in a similar format. Photos of the site are also present from both initial and follow- up inspections. Continuous implementation of this program will provide substantial contributions to maintaining water quality. In addition, the success of this program provides a model for other project teams seeking to improve stormwater pollution controls and minimize damage to waterways resulting from construction practices. Hensel Phelps received an Environmental Achievement Award in 2008 in recognition of these ongoing benefits from the Mid-Atlantic Environmental Protection Agency. According to the EPA\'s website: "This award recognizes and rewards projects that have significant sustained, measurable, and replicable environmental results for a clearly defined environmental issue in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia; must have reduced pollution and/or protected public health and the environment; has innovative ideas, approaches, techniques, and/or technologies; and demonstrated leadership and outreach to others."

Ruling:

The project is seeking clarification if an enhanced inspection program for their Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan is eligible for exemplary performance for Sustainable Sites prerequisite 1. Per the LEED NC 2.2 Reference Guide, this prerequisite is not eligible for exemplary performance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/27/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

TITLE: Environmentally-friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil INTENT: Eliminate the use of commonly used hazardous materials REQUIREMENTS: Replace hazardous, non-renewable transformer oils with a safe, environmentally friendly substitute. SUBMITTALS: Provide a LEED Letter Template, signed by the electrical engineer or responsible party, listing the product substituted for the commonly used hazardous substance. Provide product literature showing the material is non-hazardous, and environmentally friendly. DESIGN APPROACH: The project is installing a new transformer able to use an environmentally friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil. The specified equipment is a 2000 kVA, exterior, fluid cooled utility transformer. This transformer steps down the 22.9 kV campus distribution voltage to 460/277 volts for utilization within the building. The specified and installed transformer contains 640 gallons of Envirotemp FR3 oil. Envirotemp FR3 oil is derived from 100% edible seed oils and food grade additives. This product meets the U.S. EPA criteria for "Ultimate Biodegradability" classification. Additional testing for acute aquatic toxicity and oral LD50 tests have proven the non-toxic qualities of this fluid. This oil is also exempt from the Federal Regulation of Used Oils. For most power system installations, the serving utility company provides and installs the electrical service transformer. At the University of Florida, the campus power distribution is owned and maintained by the University. As a consequence, each construction project purchases and installs the exterior utility transformer and makes the connections to the campus power distribution network. Until recently, the only choice for the transformer insulating and cooling fluid was petroleum-based products such as mineral oil. At this project, the LEED team and Owner took advantage of the new, plant based oils, now available to be specified in the utility transformer purchased and installed for this project.

Ruling:

The project is inquiring whether the use of an environmentally-friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil for the building\'s sole transformer would qualify for an innovation credit. The transformer oil can contribute to MRc6, Rapidly Renewable Materials, and thus an innovation credit is not warranted. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/24/2001
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Title: Green Building EducationINTENT: To provide public education focusing on green building strategies and solutions.REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMITTALS: Credit 1.1 (1 point) Provide permanent educational displays illustrating at least one component of each of the five major green building categories in the LEED rating system:Sustainable SitesWater EfficiencyEnergy and AtmosphereIndoor Environmental QualityMaterials and Resources- Provide narrative to describe the intended green building education program that will use the displays.- Provide narrative to describe the selected green building educational displays.- Provide design drawings of the educational displays and their locations in the building.Credit 1.2 (1 point) Provide educational outreach focusing on sustainable living and building practices to serve the general public.- Provide education program with identifiable tasks and outcomes geared toward sustainable living and building practices.- Develop an ongoing education program to provide access to practical methods for homeowners and others for sustainable living and building practices.SUMMARY OF REFERENCED STANDARDS: There are no such referenced standards for this credit.GREEN BUILDING CONCERNS: Public education is necessary to encourage green building practices in public programs, private development, and residential communities. The purpose of this innovative credit is to encourage public education in green building projects and provide a strategy to meet that goal.Mission Statement: To inspire people to live more sustainably, using flexible and achievable standards for building and landscaping practices in such a way as it will protect our local and regional natural resources.DESIGN APPROACH: Even though this credit is designed with an environmental education center in mind, the principles of public education can be applied to either public or private structures. For example, office buildings, although a private enterprise, have employees coming and going each day. A building that is didactic and is reinforced with clearly defined educational displays can have a significant impact on the user\'s understanding of the built and natural environment. Transforming thoughtful design solutions into educational opportunities is the intent of this credit. Also, disseminating effective and practical information on sustainable living and building practices to the general public is a fundamental way to make changes in our society.

Ruling:

To take advantage of the educational value of the green building features of a project and to earn a LEED point, any approach should be ACTIVELY instructional. 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. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/25/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is being submitted to assess whether this proposed ID credit may qualify for a point assuming that all proposed standards are met and all documentation is made. ID Credit Title: Recycled Landscape Material - 50% (post-consumer + 1/2 pre-consumer) Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Increase the demand for recycled landscape inorganic materials as a method for diverting materials from landfills. Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of the post-consumer recycled content plus one half of the pre-consumer content constitute 50 % of the inorganic landscape material used in the project based on cost. Submit manufacturer / MSDS information, and material invoices indicating the purchase and delivery for all inorganic landscape materials. Indicate the percentages of post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled materials used. Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: This project is a tire sales and service facility which generates a large volume of waste tires annually. We will be using used tire mulch for our landscape mulch purposes. The tires are either finely ground or shredded enough to allow water infiltration, but are heavy enough that they are not easily moved by flood conditions to receiving streams and storm water systems. The material is clean, non-toxic, and does not produce toxic leachate. In addition, they are no more flammable than traditional wood based mulches. Other materials that may be used include weed control geotextiles with recycled content and recycled plastic hard trim or edging.

Ruling:

The use of recycled tires as landscaping material should be included in calculations for MRc4 Recycled Content and thus does not warrant award of an Innovation in Design credit. Depending on the origin of this product, it may also contribute to MRc5, Regional Materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/25/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Taylor 28 is a mixed-use project that includes multi-family residential over ground floor retail with underground parking in addition to outdoor plazas and courtyard spaces. The project is located in downtown Seattle, Washington. The project has three above-grade, podium level courtyards that are composed of concrete pavers, raised planting areas, and a small amount of wood decking (ipe). The project has strong design intent focused on minimizing the heat island effect and thus is pursuing and will likely achieve the Sustainable Sites credits for Heat Island Effect for Non-Roof (SSc7.1) and Roof (SSc7.2). We believe the project also satisfies the intent of the Exemplary Performance pathway for Heat Island Effect Non-Roof since 100% of the parking is underground. However, we are confused about how best to demonstrate that accomplishment due to the complexity of our project, contribution of multiple strategies, and imprecise language in the reference guide. Please provide clarification on how to document this credit, given the circumstances described. Even though the roof already satisfies the criteria for SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect, Roof, the roof is reexamined in determining compliance with the Exemplary Performance pathway for SSc7.1 since portions cover the underground parking. As previously mentioned, the project will easily achieve the 50% threshold for SSc7.1, by either or both of the available options. However in order to achieve the SSc7.1 Exemplary Performance threshold of 100%, it seems the project is required to demonstrate that any portion of roof that covers parking has a minimum solar reflectance index (SRI) of 29. We believe that the project satisfies the intent of the credit but is having trouble matching the circumstances of the project to the submittal requirements. As you will read below, only by the strictest definition of the requirements, does the project fail to satisfy the requirements. The following four ways demonstrate both in isolation and in cooperation why our project should be awarded full credit for the Exemplary Performance for SSc7.1: 1. Area-weighted Average SRI - The area-weighted average SRI value for surfaces that are above underground parking is 75, which is composed of the following three elements: a. Roof - White TPO membrane, SRI = 82, Area over parking = 36,483 sf b. Courtyard - Concrete pavers, SRI = 40, Area over parking = 4,742 sf c. Courtyard - Ipe decking, SRI = 27, Area over parking = 1,634 sf The area of vegetation and a corresponding SRI is excluded from the Area-weighted Average SRI. However, it is worth noting that vegetation on the courtyards covers 4,535 sf (9.5%) and further reduces the heat island effect and would increase the average SRI if vegetation could be valued using the SRI metric. The percentage of the total area covering underground parking for each of the four materials is as follows: a. Roof - White TPO membrane, percentage of total roof area: 77% b. Courtyard - Concrete pavers, percentage of total roof area: 10% c. Courtyard - Vegetation, percentage of total roof area: 9.5% d. Courtyard - Ipe decking - percentage of total roof area: 3.5% 2. Shading: The three podium-level courtyards are located one story above street level and are significantly shaded by five levels of residential units that surround them. Due to this, the courtyards are further mitigated from any heat island effect by shading. In fact, using the LEED prescribed shading calculations (qualifying area shaded is the average of areas shaded at 10 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. on the solstice), even though they only technically apply to the Option 1 compliance path, demonstrates that shade from the building will cover 47 % of the total courtyard area, and 51% of the total wood decking area. This further reduces the influence of the wood decking in contributing to the heat island effect. In addition, tree plantings in the larger courtyard will also contribute to shading of the pavement. 3. The LEED-NC Reference Guide gives an explicit definition of what qualifies a project for the Exemplary Performance Pathway for SSc7.1, "Project may be awarded an innovation point for exemplary performance by demonstrating that.2) 100% of the on-site parking spaces have been located under cover". There is no mention of the requirement that "Any roof used to shade or cover parking must have an SRI of at least 29" as is mentioned in the credit language. Furthermore, the roof in question was not merely put in place as a parking shade, but instead to cover the building, which is already included in SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect, Roof, which this project is already achieving. 4. Amenity Space: The project is sited in a dense urban area, where residential development is part of a strategy to create vibrant neighborhoods. In creating such communities, it is important to provide outdoor amenity spaces for the residents that allow for a respite from the hectic pace of urban life. These courtyards provide simple outdoor gathering spaces comprised of a variety of materials which allow residents to relax in a visually rich outdoor space within the harsher city environment. As a footnote, the Ipe wood decking in question was sent for testing at a laboratory, at a not insignificant cost, to determine its actual SRI value and its impact on the heat island effect. Since new Ipe decking has very different properties than Ipe decking that is a few years old due to the effect of weathering (the brownish wood weathers to a silvery gray over time), a partially-weathered sample was tested. It is our belief that this was the appropriate approach as for most of the life of the building, the weathered Ipe decking will be in place, and only for the first few years would the decking exhibit its as-installed brownish look. Since the sample available for testing was only partially weathered, we believe this further strengthens our argument, as over time the SRI value will slowly increase, likely moving from its tested value of 27 and eventually crossing the threshold of 29. In conclusion, the Taylor 28 project has located 100% of its parking underground to avoid paving even a single black asphalt parking space, is located in a dense urban environment where amenity spaces-especially those with natural wood elements-are limited and essential to community and producing peaceful outdoor spaces, and has multiple strategies in place to respond to the intent of reducing the heat island effect. The wood decking is only slightly under an SRI of 29, comprises only 9.5% of the over-parking roof area, is 51% shaded via LEED shading methodology, and the remaining roof areas and vegetation will also drastically reduce the heat island effect-combining to nearly trivialize the contribution of the Ipe decking to the heat island effect, while providing a great amenity space and natural element in a dense urban environment. For these reasons and everything described above, we believe that this project should be awarded both Heat Island Effect credits as well as an Innovation in Design point for Exemplary Performance for credit SSc7.1.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification on the requirements for exemplary performance for SSc7.1. The project team is correct - the Reference Guide states that exemplary performance for SSc7.1 may be awarded an innovation point for exemplary performance by demonstrating that, per option 2, 100% of the on-site parking spaces have been located under cover. In addition to the required documentation, a site plan verifying that 100% of parking is underground should be included. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project team is seeking clarification to the requirements for Building Shell Commissioning outlined in the Innovation in Design Credit Catalog from March 2008. The credit is found on page 14 of that document and states: Building Shell Commissioning (approved) Requirements: Commission the building envelope in addition to a "fair amount of attention paid to the shell design during the design review process".
Submittals:

  • Narrative describing commissioning process and issues found
  • Building shell construction checklist Our project will create a mock up of the façade and a third party will test for air tightness testing and moisture management. Revisions to the façade design will be incorporated, as necessary, based upon the results of the mock-up test. Once construction has begun and the façade is in place, the same testing agency will visit the site 3 times and test 4 areas during each visit to ensure the façade is performing as designed. The areas will be selected at random and the general contractor will not know in advance where the spot checking will take place. The agency shall report any deficiencies to the general contractor and will re-test the area to ensure corrections were made. Once the façade is complete, the agency will perform thermal imaging and report any areas where the change in temperature is greater than 1 degree Celsius. The testing will be performed in accordance with the following standards:
  • ASTM E 283 Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen. ASTM E 330 Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
  • ASTM E 331 Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
  • AAMA 501.1-94 Standard Test Method for Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls and Doors for Water Penetration Using Dynamic Pressure

We would like confirmation that the above mentioned procedures would merit an Innovation in Design credit or what additional testing would be required to earn a credit.

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for commissioning the building envelope. The size, scope, construction type and other details of the envelope have not been included. Please ensure that these details are included in the final submission. The approach described in the request is satisfactory for award of an ID credit, however please note that ID credits cannot be awarded via CIR. It is required that the submittal documentation meets the requirements of EAp1 - Fundamental Commissioning, as stated in the LEED NCv2.2 Reference Guide. In addition, refer to the documentation as well as the additional testing that is outlined in Credit Interpretation Request 10/3/2008. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit language is intended to demonstrate accomplishment of Comprehensive Exterior VOC Emitting Materials Reduction above and beyond requirements set forth in existing LEED credits. We recognize that an ID credit cannot be granted achievement through the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability and appropriateness as written to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Proposed Title: Comprehensive Exterior VOC Emitting Materials Reduction Intent: Provide a safe and healthy outdoor environment for both construction teams and building occupants. Reduce outdoor pollution resulting from construction practices and material selection. Requirements: Significantly reduce the amount of VOCs released to the outdoor air through construction practices and materials selection by specifying low VOC emitting products for each of the following if/as incorporated in the project: ? Factory applied cool roof coating (rather than field applied) ? No added urea-formaldehyde composite wood exterior doors ? Low VOC siding materials (composite wood and cement product) ? Low VOC pesticides and vegetation care products ? Heat island effect: roof- meet LEED-NC SS7.2 credit requirements Submittal: In addition to all corresponding submittal requirements for existing LEED credits, document specific efforts to reduce VOCs external to the building, and describe how a comprehensive exterior VOC reduction that address control and mitigation has been realized. Design Approach: ? Source Control: minimize VOC sources from being installed/used in the exterior building and site construction ? Mitigation: maintain outdoor air quality to minimize VOC presence ? Identify sources of VOCs within the exterior building and site design, and specify low VOC or VOC free alternatives. ? Locate site in area accessible to existing public transportation networks, provide bike storage and showering facilities, provide preferred parking for low emitting and fuel efficient vehicles, and base parking capacity on actual user needs rather than code or precedent for building type. ? Green Seal Standard GC-03 exterior paints, primers, and coatings ? SCAQMD Rule #1168 compliant concrete sealant ? Low VOC exterior caulks and adhesives ? Separate pedestrian traffic flow patterns from vehicle flow patterns ? Heat island effect: non-roof- meet LEED-NC SSc7.1 credit requirements ? SCAQMD Rule #1168 compliant wood stains and wood sealers ? Low VOC decking materials (composite wood and cement product)

Ruling:

The proposed requirements and approach to an ID credit have merit. In order to justify an ID credit, the requirements would need to be more comprehensive than stated, and you would need to provide additional environmental context. To be comprehensive, the requirements should include the VOC limits for concrete sealants and caulks, exterior paints, wood stains and sealers, and metal stains and sealers. Also, the project should describe the regional air quality context to justify the restriction of outdoor emissions of VOCs. For example, the importance of man-made VOC emissions in smog formation varies between regions. If you decide to pursue an ID credit for this approach, be sure to include the full component of chemical products in the requirements and to quantify both the health and environmental benefits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/13/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project involves the construction of a land mark addition to one of the world\'s premier art museums. As such a world famous architect based out of Paris, France was contracted to design the 260,000 square foot addition. We would like to propose an innovation in design credit based on electronic transmission of submittal review packages with the assumption that we will be saving sending hardcopies back and forth to Europe. Would the following be considered for an innovation credit? Credit Intent: Reduce the project\'s carbon footprint Credit Requirements: 1. Document the total number of submittal packages reviewed by the architect. For the purposes of the calculations, we will assume a standard submittal package size of 10 pages of 11x17 paper, and five copies of each submittal 2. Based on the above assumption, calculate a total weight of submittal packages that would have been sent to Europe. 3. Provide evidence of the weight capacity and fuel use of a standard aircraft used to ship packages to Europe. 4. Indicate the total savings of harmful emissions from NOT shipping hard copies of the submittal packages. As a side note, the use of electronic transmission not only reduces the project\'s carbon footprint, but has the added benefit of faster review of the submittals, likely reducing the overall time of construction.

Ruling:

While the practice of electronic transmission of submittal review packages is laudable, it does not warrant an innovation credit. The electronic transmission of submittal review packages is not only becoming common practice, but it is a relatively small part of the larger impacts of an international team, e.g. travel, other shipping, etc. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

DESCRIPTION Proposed achievement of this credit involves production of a fifteen minute video overview of the resort\'s LEED and green features. INTENT Previous rulings have indicated a minimum of two of the following solutions were required to achieve a point for public education within the Innovation and Design category: - Comprehensive signage program - Development of a manual, guideline, or case study - Educational outreach program or guided tour It is the intent of this CIR to seek a ruling that would permit the use of digital media (i.e., video) to serve, as an alternate path to all of the above. REQUIREMENTS Utilize digital media to expand upon the delivery of public education through: - Providing context to the LEED plaque (to be located in the lobby) by playing back the video on a flat screen adjacent to the plaque. This will provide expansive meaning to a plaque that will be viewed by thousands of people each year - including many who are not familiar with USGBC or LEED. Additionally, this would also reduce the traditional use of lobby paper products to tell the green story. Such paper products can sometimes go underutilized and/or are quickly discarded. - Educating visitors on the LEED and non-LEED green attributes of the resort by the daily and multiple playbacks (minimum 4 times each day) of the video on the resort\'s dedicated in-room television channel. This would achieve USGBC\'s goal of educating visitors to the project. - Educating new employees by playback of the video as part of their initial training and orientation. This would achieve USGBC\'s goal of educating employees. - Reaching a larger audience beyond those traveling to the resort by featuring the video on the resort\'s website and the corporation\'s environmental initiatives website. In essence the video provides a virtual, as opposed to physical guided tour, of the project without expanding facilities unnecessarily in order to conduct tours of the back of house physical plant. This would complement USGBC\'s goal of sharing the successes of this project with others who may not have the opportunity to visit the project. SUBMITTALS LEED Design Application Milestone: - Proposed location of lobby LEED plaque and adjacent flat screen - Story treatment/synopsis LEED Construction Application Milestone submittals would include: - Shooting script - Shooting schedule - Schedule of daily playback on the in-room resort channel - Web address/proposed design for the resort and environmental affairs websites that would host the video.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on using digital media, in the form of a video, which will provide information about the green features of the building. While commendable, this approach alone does not substantiate a comprehensive green education program to warrant achievement of an innovation credit. An additional strategy should be adopted, and must be actively instructional, such as an educational outreach program or guided tour, or a comprehensive signage program built into the building\'s respective spaces. Please refer to the established requirements for this as noted in the LEED-NC v2.1 CIR ruling dated 09/24/2001. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/2/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project utilizes a parallel water distribution system (Viega\'s Manabloc) for domestic water on all lavatories, mop sinks, and water coolers (water closets are served by grey water). The design uses two strategically placed manifolds located close to the hot water recirculation loop. Individual supply lines from the manifolds are routed the shortest possible distance to each fixtures (hot and cold) in a home-run style minimizing lengths to

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring as to whether a reduction in building water use for achieved by means other than the measures recognized in WE credit 3 is eligible for an ID credit. A major difference between the proposed measure and the fixture efficiency used in WEc3 is that the savings from this proposed piping design depend on the relative use of hot water and only apply to that fraction of the overall water use. As a result, in order to justify an ID credit for this system, the project would need to demonstrate that the projected water savings attributable to the piping design are equal to or greater than 10% of the total regulated water use in WEc3. The description provided references a 40% improvement overall conventional piping design (the report was not accessible via the CIR system). You will need to clarify whether this 40% savings is relative to total building water use or just hot water use, etc. It is assumed that the project is already achieving WE credit 3.1 and 3.2. If those credits are not already being achieved, you would simply apply this same approach as an alternate compliance path for WEc3, as opposed to an ID credit.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/27/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is not for an I.D. credit, but for an Administrative CIR. We are developing a mixed use building New York City consisting of a residential tower above core & shell retail spaces. The retail spaces will be fit-out by tenants after the completion of construction. We are fitting-out well over 50% of the building\'s square footage and will be seeking a LEED-NC rating. The design and construction of our building will ensure that the future fit-out spaces ARE ABLE to meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits we are pursuing and ARE REQUIRED to be designed so as not to degrade the LEED status of the original LEED-NC project. We propose to exclude any interior build-out work from the LEED but provide tenant fit-out guidelines for the project submission (per administrative CIR 9/17/04). Further, we are not relying on any future tenant design and construction activities to earn the credits included the original LEED-NC project. Our question concerns what our tenant guidelines must REQUIRE (through binding contract) from our first and all future tenants in fitting-out their spaces. We understand from previous CIRs that requiring compliance with all prerequisites and credits pursued by the original LEED-NC project will earn an I.D. credit, but we are unclear about what is required if the I.D. credit is not pursued. Please confirm which, if any, of the following measures must be required (as opposed to being encouraged through the tenant guidelines): a) The future tenant fit-out spaces must achieve all seven LEED-NC prerequisites; b) The future tenant fit-out spaces must meet the forthcoming LEED criteria for earning 2 points under Optimize Energy Performance; c) The future tenant fit-out spaces must ONLY achieve those LEED-NC prerequisites that directly affect the performance of the original LEED-NC project (e.g. complying with EQp2 if air systems are shared, spaces are connected, etc.); d) The future tenant fit-out spaces must achieve all LEED credits that directly affect the performance of the original LEED-NC project (e.g. complying with EQc4 if air systems are shared, etc.). Thank you for your consideration.

Ruling:

The inquiry is seeking clarification on what measures tenant guidelines must require from tenants for fitting-out their spaces in the building. Based on previous LEED-NC v2.1 Administrative Inquiry CIRs concerning tenant guidelines, project teams need not require any particular measures for tenant fit-out spaces. Per LEED-NC v2.1 Administrative Inquiry CIR ruling dated 2/22/2005, the tenant guidelines should ensure that future tenant fit-outs CAN meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits pursued by the project. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
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Requirements

Credit can be achieved through any combination of the Innovation in Design/Operations and Exemplary Performance 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.
Credit substitution available
You may use the LEED v4 version of this credit on v2009 projects. For more information check out this article.

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1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the second line of the second paragraph, remove the quotation mark so the text becomes "...PATH 2 - Exemplary Performance."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/14/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Insert the following section:Path 3. Pilot Credit (1 point)Attempt a pilot credit available in the Pilot Credit Library atwww.usgbc.org/pilotcreditlibrary. Register as a pilot credit participant andcomplete the required documentation. Projects may pursue more than 1pilot credit; however, a maximum of 1 point will be awarded.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the last sentence of the paragraph with "NC and CS projects may pursue up to 5 Pilot Credits total, Schools projects may pursue up to 4 Pilot Credits total."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the second line of the second paragraph, remove the quotation mark so the text becomes "...PATH 2 - Exemplary Performance."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, insert the text "Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed" before "in the LEED 2009 for New Construction..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/14/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Insert the following section:Path 3. Pilot Credit (1 point)Attempt a pilot credit available in the Pilot Credit Library atwww.usgbc.org/pilotcreditlibrary. Register as a pilot credit participant andcomplete the required documentation. Projects may pursue more than 1pilot credit; however, a maximum of 1 point will be awarded.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, replace the text "LEED 2009 for Schools" with "LEED 2009 for New Construction, Schools and Core & Shell"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the header, change "(1 point)" to "(1 - 5 points for NC and CS, 1 - 4 points for Schools)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, insert the text "Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not addressed" before "in the LEED 2009 for New Construction..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/8/2010Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the first paragraph, replace the text "LEED 2009 for Schools" with "LEED 2009 for New Construction, Schools and Core & Shell"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/24/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Green Building Educational Component This project intends to provide a two-part educational package as part of its process. This will consist of the following: 1. A display system comprised of small iconographic signs throughout the facility highlighting where green strategies have been employed. These icons will then be complemented by a display panel in the main cafeteria space which highlights what the green building strategies are, and some of the impacts. Rather than put text-based signs throughout the facility, the icons will remind people as they move through the space that there is something green there. All employees go to the cafeteria several times a day, and this way the centralized panel can highlight the environmental impact of each piece of the building. For example an icon at the parking lot can highlight how much the hybrid vehicle parking spaces are reducing emissions. An icon at the toilet rooms can highlight how many gallons of water are going to be saved each year. By having the icons spread throughout the facility we can illustrate how pervasive our green strategies are. 2. A case study book or website, tied in to graphics of the building, which will highlight materials and strategies used throughout the facility. It will be cross-referenced with synergistic efforts made in the owner\'s corporate office center, also under construction and also seeking LEED certification. This resource will include both materials used, design strategies employed, and local suppliers and professionals involed in the project, such as construction entities, local waste recyclers, etc. This case study book or website will be shared with the USGBC and the Pittsburgh Green Building Alliance (GBA). Please review and let us know if this approach will meet the intent of the CIR from 9/24/2001 regarding educational programs for Innovation in Design points, and whether this approach is likely to be awarded a point if submitted.

Ruling:

To meet the requirements for an innovation credit for education, as outlined in previous CIR rulings, signage must be built into the building\'s spaces and comprehensively addresses the green building strategies employed in the project. A case study must inform the design of other buildings based on the success of this project. The strategies described meet this intent. Credits are not awarded through the CIR process and achievement will be based on the documents formally submitted. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This is not for ID but for a Administrative CIR, as there was not a Adminstrative section listed on the LEED on-line submittal options. 03/23/2007 Credit Interpretation Request Our project is a 310,796 s.f. mixed-use project. It is designed as a podium structure with subterranean parking. The mixed-use element includes 298,296 s.f. of residential and 12,500 s.f. of tenant. The entire project have been designed and constructed to potentially achieve various LEED v2.2 credits. The tenant space will consist retail, but the spaces will not be fully designed until they are leased. The owner would like to achieve LEED certification prior to the build-out of the tenant space. Based on several previous CIR rulings, we would like to create guidelines for the future retail to support the LEED credits that we have attempted to secure in the constructed space. This guideline will include "specific performance goals, information, and resource leads, as well as required elements where applicable". Some of the credits that we are pursuing will require us to assume a hypothetical maximum or minimum (whatever is most restrictive) occupant load to calculate usage rates for the entire building. (Example: Innovative Waste Water Reduction WE Cr. 2 sewage conveyance reduction requires an assumed fixture count for the future tenant space) Our project is registered under LEED -NC v2.2. We are trying to confirm that the approach we are proposing will be acceptable for a LEED certification submission in the near future. Please refer to Administrative CIR Rulings dated 2/22/2005,10/4/2004, 5/24/2004, and 5/17/2002.

Ruling:

< This ruling was revised on 6/23/2007 > For the applicant\'s mixed use project, if the owner/tenant occupies more than 50% of the building\'s leasable space, the building shall fall under the NC rating system. Please refer to the rulings referenced in the CIR (NCv2.1 Administrative Inquiries dated 2/22/2005,10/4/2004, 5/24/2004, and 5/17/2002) for guidance on using tenant guidelines for the future retail space. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Integrated HVAC for Building & Greenhouse This CIR proposes an innovation design credit for a design to integrate the HVAC system between the greenhouse and the main building of the new Pacific Garden Mission (PGM) facility in Chicago. The intent of the proposed design innovation is to: 1) use the greenhouse vegetation to help improve the air quality in parts of the main building; 2) pass the building exhaust air through the greenhouse to provide carbon dioxide enriched air to help in plant growth in the greenhouse. The new PGM facility includes a men\'s and a women\'s greenhouse attached to the south wall of the facility. The design calls for an HVAC system that can operate in the following three modes modes: 1)Exhaust building air from the adjacent 1st floor rooms through the greenhouse to help heat and cool the greenhouse, keep it positively pressurized to avoid infiltration. Our preliminary energy modeling indicates that this mode of operation will result in annual avoided heating costs of at least $2,500 or over 1% of the projected energy costs for the current building design. Exhausting building air through the greenhouses will promote plant growth by supplying greenhouse with CO2-enriched building exhaust air. 2)Draw air through the greenhouse so that it can be tempered and supply part of the make-up air required for the dining/kitchen area. 3)Divert the air from the adjacent rooms through the greenhouse to clean, humidify it, and enrich it with oxygen before it returns back to the building. Our approach is to include the energy saving aspects of these design features in the energy model of the building that has been prepared for EA Credit 1 Optimized Energy Performance. Therefore, our proposed Innovation Design Credit is for the environmental benefits of this design that integrates the HVAC systems of the greenhouse and main building. We look forward to the USGBC\'s guidance on this exciting potential innovation in design.

Ruling:

It is not clear that circulating air through the greenhouse will improve IEQ. It is equally as likely that the greenhouse could introduce allergens. Some of the supposed benefits (humidity control) are already addressed by existing credits. To better understand the air quality benefits of exhausting building air into the greenhouse, and more importantly, drawing recirculated air through the greenhouse for use in the occupied building, the team would have to provide additional evidence to earn an Innovation in Design Credit. Modes 1 and 2 above will provide energy savings and should be included in EAc1. Mode 3 would require evidence, such as monitoring, demonstrating that the air returning to the building is cleaner and enriched. As to humidification of the air, humidity sensors, awarded under EQc7.2, would be required to substantiate the claim and ensure that the air does not have too high of a moisture content. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/6/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We request a Credit Interpretation for an Innovation and Design credit for Exemplary Recycling Performance. In a CIR Ruling dated 3/8/04, you state that a recycling ID credit can be achieved if there is a ".substantial and measurable environmental benefit." You mention that previous projects have achieved an innovation credit by calculating the amount of material recycling achieved by MRp1 and then calculating the percent improvement over that recycling rate they achieved by recycling/reusing additional materials.Our question relates to applying this credit to a university campus where many of the facilities are shared. Our project is a renovation of a residence hall. In addition to recycling the basic recyclables required in MRp1, we offer collection of wooden pallets, old electronic equipment, furniture, batteries and other materials. We also have an extensive, university-wide composting program that collects organic cafeteria scrap and landscaping waste. The cafeteria is a separate building that serves students, faculty and staff on campus. The landscaping waste is collected from the entire campus, including our project site. In fiscal year \'05 every building on campus collected the basic recyclables mentioned in MRp1, collecting 195 tons of material (173 tons paper, 11 tons cardboard, and 11 tons cans and bottles). We recycled an additional 453 tons of other materials (167 tons landscaping waste, 186 tons food waste, and 100 tons other recyclables), for a 233% increase in our overall recycling rate.We understand that ID credits are not awarded through the CIR process, but we would like to know if an ID credit can be achieved for campus-wide exemplary performance. The students who will live in our residence hall are also using our cafeteria and using the landscaped common areas that contribute to the composting collection. The residence halls, classrooms, libraries, cafeteria, and common spaces within our campus collectively represent one community and our recycling efforts are geared towards this community. We would also like to know the target percentage for exemplary performance in recycling. By how much must a project increase their recycling collection compared to what is collected for MRp1 to achieve an ID credit?

Ruling:

According to the IDc1.1 ruling on 3/8/04, the concept in your proposal is viable. In addition to the doubling of the Prerequisite 1 minimum materials benchmark (by weight, volume or recycling rate), an overall campus-wide recycling rate of 40% must be achieved in order to qualify for the point (40% is taken from LEED-EB MRc5). Landscape waste must not be factored into the volume of waste collected, as it is standard practice (and often regulated) to compost landscaping waste instead of sending it to landfill. All regulated wastes must also be excluded. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/23/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a three story laboratory facility in the city of Port St. Lucie Florida. The project has used an exterior coating system with a higher heat reflectance value than the values of conventional coatings. This credit interpretation request is to inquire about submitting the coating system used, to apply for a credit for reduced heat island effect for non-roof surfaces. The Total Solar Reflectance (TSR) values of the exterior coatings used in the building were tested using a D&S reflectometer according to ASTM C1549-04. The TSR value of the BML-01 "White" color used was 82.9% and the TSR value for the PPG522-3 "Water Chestnut" color used was 74.5%. To prove merit for one point under LEED, we have followed the guidelines of the LEED reference guide to document Sustainable Sites Credit 7.1-Heat island effect non-roof. The baseline case and design case were calculated using the exterior wall surface area and 50% of the site hardscape area. The baseline case was calculated using 43.7% solar reflectance for conventional beige paint to match the color used in the building and 35% for new gray concrete hardscape. The design case was calculated using 74.5% solar reflectance for the Water Chestnut coating used and 5% for new asphalt hardscape. Using Ecotect and site specific data the building was modeled with the correct north orientation. Ecotect calculated the incident solar radiation that strikes the north, south, east and west walls, and the hardscape surfaces annually in Wh. The incident solar radiation value for the four facades and the hardscape were added, and multiplied by the solar reflectance values to determine the site reflected solar energy. The analysis showed that 61% of solar energy would have been reflected using conventional paint and new gray concrete, but instead we are reflecting 77% of the total solar energy incident on the site using a coating with a higher heat reflectance value. We would like to know if this approach of using exterior coatings with higher reflectance values to lower heat island effect on non-roof surfaces will be acceptable to document one innovation in design point.

Ruling:

The project is proposing to earn an innovation point for using high heat reflectance value exterior wall surfaces. Please note that Innovation & Design points are not awarded through the CIR process. As described, this approach is not eligible for an ID credit at this time. Currently, no standard methodology, metric, or baseline assessment exists for exterior wall heat island effect reduction. The proposed methodology (EcoTect modeling), metric (solar reflectance), and baseline do not address heat island effect reduction as currently outlined in the LEED Rating System (using solar reflectance index - SRI). Furthermore, as this proposal is suggesting a modified exemplary performance compliance path, the requirements of SSc7.1 would first need to be met. Based on the details provided above, it is not clear if SSc7.1 would be achieved. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We submitted the following narrative as part of an ID credit in the design application for our project. The USGBC reviewer commented that ". the complexities of the assumptions made for this difficult calculation are beyond the scope of this review to evaluate. This [.] should be addressed by the CIR process to evaluate [.] credit achievement." We request a technical review of the submitted credit to confirm or deny whether the project can be awarded this credit. Reduced Embodied Energy - Reduction in Material for Interior Finishes Intent: To reduce the total energy use of a building\'s lifetime by reducing the initial and recurring embodied energy through the reduction of materials used in interior finishes. Requirements: Total initial and recurring embodied energy associated with interior finishes should be reduced by 40%. The requirement can be met through reduction in use of interior finishes compared to conventional practices and/or use of lower embodied energy products for interior finishes. This project reduces the relative proportion of interior finishes (compared to a more conventional design) to reduce material usage. This produces initial embodied energy savings and energy savings associated with recurring refurbishment and maintenance activities. The project applies finishes to 72% of floors, 74% of walls, and 29% of columns compared to a conventional Czech Republic building, which is 100% finished. Ceilings of the project (excluding glass areas) are 100% finished. Analysis of energy savings related to reduction of interior finishes is based on life cycle assessment (LCA) studies of embodied energy use in office buildings. For the purposes of this analysis, energy use consists of initial embodied energy (energy to create the building), recurring embodied energy (energy to maintain the building over its lifetime), operating energy (energy to operate the building) and demolition energy (energy to demolish the building upon end of lifetime) (as proposed by Cole and Kernan, 1996). Initial embodied energy applies the initial embodied energy coefficient to finished areas. It compares the design to the baseline case, which assumes 100% finished interior surfaces. The baseline case represents typical construction practices for Czech Republic office buildings, while the design case utilises the project\'s finished areas. Initial Embodied Energy Coefficient: Carpet (floors) 0.273 GJ/m2 Plaster (columns) 0.0114 GJ/m2 Metal stud (24" OC) gypsum board & latex paint (walls/ceiling) 0.341 GJ/m2 Source: University of Bath, 2006 and Athena Institute EcoCalculator, 2007. Total recurring embodied energy (for a 60-yr service life) is calculated based on the relative significance of recurring embodied energy compared to initial embodied energy in the life cycle of energy uses. The baseline and design cases are calculated by applying the initial embodied energy coefficient to the finished areas described in the total initial embodied energy, and subsequently recurring embodied energy, as follows: Associated Initial Embodied Energy: Baseline - 67,937 GJ Design - 33,820 GJ Associated Recurring Embodied Energy: Baseline - 90,356 GJ Design - 44,981 GJ Total Embodied Energy of Applied Finishes: Baseline - 158,203 GJ Design - 78,801 GJ The project shows 50.2% savings on total embodied energy related to finishes against the baseline. Typically, initial embodied energy of materials for interior finishes makes up ~13% of the total initial embodied energy of concrete office buildings. Thus, the reduction of materials for finishes represents 6.5% (50.2% x 13%) savings on initial embodied energy. Recurring embodied energy of materials for interior finishes represents ~30% of total recurring embodied energy across the 60-yr lifetime. Thus, the reduction of materials for finishes represents 15.1% (50.2% x 30%) savings on total recurring embodied energy in the project. Total savings across total life cycle including operational energy: Total Initial Embodied Energy Savings 6.5% x 17% = 1.1% Total Recurring Embodied Energy Savings 15.1% x 23% = 3.4% Total Saving Across Whole Life Cycle 4.5% The approach indicates that significant savings can be achieved by reducing the quantity of materials for interior finishes. The approach is logical and replicable for other buildings.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting the approval of an innovation credit based on the use of interior finishes with lower embodied energy, as compared to a conventional baseline. Although the project team has demonstrated that they have used materials with lower embodied energy than the baseline, it is not clear that embodied energy is a good indicator of total environmental impact. Embodied Energy is a single attribute describing how much energy is required to make a unit of material. While energy consumption typically has an associated environmental impact, the reduction of embodied energy alone does not identify or equally quantify the downstream environmental impacts, such as carbon dioxide emissions, air pollution, water eutrophication, etc. In a comparison of two materials in which one product uses more energy than the other, it does not automatically mean that the product with lower embodied energy is more environmentally friendly than the other. There are other factors that must be considered, such as the type of power that was used in the production of the material, e.g. green power compared to coal fired or nuclear generation. Please see CIR rulings dated 2/25/2003 and 1/13/2003 for more information and guidance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2003
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Transportation Management Plan The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternate Transportation through the use of a Transportation Management Plan. The proposed REQUIREMENTS are to include the following features in the Transportation Management Plan: Rideshare Matching Assistance, Subsidized Regional Transit Pass ( In lieu of providing 3% with Alternative Fuel Vehicles ), Bike Subsidy and User Groups, Amtrak Subsidy, Guaranteed Ride Home Program. The required SUBMITTALS would require all features listed in the Requirements to be summarized in a narrative and in the form of the LEED letter templates. Possible DESIGN APPROACHES would include working with the local Transportation Management Association or local agency to figure out which options are best suited for the occupants of the building. The following paragraphs further explain of how the requirements will be met. Per the Transportation Management Plan filed with the City of Sacramento, and DPR\'\'s subsequent commitment to participate in and financially support the South Natomas Transportation Management Association (TMA), the following programs and services will be available to all DPR South Natomas employees as well as employees of any subtenant occupying 2480 Natomas Park Drive. Rideshare Matching Assistance The South Natomas TMA supports and uses the regional carpool database, www.1800COMMUTE.org to provide matches for short-term emergencies or long term carpool arrangements. Additionally, we will provide personalized transit trip planning assistance, providing employees a detailed explanation of how to take the bus from home to work, and back again. Prior to DPR relocating to the new South Natomas facility, all occupants will provide their names and nearest cross streets, so that carpool database will generate a personalized transit trip and/or carpool matchlist for each occupant of the building. Subsidized Regional Transit Passes We have a cooperative agreement with Regional Transit to provide photo identification Regional Transit passes to ALL member employees. This is similar to the requirement in SS4.3 to provide alternate fuel vehicles for 3% of the building. By subsidizing the Transit Pass for ALL occupants we feel that we are meeting the intent of the Alternate Transportation credits. This RT pass is valid on Regional Transit light rail and buses for both commute and non-commute trips. YoloBus, Placer County Transit and also accept this pass. Bike Subsidy and Users Group The Bike Users Group is a result of the Bucks for Bikes Program, which provides South Natomas TMA members commute bike purchase subsidies. The South Natomas BUG also provides a voice for cyclists throughout the South Natomas area, advocating safer trails and road conditions, and supporting education for current bicycle commuters and encouragement for fellow cyclists new to commuting by bike. DPR\'\'s bike lockers will complement the employees\'\' participation in our bike-related activities and support bicycle commuting. Amtrak Capitol Corridor Subsidy We offer up to 10 monthly subsidies of $28 each, or the full fare, whichever is lower, to member employees for reimbursement of an Amtrak Capitol Corridor monthly pass or multi-ride ticket. Employees have the option of either transferring to RT # 88/87 (with their Regional Transit pass) to connect to/from the Amtrak station and South Natomas or riding a bike through Discovery Park. (Amtrak has generous facilities for riders to bring bikes on board). Guaranteed Ride Home Program This program provides employees who rideshare two or more days per week and experience a mid-day emergency, or who have to work unexpected overtime, with a free guaranteed ride home using a taxi or rental car service up to 6 times per year.

Ruling:

**Update 7/1/2015: removed reference to LEED Interpretation 1547
Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is provided as guidance about the likely outcome if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. The applicant is inquiring about the potential for achieving an innovation point for exemplary performance in alternate transportation by instituting a comprehensive Transportation Management Plan (TMP). The project is likely to be awarded the innovation point as long as: (1) SS Credits 4.1, 4.2, and 4.4 are achieved; (2) the commitment requirements listed below are met; and (3) all commitments are adequately and officially documented. Components of the TMP that were found useful toward achieving this innovation credit include: active use of the regional carpool database; a "guaranteed ride home" program for carpoolers; transit trip planning assistance; and subsidizing regional transit passes, Amtrak commuter train tickets, and bicycle purchases for bicycle commuters. Specific details and additional requirements are as follows: Use of the regional carpool database contributes toward exemplary performance, if personalized carpool match lists are provided for all current occupants, as well as for new occupants, and the "guaranteed ride home" program is implemented. Official documentation (e.g., a signed letter, or an excerpt from company policy or employee manuals) must show at least a 5-year commitment to these programs. Please note that the practice of subsidizing regional transit passes and Amtrak tickets for occupants IS NOT equivalent in SS Credit 4.3\'s requirement to provide alternate fuel vehicles (contrary to your assertion), even though it displaces vehicle use. However, the transit subsidization program can count toward exemplary performance in relation to SS Credit 4.1, Public Transportation access, if a 5-year (or longer) agreement has been signed and a copy of the agreement is submitted with the LEED application. Transit trip planning also counts toward exemplary performance. State the number of employees that are initially provided personalized trip information and document the policies/procedures that ensure the same service for new employees. Bicycle locker installation is standard practice for SS Credit 4.2. Bike purchase subsidies for bike commuters contribute toward exemplary performance, if a commitment for at least 5 years or 50 bicycles (whichever comes first) is shown via LEED application submittals.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/20/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The goal of this CIR request is to confirm that it is viable for a project filing under LEED-NC v.2.2 to look to credits and credit requirements under LEED-EB v.2.0 (specifically three credits under the heading of Building Operation & Maintenance) as the basis of one of its ID credits. Specifically, a large private university in the mid-west has a growing commitment to sustainability and green design. It is currently constructing several new dormitories and student support/activity spaces (5 buildings total) which are targeting LEED-NC v. 2.2 Silver at a minimum. This university realizes that sustainable practices don\'t end when construction of these new dormitories and buildings is complete and they receive their LEED certification. Consistent with their plans to use the LEED for Existing Buildings program in the future to enhance campus operations and maintenance of buildings, this university plans to extend sustainable practices into the life and maintenance of these new dormitories and student support/activity buildings by adapting "appropriate operations and maintenance of buildings and building systems so that they continue to deliver target building performance goals over the long term." (LEED for Existing Buildings v 2.0 Reference Guide, page 213.) Also important, this university is looking to its experiences building and implementing a long-term Building Operation and Maintenance Plan at these new dormitories and student support/activity buildings as a test case for all five of its campuses. Basis of Building Operation & Maintenance at these new Dormitories and Student Support/Activity Buildings: This university looks to LEED-EB v. 2.0 for the basic standards in it Building Operations and Maintenance Program: Specifically: 1. LEED-EB, v 2.0 EA Credit 3.1: Building Operation & Maintenance, Staff Education; 2. LEED-EB, v2.0 EA Credit 3.2: Building Operation & Maintenance, Building Systems Maintenance; and 3. LEED-EB, v2.0 EA Credit 3.3: Building Operation & Maintenance, Building Systems Monitoring; This university also looks to LEED-NC v. 2.2 standards and monitoring criteria. Specifically: 1. LEED-NC, v2.2 EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning; 2. LEED-NC, v2.2 EA Credit 5: Measurement & Verification; and 3. LEED-NC, v2.2 EQ Credit 1: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring. Action Plan: Within the context of the above LEED-EB v. 2.0 and LEED-NC v. 2.2 standards, Building Operations and Maintenance at this university will follow the following four basic strategies: 1. Commissioning, through design and 10 months into occupancy; 2. Maintenance & Operations Staff Continuing Education and Training; 3. Building Systems Maintenance; and 4. Building Systems Monitoring (M&V, Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring, Johnson Controls). In terms of the ID credit filing for this project, the project team describes how this university and this new dormitory and student support/activities spaces project meets and, in some cases, exceeds the credit criteria for the above three LEED-EB EA Credits 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. Is this a viable ID credit for its LEED-NC v. 2.2 filing?

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for meeting or exceeding the credit criteria for the three LEED-EB v2.0 EAc3 Building Operation & Maintenance credits: EAc3.1 Staff Education; EAc3.2 Building Systems Maintenance; and EAc3.3 Building Systems Monitoring. The project is purposing to integrate the design with the operations and maintenance of the building to continue good practice and promote energy efficiency during operations. The proposed credits from LEED-EB 2.0, have been modified for the current version. And the credits are now awarded for strategies that would receive credit under LEED-NC EAc5 Measurement and Verification. Therefore meeting the requirements of LEED-EB EAc3.1 & 3.2 is not sufficient for achievement of an ID credit. The proposed building staff education is a required component for LEED-NC EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning, and therefore also not sufficient for achievement of an ID credit. However, if the project wishes to implement other strategies from the current LEED-EB rating system for which credit is not already awarded under LEED-NC, the project is encouraged to do so. In addition, please note the LEED EB rating system has been upgraded as LEED EB: Operations and Maintenance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Is it acceptable for a LEED-NC multi-family residential project to receive an innovation point if it achieves the requirements of LEED for Homes credit EAc9.1 Energy Star Appliances?

Ruling:

The project is seeking an innovation credit for improving unregulated energy usage through the use of Energy Star appliances. The project cannot earn additional innovation credit for improvements to unregulated energy usage. The energy cost savings achieved by Energy Star appliances should be documented under EAc1. To achieve EAc1 credit, the improvement in energy achieved from energy star appliances should be documented using the Exceptional Calculation Method (G2.5). Reasonable assumptions must be applied for the Baseline & Proposed case, and these assumptions must be described in the Exceptional Calculation Narrative on the EAc1 template.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
10/16/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is concerned with the integrity of LEED boundary when office spaces and laboratory spaces designed in same building, take place concurrently and adjacent to one another. The GSF of our project is around 211,144 sq.ft - excluding mechanical room and parking space - which comprises the main lab volume of 57,899 sq.ft (19,353 sq.ft underground, 38,546 sq. ft above ground) and office volume 153,245 sq.ft all above ground) which goes up to 7 floor levels above ground and 3 levels below ground. The above ground levels will be occupied by office spaces, part of laboratory spaces and supporting facilities mainly. The below ground levels will be occupied by part of laboratory spaces, car parking, mechanical plant room and back of house (BOH) areas. The entire building will be developed and occupied by single Ownership as the goal is to pursue LEED NC 2.2 Platinum level by all necessary measures. Our project team wants to clarify that Is it possible to have a LEED boundary which covers only certain portion of the building? 1. If it is possible..... 1) In what way, the demarcation and zoning of the boundary has to be made between each program-> Lab and Office? (Separated by each floor level? Or Grouped together as either above or underground level?) 2) How shared facilities such as parking spaces, mechanical rooms, restrooms are attributed for each program and to what extent, it should demonstrate physical barrier? 3) How outdoor landscape area and open space should be designated using GSF ratio of each program? 2. If it is NOT possible.. 1) How should the special circumstances of the Lab be addressed in LEED rating system? (EA and IEQ) 2) Can Lab21 Environmental Performance Criteria contribute to additional LEED point? Or officially considered as credit reference? The main reason why we would intend to exclude the Lab zone from the LEED boundary can be summarized as below 1. Most of the tests within the Lab require non-traditional lab facilities related to construction industries and deal with hard construction materials. 2. The Lab building itself is meant to be acting as a test-bed for on-site experiments which requires flexible fa

Ruling:

The applicant seeks clarification on whether the lab spaces in a lab and office complex can be excluded from the LEED site boundary. The lab and office spaces are integral to the same building as they share many systems including parking, mechanical equipment, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. As noted in LEED-NC v2.2 IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 5/23/2007, "LEED for New Construction is intended to be used as a whole-building Rating System. All NC applications should include data for the entire building..." Therefore, it is not be possible to exclude parts of the building from the LEED site boundary. As such, the labs will need to be accounted for under all LEED credits that are attempted. The lab areas should be evaluated in LEED prerequisites and credits based only on the design, not based on assumptions about the operational use of the spaces. While Lab21 Environmental Performance Criteria is a good guide, it cannot be used as a reference standard in LEED. All applicable LEED reference standards should be used. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to establish a precedent for using the LEED Innovation in Design (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity on LEED projects across LEED Rating Systems. 1. Intent of CreditPromote the health and fitness of residents and staff through building design and operation, while achieving synergistic environmental benefits.2. Why this Credit is NeededRegular physical activity is associated with reduced rates of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some cancers and reduced health care costs. Obesity, and with it type 2 diabetes, are epidemic in adults and children, and are rising rapidly in the U.S. These conditions, along with cardiovascular disease and cancer, are leading causes of death and health care costs in the U.S. Physical inactivity and poor diets are second only to tobacco. LEED has taken an early leadership role in banning indoor smoking to control environmental tobacco smoke as a perquisite in 2000. As the leading causes of premature deaths in the U.S. Cardiovascular diseases have also now overtaken infectious diseases as the leading causes of death globally, physical activity in our built environment can help slow society\'s second biggest killer, inactivity.Research has shown that improvements in building design and operation have measurable impacts on occupant physical activity, and are important, alongside neighborhood design, for reducing health problems associated with physical inactivity. 3. LEED Projects Already Approved with ID Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical ActivityThe LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity has already been implemented and approved on several LEED projects such as Via Verde & Riverside Health Center, which were both LEED NC projects, and 2 Gotham which was a LEED CI project. Sample Submittals for LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity:http://brightpower.biz/greenbuilding/ID-designforhealth http://www.1100architect.com/ (see "Burn Calories not Energy" in the "Sustainability" section)4. Development of CreditThis ID Credit was developed as part of the Active Design Guidelines (www.nyc.gov/adg) by an interagency team including the Active Design Team, which provides technical assistance to LEED projects to assist them in implementing Active Design and The LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity on LEED projects.5. Synergistic Benefits in the Design For Health Through Increased Physical Activity Strategies:* Recreation time spent in physical activity rather than TV viewing lowers energy consumption as TVs are projected to overtake refrigerators as the main source of household appliance electricity use in New York State* Elevators routinely account for 3-10% of a building\'s total energy use, by promoting use of pedestrian modes of vertical circulation such as stairs and ramps over motorized modes of vertical circulation such as elevators, escalators, and moving platforms, energy use can be greatly reduced. In Riverside Healthcare, which previously earned this LEED ID Credit Design For Health Through Increased Physical Activity, the facility found that elevator energy use during non-operational times (10 pm to 6 am) was 35% of elevator energy use during building operation times, suggesting an energy savings of up 65%, if elevators are not routinely used. * Energy savings are expected to be a supplement to the other primary benefits of this proposal, which are health benefits for occupants and the surrounding community, and benefits to society in reducing health burdens and health care costs (akin to the LEED Prerequisites for Environmental Tobacco Smoke and credits for Low-VOC finishes).Articles documenting benefits related to Green Building & Physical Activity:http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=77#public_health Quantifiable Benefits Matrix &Associated Reference List:http://brightpower.biz/files/Quantitative%20Benefits%20Matrix.pdf http://brightpower.biz/files/Design%20for%20Health%20-%20Reference%20Lis... 6. Further Information about Health & Active Design in Green BuildingThe Active Design Team recently hosted a webinar from USGBC\'s headquarters in D.C. about the LEED (ID) Credit: Design for Health Through Increased Physical Activity and benefits of physical activity through routine daily use of our built environment.Health and Active Design through Green Building Webinar:https://video.webcasts.com/events/usgb001/37845

Ruling:

This inquiry has also been submitted as a User-Generated Pilot Credit Application and will be reviewed by the Pilot Credit Library Working Group through the pilot credit process. The Working Group evaluation will include an in depth weightings exercise and prioritization. If the credit is approved for use in the Pilot Credit Library, it will be available to all applicable projects and rating system types. If the credit is not approved, it can be revised and resubmitted through the Pilot Credit process, but cannot be resubmitted as a precedent setting LEED Interpretation without major revision.
**Updated 10/1/13 for rating system applicability.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/26/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The commercial office project is designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The project is located in Providence, Rhode Island. We are seeking an innovation in design credit (ID) for a Comprehensive Transportation plan based on the ID credit previously approved on 5/9/2003 The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternative Transportation and reduce the drive alone trips through the use of a Transportation Management Plan set forth by the Owner. The project is currently pursuing three SS 4 baseline credits including: a. Project is located within 1/4 mile of Bus service and directly across the street from train station. Direct route into Boston also. b. Bicycle Storage and shower facility is provided for employees. c. Preferred Parking is provided for low emitting/ fuel efficient vehicles. Please note that the project locations offers bus service beyond 2 lines [ >50 lines available from this location ]. In addition, the train station offers a direct line to the airport. The Comprehensive Transportation Plan will include the following additional elements: a. The employer is providing free bus passes to 30% of the employees [equivalent of 300 passes]. b. The Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority [RIPTA] provides a number of transportation amenities/ alternates for its residents and information on the same will be available through the employer\'s intranet. Information and amenities include: 1. Maps/ schedules/ contact info for Public Transportation 2. Information on incentives provided by RIPTA includes: a. RIPTA/Google Trip Planner b. Carpools: carpooling options c. Commuter services Submittals will include: a. Copy of RIPTA pamphlet outlining available public transportation amenities. b. Commitment letter from the employer to provide 300 public transportation passes.

Ruling:

Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is to provide guidance about the likely measures and documentation that would need to be included in the credit application. This CIR is being submitted based on the merits of a Transportation Management Plan that will be instituted by the administration of the building. The program is part of the owner\'s efforts to reduce drive alone trips. This inquiry has utilized IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 5/9/2003 as a basis for its program requirements. As presented in this inquiry, the Transportation Management Plan does not meet the standards established in the referenced CIR. The CIR of 5/9/2003 presented a comprehensive TMP that included the following elements: Rideshare Matching Assistance, Subsidized Regional Transit Pass ( In lieu of providing 3% with Alternative Fuel Vehicles ), Bike Subsidy and User Groups, Amtrak Subsidy, and a Guaranteed Ride Home Program. The above noted program provides a less comprehensive package, providing only bus passes for a percentage of total employees and information on nearby mass transportation options. Additional provisions should be included, such as passes for a larger percentage of employees, rail transit subsidies and programs for carsharing, bikesharing, and vanpools. In order to meet the standards of CIR 5/9/2003 the existing program would need to be expanded. Alternatively, the project team could investigate an exemplary performance Innovation & Design credit for SSc4.1 As described, the project is in the direct vicinity of multiple mass transit options. The exemplary performance guidelines for SSc4.1 are available in the LEED v2.2 reference guide. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/3/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTRODUCTION This project is a new multi-story, high-rise inpatient healthcare facility which will use a variety exterior cladding materials. While Energy & Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 refers to the building envelope as "an important component of a facility which impacts energy consumption, occupant comfort and indoor air quality," this prerequisite does not provide guidance or measurable goals for improving the building envelope through commissioning. In order to address items that go beyond the scope of EAp1 such as quality control, maintainability, rain penetration control, mold prevention, building longevity, and ultimately building sustainability, we propose an innovation strategy using NIBS Guideline 3-2006 to direct the envelope commissioning process. This strategy shall follow commissioning metrics including documentation, performance criteria, test procedures, and checklists. Specifically, the process shall explore requirements such as the impact of the building exterior enclosure on visual comfort, and IAQ. Documentation including a summary of the assumptions for accessibility to building exterior enclosure systems (maintenance, cleaning, etc.), and allowable ranges of operations for the building exterior enclosure (number of days/year that the owner is willing to accept condensation, etc), quantify goals and provide the owner with enhanced control of the building. With incorporation of the building envelope into the commissioning process, we propose this innovation credit will improve the inter-relationship of the exterior enclosure system with other building systems and ultimately ensure adequate and quality functioning of the exterior enclosure system throughout its expected service life. INTENT Verify that the building exterior enclosure systems are designed, installed, and perform according to the OPR, BOD, and construction documents. BENEFITS OF COMMISSIONING THE BUILDING ENVELOPE Benefits of building envelope commissioning include: better building documentation, improved coordination of envelope components, enhanced resistance to water infiltration, improved maintainability, improved indoor environmental quality and verification that the systems perform in accordance with the OPR. REQUIREMENTS 1. Adherence to commissioning requirements and activities. Inclusion of building envelope quality assurance criteria and documentation emphasizing: a. Visual comfort and indoor air quality b. Rain penetration control c. Durability d. Constructability e. Maintainability f. Sustainability 2. Field review of aesthetic and functional mock-up(s), including review of both the unique interface conditions and general interface conditions. Verify the design intent is met and the level of water and air tightness of the exterior enclosure is as specified in the OPR. 3. Periodic construction monitoring, especially during roof transition/ roof termination installations, initial installation of sealants, and the specific project interfacing conditions (below grade waterproofing, differing material interfaces - green roofs and fenestration expansion joints, etc). 4. Performance testing of building envelope, including but not limited to: a. Infrared scanning of constructed building to identify thermal leakage. b. Water infiltration testing to identify leakage and prevent heat, air, moisture, and mold (HAMM) issues which will improve IAQ. c. Additional testing as identified per envelop system. 5. Validation that performance parameters for each exterior enclosure system meet the OPR. 6. Development of a Systems Manual for each major building exterior enclosure system, including but not limited to: a. Roof/Garden Roof b. Exterior walls c. Windows d. Doors e. Sealants and expansion joints f. Control joints g. Flashings 7. Training: maintenance of the exterior enclosure (window washing, inspecting and repairing joints/weather-tight seals, etc). We intend for the Enhanced Building Envelope Commissioning credit to follow the same basic scope parameters as EAp1 (design review not required, etc.). Given this, we propose that this credit will not be contingent on any other credits including EAc3. Please confirm all the above strategies could constitute a valid ID credit. If denied, please state under which conditions the credit could be achieved.

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for commissioning the building envelope. The approach described in the request is likely satisfactory for award of an ID credit, provided the submittal documentation meets the requirements of EAp1 - Fundamental Commissioning, as stated in the LEED CSv2.0 Reference Guide. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/27/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This innovation credit is being sought by addressing a significant environmental benefit that the Lutron Quantum system provides. The Lutron Quantum system is a complete-project light and energy management system that will be installed in the confidential client\'s space. The Quantum system provides the following:

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting a potential ID credit for the use of an advanced building lighting and energy management system. Many of the benefits that this system provides are accounted for in other LEED credits, such as energy conservation, daylighting, and measurement and verification. However, based on the description of the lobby/entryway real-time energy consumption display, it seems like this strategy may be considered as part of a comprehensive educational ID credit. Refer to the LEED-NC v2.1 IDc1.1 CIR Ruling dated 9/24/2001 for more information on the requirements for a Green Building Education ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/9/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

EDITED 5/7/07 to include CSI Masterformat 1995 Division 12 in calculations. INQUIRY: In an effort to help stimulate the development of environmentally focused product evaluation and certification tools for use by building professionals, USGBC is seeking to establish an innovation point for specification of products certified under the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) program. This program is explained at http://www.mbdc.com/certified.html. C2C Certification provides manufacturers with a means to measure achievement in environmentally intelligent design and helps customers purchase and specify products that are pursuing a broader definition of quality. Through C2C, this means using environmentally safe and healthy materials; design for material reutilization, such as recycling or composting; energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy; efficient use of water, and maximum water quality associated with production; and instituting strategies for social responsibility. If a candidate product achieves the necessary criteria, it is certified as a Silver, Gold or Platinum product or as a Technical/Biological Nutrient (available for homogeneous materials or less complex products), and can be labeled as Cradle to Cradle. USGBC suggests the following Intent, Requirements and Submittals for this Innovation in Design application: Intent: Help stimulate the development of environmentally focused product evaluation and certification tools for use by building professionals. Requirements: Use Cradle to Cradle Certified building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. The "cost value" of products for the purposes of this calculation will be discounted by 50% for Silver level products and those identified only as "technical or biological nutrients", and doubled for products certified at the platinum level: Cost value of products = ((Silver & nutrients) x 0.5) + Gold + (Platinum x 2) Submittals: Spreadsheet matrix with the following information: DEFAULT MATERIALS VALUE Total construction costs (hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ Default materials cost (total Divisions 2-10 and 12** construction cost x 0.45): _______ OR ACTUAL MATERIALS VALUE Actual materials cost (excluding labor and equipment) hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ - Material Name/Description - Manufacturer - Total Material Cost ($) - Percent Of Product C2C Certified (% by Weight) - Compliant Product Value - Adjusted value (Silver and nutrients x 0.5, Platinum x2) Total "cost value" ($) of C2C certified materials: _______ C2C certified material value as a percentage of total materials cost*: _______ *To qualify for this ID credit the percentage of C2C certified materials must be at least 2.5% of the total materials cost **CSI Master Format 1995 Division 12 may be included in calculations if materials from Division 12 are used consistently with calculations in credits MRc3-7 in LEED-NC or MRc3-6 in LEED-CS. LEED-CI projects are required to include Division 12 components in the calculation of this ID point, as these components are required for calculations in CI credits MRc4-7. Please refer to the LEED-CI Reference Guide\'s credit calculation instructions for guidance in calculating these credits.

Ruling:

RULING by the MR TAG (April 6, 2007): The MR Technical Advisory Group has determined that the proposal encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given proper documentation upon LEED application. In approving this proposal, the TAG notes the following: 1) The TAG has concerns about the lack of transparency in the C2C certification process; 2) There are other product evaluation and certification tools that may be considered for similar acknowledgment through the CIR process; 3) The TAG and others intend to work towards establishing a set of criteria for product evaluation and certification tools that are referenced in LEED, whether in innovation points or in rating system credit language; and 4) Once those criteria have been established, it will be necessary to revisit whether or not proposed innovation points based on this draft language should continue to be approved.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
3/21/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 103,000 sf addition and remodeling of a healthcare facility that will provide acute care for cancer patients. We are requesting information and guidance for a proposed Innovation and Design point for the re-alignment and re-meandering of an existing creek that borders our campus boundaries. Our facility has entered into partnership with the local watershed management district authority to provide for the re-alignment and re-meandering of Minnehaha Creek - (Minnehaha Creek is a tributary of the Mississippi River located in Hennepin County, Minnesota that extends from Lake Minnetonka in the west and flows east for 22 miles (35 km) through several suburbs west of Minneapolis and then through south Minneapolis. Including Lake Minnetonka, the watershed for the creek covers 181 square miles (469 km

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting guidance and direction regarding a proposed Innovation and Design credit for the re-alignment and re-meandering of an existing creek that borders the project\'s campus boundaries, a strategy which does not have precedent in LEED. It is possible, however, for stream restoration to be an alternative compliance path to meet Sustainable Sites Credit 5.1, Protect or Restore Habitat or, potentially, an Innovation and Design credit for exemplary performance within this credit. For innovation or exemplary performance strategies that are not currently covered in the reference guide, there are three basic criteria (please refer to the complete guidelines in the LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide). The project must demonstrate quantitative performance improvements, the process or specification must be comprehensive, and the formula that the project develops must be applicable to other projects. The proposed strategy does appear to be comprehensive, however, is not quantitative and may not be applicable to other projects. The project team is encouraged to further develop their strategy. Stream habitat quality is typically measured through use of state and federal guidelines describing common indicators and measuring criteria. The most readily identifiable indicators and criteria address stream bank stability, the presence of pools and riffles, and the extent of stream vegetation cover. Suggesting documentation for capturing an ID credit through this strategy include a stream monitoring plan to address these issues. Also, the project team is encouraged to seek out references such as the USGS WRI Report 98-4052 Revised Methods for Characterizing Stream Habitat in the National Water-Quality Assessment Program.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/10/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Maximum Masonry Construction This CIR is for a proposed Innovation Design credit--Optimal Masonry Construction (OMC)-a design approach developed by the International Masonry Institute (IMI) and the project Architect for the new National Training Center in Bowie, Maryland. This design approach will: 1) enhance the building energy and acoustical performance, 2) minimize the use and cost of construction materials, 3) minimize construction waste, 4) reduce building operation & maintenance costs, 5) enhance the durability and useful life of the building. These benefits are achieved by the following design elements used in the new IMI National Training Center in Bowie, Maryland: 1. Improve building thermal and acoustical performance. Use concrete masonry units (CMUs) for all structural walls-exterior and interior. Their high thermal mass improves indoor temperature control by dampening indoor temperature swings. This also reduces energy costs as the thermal mass acts to store excess heat and "coolth" and then release it to the indoor environment when it is useful. Our DOE-based building energy model does not fully model the effect of thermal mass on building energy use and comfort. So we estimated the effect of thermal mass by increasing the R-value of the masonry components of the walls by 20 to 30% according to industry guidelines.1 The resulting energy savings was about 5% of the total annual heating, ventilation and cooling costs for the two buildings. Using autoclaved aerated concrete results in additional thermal resistance due to the myriad air cells the cured concrete. (We used the same wall system in the Base Case energy model as per the ASHRAE 90.1 guideline for energy modeling-- the energy savings due to masonry construction is "buried" in the prescribed energy savings analysis.) Masonry walls provide superior acoustical isolation that can be further enhanced by filling the CMU cavities with grout or with a poured or foamed thermal insulation. 2. Minimize the use and cost of construction materials. a. Eliminate drywall & acoustical tile. At IMI drywall use was reduced by 97% to lower construction waste, lower project material costs due to fewer wall material components; lower installation costs due to the elimination of cutting, taping, plastering, and sanding steps; lower housekeeping costs, lower Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and life-cycle costs; and reduced likelihood of moisture and/or mold accumulation resulting in higher indoor air quality. This approach eliminates the waste and environmental disturbance caused by the manufacturing of drywall. Not using acoustical tile or any type of ceiling finish also reduces project costs and construction waste. It avoids the cost of maintaining the ceiling finish and improves access to the building infrastructure located at the ceilings; b. Avoid wood and wood-based materials to avoid harvesting old growth forests. Avoid wood-based products and their associated manufacturing processes and binders/adhesives that can adversely affect the indoor and public environment. The IMI project virtually eliminated wood by using steel, stone or concrete lintels and frames. Optimal Masonry Construction makes it more affordable to use small amounts of FSC-certified wood products or drywall with a very high recycled material content.; c. Use high recycled content masonry units (CMUs) that have at least 40% post-industrial recycled content; d. Avoid floor coverings. Over 95% of the floor area will be either durable concrete or terrazzo masonry floors sealed and protected by low or non-VOC coatings. The remainder is synthetic rubber flooring and a small amount of carpeting. For the new IMI National Training Center-the exposed masonry approach avoided an estimated $ 825,000 in construction costs due to eliminating entire building systems. 3. Minimize construction waste. Optimize the masonry system by coordinating the dimensions of the building, the thickness of the wall insulation and the rain screen air gap to minimize/eliminate the number of masonry cuts. This reduces masonry construction waste, construction costs and housekeeping costs. At the new IMI National Training Center this was done by half-overlapping the 8-inch face brick and selecting wall lengths so that there is no need to cut any of the bricks at the exterior corners. 4. Reduce Building Operation & Maintenance costs. This is done by: a. Improved moisture control. The 8-inch brick size and 1/2 overlap pattern used at the new IMI facility leave a four inch space between the outside of the concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls and the inside surface of the face brick. It makes it convenient and affordable to provide a 2-inch wide air gap for good moisture control-considered good practice in the industry.2,3 As described in Part 2a above, eliminating drywall and acoustical tile layers eliminates potential areas for moisture and mold build-up; b. Improved thermal insulation. The 4-inch space also allows for at least a 2-inch layer of continuous rigid board insulation over the CMU wall that greatly enhances the thermal properties of the walls. This is in addition to the added thermal insulation resulting from the high density of masonry walls; c. Decreased maintenance of exterior and interior finishes. As described in Part 2a above, the all-masonry construction and "naked architecture" design approach will reduce the cost of cleaning the building and the cost of periodic refurbishing interior surfaces and finishes. The materials require minimum maintenance except for tuckpointing that is done over 10 year or longer periods. The exposed building systems are easier to access and maintain. 5. Increased building safety, durability and longevity. All--masonry construction ensures the use of materials with high durability and damage resistance that also provide enhanced protection to occupants. Exterior and partition walls of masonry and stone, whether in the form of block, bricks, or poured concrete, are more resistant to damage from natural catastrophes and afford greater protection to the occupants than do drywall and wood products. Masonry and stone walls also afford greater protection to occupants from wind-borne projectiles under tornadic conditions as well as greater fire protection than typical drywall/framed wall systems. Masonry and stone construction make for a durable and long-lasting building. The proposed Innovation Credit would require satisfying at least six of the following design elements: 1) Drywall and acoustical tile cover less than 10% of all interior walls and ceilings 2) Use masonry construction for at least 90% of the structural and partition walls 3) Avoid using wood or wood-based products in the building or furnishings 4) Use aerated concrete for at least 5% of the total wall mass 5) Use a face brick pattern that eliminates avoid brick cuttings at exterior wall corners, 6) Provide at least a 2-inch rain shield space in the exterior walls 7) In climates covering areas such as Bowie, Maryland and further north, install at least 1-inch or continuous rigid insulation outside of at least 66% of the exterior walls mass 8) Use floor coverings are on less than 10% of the conditioned floor area 9) Expose at least 80% of all electrical and HVAC distribution systems. 1. Technical Notes 4A&B - Heat Transmission Coefficients & Energy Code Compliance of Brick Masonry Walls. The Brick Industry. Sept. 1997. 2. Masonry Cavity Walls: Systems and Construction. Section 2.12.4 Technology Brief of the International Masonry Institute. October 2000 3. Technical Notes 27 - Brick Masonry Rain Screen Walls. The Brick Industry. August 1994. p15 Please provide the IMI Project Team with a ruling that will let us know the likelihood of the aforementioned ID Credit Proposal being successful.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is centered on the use of masonry as a core material to enhance the performance of the building in various ways. While some of the resultant impacts of using masonry are commendable, the approach needs refinement. To warrant an innovation credit, quantifiable environmental benefit must be demonstrated through a comprehensive effort. The overall design approach and the list of 9 design elements (of which only 6 are cited as being the target) represents design strategies but do not necessarily lead to quantifiable environmental benefits beyond what is already awarded in existing LEED credits. Materials with recycled content contribute to MRc4. Energy savings is awarded through EAc1, and minimizing construction waste is awarded through MRc2. Though the cost saving strategies are applauded, they do not necessarily represent environmental achievement. In terms of replacing other structural elements such as wood or metal studs with CMU, it is not clear whether CMU, based on a life-cycle assessment, has a lower environmental impact than the other materials noted. Increased safety and better moisture control are beneficial design elements, but again, do not provide quantifiable environmental benefits. Similarly, enhanced acoustical performance is noted but has not been substantiated in terms of meeting acoustical requirements for specific spaces above conventional practice. The strategy of minimizing the use of construction materials may qualify for an innovation point if the reduction can be quantified and the applicant can demonstrate that an intentional, comprehensive effort was made throughout the project design to reduce construction materials. It must be clearly demonstrated that the strategy is above and beyond conventional practice. To substantiate the claim that choosing a CMU structural system represents a significant environmental benefit, the applicant could show that several structural systems were evaluated in a number of measurable categories to determine that the CMU system represents an innovative structural system. It should also be noted that the potential energy savings from using increased thermal mass is accounted for under EAc1 as per ASHRAE 90.1-1999. Changing R-value to reflect increased thermal mass is not an accurate method of accounting for the effects associated with mass, particularly the re-radiation of heat to space over time. R-value is an instantaneous phenomenon while thermal effects of mass are more transient in nature. In addition, the same effect that allows space with thermally massive construction to stay cooler also has the potential to cause radiant asymmetry and cause discomfort. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/26/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project is a major downtown office development on a site that will require constant dewatering due to the excavation depth and underground parkade. This is a common problem in the downtown area of our city. We are attempting to obtain City permission to capture and reuse the heat (cooling) from the water to loop through the building prior to discharging it back into the City storm system (this is a City requirement as it ensures that projects do not reduce the the normal aquifer depth). Our question however is this: Can this project - a 38 story concrete office building - qualify for an Innovation Credit for non-potable (i.e ground water) water use during construction? We would write the credit to preclude using potable water for construction activities - from vehicle wash down to cleaning concrete formwork, cutting masonry and stone etc, and save millions of litres of potable water as a result. We would do the calculations to estimate the amount saved, etc.

Ruling:

The intent of reducing potable water use for construction activities is commendable, but the proposal language is not sufficient to show environmental benefit. In order to achieve an innovation point, quantifiable water savings must be demonstrated and environmental benefits need to be addressed. These issues include the water quality resulting from construction activities as compared with the existing groundwater quality; where the water from construction activities is directed after use; whether the water is to be treated before it is discarded; and whether all of the groundwater is used for construction materials. The project team will need to present a comprehensive approach to demonstrate that potable water savings and environmental benefit can be achieved with this strategy. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTENT The construction phase has many opportunities to improve and should be more greatly weighted to drive new innovations and processes. With most of the scoring based on design aspects, there is not a strong push for contractors to implement new strategies. This is further evidenced in the fact that there are few credits that are construction activity based. One area that has not been addressed is the impact of temporary buildings servicing the project. Many of the same challenges, and thus opportunities, exist during the construction process as they do during the design, construction and life of a building. We propose the use of "green" trailers during construction on LEED projects to reduce the ecological footprint of these facilities. APPROACH Through the use of green trailers we will reduce energy use, raise awareness and educate our staff and project partners, improve occupant comfort, and reduce the ecological footprint of the trailer\'s infrastructure (i.e fewer replacements of lighting, heating equipment, etc.) The trailer will, at minimum, be constructed with the following components: motion sensors for lighting in the project offices T-8 lighting fixtures bulbs for reduced electricity use, programmable thermostats for thermal comfort control increased weather stripping to reduce heating and cooling loss Increase window area to allow for daylighting in the space Further Measures: Project trailers will also aim to reduce water usage, either through the installation of added low-flow fixtures or alternatively through a written Water Conservation Plan for the project site and trailers. Air quality is being addressed through improved filtration and material waste reduction through an Office Supply Selection & Waste Reduction plan for the project offices. Proposed Submittals: - Proof of onsite signage regarding water conservation or water restriction guidelines/regulations when low-flow fixtures not installed - Comparisons of energy use between regular and "green" trailer - Documentation of energy bills (or statement from client regarding increased energy cost when power being drawn from existing system) providing level of use - Narrative on Further Measures and use of green trailers in general We believe that Green Trailers are a true innovation in project delivery that not only aims to reduce energy use onsite and throughout construction, but also educate and change behavior through the consistent application of LEED principals across all project activities. Through the development of three different trailer models of increasing efficiency and overall performance, we also endeavor to push the industry as a whole toward more efficient equipment and offices during the construction process.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on the merits of using "green" trailers during the construction phase. The "green" trailers will incorporate sustainable measures, such as motion sensors for lights, efficient lighting, programmable thermostats, increased weather striping, increase window area, low-flow fixtures, and increased filtration. Other policies such as a Water Conservation Plan or Office Supply Selection & Waste Reduction plan will also be adopted. It is envisioned that these collective measures will also provide educational opportunities about green design. While these measures are commendable, it is unclear if these measures as described will result in significant and measurable environmental benefits. The energy savings and water savings anticipated for the trailers will need to be significant relative to the overall amount of energy and water used during the entire construction phase, and should not be isolated to the amount used for the trailers alone. Further, the listed energy efficiency measures do not appear to address the overall building envelope (including glazing type) for the trailer, the HVAC systems, or address consideration for passive strategies, such as optimum site orientation and layout, natural ventilation, effective daylight strategies (balancing light while minimizing heat gain). The strategies identified also do not address the type of materials used for the trailer, or the use of on-site renewable energy sources. If additional measures like these were implemented, demonstrating significant, measurable environmental benefits (relative to the overall construction process), an innovation credit would likely be granted for these "green" construction trailers. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project is an approximately 40,000 sqft research and development building designed to develop and test air and water cooled chillers, compressors and heat pumps for a multinational manufacturer of HVAC equipment for the commercial, industrial and institutional building market. The principal focus of the energy consuming systems is to create a precise simulation of a wide range of ambient conditions and simulated building loads on the tested equipment to meet national and international testing protocols. In addition, the facility tests the equipment to research and develop innovative technologies for the HVAC industry. Control of the testing conditions is critical to the function of the facility. The facility\'s large process heating and cooling plants are used to simulate heating and cooling loads on the tested equipment. The subsequent heating and cooling energy created from the tested equipment is then rejected to the environment. This research and testing system is highly energy intensive. Recognizing the opportunity for energy use reduction, the owner\'s research and development team and the project\'s design team developed a process heating and cooling system that reduces the energy use of the system while maintaining the ability to simulate ambient conditions and building loads. Heating and cooling energy created by tested equipment is captured and reused in the process heating and cooling plants. Closed-loop heat recovery systems connect evaporator and condenser systems of the process plants to the tested equipment to reduce energy usage. Variable flow pumping and varying temperature control provide the necessary control functions for testing. For this project, the process energy associated with the research and testing system is greater than 90% of the total energy load. If the reductions in process load are not included, the opportunities for energy reduction are minimized. The project utilizes commercially available energy reduction strategies, including enhanced envelope systems, premium efficient chillers and high efficiency boilers for process loads, high efficiency comfort heating and cooling equipment, variable frequency drives on fans and pumps, and higher efficiency lighting systems. Building energy simulations indicate that minimal energy reduction is achieved (

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting approval of a modeling methodology that would allow credit for waste energy recovery from process loads. Per the LEED NC 2.2 Reference Guide, page 183, "project teams may follow the Exceptional Calculation Method (ASHRAE Std 90.1- G2.5) to document measures that reduce process loads. If credit is taken for process loads, the calculation must include reasonable assumptions for the baseline and proposed case." ASHRAE 90.1-2004, G2.5 further states "Applications for approval of an exceptional method shall include documentation of the calculations performed and theoretical and/or empirical information supporting the accuracy of the method." Insufficient information has been provided above regarding the process energy savings strategies to verify whether they would qualify for credit using the Exceptional Calculation Method under EAc1. However, any modeling approach used for the building systems should include the following: 1. Tested equipment should be modeled using identical types, quantities, efficiencies, controls, and pump power in the Baseline and Proposed Case. 2. In the Baseline Model (prior to applying any exceptional calculation measures), the process heating and cooling plants for simulating test conditions should be modeled with the identical quantities and capacities of equipment in the Baseline and Proposed Case, identical pump power, identical controls, and identical schedules of operation. However, equipment efficiencies for the Baseline Case process equipment should reflect those listed in Tables 6.8.1A-J. 3. Other baseline assumptions used for the Process heating and cooling plants should reflect standard practice for newly constructed facilities with similar functions. These assumptions should be modeled identically in the Baseline and Proposed Case, and then modified in the Proposed Exceptional Calculation Method model. The Exceptional Calculation Narrative must provide sufficient information to verify that the efficiency measures modeled are not standard practice for this type of facility. 4. The Proposed Case Exceptional Calculation Method Model should reflect any parasitic energy associated with waste energy recovery, but this parasitic energy should not be reflected in the Baseline Model. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/28/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Green Advantage certification

Ruling:

USGBC has assessed the Green Advantage certification program against our established requirements for recognition in LEED and found Green Advantage to be in compliance. As such, LEED project teams who comply with the following requirements are eligible for award of 1 Innovation point for LEED v4, and 2009 BD&C and LEED-NC v2.2 projects:1. Prior to and throughout the construction phase of the project, 30% of the General Contractor\'s or Construction Manager\'s personnel will be Green Advantage Certified. Personnel must be actively involved in the day-to-day activities and of the following classifications as applicable: a. Contractorb. Construction Manager including Project Executivec. Project Manager d. Project Engineer e. Quality Control Managerf. Mechanical/ Electrical/Plumbing (MEP) Coordinatorg. Superintendenth. Assistant Superintendent i. General Foreman2. Prior to and throughout the construction phase of the project, 30% of Subcontractor personnel will be Green Advantage Certified. Personnel must be actively involved in the day-to-day activities and of the following classifications: a. Project Managerb. Superintendentc. Project Engineerd. Quality Control Managere. General Foremanf. Trade Foreman(removed 4/1/2011: Architect\'s on site representative)Note that this LEED Interpretation is in line with the guidance for \'Recognition of Third Party Personnel Credentials and Certifications in LEED\', which can be found at usgbc.org and is also linked below.added 4/1/2011:Submittals:1. Provide a complete list, aggregating General Contractor\'s and Construction Manager\'s personnel, noting each person\'s role in the project and who is Green Advantage Certified. (For multiple-prime contracts, provide separate lists for the Construction Manager and each Prime Contractor.) Calculate the percentage of Green Advantage Certified personnel. 2. Provide a complete list, aggregating Subcontractors\' personnel, noting each person\'s role in the project and who is Green Advantage Certified. (For multiple-prime contracts, provide separate lists for each Prime Contractor\'s Subcontractors.) Calculate the percentage of Green Advantage Certified personnel. 3. For each Green Advantage Certified individual, provide a copy of the Green Advantage certificate. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/7/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Fly Ash Blended Cement We are looking to score one innovation credit for the use of fly ash blended cement. However, we are looking to use approximately 10% of normal, non-blended cement (300 cy out of a total of 3,000 cy)due to coordination and timing issues. If we then use approximately 90% blended cement, would we still be eligible for the innovation credit?

Ruling:

To achieve an environmental benefit, it is critical that fly-ash REPLACE cement content, not just be added as a filler. Adding fly-ash to a concrete mix without reducing cement content has only limited advantages to the environment. It is unclear from the question whether the project is actually off-setting cement use. The Credit Ruling Committee has suggested that a 40% REPLACEMENT of cement with fly-ash would qualify for an innovation credit. Lower levels of fly-ash use are more typical, and would not be considered innovative enough to warrant an innovation point. Note that there are many complexities of fly-ash use with respect to concrete strength requirements that factor into the discussion of what constitutes an innovation. Regardless of the percent used, fly-ash content would count toward MR Credit 4; Recycled Content Materials.Modification Note as of July 1st, 2012: The applicability of this LEED Interpretation has been modified to indicate that it is applicable to LEED 2009 projects. However, USGBC and GBCI will be phasing this Innovation strategy out. While this strategy is acceptable for LEED 2009 it will not be acceptable for LEED 2012 because the environmental benefit(s) of replacing cement with alternative cementitious material will be captured in available credits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We recognize that ID credits cannot be granted achievement via the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Please provide insight as to the type & level of documentation required to pursue such an ID credit. Title Use of new facility to promote enhanced waste recycling programs significantly beyond the LEED criteria Credit Intent The promotion of waste recycling programs beyond the requirements required by LEED. The new facility will allow expanded programs of recycling to be practiced at the facility. The company has implemented innovative donation and recycling programs to address the recycling of wastes generated by it\'s manufacturing operations. The new facility will provide the waste storage and processing capability to extend and improve these programs. Credit Requirements To extend the size of the facility to incorporate improved waste management facilities and provide expansion space for new recycling projects. Project Approach The operation of the current waste recycling programs is limited by the storage and processing facilities of the existing facility. Construction of the new facility will be used to enhance the existing programs and provide factory space to investigate new programs Programs Waste to Energy Project - conversion of previously land-filled carpet scrap into energy to fire Cement kilns Waste Yarn Donation Program - Donation of waste yarn to charitable organizations in North East Thailand to convert into Hammocks. Example: The yarn donation program has helped to develop economical income for those who previously were limited. On average the production of 2 hammocks per day earns approximately 200$ or 4,000 - 5,000 Baht per month per family. There are approximately 500 people involved in this program now. Waste Tile Donation - Slight seconds donations to charitable organizations; Temples, Schools etc. Cardboard Cone recycling - Reclaim and sale to supplier. Comprehensive documentation / metric results are available for all of these programs.

Ruling:

Adding square footage in the building is not enough by itself to warrant an innovation credit, and the proposed credit requirement language is unacceptably vague. However, the proposed activities may be still be eligible. To achieve an innovation credit, the LEED submittal must clearly demonstrate quantifiable exemplary performance. The NCv2.1 IDc1.1 ruling dated 9/6/05 provides a compliance path for you. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/20/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are requesting confirmation of the intent, requirements, and documentation for an Innovation in Design point that we wish to include in a forthcoming LEED design submittal. The project is a 500,000 SF replacement hospital with both inpatient and outpatient services that will be built in phases on a large site in a business park. We have developed a comprehensive master plan that will accommodate the growth and future expansion of the hospital for several decades. We believe the project merits the award of an Innovation in Design point for the conservation of resources because the project has been designed to accommodate future expansion in a flexible and adaptable manner. This design approach will facilitate the efficient use of resources over the life of the facility because the first phase of our building has been designed to accommodate future changes and building additions in a manner that will minimize the need to demolish and remodel significant portions of the first phase of our project as the campus is expanded over the next fifty years. We propose to meet the intent, and requirements of the 2007 Green Guide for Health Care (GGHC) v2.2 MRc7.1, Resource Use: Design for Flexibility credit. We propose to meet a minimum of (3) out of the (8) goals that are listed as the goals in this GGHC credit to fulfill the requirements of this Innovation point. We propose to submit this with our LEED Design submittal, and we will document the point with floor plans, site plans, and calculations to confirm compliance with the GGHC point requirements. Since this point addresses a unique environmental attribute, that is not currently included in LEED, we believe it merits an ID point that is not contingent on the approval of any other points in our LEED submittal. Please confirm that our proposal warrants an Innovation in Design point.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on the 2007 Green Guide for Health Care (GGHC) v2.2 MRc7.1, Resource Use: Design for Flexibility credit, and is a credit under consideration for the new LEED for Healthcare rating system, currently in development. This is an acceptable innovation credit specifically for healthcare facilities using LEED-NC, provided the specific requirements of that credit are met, and the appropriate documentation is provided during the submission process. When LEED for Healthcare has been balloted and approved, its corresponding credit and documentation requirements will be eligible for ID credit in other LEED rating systems. At that time, the GGHC credit will be ineligible for ID credit.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/22/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

PULSED POWER TECHNOLOGY [Alternative Process Water Treatment] Intent: Reduce the impact of potentially hazardous chemical discharges to the environment by eliminating conventional means of process water treatment in HVAC equipment. Reduce amount of water consumption from conventional recirculating water systems such as cooling towers, hydronic HVAC systems, or process water systems by decreasing the need for make-up water caused by evaporation and system blowdown (or bleed). Requirements: Provide an integral chemical-free water treatment technology in place of conventional water treatment which uses potentially toxic chemicals which may also produce potentially hazardous chemical byproducts. Provide documentation in the form of a letter from the project engineer that includes a narrative description of the chemical-free water treatment system used and how the system works. The narrative shall specifically state the environmental benefits of using the chemical-free process in place of the conventional chemical water treatment system; state specific chemicals and their estimated quantities eliminated by substituting the chemical-free process; state the methods and quantities of process water discharge as an estimate of potential water savings. Rationale: Recirculating water systems used in building mechanical processes such as HVAC heat rejection in cooling towers and hydronic heating and cooling systems often use chemical infiltration using manual or automatic injection processes in order to chemically treat the water contained in them. Chemical treatment is typically used for a wide range of functions such as the prevention of mineral scale formation, control of microbiological populations, and to inhibit corrosion. These functions may be equally served by the introduction of an electronic process known as pulsed power technology. Environmental benefits of the pulsed power technology are achieved simply with the elimination of potentially hazardous chemicals and their toxic byproducts used to prevent formation of mineral scale, control of microbiological populations, and inhibit corrosion. Conventional chemical treatment systems often ultimately cause the release of potentially hazardous substances into the environment through water discharge such as evaporation, spills, spray, and drift. In conventional process water systems such as open cooling towers chlorine or other biocides are used to control biological activity which is rapidly discharged to the atmosphere as chlorine gas. Corrosion inhibitors such as zinc, molybdenates, and phosphates are discharged in the drift from the cooling tower and spray settling to the ground as well as through the sewer system through blowdown draining. Water softeners, not needed in pulsed power processes, are typically used to prevent scaling and discharge quantities of salt brine as part of the softener process. The use of an alternative means of process water treatment in HVAC equipment such as the pulsed power technology is estimated to yield the following benefits and savings when applied to our building project: - the elimination of potentially hazardous chemicals and their toxic byproducts with the elimination of conventional chemical water treatment processes - saves the use of approximately 186 gallons per year of industrial strength chlorine bleach, 5 to 6 gallons of isothiazine, and 115,000 gallons of water containing 2 ppm zinc and 20 ppm phosphate from being discharged into the environment - saves the requirement for approximately 90 lbs. of chlorine per year (most of which is evaporated to the atmosphere) - Annual water usage savings of approximately 67,275 gal/yr when compared to a typical open system water cooling process (cooling tower) of the same capacity with conventional chemical treatment processes Please confirm attainability of this credit.

Ruling:

The environmental benefits presented are worthy of an innovation credit. However, the type of technology you are referencing may be one that has been controversial in regards to actual results. Your LEED documentation must provide the information above, plus proof that the technology truly works: a copy of a third-party analysis and/or letters from at least two of the vendor\'s previous clients (building engineers or facility managers) that confirm the equipment is operating successfully. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/24/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

ID Credit Title: BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM) Credit Intent: Implement an integrated 3D model to optimize material usage and reduce overall construction waste. The general contractor and subcontractors will be able to plan for more prefabrication rather then onsite fabrication since the 3D model will provide accurate quantities, measurements and final location of material in the building since the project has already been built once digitally. The prefabrication of materials in return will reduce the amount of material used due to fabricating it correct the first time and the amount of waste that is generate onsite. Benefits to the project - reduced rework from conflicting trades, reduction of unused or extra material, and opportunity to make corrections before an element is buried by other trades. Requirements for Compliance: Implementation of a BIM plan that identifies trades, site logistics and owner furnished elements where 3D planning and coordination will be used. Staff must be in place that can facilitate the extension of the typical 2D detailing and coordination into a 3D model based coordination and planning process. The staff must be able to help integrate individual trade models into a single consolidated model for review on a weekly basis. Systematic evaluation of each consolidated model will be used to identify and resolve conflicts. A final consolidated model must be agreed to by all parties prior to material release and pre-fabrication. - Model Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Sprinkler, Stairs, Exterior Skin, Site and Interior Partitions in 3D - Consolidate individual models into a single model on an iterative basis - Test all elements for conflicts, collisions, and access - Translate 3D model information into field layout coordinates - Verify installations against the 3D model as trades complete work Submittal: Confirm trades are fabricating, planning and installing based on the agreed properties in the coordination 3D model. Include list of participants in 3D modeling. Submit list of items that will be pre-fabricated for the project.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of using an integrated 3D model to optimize material usage and reduce overall construction waste. While the benefits of this appear to be compelling, significant quantifiable environmental benefits must be demonstrated to warrant an innovation credit. The quantification of environmental benefits may address the amount of material waste that was reduced as a result of using BIM in the design of the project, such as a reduction in paper used in the design process, reduction in materials due to pre-fabrication and reduction in materials due to better integrated design. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/24/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We propose that a LEED Innovation & Design Process (IDP) point be awarded to any project that combines the two transportation strategies of public transportation and third party car sharing from a company like WeCar by Enterprise (http://www.wecar.com/) or an equivalent program. By providing the car sharing program MORE employees can utilize public transportation because employees will be less tempted to drive their own cars to work for out of office meetings/business that may not be accessible by public transportation and will also reduce parking demand in the vicinity of the tenant space. The tenant owner would pay for a monthly public transportation pass (or equivalent) to employees and also offer a third party car sharing program in which cars are strategically placed around the city; accessed electronically by participants; booked online; available 24 hours a day seven days a week and utilize hybrid cars. Below is an outline of the potential Innovation Credit. Intent: Reduce pollution and land development impacts from automobile use. Promote use of public transportation and car sharing. Proposed requirements for compliance: Tenant to promote use of public transportation by offering to employees a stipend to cover the cost of a monthly public transportation pass cost or equivalent. AND Offer a third party car sharing program to employees for business related travel. The car sharing program will utilize fuel efficient hybrid automobiles and demonstrate that there will be enough cars available in the area to supplement the need from the tenant space. Proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance: Car sharing lease agreement, area plan showing location of cars realtive to tenant space, and signed letter from owner stating that they will provide a stipend for employees to purchase a monthly public transportation pass or equivalent. Technologies and Strategies: Perform a transportation survey of potential tenant occupants to identify transportation needs. Choose a building near mass transit and located near a car sharing program. Considerations: Offering to pay for staff members public transportation cost will help promote use of public transportation and reduce carbon emissions. Car sharing is becoming a popular way to pool transportation resources and have access to an automobile without owning one.

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring as to whether providing transit passes and access to a car sharing service warrant an ID credit. If these actions are part of a Comprehensive Transportation Management Plan, similar to that outlined in LEED-NC v2.1, IDc1.1 CIR Ruling dated 5/9/2003, then credit achievement would be anticipated. In addition to meeting the requirements of the referenced CIR, two of the three SSc3 Credits must be awarded for CI projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking approval of an Innovation and Design Credit for implementing a system which protects the tenants of the building from increased Electromagnetic Field (EMF) exposure due to the presence of high-current busways, electrical panels and switchgears within typical commercial buildings that are not protected for by any local, state, or federal building codes or regulations. Extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields are generated from commercial building electrical power distribution systems and it has been shown that over-exposure to elevated and high ELF magnetic fields can have adverse affects on human health as well as interference with other sensitive electronic and electric control systems. The proposed EMF Shield to be incorporated into the project is to reduce the amount of EMF tenants are exposed to, thereby creating a healthier working environment. As demonstrated in the Intent Justification at the end of this CIR request, there have been hundreds of studies about the effect of EMF on a persons\' health and while there are a broad range of opinions on the quantifiable effects, there is an accepted belief that exposure to elevated and high levels of EMF can have a negative outcome on individuals health. The ID credit Intent, Requirements, and Documentation Requirements we have developed to impose on the project are outlined below. The Proposed Design Solution and Standards, and Intent Justification, are provided as ID validation following the Intent, Requirements, and Documentation Requirements. Intent Reduce building occupants and visitors exposure to EMF thereby supporting preventing and mitigating potential associated harmful effects of EMF on individuals to improve overall building Indoor Environmental Quality. Requirements Identify and adopt recognized design standards to protect building occupants from the potential harmful effects from EMF exposure. Implement design strategies, and/or products, and or systems that result in building occupant protection from EMF exposure that exceed the recommended level of protection dictated by accepted EMF protection design standards. Documentation Requirements Summarize and document EMF potential harmful effects on building occupants. Provided copy of recognized design standards to protect building occupants from the potential harmful effects from EMF exposure. Provide design drawings, specifications, and product/system submittals that demonstrate that the design standard of protection has been met or exceeded. Proposed Design Solution and Standards AC ELF magnetic shielding systems will be installed in the Main Switchgear Room and in all nine electric closets to attenuate (reduce) the magnetic field levels within the future building areas to 5 mG and less measured from the shielded surfaces during peak summer building loads assuming the ground/net currents are minimal. The proposed AC ELF magnetic shielding systems are designed to exceed the 10 mG standard recommended in Section 8.4.1.3 option 3 in the National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) draft report published in the July/August 1995 issue of Microwave News (visit the Microwave News Homepage www.microwavenews.com for the entire draft report) as follows: 8.4.1.3 Option 3: An exposure guideline of 1

Ruling:

Though the aim of protecting building occupants from unsafe levels of electromagnetic radiation is laudable, at this time it is not likely that an ID credit would be awarded for the strategies outlined. There is not scientific consensus that EMF exposure at the levels typically experienced in household or work environments causes detriment to building occupants. As this field of study further develops, USGBC may chose to address the issue in future versions of the LEED rating system. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/15/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for implementing a comprehensive water filtration system that will reduce occupants\' exposure to contaminants generally present in tap water. In the same way that Indoor Environmental Quality credits address the reduction of airborne contaminants found in building interiors, this system addresses waterborne contaminants that are commonly found in local water supplies. This system also obviates the need for occupants to purchase bottled water products, which can help reduce the over 60 million plastic bottles that are discarded everyday in the United States. The system we are considering combines an extremely water-efficient building-wide first stage water filter that removes 100% of particulates 10 microns or larger and approximately 50% of particulates smaller than 10 microns, with a secondary stage consisting of individual "point-of-use" filters in the apartment kitchens. The point-of-use filters use a multi-stage filtration system that includes pulverized activated carbon which significantly reduces organic chemicals and a membrane that removes particulates 0.5 micron and larger. By preventing particles larger than 10 microns from ever reaching the .5 micron kitchen filters, the primary filtration system significantly extends the effective life of the secondary filters (approximately a 300% increase in filtration cartridge longevity), thus reducing maintenance and ensuring a higher flow rate and quality of water. The secondary system has been tested and certified by NSF/ANSI to reduce VOCs and trihalomethanes (THMs) which the EPA classifies as a "probable human carcinogen," by 99.86 percent. Trihalomethanes are the byproduct of municipality-introduced chlorine interacting with organic material in the source water. It also has been shown to reduce cysts, such as Cryptosporidium, by 99.99 percent. A 1993 Milwaukee outbreak of Cryptosporidium left 400,000 ill and 70 dead. This is likely to become more important since water borne disease is seen as a probable consequence of the increasing hydrologic events and flooding caused by climate change. The following list of contaminant reductions has been certified by NSF/ANSI (42 & 53): - Chlorine: Avg. Reduction-96.8% - Volatile Organic Chemicals, including Trihalomethanes (THMs): Avg. Reduction-99.86% -Asbestos fibers >10 micrometers in length: Avg. Reduction-99.86% -Cysts: Avg. Reduction-99.99% -Chloroform (VOC surrogate chemical): 98.6% This combined filtration system improves occupant health and reduces the amount of resources typically required to achieve this level of water purity. Therefore, it should be eligible for an innovation point. Suggested Credit Title: Comprehensive Drinking Water Filtration Intent: Reduce the exposure to potentially harmful waterborne contaminants. Requirements: Provide building-wide water filtration that removes particulate contamination equal to or smaller than 10 microns AND Provide point-of-use water filtration that is NSF/ANSI tested to reduce Chlorine, VOCs, Asbestos fibers, Cysts and Chloroform by at least 95%.

Ruling:

While the potential health benefits of a water filtration system are laudable, water filtration systems are relatively common, and there is no precedent for rewarding ID for such a measure. It is possible that an ID credit could be earned for the reduction of waste/transportation impact/etc. due to the use of filtered water rather than individually purchased water or company purchased water cooler service. The applicant would have to submit defensible calculations demonstrating the quantities of waste and/or pollution averted through point-of-use water filtering, and provide a description of programs or policies that encourage facility users to take advantage of the filtered water rather than purchasing bottled water. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

It appears that most data centers that have recently pursued LEED certification have been successful using a \'mixed use\' model, in which the data center is a component of a larger office building. Based on this model and the definition of \'Process Load\' in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-99 ("energy consumed in support of a manufacturing, industrial or commercial process other than conditioning spaces and maintaining comfort and amenities for the occupants of a building"), it is our interpretation that the energy required to power and cool the data center electronics is not included in the baseline energy calculation under the Energy & Atmosphere credit category. (Ref: CIR 4/11/2003 and Ruling 5/5/2003). This leads us to believe that an appropriate venue for credit contribution associated with data center energy reduction initiatives is in the Innovation & Design category. With the rise in bandwidth requirements, optical fiber versus copper has significant energy savings advantages. Energy savings associated with power and cooling of a 10Gbyte/s optical network vs. 10G copper network can range from 75-85% depending on port count. Further, innovative high fiber count pre-terminated optical solutions vs. traditional patch-cord solutions reduce cabling congestion and optimize air flow in the server racks and raceways further reducing cooling energy requirements. Will Innovation & Design credits be considered for the following? 1. Installed cabling infrastructure that provides improved energy efficiency over another. 2. A Pre-Terminated high fiber count optical solution vs. Patch-Cord optical solution.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation whether the installation of more efficient network components (i.e., high fiber count pre-terminated optical connections) in data centers may be considered for an innovation in design credit. Copper based data transfer media is increasingly being replaced by fiber optic lines in the data transfer industry. As such, the proposed strategies are not innovative strategies for energy savings, and are therefore not eligible to achieve an innovation in design credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Please advise on the viability of the following Innovation and Design Process credit: Intent The intent of this Innovation Credit is to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) impact of building materials and products, and increase the market demand for climate neutral products and materials. Products and materials are climate neutral when there is zero net greenhouse gases (GHG), such as CO2, from the entire life cycle of the product. The manufacturer calculates the total GHG impact utilizing life cycle analysis and then obtains carbon emission reduction credits (ERCs) such as through green power off-set purchases or carbon sequestration projects. The offsets must equal or exceed the GHG produced during extraction, processing, manufacture, transport and end use of a product, and be certified by a recognized third party using sound scientific and accounting principles. Climate neutral products must also deliver climate benefits "above and beyond" the standard version of these building materials, thus making them distinct and separable from all other sustainability features that these materials might also possess, such as recycled content. The development of market demand for climate neutral products provides several environmental benefits: Reduce the GHG impact of building materials, and thus address the embedded climate impacts inherent in a building or interior fit-up materials. Support USGBC\'s desire to move towards a more life-cycle based approach. Reward proactive suppliers who take a climate leadership position with their products. Ensure that climate benefits can be delivered on a credible, measurable and transparent basis. Support the emerging market for carbon and other GHG trading. Requirements Specify 5% of the project\'s total material value with products or materials, which are third party certified as climate neutral. Submittals Provide a spreadsheet indicating the total material value of the project, including furniture and list each climate neutral material or product, indicating its material value in dollars, manufacturer and third-party certification. Calculate the percentage content of the climate neutral products and materials in relationship to the overall project material value. For products in which a portion of the total product is certified climate neutral, the calculation is based on the percentage of the climate neutral material in relationship to the total material or product cost. The percentage of climate neutral products must be greater than or equal to 5% of the total project value. See formula below: Total climate neutral material value ($) / Total project material value ($) = Project percentage of climate neutral materials (%) Provide cut sheets or other documentation demonstrating climate neutral compliance for each product. Potential Technologies & Strategies Research and specify products and materials that are climate neutral and have third party life cycle analysis and certification, which has determined that there is no net addition of greenhouse gases CO2, from their from their extraction, processing, manufacture and end use. Establish a project goal for climate neutral products and identify suppliers that can achieve this goal. Select products, which met all other project performance criteria including other environmental benefits, such as recycled content, distance from project site to place of manufacturer and extraction, VOC content and other measurable criteria. Supporting Documentation This innovation credit recognizes that tools are becoming available to more clearly state the environmental benefits of product and materials which offer a climate neutral stance in regard to greenhouse gas impact. For the purposes of this credit climate neutral products and materials are climate neutral when there is no net addition of greenhouse gases, such as CO2, from their extraction, processing and/or manufacture, or the manufacturer has purchased carbon or other greenhouse gas offsets such as through green power purchases. The Climate Neutral Network (www.climateneutral.com) is an independent non-profit organization which certifies climate neutrality under its Climate Cool brand mark for products, materials, processes and enterprises. The process of certification is rigorous, quantitative and based on established, clearly stated and repeatable standards and principles, similar to the rigor of the Greenguard and Forest Stewardship Council, although with a difference emphasis. Based on the particular products and/or amount of material specified, manufacturers can calculate the amount of CO2 permanently retired by the specific use of a Climate Cool product or material. The achievement threshold for this proposed innovation credit is 5% of total project material cost. Given the current limited amount of climate neutral products available on the market, this threshold is significant in that to achieve this level a designer will need to seek out and consciously choose these products and materials over their non-climate neutral counterparts. This threshold is the same as the current LEED-CI threshold for rapidly renewable materials, which currently represent a similar sized share of the building material market.

Ruling:

NOTE: This CIR and ruling can apply to projects registered in other rating systems other than LEED-CI. Your innovation credit proposal for use of climate neutral products is acceptable provided that: 1. Each third-party certifier of climate neutral products is a reputable, independent entity. An example of a climate neutral product certifier is the Climate Neutral Network. Purchases from carbon offset retail programs must be of the quality explained in Appendix A, below. Any credible environmental claim certifier can utilize the path described in Appendix B to certify climate neutral products. 2. The product\'s entire line of supply and manufacture must be climate neutral. It is not sufficient that a manufacturer purchase offsets solely for the units that are purchased and installed in a specific building; the continuous process that enables a specific product\'s availability to the market must be climate neutral. Minor variables such as color choices do not constitute a separate product. As already stated in your proposal, the full lifecycle of the products needs to be addressed and the products must also deliver climate benefits "above and beyond" the standard version of these building materials, making them distinct and separable from other sustainability features that these materials might also possess, such as recycled content. To demonstrate a product\'s climate neutral status, include in your submittals the certifier\'s verification of climate neutral product status with a summary of the carbon footprint formulation and means used to achieve climate neutral status. Include a copy of the inventory summary used by the USEPA Climate Leaders program. USGBC recognizes that this is a rapidly evolving field and so this ruling may not have long standing as a precedent for other requests. The ruling will be revised as the standards of quality and certification advance. ----------------------------- APPENDIX A There must be a 100% offset of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.* The following is acceptable for Scope 1 and 3 emissions*: Emission reduction ("ERs") offsets must be generated from acceptable project categories which must be independently verified by a recognized verification entity. The manufacturer must provide full disclosure on the type of emission reduction offsets applied. Allowances should be excluded as should any "business as usual" ERs where additionality is questionable. Acceptable offsets are as follows: 1. Any project that is determined to be an eligible Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) provided by article 12 of the Kyoto Protocol. 2. Any project sanctioned by a U.S. State, group of U.S. States (e.g., RGGI), or the Federal Government, where the carbon reduction is assigned or otherwise stated. 3. Any project that is verified and registered as a Gold Standard project (www.cdmgoldstandard.org). 4. Any approved Joint Implementation (JI) project as provided by article 6 of the Kyoto Protocol. 5. Any approved European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) project. 6. Any project that is verified to meet the Voluntary Carbon Standard (www.v-c-s.org). 7. Carbon offsets certified by Center for Resource Solutions (www.green-e.org) or Environmental Resources Trust (www.ert.net). 8. California Climate Registry carbon credits or offsets. 9. All types of offset projects are allowed except for HFC-23 destruction. 10. Acceptable offsets from a demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). The following is acceptable for Scope 2 emissions,* considered indirect electricity emissions: Any direct offsets acceptable for offsetting Scope 1 emissions as well as renewable energy certificates (RECs) certified by Center for Resource Solutions\' Green-e program, Environmental Resources Trust\'s EcoPower program, or demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). -------------------------------- APPENDIX B An environmental claim certifier can use robust and verifiable internationally accepted standards to classify a product as carbon neutral. Use ISO 1404x series of standards for life cycle assessment (LCA) as necessary to formulate the product\'s carbon footprint. Use guidance from USEPA Climate Leaders program, the WRI/WBCSD Greenhouse Gas Protocol, or ISO 14064** as needed for accounting and reporting of emissions and offsets. Complete a copy of the inventory summary used by the US EPA Climate Leaders program. Account for the complete lifecycle (including the product\'s anticipated lifespan). The product\'s entire line of supply and manufacture must be climate neutral. It is not sufficient that a manufacturer purchase offsets solely for the units that are purchased and installed in a specific building; the continuous process that enables a specific product\'s availability to the market must be climate neutral. Minor variables such as color choices do not constitute a separate product. Once this inventory of the product\'s carbon footprint is completed, there must be a 100% offset of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.* The following is acceptable for Scope 1 and 3 emissions*: Emission reduction ("ER") offsets must be generated from acceptable project categories which must be independently verified by a recognized verification entity. The manufacturer must provide full disclosure on the type of emission reduction offsets applied. Allowances should be excluded as should any "business as usual" ERs where additionality is questionable. Acceptable offsets are as follows: 1. Any project that is determined to be an eligible Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) provided by article 12 of the Kyoto protocol. 2. Any project sanctioned by a U.S. State, group of U.S. States (e.g., RGGI), or the Federal Government, where the carbon reduction is assigned or otherwise stated. 3. Any project that is verified and registered as a Gold Standard project (www.cdmgoldstandard.org). 4. Any approved Joint Implementation (JI) project as provided by article 6 of the Kyoto Protocol. 5. Any approved European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) project. 6. Any project that is verified to meet the Voluntary Carbon Standard (www.v-c-s.org). 7. Carbon offsets certified by Center for Resource Solutions (www.green-e.org) or Environmental Resources Trust (www.ert.net). 8. California Climate Registry carbon credits or offsets (www.climateregistry.org). 9. All types of offset projects are allowed except for HFC-23 destruction. 10. Acceptable offsets from a demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). The following is acceptable for Scope 2 emissions,* considered indirect electricity emissions: Any direct offsets acceptable for offsetting Scope 1 emissions as well as renewable energy certificates (RECs) certified by Center for Resource Solutions\' Green-e program, Environmental Resources Trust\'s EcoPower program, or demonstrated equivalent (for guidance on showing equivalency, see LEED-EB EAc2 credit ruling from May 2006). SUBMITTALS: Submit the certifier\'s verification of climate neutral product status with a summary of the carbon footprint formulation and means used to achieve climate neutral status. Include a copy of the inventory summary used by the USEPA Climate Leaders program. ------------------------------------------------ * DEFINITIONS: (Source: WRI/WBCSD GHG Protocol. See the GHG Protocol for expanded definitions.) Scope 1 emissions: Emissions from sources under direct control, i.e. at premises under your control or in your vehicle fleet, etc. Scope 2 emissions: Emissions from electricity that is generated elsewhere (i.e., independently, off-site). Scope 3 emissions: Other indirect emissions that are not from owned emission sources, e.g. from the related supply chain, business travel, transportation of purchased fuels, and use of sold products and services. ------------------------------------------------ ** REFERENCED STANDARDS

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/18/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We propose that a LEED Innovation & Design Process (IDP) point be awarded to any project that uses only carpet products designated as Environmentally Preferable Products (EPPs) by achieving either \'Gold\' or \'Platinum\' certification as per NSF Standard 140-2005 - Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard (a draft Standard developed by NSF International, presently in its trial use and comment period) Specifically, we intend to use a Collins & Aikman ER3 Modular Tile product for our LEED-CI (Commercial Interiors) Project. The entire line of ER3 Modular Tile products are SCAS NSF-140 \'Platinum\' certified. The Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard (SCSA) is the first nation-wide certification program that evaluates all measurable aspects of the environmental performance of carpet products. SCSA seeks to promote products that provide comprehensive environmental, economic, and social benefits while protecting and enhancing the needs of future generations, public health, welfare and the environment over their full commercial cycles, from raw materials extraction to final disposition, and ensuring that such products are also equivalent in performance and quality to other carpet products. Carpet products that carry SCSA \'Gold\' and \'Platinum\' level certification have the added credibility of being subject to regular, independent third-party audits. Upon completion of the trial use and comment period, SCSA will be revised as necessary and submitted to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for approval as an American National Standard. In the baseline LEED Rating Systems, carpet products are evaluated per their indoor VOC emissions, plus the extent to which they might have some recycled content, regional material content, and/or rapidly-renewable material content, thus contributing to the associated Materials & Resources credits. While valuable, such criteria are somewhat limited in scope. By contrast, SCSA takes a broad, life-cycle-based approach to product evaluation, thoroughly examining such varied issues as the environmental impact of the manufacturing processes, social concerns such as the rights and working conditions of company employees, and what happens to carpet products at the end of their useful lives. The draft Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard consists of the following major categories: Safe for Public Health and Environment Addresses the reduction of inventory pollutants that adversely impact public health and the environment, over the entire supply chain of any given carpet product. Energy & Energy Efficiency Addresses energy use and greenhouse gas emissions associated with carpet production and recognizes the use of renewable energy sources and implementation of conservation and efficiency measures. Bio-based, Recycled Content or Environmentally-Preferable Products Addresses more environmentally-benign feedstocks used to manufacture carpet products and is applicable to either natural or synthetic fiber construction. Manufacturing Addresses company-wide environmental stewardship via reporting and certification protocol, such as adoption of an environmental policy, use of an environmental management system (EMS) and public declaration of performance as per ISO 14001. Reclamation and End-of-Life Management Addresses product reuse and reclamation opportunities as well as installation and maintenance procedures that extend product system life. We feel that this strategy warrants a LEED IDP point because SCAS sets a high benchmark for environmental accomplishment, is comprehensive in nature, and specifically references many other third-party standards to set specific performance criteria. Furthermore, there is precedence for acceptance of such holistic standards for IDP points. In recent CIR Rulings, USGBC has favorably recognized whole product evaluation standards such as MBDC C2C, the California Gold Standard and the Climate Neutral Network Climate Cool Certification. The Project Team hopes that adoption of such a rigorous standard in the carpet industry will stimulate development of similar standards to guide other industries involved in the manufacturing of building products and materials. NSF Standard 140-2005 - Sustainable Carpet Assessment Standard can be accessed on-line at: http://www.nsf.org/business/standards_and_publications/pdf/NSF_140-05-DS....

Ruling:

The suggested criterion encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given that the specific threshold listed below is met and proper documentation is provided upon LEED application. However, the point system proposed does not align with LEED Innovation Points (1/2 Innovation Points cannot be rewarded, and only 1 ID point may be awarded per each green strategy attempted.) The threshold for attaining one (1) Innovation Point is as follows: - use NSF/ANSI 140-2007 certified carpet for all carpet products installed in the project, AND - When silver level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 5% of the value of the project OR - When gold level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 2.5% of the value of the project OR - When platinum level carpet is used and carpet represents at least 1.25% of the value of the project. Please see NCv2.2 CIR Ruling dated 6/6/2007 (for IDc1.1) for additional information on the intended direction of the LEED Rating System. **The USGBC has updated the ruling to this CIR as of 1/22/10 to state that the 1 year sunset provision established in the original Credit Interpretation Ruling related to the NSF/ANSI 140-2007 carpet certification program is hereby extended to all pre LEED-2009 projects , pending the development and adoption of criteria and processes for recognition of third party certification programs in LEED. Said criteria will apply to all currently recognized and proposed future programs. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for implementation of innovative, environmentally beneficial measures through active intervention in the zoning and land development process of the larger community. In the end, a 16,000 s.f. project was able to leverage over 200,000 s.f. of LEED Gold. Background While St. Stephen\'s was in the design process for its LEED project, a local developer proposed to build on the vacant lot located one property lot away to the south. The project team learned that the developer was preparing to present the building design drawings at an upcoming Harrisburg Planning Commission meeting, during which variances would be requested for significantly exceeding the height and setbacks allowed by city zoning code. St. Stephen\'s publicly opposed providing a variance for these excesses primarily because the neighboring building would cut off access to sunlight that the St. Stephen\'s project team was planning to collect for day lighting and PV arrays. Given the developer\'s and St. Stephen\'s prestige in the community, St Stephen\'s requested a meeting with the developer to discuss the issues to see if the height could be lowered or setbacks aligned with zoning requirements. The outcome was that the developer agreed to meet with the St. Stephen\'s team. Initially the developer brought in his architect to explain the designs. The St. Stephen\'s team also presented its sunshade studies. The developer agreed to examine stepping the new building back between the 5th and 8th stories so that the St. Stephen\'s complex would not be in shadow so often. Ultimately, no accommodations for setbacks were provided and it was acknowledged that the developer had no intention of making it a sustainable or LEED building. Soon thereafter, the developer divulged that the tenant would be Pennsylvania Housing and Finance Authority (PHFA). Resulting LEED Achievement During the time period that followed, St. Stephen\'s thought that there was an opportunity in this to leverage their position and negotiate a greater good by supporting the proposed zoning variances. At the time in 2002, very few PA state agencies were pursuing LEED certification for their buildings, with the exception of DEP. The project team thought that fighting the developer and PHFA might ultimately gain the 16,000 s.f. St. Stephen\'s school daylight, but rather than be "penny wise and pound foolish" the project team realized that there would be a much greater benefit if they could convince a public agency to make greater accommodations that would benefit the larger Harrisburg and Pennsylvania community in the name of environmental responsibility. They believed this could be especially important given that the agency is the PHFA that would deal with the future housing in the state. As a result, the St Stephen\'s project team invited the PHFA representatives to join in the discussions with the developer. During the subsequent meetings, the St. Stephen LEED design team educated the building\'s developer and its tenant, the PHFA, about sustainable design buildings and negotiated a formal agreement. This agreement accomplished 1) a minimum silver rated building for a state agency, 2) a smaller building that was "stepped back" so that it would relate better to the surrounding small and historic buildings within the neighborhood and not leave them all in shadow, 3) higher density in the neighborhood by allowing a smaller setback and taller building than zoning permitted, and 4) greater access to solar energy for the Episcopal school by granting St. Stephen\'s rights to harvest solar energy from the PHFA roof, which is much larger than St. Stephen\'s and would see more daylight than St Stephen\'s would otherwise due to surrounding buildings and trees. As a result of the St. Stephen\'s project team efforts, the developer and PHFA were prompted to enlisted their architect to redesign their project to include sustainable design features and achieve the minimum LEED silver rating that St. Stephen\'s demanded as part of the negotiated agreement, which is why sustainable design became one of the inherent development goals of the PHFA building. The PHFA building ultimately received LEED Gold Certification in September 2005.

Ruling:

The USGBC does not consider this proposal alone to merit an innovation credit. However, a comprehensive public education program on LEED rating system and the benefits of green building is a laudable strategy worthy of an innovation credit. A green education program must meet the requirements of CIR ruling dated 9/24/2001. The proposed narrative outlining the educational outreach program undertaken by the project, can contribute as one of the educational elements. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

For our high rise multifamily project, we propose a slightly different approach to earning an ID point for education and awareness. This is a hybrid of (a) the approach described in LEED CIR rulings IDc1.1-9/24/2001 and IDc1.1-2/4/2003 for LEED-NC projects, and (b) requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant. We believe this will be the most effective approach for a multifamily community. Please confirm whether this strategy is likely to earn an ID point if appropriately implemented and documented, and if not, what additional activities would be necessary to earn the credit. (1) We will provide "operations training" similar to that outlined in LEED for Homes AEc1. A package of information distributed to all residents upon move-in will include (a) operations guidance for the energy efficient equipment and other "green" features of the apartment home, (b) additional information such as energy- and water-saving tips, waste reduction/recycling tips, guides to energy-efficient appliances and home electronics, guides to sustainable furniture choices, and information on green cleaning products and strategies, and (c) copies of the building\'s LEED checklists. Building managers will do a walk-through/tour with all new residents, showing the LEED features of the apartment and the building. In addition to the mandatory (1) above, we propose to implement two of the following five activities to promote public awareness for residents, visitors, and the broader community (selection of specific items will depend on further analysis of opportunities and interest in the community): (2) Build a comprehensive signage program into the building\'s spaces to educate the occupants and visitors of the benefits of green buildings. (3) Implement procedures for leasing/marketing staff and property managers to educate (through conversations and building tours) potential residents and other visitors on the building\'s sustainable design and construction. All leasing/marketing staff and property managers would receive instruction and training on how to use the guides during all leasing and promotional activities. (4) Offer a workshop to interested residents and members of the community approximately six months after occupancy, providing attendees with actively instructional, educational information on sustainable living. (5) Generate a newspaper article highlighting the new building\'s sustainable design and construction. The article will have two goals: educate the general public on the benefits of green buildings, and share our successful strategies with other developers interested in building LEED apartment communities. (6) Publish a web site with at least two pages that provides detailed information about the features and benefits of the LEED project. (Same two goals as (5) above.)

Ruling:

It is acceptable to use requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant as a basis for an innovation credit for Education and Awareness for residential projects under LEED-NC v2.2. To earn this credit, projects must fully comply with the requirements of AEp1.1 and either AEc1.2 or AEc1.3. Project teams must also show that they have provided the training for ALL occupants, whether new or existing. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/1/2013
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can a project team earn an Innovation credit for increasing the efficiency of necessary energy use during construction?

Ruling:

Project teams may pursue an ID credit for reductions in construction energy use related to lighting and temporary heat if the following conditions are met:For tables, see https://www.usgbc.org/resources/temporary-lighting-and-heat-leed-interpr.... Must show construction energy savings over duration of project exceeds 2% of predicted annual building energy use (EA1 design case energy model or CBECS if no energy model).2. No credit given for adjusting schedules or shutting down lighting and equipment during non-construction hours. It is assumed that standard practice is to turn lights and temporary heat off when not in use. 3. No credit given for permanent building systems used for lighting or temporary heat. 4. For temporary lighting: a. Calculate savings based on actual run times for all lamps compared to the same run times assuming lamps with an efficacy of 40 lumens per watt.i. Example: If a project uses 100 LED lamps of 12 watts, 800 lumens each, for 10 hours per day for 100 days, they would use 1,200 watts (1,200 kWh) to produce 80,000 lumens. A base case with 40 lumens per watt would use 2,000 watts (2,000 kWh).b. Security and life safety lighting must be on separate circuits from general lighting and only security and safety lighting can be on during unoccupied hours.5. For temporary heat:a. Demonstrate that temporary heating is required.b. Calculate savings based on actual run times for all heating compared to the same run times assuming a baseline system with a thermal efficiency of 78%.6. For all other conservation measures demonstrate that proposed measure is not standard practice by referencing the construction practices of three similar projects in the same location of the project building within the past 2 years.7. The submittal documentation shall include:a. A holistic, construction energy management plan including descriptions of all energy conservation measures.b. Quantitative performance analysis for each measure comparing the implemented energy conservation measure versus a standard baseline (typical construction practices) to demonstrate how the project team arrived at savings calculations.c. Product data for installed equipment.NOTES:The 2009 IECC requires that 50% of all permanent lamps be high efficacy lighting. The 2009 IECC, chapter 2 defines high efficacy lamps as compact fluorescent lamps, T-8 or smaller diameter linear fluorescent lamps, or lamps with a minimum efficacy of: 60 lumens per watt for lamps > 40 watts, 50 lumens per watt for lamps > 15 watts and ? 40 watts, and 40 lumens per watt for lamps < 15 wattsApplicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Bamboo flooring demonstration: exceptional effort in researching new sustainable materials Our design team is dedicated in introducing sustainable materials that are not familiar with the industry to the project, such as stained concrete, wheatboard, recycle-content ceramic tiles and rubber flooring. In particular, bamboo is a rapidly renewable material and has been used widely in gyms in Europe, but the client was not very comfortable of incorporating the material. In order to convince the client/ users to use bamboo flooring in lieu of hardwood for sports flooring, we installed a demonstration racquetball court. Users are provided with information of the new product and can try playing on the bamboo flooring. At the end, although bamboo is not used for the basketball courts and racquetball courts, they are used in the aerobics area and other common circulation space. Along the line of USGBC\'s policy of "no work, no point", we feel that this is a significant effort by the design team to introduce unfamiliar materials to the client. And we would qualify for an Innovation and Design Credit. Please advice on the feasibility of the credit.

Ruling:

This does not meet criteria for an innovation point. However, if the demonstration component is extended to other facets of the building, it may be appropriate to pursue an innovation credit for whole building demonstration. Please see IDc1.1 CIR dated 9/24/2001 for a complete outline of associated requirements. Your assertion that USGBC has a policy of "no work, no point" is not accurate; USGBC has no official policy in this regard. USGBC does however base innovation credits on approaches that demonstrate environmental performance. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The New Census Bureau Headquarters Office Building has purchased its officer furniture from Knoll, Inc. whose system furniture is certified by GREENGUARD. The materials specified and utilized for the assembly of the office furniture are environmental sound furniture which includes high recycled content, local/regionally manufacture materials, and local/regionally extracted materials. The design strategies were based on the following life cycle analysis: Low impact materials, clean manufacturing, healthy workplace/indoor air quality, waste reduction/efficient use of resources, durability/extended product life, reuse and refurbishment, ease of disassembly and material product recyclability. INTENT: Reduce the use of materials and finishes assemblies that may release indoor air contaminates that are odorous or potentially irritating and might be deleterious to the installer and occupant health, comfort, and well being. REQUIREMENTS: - Use office furnishings whose components meet the LEED version 2.1 requirements. - Eliminate toxins from the manufacturing process. Lead, heavy metals and hazardous chlorinated compound are completely eliminated from the manufacturing processes. - VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are eliminated from the manufacturing processes. - Water bases paints and adhesives are used for the assembly of office furniture. - 100% percent recyclable fabric is used on all furniture. - All furniture used is GREENGUARD certified. - GREENGUARD certified products will help reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier interior environment.

Ruling:

The applicant is presenting a potential innovation credit for low-emitting furniture. Although innovation credits are not awarded through the CIR process, low emitting furniture can be applied toward an innovation credit following the criteria of LEED-CI EQ Credit 4.5, as noted in Admin CIR ruling dated 1/21/2003 and IDc1.1 rulings dated 10/23/2006 and 12/1/2003. Please note that under LEED-CI EQc4.5, all systems furniture and seating introduced into the project space that has been manufactured, refurbished or refinished within one year prior to occupancy must be considered in order to earn the credit. Systems furniture is defined as either a panel-based workstation comprised of modular interconnecting panels, hang-on components and drawer/filing components or a free-standing grouping of furniture items and their components that have been designed to work in concert. Seating is defined as task as desk chairs used with systems furniture. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/27/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent: Utilize Salmon-Safe certification to inspire and deliver bioregionally significant environmental protection critical to the survival and recovery of imperiled Pacific salmonids and the restoration of West Coast watersheds.

Proposed Requirements: For site development and management applications ranging from corporate & university campuses to large-scale residential development, golf courses, manufacturing sites, and park systems, address all Salmon-Safe certification requirements, and additional restoration requirements as outlined by Salmon-Safe's independent Ph.D.-level science team in their Evaluation Report.

The following criteria will be met: Site selection & design to protect habitat & water quality beyond SSc1. Salmon-Safe standards require protection of rare, threatened, or endangered salmonids and their habitat, as well as the siting of new development consistent with enhancement of overall site hydrology and landscape ecology. Zero increase in stormwater run-off. Salmon-Safe requirements for design of stormwater facilities mandates that pre-development runoff conditions be met. Salmon-Safe requires dispersion and infiltration, where technically feasible, rather than flow concentration and retention. Salmon-Safe performance requirements for treatment of water quantity and quality include various LID strategies that diffuse, store, and filter stormwater runoff. This is more stringent than SSc6.2's requirement to treat and filter 90% of the average annual rainfall. Landscape management that protects water quality & wildlife habitat.

Salmon-Safe mandates a biologically-based and peer-reviewed Integrated Pest Management Plan and Fertilizer Management Plan, as well as the exclusion of pesticides (synthetic or naturally derived) with ingredients listed on Salmon-Safe's "high risk" pesticide list of inputs harmful to salmon and their aquatic ecosystem. Water conservation to protect aquatic species. Salmon-Safe mandates water conserving irrigation technology, limitations in the size of the landscape area to receive irrigation, the use of less water dependent native plants in landscaped areas, and the use of soil management practices such as composting and mulching to reduce irrigation requirements. These requirements protect and restore habitat as well as conserve open space, exceeding SSc5 requirements. A site-wide trend of declining water use is verified by Salmon-Safe on an annual basis. Submittals: Salmon Safe Independent Science Team Evaluation Report Reports, plans, policies, and other documentation addressing precondition and conditional requirements Salmon Safe Certification certificate Environmental Benefits: Salmon Safe mandates low impact principles for new development. Certification is based on the professional judgment of a team of expert, Ph.D.-level and independent certifiers.

The program provides a stringent property evaluation, provides pre-condition requirements, requirements, and recommendations to ensure on-going certification, exceeding LEED Rating System requirements in key water quality and habitat protection areas. After a project is certified, Salmon-Safe ensures the long-term environmental performance of certified sites through an annual verification process. This process includes habitat restoration progress, stormwater system performance, environmental design of any planned expansion, and other program elements to make sure the project is functioning as designed. Salmon-Safe certification incorporates, and significantly expands upon, previously approved LEED innovation credits including Integrated Pest Management, Monitor Threatened and Endangered Species, and Green Landscaping, just to name a few. Salmon-Safe Certification meets the three requirements of an Innovation & Design Credit. The Certification program provides quantitative performance benefits for environmental enhancement, is comprehensive to the project, and is readily applicable to other projects.

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring about achieving an innovation point for achieving Salmon-Safe certification for their campus. Though some of the Salmon-Safe certification requirements are already receive credit under existing LEED credits, other requirements provide environmental benefits beyond the requirements of LEED, such as integrated pest management, on-going erosion control, and landscape management requirements. Therefore, the achievement of Salmon-Safe certification is eligible for an innovation credit. The projects proposed submittal documentation is adequate to demonstrate achievement of the Salmon-Safe certification and for achievement of an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/7/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Interpretation Request: Exceptional Construction Waste Management and Neighborhood Rebuilding Intent: The intent of the proposed innovation in design credit is to show exemplary urban redevelopment building reuse efforts and exceptional construction waste management. The project is a 13 level healthcare facility located in an urban setting in the northeastern United States. The hospital is sited in a mixed-use community complete with institutional and commercial facilities, as well as residential. The sought innovation in design is for the relocation of six residential structures on the project site that were completely reused and re-sited to areas of the neighborhood that were missing buildings. Through the creation of the project, the homes were completely recycled, and an urban neighborhood was renewed and strengthened. Design Approach: The neighborhood rebuilding innovation in design credit brings together several aspects of the project\'s sustainable design goals. The first is urban redevelopment. The project is an expansion of an existing urban healthcare facility. The hospital will utilize amenities and infrastructure available to the existing facilities rather than build on Greenfield site at the urban fringe. The hospital is committed to making a positive impact on the neighborhood it serves, and rebuilding the neighborhood is aligned with this strategy. The site is conveniently located within a few hundred feet of train, bus and shuttle lines thus reducing the need for automobile traffic and associated pollution and augmenting a pedestrian friendly area. It is a hospital goal to maintain high-density development without adversely impacting the surrounding neighborhood. The six houses occupied two back-to-back city blocks across the street from the existing hospital. All six houses are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over time the two blocks where the homes were located deteriorated. Two of the relocated houses had been separated from the rest of the residential part of this neighborhood by three vacant lots and a surface parking lot. The two homes are now located in a completely residential part of the neighborhood. One of the houses was an infill of a vacant, run down lot and provided a needed facelift to the South side of this street. The other house was relocated to a short block that had two houses on each side of a vacant lot, strengthening the residential presence on this street. The remaining four houses replaced the surface parking lot filling on the block to make it entirely residential, rejuvenating the area. All of the houses were moved and interspersed with five vacant lots. Specific environmental advantages not otherwise recognized by LEED and exceeding measurement thresholds set forth by LEED: Relocating the houses helped mitigate the negative impacts vacant lots can create such as the dumping of trash, vandalism, squatting, loitering, etc. The relocation effort of the six houses has a net positive impact on the construction waste management calculations. The homes will be included in the calculations for Materials and Resources credits 2.1 and 2.2: Construction Waste Management. The goal of the project is to exceed the 75% total of recycling/salvaging construction waste for the project by 15% so that in total 90% of construction waste will be recycled or salvaged. The total cost relocating the six houses was approximately 2.5 million dollars. Proposed submittals to demonstrate compliance: (1) Construction waste calculations will be provided. (2) The six historic residential structures were moved in a manner consistent with Moving Historic Buildings by John Obed Curtis (US Department of the Interior, 1979) and were properly documented for the rehabilitation/reconstruction of historic features prior to moving the buildings. (3) Before and after maps will be provided with the submission.

Ruling:

The combination of urban redevelopment efforts, a 90% diversion rate for the project and the multiple house relocation is consistent with the quantifiable additional benefits necessary to earn an Innovation credit. Note: this interpretation is specific to your project description and does not establish the precedent that any combination of a lower total diversion rate and relocation program will be acceptable. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This request seeks ID credit approval for an energy- and resource-saving, paperless, Web-based collaboration solution for architecture, engineering and construction project team members from multiple organizations (i.e. owner, construction management firm, general contractor, architecture firm, engineering firm, subcontractors, suppliers, etc.): our Virtual Project Office. We have used our experience with delivering consulting services and training on project management technologies to develop this customizable, easy-to-use Microsoft SharePoint-based tool; it is a private, secure, project-specific Web site. Our innovative solution helps project participants efficiently share and process vital documents like drawings, RFIs and contracts--all while slashing printing, shipping and travel energy- and resource-usage. Owners and contractors from multiple organizations can collaborate to make informed and timely decisions when they exchange and store data in a project\'s own secure, neutral, Web-based \'office,\' rather than using paper to print draft after draft of large files (i.e. drawings, specs, contracts, change notices, payment estimates, submittals, RFIs, correspondence, safety bulletins, contact directories, schedules, calendars, announcements, transmittals, progress photos, progress reports, meeting minutes, etc.) Any and every process our project requires can, and will, be incorporated into our Virtual Project Office. For example, when the project team is ready to request bids from contractors, we will use our paperless, Web-based Virtual Project Office to issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs), provide bidding instructions, and announce up-to-date questions and answers. We will be able to post downloadable construction documents such as drawings and project specs. Contractors will then upload their bids electronically, automatically notifying the bid manager--via e-mail--of their submission. Housing all bidding information in one secure, collaborative online workspace dramatically reduces the typical energy and resource consumption of the bidding process, supports confident contract-award decisions, and gets the project off to a successful start. We will use our collaboration solution to: Connect team members across organizational and geographic boundaries so they can collaborate regardless of their time and place of work--without spending energy, resources, money or time on paper, shipping or travel. Streamline review-and-approval processes (i.e. RFPs, RFIs, submittals, change notices, payment estimates, etc.) and make them electronic, eliminating the energy costs and delays of printing and shipping multiple copies of paper documents back and forth among project participants. Notify collaborators automatically via (paperless) e-mail when virtual documents are added and updated. Reduce energy- and resource-consuming litigation by mitigating all parties\' risk exposure with automatic auditing of revisions, ball-in-court requests, and responses. Protect private information using our secure, neutral collaboration platform, limiting each party\'s vulnerability to energy- and resource-consuming claims. Take advantage of seamless interoperability, configuration, training and support--eliminating potential energy and resource expenditures associated with printing and shipping training manuals and/or booking travel for consultants, instructors and attendees. Archive automatically--online--to incorporate Best Practices and Lessons Learned as standards, and build on the project team\'s successes.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of using a Web-based platform for document management, reducing the energy and resources consumed on administration and communication during the design and construction process. While it is agreed that this has the potential to reduce resource and energy use over the conventional project administrative process, it is not considered innovative as many project teams have adopted this technology. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/13/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is being submitted to assess whether this proposed ID credit may qualify for a point assuming that all proposed standards are met and all documentation is made. ID Credit Title: Low-Emitting Exterior Materials: Paints and Coatings Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Reduce the quantity of air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers. Increase the demand for Low VOC materials for exterior applications. Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Paints and coating used on the exterior of the building shall comply with following standards: Architectural paints, stains and coatings. Do not exceed VOC limits set by Green Seal Standard GS-11 - Flats - 50 g/L - Non-Flats / Primers - 150g/L Anti-corrosive paints, stains, and coatings. Do not exceed VOC limits set by Green Seal Standard GS-03. - 250 g/L Clear wood finishes, floor coatings, stains, and shellacs. Do not exceed VOC limits set by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Rule 1113 - Clear wood finishes: varnish 350 g/L; lacquer 550 g/L - Floor Coatings: 100 g/L - Sealers: waterproofing sealers 250 g/L; sanding sealers 275 g/L; all other sealers 200 g/L - Shellacs: clear 730 g/L; pigmented 550 g/L - Stains: 250 g/L Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: Require all exterior paint applications to meet the same standards as for interior paint applications. Exterior paint applications will include but are not limited to exterior hollow metal doors, soffits, fascias, metal roof touch-up, metal cap flashings, metal lintels, and vent grating. The coating for our metal roof will be a factory applied finish.

Ruling:

The strategy proposed for earning an Innovation in Design credit for Low-Emitting Exterior Materials: Paints and Coatings has merit. In order to achieve this credit, the approach must be comprehensive in nature and include VOC limits for concrete sealants and caulks, exterior paints, wood stains and sealers, and metal stains and sealers. Please refer to the LEED NCv2.2 IDc1.1 CIR ruling dated 10/23/2006 as well as LEED EB: Operations & Management SSc2 for further guidance on how to approach this credit in a comprehensive manner. The first item in the Materials Selection section of the LEED ID Credit Catalogue (Page 19) offers general guidance for VOC content in material selection when applying for an ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/8/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The purpose of this CIR is to request approval for one ID credit for an innovative approach to material reduction by using QuietRock soundproof drywall in lieu of multiple layers of traditional drywall. INTENT: To minimize the total quantity of new gypsum wallboard (drywall) used in acoustically sensitive buildings through accurate performance specifications, enhanced materials, and efficient design. The innovative approach will be applied to walls and partitions specified as acoustically high performance for interoffice privacy and/or noise control (sound transmission class 50 or higher). In some cases, a single layer of soundproof drywall can be used to replace up to five layers of traditional drywall. This product and design approach will result in a significant reduction in the total embodied energy of the materials used in the building. (The BEES software from NIST has reported that a single panel of drywall represents between 150,000 to 300,000 Btu\'s of embodied energy). REQUIREMENT: Minimize amount of building materials used by designing walls meeting the sound isolation requirement with QuietRock soundproof drywall. Demonstrate at least a 20% savings in the quantity of gypsum wallboard used compared to the baseline design using conventional, techniques and materials. SUBMITTALS: Architectural plans, details and specifications, a letter signed by the architect or acoustical engineer outlining the acoustical performance requirements identified in the design, the measures implemented in the approach, photographs of soundproofing measures under construction, bills of sale of soundproofing drywall materials purchased, and calculations demonstrating at least a 20% savings in the quantity of drywall used compared with conventional, baseline construction techniques and materials. DESIGN APPROACH: For a two-story multi-purpose commercial building, areas of the floor plan require additional noise control (due to amplified lecture halls or private workspaces). Well established performance specifications required that these walls perform to an STC 50 or higher. These partitions have been designed using QuietRock, an innovative soundproof drywall, so that an over 20% material reduction is achieved. The process was as follows: 1. All walls with a sound isolation requirement have been reviewed by a qualified professional to assess/confirm minimum performance requirements and alternate, material-optimized assemblies were recommended. 2. Acoustical walls requiring multiple layers of gypsum drywall have been redesigned using layer(s) of soundproof drywalls in their place. 3. Architectural details have been added that address acoustical seal and closure best practices for optimal sound isolation. 4. Per CIR 12/6/2002 and 1/9/2003, the basic steps for Boeing to achieve an ID Credit for Material Reduction will be: - Provide documentation, such as a narrative and drawings, to prove on the validity of the baseline to which the project is compared. - Provide a convincing and thorough analysis of this condition by a knowledgeable professional, such as an acoustical engineer or an architect. - The actual bill of materials purchased and a spreadsheet comparing quantities & costs. - A letter signed by a responsible party enumerating and certifying the product and building methods. Should this credit be audited, the applicant also should be prepared to provide photographs of the soundproof wallboard installation in the field.

Ruling:

It should be noted that innovation credits can not be awarded in the CIR process. The approach with one material is not enough to warrant an ID credit. If the project team can submit a holistic approach which includes walls, ceilings, etc., we would consider granting an ID credit. Please note that USGBC does not certify, endorse or promote any products, services or companies, nor do we track, list or report data related to products and their environmental qualities. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/31/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The Innovation in Design Credit Catalog describes a potential ID credit as Common Area Services. The intent of that credit is to demonstrate innovative performance by enhancing the quality of life for campus occupants while reducing vehicular traffic out of campus. CREDIT REQUIREMENTS: The requirements appear very specific and include requirements to incorporate a comprehensive design for a centralized facility to house a cafeteria, gym, travel agency, credit union, printing/publishing services as well as laundry services. While our project includes many of these specific items, a cafeteria, a wellness suite, and potential for travel planning and purchase in the computer lab, it would be redundant for our facility to provide other services provided elsewhere on campus, such as laundry facilities and gymnasium. The Student Center has been designed with the intent to enhance the quality of campus life, build community between students, faculty, staff and the community, and bring a large number of facilities and services under one roof. Prior to designing this building, when interviewed, students complained that there was nothing to do outside of classes and they wanted healthier food choices. The New Student Center was designed to minimize the need for students (as well as visitors, faculty and staff, during office hours) to leave campus to go to Easton Mall and other places to obtain the described services. In addition to the items listed above, the building will provide a convenience store, a bookstore, study and social lounges, a campus radio station, a computer lab for personal usage, small, medium and large meeting rooms s available for on-campus group meetings, and the project encloses the pedestrian access to the gym, basketball courts, dance area, showers and lockers in an adjoining facility less than 200 feet away. PROJECT APPROACH TO ACHIEVING CREDIT: In providing the documentation for this innovative design credit, we propose to: - Estimate the reduction of vehicular usage by providing these additional services to the campus and surrounding community by the addition of this new building. - Calculate the environmental benefits and the reduction of impacts in comparison to a conventional campus complex including how many people visit each facility/day and the subsequent reduction in CO2. - In addition, we will provide an itemized list of other facilities and services currently available on campus within walking distance of the new student center.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification as to whether an innovation credit can be awarded based on the provision of a centralized facility that includes various basic services, in the core area of a university campus. The project team is proposing to demonstrate that the centralized facility will reduce the CO2 associated with student/visitor commuting. While the incorporation of the various services into the centralized facility is commendable, it is common practice for educational institutes to incorporate a variety of services within a centralized facility like this, to serve the needs of the student population on campus. It is further unclear as to how the project team would reasonably establish a baseline for comparison, and therefore it is also unclear how the proposed approach would demonstrate significant quantifiable environmental benefits through the expected CO2 reduction. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit language is intended to demonstrate accomplishment of Comprehensive Formaldehyde Reduction above and beyond requirements set forth in existing LEED credits. We recognize that an ID credit cannot be granted achievement through the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability and appropriateness as written to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Proposed Title: Comprehensive Formaldehyde Reduction Intent: Provide a safe and healthy environment for both construction teams and building occupants. Requirements: Meet the requirements of existing LEED credits associated with formaldehyde reduction AND comply with the additional measures outlined below in order to obtain a comprehensive formaldehyde reduction in the building. To accomplish this, the following are required: ? Specify low formaldehyde emitting products/appliances for each of the following if/as incorporated in the project: o Composite wood and agrifiber- meet LEED-NC EQc4.4 credit requirements o Formaldehyde free insulation ? Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control- meet LEED EQp2 credit requirements ? Thermal Comfort: Design- meet LEED-NC EQc7.1 credit requirements Submittal: In addition to all corresponding submittal requirements for existing LEED credits, document specific efforts to reduce formaldehyde, and describe how a comprehensive formaldehyde reduction throughout the building that address control and mitigation has been realized. Design Approach: ? Source Control: minimize formaldehyde sources from being introduced to the building interior ? Mitigation: maintain indoor air quality with low formaldehyde presence ? Identify sources of formaldehyde within the building design above and beyond insulation, and specify low formaldehyde or formaldehyde free alternatives. ? Consider appropriateness and occupant need for mechanical and/or natural ventilation while evaluating site conditions and building design. Avoid venting to areas of heavy traffic, nearby polluting industries and neighboring waste management sites. ? Minimal use of foamed in place insulation ? Wash durable-press fabrics before installation (e.g.: drapes) ? Systems furniture and seating- meet LEED-CI EQc4.5 credit requirements ? Increased ventilation- meet LEED-NC EQc2 credit requirements ? Maintain moderate temperature and humidity levels o Controllability of systems: Thermal Comfort- meet LEED-NC EQc6.2 credit requirements ? Minimize gases from combustion sources from entering interior spaces o Combustion venting- meet LEED-H IEQc2 credit requirements o Vehicles emissions protection- meet LEED-H IEQc10 credit requirements ? Monitor air quality o Outdoor air delivery monitoring- meet LEED-NC EQc1 credit requirements o Install formaldehyde sensor

Ruling:

The proposed requirements for an ID credit related to formaldehyde would not justify achievement of an ID credit. The proposed requirements add insulation to the materials regulated in EQc4.4 and require simultaneous achievement of a prerequisite (EQp2) and EQc7.1. These proposed requirements do not represent a comprehensive approach to control of formaldehyde contents and emissions. Items mentioned in the "Design Approach" do, however, represent potential ID credits. For example, projects may earn an ID credit for using systems furniture and seating that meets LEED-CI EQc4.5. Also, an enhanced indoor air quality monitoring system that includes formaldehyde and other VOC measurements may justify an ID credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/4/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The City of Richmond, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is undergoing an important redevelopment of its centrally located Civic Center Complex. This revitalization is a multi-phase project involving several buildings and parking structures and will act as a community showcase for energy and environmental leadership. As part of this effort, every attempt has been made to maximize the potential for energy efficiency and for renewable energy in the form of solar photo-voltaic (PV) panels. The existing buildings that make up the Civic Center Complex are currently individually metered for electric services from the local utility, PG&E. The key buildings involved in the first phase of work are the City Hall and the Hall of Justice which will have 2000kva combined electrical loads. Our project will include installing a 12kV system to loop several existing buildings together including these two buildings, providing two primary benefits to the City: (1) it will consolidate several buildings\' loads to a common meter at a higher voltage service, and (2) allow us to install additional PV panels. The latter is important as the Hall of Justice lacks adequate available roof space for much PV. By looping this building with other nearby buildings with the 12kV system, we can install PV on another building on the loop, the Auditorium, and permanently assign the generated power to the Hall of Justice. The Auditorium provides ample rooftop area to site enough PV panels to meet at least 7% of the proposed load for the Hall of Justice. An individual meter for the PV system will track its production of electricity. The 12kV loop also provides measurable innovative energy efficiency performance benefits by replacing the single source feeds that are now fed from the existing Hall of Justice at 208/120V with a primary based distribution system to each building. This will reduce the line losses in the Complex saving considerable energy not accounted for in other energy efficiency calculations for this project. Based on voltage drop calculations and a rough distance between the involved buildings, the energy savings will be on the order of 100 KW at full facility load. The 12kV loop is also being designed to accommodate future buildings, greatly adding to the reduction of total line losses when complete and allowing us greater flexibility for future siting of additional PV. Our question is if the 12kV loop will qualify as an innovation credit for innovative energy efficiency performance under the LEED guidelines.

Ruling:

Request Denied. The project team is asking if a 12kV loop will qualify as an innovation credit on account of increased energy efficiency due to reduced line losses. Adding a higher voltage loop is a standard consideration when redeveloping an existing complex for reasons listed above (i.e., common meter at a higher voltage service, often at a reduced rate, future expandability, etc.). While it is a good practice with quantifiable energy savings, it is necessitated by programmatic requirements and cannot be viewed as an innovation. LEED credit will be taken under EAc2 for the additional PV added to the auditorium roof and "permanently assigned" to the building, which will not be possible if it were not for the 12kV loop. These EAc2 points provide adequate incentive and reward for the 12kV loop addition. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/11/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

BACKGROUND Under LEED EB EQ Credit 3.9, a point can be earned for achieving Green Cleaning: Integrated Indoor Pest Management. As LEED EB has identified the requirements for Integrated Indoor Pest Management, it does provide a point of reference and reduces the amount of invention/discovery required to create a green pest management program, particularly in light of the absence of a comparable foundation on this subject within the existing NC Reference Guide and CIRs. INTENT Award a point for achievement of an Integrated Indoor Pest Management program by adoption and execution of the intent, requirements, and submittals of EB EQ 3.9 for the purposes of achieving an Innovation and Design Credit under NC 2.2.

Ruling:

A project may earn an innovation credit based on an applicable credit in another LEED rating system, provided the specific requirements of that credit are met, and the appropriate documentation is provided during the submission process. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/26/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

On-site combustion of natural gas releases climate-changing greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere, and Energy and Atmosphere Credit 6 (Green Power) only addresses electric power sources, not on-site natural gas use. GHG emissions are the largest environmental impact associated with burning fossil fuels, and purchasing high-quality greenhouse gas emissions offsets will significantly and quantifiably reduce greenhouse gas emissions beyond purchase of renewable power, further reducing the climate impact of a building\'s energy use. Therefore we propose an Innovation in Design Credit for balancing out the greenhouse gas impacts of a building\'s natural gas use as follows: Intent: Reduce climate impacts associated with a building\'s fossil fuel energy use. Requirement: Participate in a program with rigorous standards that balances out 100% of the climate impact of the building\'s actual natural gas use by purchasing an equivalent number of high-quality greenhouse gas emission reductions for a period of two years. Submittals: Provide a copy of the energy bill verifying enrollment in the program; provide a letter from the owner committing to participation in the program for a period of at least two years. Design Approach: Participate in Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)\'s ClimateSmartT program (http://www.pge.com/climatesmart), through which we achieve a greenhouse gas offset equal to 100% of the emissions from our building\'s natural gas use. 100% of our building\'s natural gas supply comes from PG&E, and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with our natural gas use are calculated based on the actual amount of natural gas our building uses each month, and the greenhouse gas intensity of PG&E\'s natural gas supply. The independently certified emission rate is 13.446 lbs carbon dioxide (CO2) per therm. We pay PG&E to purchase greenhouse gas emission reductions on our behalf from new projects (after December 14, 2006) that would not have otherwise occurred. The projects from which PG&E purchases reductions must demonstrate that they are real, additional, verifiable, and permanent, and the projects must not be counted towards any GHG emission reduction caps specified in any mandatory local, state, national or international GHG regulatory structure or cap-and-trade program, or in any voluntary cap-and-trade program. The projects are also independently verified, audited, and registered with the California Climate Action Registry ("Registry") and all emission reductions are permanently retired in the Registry\'s publicly accessible Climate Action Reserve tracking database. Projects must be based in California and meet the stringent requirements of one of the Registry\'s project protocols, which include capturing methane gas from dairy farms or landfills and conservation-based forest management. All projects that PG&E invests in absorb or reduce GHG emissions from the atmosphere; the amount of emission reductions purchased through the program on our behalf is equal to the actual amount of GHG emissions from our building\'s natural gas use. Purchasing a percentage of renewable energy under the Green Power credit lowers the climate impact of energy use only by the amount of green power purchased. This program goes further by offsetting 100% of the actual greenhouse gas emissions associated with our building\'s natural gas use, making our natural gas energy use "climate neutral."

Ruling:

Increasing the scope of greenhouse gas (GHG) offsets to include those emissions resulting from natural gas consumption is an acceptable innovation proposal. Consistent with CIR Ruling 9/20/02, projects that elect to offset GHG emissions associated with natural gas consumption must demonstrate that the total quantity of GHG emissions associated with natural gas offsets is greater than or equal to the total quantity of GHG emissions that could be offset through the purchase of green power for EAc6. For this particular project proposal, the ClimateSmarT program offered by the local utility is an acceptable provider of GHG offsets for natural gas based on the fact that the utility meets the following criteria:

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/10/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

LEED-CS v2.0 Innovation & Design Credit 1.2: Exterior Shading Devices Our project is a high-rise core and shell development consisting of 900,000 square feet of office space and 60,000 square feet of retail space located in Manhattan, New York. The design team is seeking an innovation credit for the exterior sunshades provided on the south and west fa

Ruling:

While the benefits of exterior shading devices are numerous, the quantifiable environmental benefits attributed to them should be captured within existing LEED Credits, for example the reduced cooling load is recognized in EAc1, while glare control is addressed within EQc8.1. The design and installation of sunshades cannot, unto itself, garner an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/15/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Prior to submitting the full Template and supporting documentation for this Innovation & Design Process Credit, we would like to request an evaluation to ensure we are on the right path for this credit. Our project is a mixed-use facility with residential units at 7 levels, retail at the ground level and parking below grade. We plan to integrate an Educational Outreach Program, following the guidelines as defined in IDc1.1 inquiry dated 9-20-01. The following is the Outline of our Program: I. Interpretive Signage Program A signage permanent signage program will be designed and installed to communicate the major sustainable design aspects of the project to the visitors and customers of the facility, highlighting the various sections of the LEED program - Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Materials and Resources, Energy & Atmosphere and Indoor Environmental Quality a. Retail - Signs to be located at the Paseo area between the two buildings and will highlight the sustainable design features of the project, including: 1. Water Efficiency - reduced water consumption and irrigation by captured ground water 2. Stormwater reduction and Heat Island reduction: Rooftop gardens and Green Roof - reduces Stormwater quantity, reduces heat islands at the roof and provides the residents with a gardening plot. 3. Recycled materials & low VOC materials as well as Construction waste diversion from landfills. 4. Alternative Transportation - preferred parking for HOV, secured bicycle parking for residents, adjacency to bus stops and ferry service. A signage program will be designed and installed to communicate energy and water efficiency data on a monthly basis to the residents. The intent is to encourage residents to make a concerted effort towards reducing energy and water consumption. b. Residential - Signs to be located at Residential Common Lobby Areas II. Project Manual for Sustainable Design features for the project a. Manual will include narratives and supporting graphics documenting the design approach for the 5 sections of the LEED NC v2.2 Submission b. The LEED Checklist and Templates submitted to the USGBC will be included in this Manual for reference by others. III. Educational Outreach Program a. The Home Owners Association will sponsor Educational Programs (Organic Gardening, Organic Cooking, Sustainable Living Practices, Energy Consumption Reduction) will be held at the facility in the meeting room for residents to further their awareness of sustainable living.

Ruling:

The provided description has met the precedent set forth in CIR Ruling dated 9/24/01. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/2/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Interpretation Request This is a general guidance Credit Interpretation Request, not specifically addressing ID credit. This credit interpretation was filed under ID because there was not an appropriate category. We are requesting a ruling on the application of NCv2.2 for the future interior fit-out of a project owned, occupied and operated by a single tenant. Our project is a four story, 155,000 sq.ft, commercial office building in the midst of construction. Although the project was initially intended to be complete in its entirety, the client has chosen to isolate a portion of the interior fit-out on the 4th floor for future fit-out. All exterior roof, walls, glazing, sun screens, etc. for the entire building and the interior fit-out for floors 1, 2, 3 and over 50% of the 4th floor will be installed prior to occupancy. The remaining unfinished interior is approx. 16,500 s.f. or 9.5% of the total building s.f. The furniture fit-out, interior walls, interior finishes, raised flooring, under floor air distribution, plumbing, ceilings, lighting and all technology will be completed at a future date. The unfinished space will only consist of the shell, sprinkler system and emergency egress route per code. 1. Could you please confirm that our proposed compliance path is acceptable. a. Based on other CIR rulings we feel it is appropriate to proceed with certification of the project under the LEED-NCv2.2 Rating System. b. Our initial calculations for the Energy modeling and the FTE were based on a completed building. Our intent is to use the total FTE and entire build-out of MEP systems for the whole building (including future fit-out) in an effort to pursue prerequisites and credits. c. Regarding materials, finishes, plumbing fixtures, luminaire, furniture etc., include only materials installed as part of the final project and exclude any future fit-out materials from calculations and credit templates. d. We will develop a set of Tenant Guidelines -as indicated in the CIR ruling amended on 6/23/2007- Please note that 100% of this project is and will be single owner occupied. 2. Could you please help define the guidelines and options in pursuing LEED NCv2.2 certification, and provide us with direction regarding steps needed to document the exclusion of the future fit-out. For example, is it accurate to assume that, a. Sustainable Sites Credits will not be affected by the future interior fit-out exclusion since the FTE of the whole building (100% completed) will be used in required calculations. b. Water Efficiency Credits 3.1 and 3.2 calculations will only include the 90% completed building since fixtures to the future fit-out space will not be installed at occupancy. c. Energy & Atmosphere calculations will be based on the whole (100%) building. i. Please note: How would Enhanced Commissioning and M&V be executed when only 90% of the building is complete during initial occupancy? d. Materials & Resources calculations will not include materials for the future fit-out space. e. Indoor Environmental Quality Credits will include the whole building except for the following credits: EQc 4 (which pertains to material selection), EQc 6 and EQc7 (which relate to controllability of systems and Thermal Comfort) and EQc 8. i. Daylight and Views have been carefully considered throughout the building. The Glazing Factor Calculation of the total building (including the future fit-out) demonstrates that the project complies with EQc8.1 and EQc8.2. Therefore, do we calculate the entire building as if it were 100% complete? If not, is the area of the future fit-out space ignored altogether or is the area defined as "Non-Occupied Space"?

Ruling:

The project team is seeking clarification for an unfinished space core and shell space in a primarily fit-out building. Projects, such as this one, that are developing greater than 50% of the interior spaces should pursue LEED-NC certification. For unfinished tenant spaces, tenant guidelines must be established ensure that future build-outs will meet the prerequisites and credits that have been pursued. Credits that will not be affected by the future tenant build-outs, such as the site credits do not need to be included in the tenant design and construction guidelines. Credits based on anticipated savings of performance that would be part of the future build-outs (WEc3 or EAc1), must be calculate as neutral (same as the baseline) or proposed savings can be included in the calculations if the performance requirements are included in the tenant guidelines. Credits not based on performance, should include the requirements to meet the prerequisite or credit in the tenant guidelines for the future fit-out. Materials credits (MR credits and EQc4) should be based only on the materials used during construction, and exclude future work. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/21/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Exemplary performance in Landscape & Exterior Design to Reduce Heat Islands / Non-Roof. Intent: The intent of this proposed Innovation in Design credit(s) is to show exemplary performance as it pertains to Heat Island mitigation. The project is a Campus Dining facility located on a 3 acre site with heavy pedestrian traffic and thru-way circulation. The sought innovation in design is for taking 2 incremental steps above the 30% LEED compliance totaling 98% High-Albedo surfaces across the entire 3 acre site. Design Approach: The project is proposing to use Concrete paving with an initial reflectance of .4-.5 for 98%, or 36,852 sq.ft., of the sites impervious non-roof surfaces. Only 2%, or 863 sq.ft,. of the site will be asphalt paving. Please note also that 18.5% of this already compliant concrete paving will have additional shading by proposed native vegetation. Lastly, the roof surface is covered by a High Albedo LEED compliant roof surface for a total 91% of the roof surface equaling 16% greater than LEED compliance. This makes 65,604.5 sq.ft. of the 3 acre sites total impervious surface of 69,230 sq.ft. constructed with High Albedo materials for a grand total of 95% (this does not include the added benefit of shading by trees 18.5%). Based on the LEED intent for these credits, we feel as though we are good candidates for (2) or more innovation points for exemplary performance. Please advise.

Ruling:

One Innovation Credit for Exemplary Performance is available for LEED-NC Version 2.1 projects that demonstrate 60% or more of the total non-roof impervious surfaces have a reflectance of 0.30 or higher. The project team should consider alternatives to reduce impervious surfaces that could reduce storm water management and heat island while still meeting the hardscape design intent. Utilizing such a design strategy can reduce both heat island and stormwater runoff and potentially increase the project\'s points toward certification. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/30/2001
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation Question, Breaking Down Barriers to Mass Transit:The Block 225 project is part of a 5 building campus for the State of California. A portion of the response to the neighborhood in the EIR was that the State would contribute funds to the improvement of the local park, Fremont Park, for renovation and restoration. The funds are to be used for a specific function, that of restoring historic diagonal pedestrian links across the park. The benefit to the entire project, including Block 225, is that the contribution will be used to restore a connection from the project to the light rail system, thereby encouraging the use of mass transit. Without these links, a barrier to mass transit would exist.Question: Could this response to neighborhood concerns regarding open space and mass transit be considered an innovation credit?

Ruling:

It is possible to allocate portions of a campus project to its subservient buildings on a square foot basis. The two performance measures mentioned however are already part of the LEED Rating System, and would not constitute innovation, which can generally be taken to mean new and previously unthought of ideas. Use the open space features allocated on a square foot basis towards Credit SSc5.2 Site Preservation, Maximize Open Space, and apply for the Alternative Transportation Credit, Public Transportation Access.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
12/15/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following Innovation & Design CIR is being submitted to assess whether the following criteria could qualify for a ID credit if all standards are met and documentation recieved. ID Credit Title: Low Emitting Materials: Building Insulation Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well being of installers and occupants. Demonstrate that for all insulations used in the project that none of the insulations contain urea formaldehyde resins. Submit manufacturer / MSDS information, and material invoices indicating the purchase and delivery for all insulation materials Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Building insulation products used in the building shall contain no added urea formaldehyde resins. Building insulation products include: thermal batt insulations, sound attenuation batt insulations, rigid insulations, blown-in insulations, and foamed-in-place insulations. Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: Formaldehyde is a well-known carcinogen and is highly toxic, having been linked to respiratory ailments and throat cancer. Further eliminate the use of urea formaldehyde from the building by eliminating the use of insulation containing urea formaldehyde. The project will be specifying a batt insulation (both thermal and sound attenuating) that is formaldehyde-free. Batt type (blanket) insulation is used extensively throughout this project. Also, the project will be using a foamed-in-place insulation injected into the cores of the masonry block after masonry work has been completed. Many foamed in place insulations used in masonry applications use a urea formaldehyde resin as one of their components. These are classified as urea formaldehyde foam insulations (UFFIs). UFFIs were banned in 1982, but later that ban was over turned in 1983. Since then, UFFIs have been banned in several states. The state that this project is located in does not have a ban on this material. The foamed-in-place insulation used for this project will not contain urea formaldehyde. Other rigid insulations such as polyisocyanurate and extruded / expanded polystyrene do not contain urea formaldehyde in their manufacturer. This project is specified to use extruded / expanded polystyrene for rigid insulations.

Ruling:

This CIR is asking if adding insulation to the materials regulated under EQc4.4 is sufficient to earn an innovation credit. As written this proposal does not represent a comprehensive approach to control of formaldehyde contents and emissions and as such would not warrant an innovation credit. Please see the ID CIR under LEED NCv2.2 dated 10-23-06 for guidance on related approaches that may warrant an Innovation Credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

AMD\'s new Austin Campus will include a "Halo Studio", a virtual meeting room that is equipped with the latest telepresence technology and is optimized for video collaboration between globally dispersed teams. AMD\'s telepresence system will utilize broadcast-quality cameras and optics to deliver seamless, no perceived delay collaboration around the world, eliminating the need for airplane and automobile travel for in-person meetings. Telepresence recreates face-to-face meetings virtually so employees and partners can build relationships, review products and documents and make decisions faster without leaving their offices. Halo users can interrupt one another, express their emotional reactions when they feel them, and otherwise, act as they would in a regular face-to-face meeting. The end result: everyone feels as if they are in the same room, when in reality, they may be thousands of miles away on different continents. By reducing employee travel, these systems minimize the greenhouse gas footprint for Halo-enabled buildings while improving worker productivity, satisfaction and health. In addition, Halo rooms use US EPA Energy Star rated plasma displays and revert to standby mode when not in use, reducing energy use by 40%. AMD\'s offices are spread around the country and around the world. "Americans make more than 405 million long-distance [over 50 miles] business trips per year, accounting for 16% of all long-distance travel" (from "America on the Go", U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics, October 2003). Halo rooms have the potential to significantly reduce the number of long-distance trips made by business travelers and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions. Bill McGee writes in USA Today of a Consumer Reports study on carbon footprints for air travel: "We used 11 leading carbon calculators to assess our footprint using the standard measurement of pounds of CO2. For a flight from New York to Los Angeles, we found that one passenger generated anywhere from 1,924 pounds to 6,732 pounds." (from "On the Road with Bill McGee", USA Today, online: http://www.usatoday.com/travel/columnist/mcgee/2008-01-30-fuzzy-math_N.htm) These statistics indicate that a single "Halo Studio" meeting with a mix of attendees from around the country and within Austin can divert roughly 15,512 lbs. or 7.8 tons of CO2. Over the course of a year, this single "Halo Studio" could divert hundreds or even thousands of tons of CO2. (Calculation: 4 cross-country round trip plane flights= 1,924 lbs. CO2 x 2 trips x 4 attendees = 15,392 lbs. CO2; 4 short distance car trips = 15 lbs CO2 per mile x 2 trips x 4 attendees = 120 lbs. CO2; total = 15,392 + 120 = 15,512 lbs. CO2) Telepresence systems are offered by several companies including Hewlett-Packard, Cisco, Teliris and Polycom. AMD\'s Halo system was developed by Hewlett-Packard. These systems are distinct from traditional videoconferencing due to the immersive quality of communication provided by the telepresence solutions. For example, the offerings from HP utilize multiple display screens, broadcast quality cameras, a fiber optic network and include technology that enable people to connect to multiple sites around the world at the same time, offering everyone a "same-room" communication experience. There are up front investment requirements, including the cost of the studios (pricing varies depending on the type of telepresence solution, but top of the line HP studios, for example, list for $349,000 USD per studio) and some systems also have a monthly service fees. We would like to establish a precedent Innovation in Design credit that recognizes telepresence technology and significant efforts to reduce the ecological footprint of meetings in standard business practice. Is this an appropriate innovation credit?

Ruling:

The concept of virtual meetings, either via conference calls, or other technological means, has become common practice for organizations located in multiple locations. While the telepresence technology is a superior way to facilitate meetings remotely, it does not directly relate to design and construction, but addresses operational practices for a company. Innovation credits are awarded to projects for exceptional performance above the requirements set by the LEED Rating System, or innovative performance in green building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED Rating System. As the use of this technology appears to be a core part of the organization\'s normal business practice, it would not warrant an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Clerestory to bring natural light into subterranean space: exceptional IEQ Our project is a 250,000SF subterranean sports facility. Due to the site and security constraints, we are unable to incorporate windows in the space. However, the design team feels strongly about the importance of natural light, especially in a sports facility, where users are exercising and relaxing. Therefore, in the design, we introduce 4 clerestories, designed with internal reflectors, along the sports facility to bring in natural light. As a result, the daylight factors of the major interior spaces are as follows: Natatorium: 7% Indoor track: 29% Indoor basketball court: 14% This is remarkable results for an underground facility. the clerestories also serves as fresh air intakes for the mechanical systems, therefore reducing the need of constructing a separate aerial way. We strongly believe that this will be qualified for an Innovation and Design Credit.

Ruling:

The incorporation of daylight is a strategy which is addressed in EQc8 and is a design option in most building types, including underground facilities. It appears that the design strategy outlined will meet the criteria for EQc8.1 for natural light in 75% of regularly occupied spaces and does not warrant a separate credit for innovation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/22/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Intent: Implement a "Green Office Program" for building tenants who commit and prove they are operating as a "Green Office". The program will encourage tenants to operate more sustainably even if they are not performing a renovation (LEED-CI) for their office space. The goal is to provide method for tenants to move into the direction of sustainable operation, and with supporting documents showing achievement, be rewarded by the property management office. This will also encourage tenants to perform conduct cost-benefit analysis for improvements that can be achieved at nominal and/or no cost. Even credits that have a cost may still have that cost returned through reduced operating expenses. The "Green Office Program" is promoted through the building tenant guide and distributed by building managers, which encourages tenants to identify and implement no-cost and low-cost alternatives to operating in a standard indoor office environment. Scored on a scale of 100, offices are evaluated in seven categories: Energy Efficiency, People & Atmosphere; Travel & Commuting; Reduce, Reuse & Recycle; Cleaning; Remodeling & Construction; and LEED. When a specific strategy or improvement has been implemented, participating tenants earn "Leaf Credits." If an office achieves "70 Leaf Credits", it is then designated as a GREEN OFFICE. Here are a few items (entire program will be submitted with ID): Energy: - Set computers to "energy save" mode - Lower blinds in summer; raise blinds in winter - Install occupancy light sensors - Replace End of Life computer monitors with Energy Star Equipment - Set "sleep mode" for office equipment - Install compact fluorescent/low mercury light wherever possible People and Atmosphere: -Organize office employees to participate in a sustainability-focused community project once per year -Keep you local office employees updated quarterly about what green efforts you have achieved, your future sustainable goals, and how they can assist in reaching those goals Travel & Commuting: - Instead of traveling for meetings, reduce emissions by encourage teleconferencing and videoconferencing when possible - Ensure 25% of employees carpool or use mass transit to commute to work Reduce/Re-use/Recycle: - Use mugs and tumblers to save waste on disposable cups and plastic bottles - Participate in E-recycle Day for buildings annual e-recycle drive - Transition from petroleum-based or non-compostable products (ex: Styrofoam) to biodegradable products - Do not order any bottled water. Procure bottle-less water coolers to provide cool and hot filtered municipal water Remodeling & Construction: - Certify your office space as LEED-CI - Standardize workspace configuration to accommodate future change that will minimize remodeling and construction - Shift from "closed single offices" to efficient "open-office work plans" Requirements: Every 2 years, the tenant office manager would submit a scorecard to the property manager listing "green opportunities" achieved. Supporting documentation must be provided to achieve the credit. The tenant representative would also be required to attend quarterly building management/tenant meetings to updates to "Green Office Tenant Guidelines" and how they can promote sustainable office/business operation. As you can see, our goal is not to replace LEED-CI. Our program will not only encourage tenants seek LEED-CI, but also help grow our sustainable culture among building occupants beyond the built environment. Many tenants want to operate more sustainably. This program will be their guide.

Ruling:

The described approach would qualify for an Innovation in Operations point due to the comprehensive and extensive education and outreach to building occupants and tenants around sustainability issues. Please note that this initiative falls under the umbrella of green education, and only one education-related IO point can be awarded per project. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/24/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation & Design Process: Exemplary Performance in Alternative Transportation - Hybrid Vehicle Reimbursement Program Intent Reduce pollution and energy impacts from automobile use. Requirements To receive an innovation point, the project team will demonstrate that a comprehensive hybrid vehicle reimbursement program is in place with clear performance goals, including: 1. A statement of purpose describing what the program is trying to achieve from a health and environmental standpoint, focusing on reduced carbon emissions. 2. Procedural requirements for employees who participate in the program to comply with the guidelines. 3. A clear set of acceptable performance metrics by which to measure progress or achievement, such as a sample request for reimbursement form stating all data gathered (i.e. miles driven, vehicle purchased, vehicle replaced, vehicle fuel consumption, etc.), and calculated statistics, including equivalent pounds of carbon dioxide NOT released, compared to the baseline (vehicles driven, fuel consumed, and emissions released, prior to the program). 4. Documentation of the program\'s vehicle and procurement specifications, including a list of approved vehicles, and employee eligibility guidelines. Demonstrate that the vehicles purchased and miles driven result in improved environmental impact. Submittals 1. Copy of program guidelines and eligibility requirements. 2. Copy of request for reimbursement form. 3. Calculations illustrating number of participating employees, vehicles purchased, vehicles replaced, miles driven each week for commuting purposes, and whether the program influenced the decision to purchase a hybrid. 4. Calculations quantifying equivalent pounds of carbon dioxide NOT released. Design Approach As part of a corporate commitment to reduce its environmental impact, as well as a comprehensive effort to improve its leadership on environmental issues, including LEED-CI certification of its Corporate Center interiors, Bank of America announced on June 7, 2006 that it will reimburse Associates living within 90 miles of Charlotte, Boston, and Los Angeles and purchasing a new hybrid vehicle $3,000. Available to more than 49,000 associates, the program addresses a correlation between air quality, limited travel options (other than single-rider vehicles), and commute length. As of September 7, 2006, 200 Bank of America associates, including 118 in Charlotte, have taken advantage of the program and the Bank expects up to 100 more will participate by the end of 2006. The program is available to all associates working in the Bank of America Corporate Center and it is possible to monitor how many of those associates take advantage of the program. We request a ruling on whether implementation of this program would achieve an Innovation & Design credit, since it is available to ALL Bank of America Associates living within 90 miles of Charlotte, where the Bank of America Corporate Center Renovation Pilot Project is located.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an innovation and design credit for Exemplary Performance of SSc4.3, Alternative Transportation based on an incentive program for those employees purchasing new hybrid vehicles. The USGBC would like to clarify that under LEED-CI there is no credit titled SSc4.3. In LEED-CI, Alternative Transportation credits fall under SSc3.1, SSc3.2 and SSc3.3 with no direct correlating credit to LEED-NC SSc4.3, Alternative Transportation: Low-Emission & Fuel Efficient Vehicles. The LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide states that projects may be awarded one innovation point for Exemplary Performance in alternative transportation, SSc4, by instituting a comprehensive transportation management plan that demonstrates a quantifiable reduction in personal automobile use through the implementation of multiple alternative options. Following this criteria under LEED-CI, an innovation point could be awarded for the incentive program, as long as it is part of a comprehensive transportation management plan that takes into account other modes of alternative transportation. The incentive program would also need to be redefined to align with the LEED-NC v2.2 definition of low-emission and fuel-efficient vehicles which are either classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide. Based on LEED-NC v2.1 CIR ruling dated 5/9/2003, components of a transportation management plan that might be useful toward achieving an innovation credit include: active use of a regional carpool database; a "guaranteed ride home" program for carpoolers; transit trip planning assistance; and subsidizing regional transit passes, Amtrak commuter train tickets, and bicycle purchases for bicycle commuters. Please note that the achievement of credits SSc3.1, SSc3.2 and SSc3.3 will increase the likelihood of achievement of an innovation credit for exemplary performance of Alternative Transportation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/20/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

For our multifamily project, we propose the following approach to earn an ID point for transportation management. Please confirm whether this strategy is likely to earn an ID point if appropriately implemented and documented, and if not, what additional activities would be necessary to earn the credit. We propose to implement a two-part program to encourage bicycle use and reduce automobile use. Due to our suburban community\'s lack of a comprehensive, convenient public transportation system, we believe biking will be residents\' preferred alternative transportation mode. (Please note that this means we may not meet SSc4.1 requirements for public transportation access, but will meet 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4). (1) Implement a bicycle check-out program by which the apartment community loans bikes to residents to use for free. We expect the bikes would be used for errands and other periodic trips (when public transportation may not be practical), reducing automobile use for these trips. The bikes would also be used for recreation/exercise, contributing to a healthier community. For a 500-person community, we would purchase 5 bikes. (2) Subsidize residents\' purchase of bicycles for daily commuting. The check-out program would not be able to serve regular bike commuters. For these residents, the property will subsidize 10% of the purchase cost (up to $100) of a bicycle. Per LEED CIR ruling IDc1.1-5/9/2003, the program will continue for at least 5 years or 50 bicycles, whichever comes first.

Ruling:

Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is to provide guidance about the likely measures and documentation that would need to be included in the credit application. The intent of the comprehensive transportation management innovation credit is to implement multiple measures towards achieving a reduction in single passenger vehicle usage and the associated emissions. The proposed bicycle sharing and subsidies will contribute towards a comprehensive transportation management plan, but are not sufficient to qualify on their own. To develop a comprehensive transportation management plan the project team should incorporate measures to increase the use of carpooling and low-emitting vehicles similar to those listed in CIR ruling IDc1.1-5/9/2003. Furthermore, the bicycle subsidy program should offer a discount of at least 20% per CIR ruling SSc4.3-7/5/2007. Although, this CIR refers to parking discounts the same incentive would be necessary to be meaningful in all potential markets. The project team may also want to consider pursuing an innovation credit for exemplary performance under SSc4.2. This credit may be achieved in a residential development by providing covered storage facilities for at least 30% of the building residents, and by demonstrating adequate demand for the additional bicycle storage capacity and the existence of nearby destinations accessible by bicycle and/or the existence of bicycle infrastructure such as bike lanes or bike paths.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
3/11/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking an Innovation in Design credit for the use of low-emitting insulation material. Intent Reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, potentially irritating and/or harmful to the comfort and wellbeing of installers and occupants. Requirements All insulation used in the building interior (defined as inside of the weatherproofing system) shall meet one of the testing and production requirements below: Option A: California Department of Health Services Standard Practice for The Testing of Volatile Organic Emissions from Various Sources Using Small-Scaled Environmental Chambers, including 2004 Addenda. OR Option B: GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification (requirements are more stringent than those set forth by the Cal DHS Standard Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small-Scaled Environmental Chambers) Submittals Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer or responsible party, listing all the insulation used in the tenant space and stating that they meet or exceed the applicable testing and product requirements. Background The basis for our request is that within LEED for Homes MRc2.2 Insulation is awarded 0.5 points if it complies with California Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small Chambers. The effective use of insulation to minimize energy costs and improve control of environmental comfort with placement in the walls and above drop- ceilings of high-performance buildings has led to insulation being a highly utilized individual material in many LEED-CI buildings. Therefore, now more than ever, the assurance that insulation is not off-gassing harmful chemicals is an important step in assuring the health of all building occupants. Insulation is listed as one of a three component system under Option 6 - Ceiling and Wall Systems (LEED for Schools EQc4). We are proposing to have insulation identified as a stand-alone material due to its abundant use within a building. It is understood that LEED for Schools EQc4 allows up to 4 points for low-emitting materials. It is requested that insulation, by itself, as allowed in LEED for Homes MRc2.2 be eligible as an ID credit. To be consistent, this would be an option only if the project has not already received 4 points for low-emitting materials.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that an innovation credit can be awarded for projects using building insulation that meets the California Practice for Testing of VOCs from Building Materials Using Small Chambers and/or is GREENGUARD Children & Schools certified. This strategy is acceptable for projects when the LEED project scope includes the installation of all roof, floor and wall insulation, and where all building insulation meets the indicated criteria. For CI projects where any roof, floor, or wall insulation is installed outside of the LEED project scope, and where all building insulation meets the indicated criteria, this strategy is only acceptable under SS Credit 1, Option L: Other Quantifiable Environmental Performance.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/4/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ergonomics Strategy

Ruling:

Intent: To create and maintain a flexible ergonomic environment that properly accommodates building users and promotes healthy, comfortable and productive work.
Requirements: Develop and implement a comprehensive ergonomics strategy that will have a positive impact on human health and comfort when performing daily activity for at least 75% of Full Time Equivalent building users. This strategy must include the four components listed below.
1. Identify activities and building functions for which ergonomic enhancement (i.e., ergonomic strategies which exceed standard industry practice) is both possible and desirable through education and equipment. -. Building users should be consulted on their preferences wherever possible. NOTE: Project teams are encouraged to consult one or more of the existing ergonomics standards and guidelines when identifying ergonomic enhancement opportunities. For computer workstations, these include the BIFMA G1, the ANSI/HFES 100-2007, and CSA Z412-00. The US Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed ergonomic guidelines specifically for the following industries: Shipyards, Poultry, Retail Grocery Stores, Nursing Homes, and Meatpacking. OSHA also provides helpful information for many other industries in addition to those listed here (please see the Resources section below).
2. Define a set of performance goals and expectations for the ergonomics strategy that address productivity, comfort, and health. Develop a plan and design process to meet them. Provide procedures to track and report the results of the ergonomics strategy, ensure that the performance goals have been met, and identify areas of potential improvement. These should include the following actions: a) Make the performance goals and ergonomics plan available to building users b) Provide a feedback system to collect anonymous responses and respond to them. This should be informal and ongoing. c) Maintain ongoing building user access to appropriate ergonomics METWA's, furnishings, and accessories and education. d) Conduct a survey of user satisfaction. This should be more formal than the feedback system, and occur periodically. The survey must be collected from a representative sample of building occupants making up at least 30% of the total occupants.
3. Provide machine, equipment, tools, work-aids (METWA's), furnishings, and accessories that reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and are acceptable to a wide range of building users. In a setting where building users that spend 50% or more of their time at computer workstations, the following four areas must be addressed: display, computer peripherals (keyboard/mouse), work surface, and chair. Computer workstations include areas in which workers interact with screens or monitors of any kind.
4. Provide ergonomics education to building users Provide at least two opportunities for building users to understand and take advantage of ergonomic features in their environment. At least one of these opportunities must be interactive, and at least one must include an explanation of the provided METWA's and furnishings, preferably by the manufacturer. Post-education evaluations must be conducted. Education opportunities may include, but are not limited to: a) Participatory classroom sessions conducted by an ergonomics professional b) Access to literature on products and basic ergonomic knowledge relevant to the building user's tasks c) Repetitive or regularly-scheduled workstation evaluations d) Interactive internet-based products such as assessment and training tools e) Hands-on experiences, such as access to the showroom of an ergonomic furnishing supplier
Submittals:
1. Provide a narrative that speaks to the requirements listed above. It should include: - descriptions of the steps the project team has taken to identify ergonomic enhancement opportunities. - a sentence or two verifying that it is possible to exceed standard industry practices to achieve an ergonomically superior workplace. - descriptions of the performance goals and expectations, and the steps the project team has taken to meet them - descriptions of the procedures put into place to track and report the results of the ergonomics strategy. Describe how each of the required actions, listed in #5 of the requirements section, will be take place. Describe the collaboration with the management team that will carry out these procedures. - description of how purchased METWA's and furnishings will benefit the building users as they conduct routine tasks and activities, the selection criteria used for choosing the products (i.e., how the safety and health of the building user was considered), and how the products will accommodate a wide range of size needs. Size needs can typically be met by buying products that come in 'families' (small, medium, large) or are highly adjustable. - descriptions of two ergonomics education opportunities made available to building users, including the objectives and content.
2. Provide a list of purchased METWA's and furnishings that minimize the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Include cut sheets and manufacturer information for each. For project certifying under LEED for Existing Buildings : Operations and Maintenance, at least one survey must be conducted during the performance period, and documented survey results and corrective actions to address issues identified through the surveys must also be provided.
Potential Technologies and Strategies: In general, consider METWA's and furnishings that will: - reduce awkward, non-neutral work postures (e.g. neck, shoulders, hands-wrist, low back, elbows, lower extremities) - reduce duration of sustained/static work postures (e.g. leaning forward, elevated arms, continuous grip) - reduce grip and pinch forces associated with required tasks (e.g. correct tools) - reduce the repetition and duration of tasks, especially those with non-neutral postures and/or higher forces - reduce contact stress - resting soft tissues of the body on hard or sharp surfaces. To address the four required areas for building users that spend 50% or more of their time at computer workstations, consider the following strategies: Display adjustability - The display centered directly in front of the body. - The top of the display screen placed no higher than the eyes. - The ability to place the display screen 18 to 36 inches from the eyes - Control over the tilt angle of the screen and its' position on the work surface - The capability to position the display low enough to accommodate individuals with bifocals or progressive addition lenses (PALs). This may be significantly lower than eye height reduced glare - The use of technologies such as flat-screen or anti-glare devices - The display positioned such that light sources will not create glare Peripherals - Paper documents placed on a document holder immediately to the left, right or below the display - The keyboard positioned so the home row (row with F and J keys) is no higher than the elbow - The ability to adjust the keyboard angle and set the slope of the keys flat, if so desired - Enough room for the mouse or pointing device to be used adjacent to the keyboard (left, right or in front). If a separate adjustable keyboard support is used it must have space specifically designed for using a mouse or pointing device; preferably the mouse pad should have the capability to be positioned flat if the keyboard is tilted - The arm used to control the pointing device supported, either on the work surface or armrest of the chair - Ergonomically correct keyboards, mouse, phones and other supporting peripherals purchased when possible Surface - Enough work surface to properly support the computer and peripherals. Provide a surface with minimum dimensions of 28 inches wide by 24 inches deep - Enough clear space under the surface to allow the legs and feet to be positioned in multiple postures - Furnishings in multi-occupant workstations that allow the user to control surface and support heights, with surface height initially at proper seated elbow height. If workstations are single-occupant it is acceptable for facilities management to adjust the heights of surfaces Chair - Range of chair types or chair features that optimize employee fit and task requirements. - Chairs with a wide range of adjustibility For building users that work in an industrial setting, consider: - Height adjustable work-surfaces (e.g. desks, work benches, fume hoods) - Pneumatic vs. electric vs. manual tools, material handling aids, such as lifts, height adjustable pallet jacks and hand trucks. - Range of hand and power tools sizes and weights that improve employee fit and function while reducing ergonomic risk factors, for example: grip diameter, multi-finger activation and vibration isolation For ergonomics education provided to building users, consider including information on: - The possible causes of musculoskeletal discomfort - Changing the workstation or work habits if discomfort is experienced during or after work - Benefits of taking work breaks either through altering tasks performed or leaving their workstation - Benefits of resting the eyes every 20 minutes - How to properly position and adjust display height and angle, keyboard height and angle, mouse location, use of task light and chair adjustments - Acceptable postures for the head, neck, shoulders, upper arms, wrists, back, legs and feet - Benefits of regularly changing posture either through adjusting the furnishings or altering the tasks performed - How to manage glare on the computer screen - A point of contact if discomfort becomes frequent (multiple times per week)
References: Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/index.html, Human Factors and Ergonomic Society http://www.hfes.org, Canadian Standards Association http://www.csa.ca, The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer's Association http://www.bifma.org/, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/, American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists http://www.acgih.org/, International Organization for Standardization www.iso.org please reference the ISO 9241 standard, The Hewlett Packard Safety and Comfort Guide http://www.hp.com/ergo/ HealthyComputing.com, http://www.healthycomputing.com/office/setup/, 'Effect of Office Ergonomics Intervention on Reducing Musculoskeletal Symptoms ' Amick B., Robertson, M., Derango, K., Bazzani, L., Moore, A., Rooney, T., Harrist, R., , Spine 2003, 23: 24, pp 2706-2711. This study demonstrates that an office ergonomics intervention can reduce a workers perceived level of pain and increase their productivity. 'A Prospective Study of Computer Users: II. Postural Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Disorders' Marcus, M., Gerr, F., Monteilh, C., Ortiz, D., Gentry, E., Cohen, S., Edwards, A., Ensor, C., Kleinbaum, D., , American Journal of Industrial Medicine 2002, 41: pp 236-249 This landmark study reports on the body postures and work practices that increase or decrease the odds of computer users experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort and disorders.
Definitions: METWA : machine, equipment, tools, work-aids.
**Update October 1, 2013: There are only four required components, the text previously mentioned five. Applicable credits were also updated.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/26/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INTENT We believe that the proposed storm water management system design exceeds LEED\'s storm water goals and intent in both quantity and quality by 1) maintaining on-site infiltration and managing additional off-site storm water runoff, and 2) improving water quality by removing pollutants from on-site and off-site storm water runoff. Additional measures were taken to assure the storm water management system was designed to maximize treatment of storm water runoff from adjacent properties. DESIGN APPROACH The proposed new construction is located on 13.7 previously developed acres consisting mainly of hard-turf soccer fields, gravel parking, and a small abandoned building. Existing site best management practice\'s (BMP\'s) consist of one vegetated swale and there are no rate or volume control measures. Adjacent to the site, along the south and east borders, are 5.0 acres of residential development and county road that currently receive no treatment. The proposed 13.7 acre site and the adjacent off site 5.0 acres share a 48" culvert located in the southeast corner of the proposed site. The proposed on-site storm water management system consists of 4 infiltration/settlement basins, 2 vegetated swales and 1 detention pond. The system is designed to route water from the building roof and parking lots through pre-treatment infiltration basins located on the east and west ends of the parking lot. Water from the west end parking lot infiltration basin will outlet to a vegetated swale which will flow to the detention pond on the southern edge of the site. Water from the east end parking lot infiltration basin will outlet to another infiltration basin near the southeast corner of the museum, which then outlets to a vegetated swale before entering the detention pond on the southern edge of the site. The additional 5.0 off-site acres of storm water runoff will be rerouted to enter the site at the infiltration basin at the southeast corner of the site. As explained above, after treatment in this infiltration basin the runoff flows through a vegetated swale and in to the detention pond. All storm water will then pass through one additional infiltration basin before exiting the site. PROPOSED COMPLIANCE After the construction of the project and its site appurtenances are completed, the impervious areas of the site will consist of a 0.9 acre building footprint, 1.4 acre parking lot, and 1.2 acres of trails, patios, turfed surfaces, and sidewalks. The remaining 10.2 acres of the site will consist of various types of native and adaptive vegetation along with BMP\'s. The 5.0 off-site acres will be rerouted to be incorporated in the BMP\'s of the proposed site. The project team intentionally designed the storm water management system to maximize treatment of on-site storm water runoff and to handle 5.0 additional acres of runoff (approximately 35% additional area) from an off-site residential area and section of county road currently receiving zero treatment. Through hydraulics/hydrology models we have confirmed that the site will reduce peak discharge rates for the 1 and 2 year 24 hour storm events by 30%-15% respectively. The site will also reduce discharge volumes for the 1 and 2 year 24 hour storm events by 50% and 25% respectively. Through water quality models we have confirmed that the site will reduce the total suspended solids by 85% and total phosphorus by 60%. We are confident the combined interaction between the infiltration basins, swales and the detention pond assures that the project site exceed LEED goals and intent for both storm water quantity and quality. PROPOSED SUBMITTAL Site Plan Landscape Plan Hydrology Model Report As a result of our efforts, we believe that the design and implementation of the project\'s storm water management system and the treatment of 5.0 additional acres of off-site runoff should be granted 1 LEED ID point. Please confirm compliance.

Ruling:

As the described measures appear to meet credit intent while exceeding credit requirements an Innovation and Design credit could be achieved. Please provide detailed plans and calculations clearly illustrating how the measures on the project site meet credit requirements while treating an increased volume of at least 35% from offsite sources. Please be certain to document how the offsite water will be channeled to the site and that this offsite project will be completed concurrent with the completion of the project seeking certification, or that appropriate permits have been obtained and funds have been allocated for the completion of this offsite project. Please provide complete stormwater calculations for the offsite area, illustrating, among other things, that this offsite area will not overload the onsite systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project is a laboratory building being constructed in an existing building. As part of the design process, the Labs21 EPC and the LEED Draft Application Guide for Labs were used as a guideline for sustainable design features of the labs. Towards that end, we are proposign the following for ID Credit 1.1: ID CR 1: Laboratory Safety: Intent: Insure the health and safety of laboratory employees Requirements: Design laboratories to ensure contaminants are contained and workers are protected (relates to AGL EQ Pre-Requisite 3 and Credits 9.1 and 9.2) 1. Ensure minimum requirements for safety and worker protection are met through compliance with ANSI / AIHA Z9.5 latest version. 2. Conduct Fume Hood commissioning including ASHRAE-110 method for testing performance of Laboratory Fume Hoods (latest version). This includes field testing each of the new fume hoods as well as each of the existing fume hoods scheduled to remain in the new construction. 3. Design all alarm systems in the laboratory to be inherently self-identifying and fail-safe Submittals will be 1. Letter certifying ventilation design is in compliance with ANSI / AIHA Z9.5 latest version 2. Specifications and Fume Hood Commissioning report 3. Fume hood controls and alarm system diagrams and schematics from design documents Please advise if this suggested point will meet the requirements of the Innovation in Design Credit 1 and will be likely to be awarded to this project.

Ruling:

ASHRAE 110 commissioning of fume hoods is acceptable for an ID credit on your project. To meet the requirement, ALL fume hoods on the project must be commissioned, and commissioning must occur with permanent HVAC systems in place and operating. Your team should be aware that ASHRAE 110 commissioning requires tracer gas testing, which may require the discharge of relatively large quantities of Sulfa Hexafluoride, a climate change gas. Teams using ASHRAE 110 are encouraged to seek alternative testing methods involving other gases, or the use of higher sensitivity sensors so that lower quantities of gases can be used. *Please note a previous ruling to this CIR was posted and has since been revised by the IEQ TAG.* Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/18/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This is a general guidance Credit Interpretation Request, not specifically addressing ID credit. This credit interpretation was filed under ID because there was not an appropriate category. Our project is a 396,000 s.f. mixed-use project designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The mixed use components consist of residential units, residential parking and commercial tenant space. The commercial tenant space will occupy approximately 10,000 s.f. (2.5% of the total building square footage). The scope of this project only provides a shell for the tenant spaces which will be designed and built out by future tenants. The fact that the completion of these spaces is outside of the scope and schedule of this project complicates application for certain LEED-NC credits. According to the Administrative Credit Interpretation Request dated 3/23/07 (Ruling dated 4/20/07) it would be acceptable to "withdraw the retail portion from the project scope of work under LEED-NCv2.2." As we have not found any direction for clearly defining and excluding portions of the building from the "project scope of work under LEED-NC 2.2," we are asking for direction. We propose to exclude all future tenant spaces and occupancy from LEED NC documentation and calculations for all credits across the board. Considering the above referenced CIR and the fact that future tenant improvements are indeed outside of the scope of this building project, this seems to be a reasonable strategy. Please confirm that our proposed compliance path is acceptable, and please give us direction if any special steps need to be taken to document this exclusion.

Ruling:

The inquiry states that the subject project is mixed-use containing both residential and commercial space. The commercial space accounts for 2.5% of the overall floor area. The inquiry is asking if this space can be excluded from the NC application as it will not be improved within the scope of the initial project. The inquiry references a CIR ruling (IDc1.1 dated 4/20/07) that allowed projects to either exclude the unimproved tenant spaces from the application or to postpone submittal of the project until all build out is completed. The referenced CIR ruling was amended on 6/23/2007. The revised ruling indicates that if the owner/tenant occupies more than 50% of the building (50% minimum tenant improvement is completed in the initial building scope), then the entire project should be submitted using the NC Rating System and tenant improvement guidelines should be produced to inform future tenant build-out. Please see the revised IDc1.1 ruling for additional guidance. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Activated Carbon Filters for Low-Cost Demand Control Ventilation and Energy Efficiency This CIR proposes an innovation design credit for a suite of design features and a design procedure that will reduce the cost of demand controlled ventilation (DCV). The procedure is based on a combination of: scrubbing the air with activated charcoal (AC) filters to reduce the number of critical rooms in a building that will require CO2 sensors; using air-to-air heat recovery for the building air: using time-of--day control of ventilation for the building zones. The proposed design procedure will enable selecting the minimum number of CO2 sensors to control the amount of delivered outside air. This will reduce the initial cost as well as the annual cost of maintaining their calibration. The new Pacific Garden Mission building in Chicago will house an average of 800 homeless people on any given night. The design calls for using activated carbon filters in the main air handling unit for the entire building to help control the peculiarly strong body odors of the guests and to reduce the required outside air and associated energy use. Three "hot boxes" will also be used to disinfect by 180oF+ heat all the clothes of the incoming guests as part of the thorough laundry process. The activated carbon filters are capable of reducing these outdoor air rates by over 70%. This was determined by applying the Indoor Air Quality procedure described in Section 6.2 of ASHRAE Standard 62-1999 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality1 To be conservative, we will assume that only a 50% reduction in outside air will be feasible because additional outdoor air may be necessary to control body odors by dilution. Besides reducing the cost of conditioning the ventilation air an additional benefit of the activated carbon filters will be to help reduce the number of CO2 sensors needed in the building for effective and affordable demand control ventilation. By reducing the required outside air by 50% the number of "critical rooms" is reduced. We define "critical rooms" as the rooms having a required minimum fraction of outside air, say 0.50, as calculated using the Ventilation Rate Procedure for multiple spaces and the Indoor Air Quality Procedure in ASHRAE 62,2-20012. The rationale for not installing CO2 sensors in rooms with outdoor air fractions below a specific number, say 0.50, is: 1. if regularly occupied rooms with outdoor air fractions above 0.50 are getting sufficient outside air, the rooms with lower fractions should automatically get sufficient outside air. 2. one air handling unit serves the entire PGM building. Therefore, a small number of CO2 sensors can control the outdoor air fraction throughout the building. (The air handler is equipped with multiple fans--their redundancy makes it acceptable to serve a building this size, approx. 118,580sf net interior floor area with one air handler.) 3. The design will also include air-to-air heat recovery at the main air handling unit using either run-around-coils or heat pipes. 4. For major parts of the day CO2 sensor control of the supply and outside air quantities for particular space will be overridden by direct time-of-day control by the central EMS. The building program is arranged so that during the daytime the lower two floors will be occupied and conditioned for occupancy. The upper two floors are dormitories that will be unoccupied and their environment will be kept at unoccupied settings, including just enough supply air to slightly pressurize these floors relative to the outside. Conversely during the evening hours, the lower two floors will be unoccupied and their environment will be kept at unoccupied settings with the minimal required supply air to temper the space and control building pressurization. The central EMS will be used to control the supply air to these large blocks of the building. (This will also allow using a very low diversity factor to size the main air handling unit since it will be used to condition about 1/2 of the building at any one time.) 5. The limiting factor in determining the minimum acceptable amount of outside air may very well be the perception of odors by the occupants. This may require higher amounts of outside for dilution of odors than what would be called for by the CO2 sensor. This will be determined empirically after occupancy begins. In summary, the above design features and program requirements make it possible to reduce the number of CO2 sensors at this job by at least 50%. This will be documented in the summary table of the Ventilation Rate Procedure analysis. As such, the use of activated carbon filters makes demand controlled ventilation economically viable. Our first question is whether the above package of design features and approach is acceptable for reducing the number of required CO2 sensors and the cost of DCV and whether this would be considered an Innovation in Design and suitable for receiving a a LEED credit. Our second question is whether we can calculate the energy savings due to the activated carbon filters using the same analysis method approved for demand control ventilation. The % reduction due to the DCV would be calculated by subtracting saved energy from DCV in the numerator and using the Base Case energy cost without DCV in the denominator. Our preliminary energy modeling indicates annual savings of at least $10,000 per year or about 5% of the projected energy costs of the Current Design. These savings would be included under EA Credit 1 Optimize Energy Performance. We look forward to the USGBC\'s comments on this potential innovation in design and on the savings calculation method for the activated carbon filters. 1. ASHRAE 62.2-1999 Section 6.2 and Appendix E 2. ASHRAE 62.2-1999 Section 6.1.3.1 Ventilation Procedure for Multiple Spaces

Ruling:

Based on the description provided, it does not appear that there are additional environmental benefits from this design approach that would qualify for an Innovation in Design credit, for the following reasons. LEED requires compliance with the Standard 62 using the Ventilation Rate Procedure (VRP). Reducing outdoor air rates is only allowed using the Standard\'s Indoor Air Quality Procedure. To comply with EQp1, outdoor air rates cannot be lower than those prescribed by the VRP, whether charcoal filters are used or not. Unfortunately the VRP tables do not have a category for "homeless centers." If they did, the rates would be quite high given the source strength. The closest occupancy in terms of body odor source strength is a "health club/weight room" which requires 20 cfm/p plus 0.06 cfm/ft2. In any case, the designers may have to request help from ASHRAE SSPC 62.1. Based on EQp1, the ASHRAE 62 Indoor Air Quality Procedure cannot be used to reduce ventilation rates. CO2 sensors should be used to monitor air quality; an alternative method for monitoring air quality has not been substituted outside of manual control in response to odors. EQc1 requires CO2 monitoring in densely occupied areas for air handlers serving multiple spaces with varying occupancy. As long as your design meets this requirement, then it will qualify for a point under EQc1. CO2 DCV must be customized to this application since the project requires a much higher ventilation rate compared to the activity level. The standard assumptions used in determining CO2 setpoints assume CO2 concentration tracks bio-effluent concentration and that bioeffluent/CO2 emission rate tracks activity level. This works for typical projects, but it would not be true for a homeless center. The project team may want to reconsider application of CO2/DCV for this project. Under EAc1, the ASHRAE 90.1 methodology calls for the same outdoor air rate for both the budget and proposed building. If DCV is used on this project, the energy savings can be demonstrated through the "exceptional calculation method" allowed by the standard. The energy cost savings would be included in EAc1. Strategies such as CO2 and humidity monitoring are addressed under existing credits within the LEED Rating System. Please note that another issue unrelated to Standard 62 is disease control. Homeless people are often carriers of disease (e.g. TB) and can be highly susceptible due to health conditions. In this case, the recirculation of any air in a homeless center may not be desirable. While very good particle filters (e.g. MERV 15) can remove most bacteria and droplet nuclei carrying viruses. 100% outdoor air with heat recovery may be a better solution. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/13/2003
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation Credit Inquiry for PVC Intent: To eliminate the use of PVC to the extent possible due to the hazards of PVC production and disposal. Description: One of the program goals for this project was to eliminate the use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to the extent possible. The Pentagon Renovation Program required in their statement of work that PVC should be eliminated unless: a. There was not an alternative product b. Alternative product selection compromised performance c. Alternative product selection had an unacceptable impact to budget or schedule (note that the program did pay more for some non-PVC products). The purpose for attempting to eliminate PVC is as follows: Toxicity liabilities: The manufacturing of PVC burdens the environment with numerous environmentally undesirable byproducts. - The lifecycle of PVC production creates four persistent organic pollutants that are identified for phase-out under the United Nations Environment Program POP Treaty. - Ethylene dichloride (EDC) and vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) which are released to air and water during manufacture of PVC are toxic and carcinogenic. - When PVC is incinerated as part of a Municipal Solid Waste strategy, toxic dioxins are formed as a byproduct of incomplete combustion. - Chemical additives called phthalates are added to PVC to enhance performance characteristics such as flexibility. These compounds are typically DEHP and MEHP which affect bronchial contracting receptors and thereby generates a hyper reactive condition in the lungs. Because these additives are not chemically bonded, they tend to leach out of the PVC causing indoor air quality to be compromised. Lack of market stewardship: According to the Worldwatch Institute, global PVC production exceeded 25 million tons in 1999. By 2002, it is estimated that the figure will rise to 33 million tons. Accordingly, although 250 million tons of PVC are in use today it is estimated that over 100 million tons have been landfilled or incinerated. The production of one ton of chlorine requires about 3,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity. Since 40 percent of chlorine is attributed to PVC production, the energy burden for PVC is about 1,800 kilowatt-hours per tons of product. Because the PVC industry does not promote any kind of product stewardship initiatives, from the perspective of both resources and energy consumption, there is no credible proactive effort to enhance the properties of PVC to characterize it as a sustainable material. Reclamation deficiencies: In the document Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste, the EPA estimates that 970 thousand tons of PVC were generated in 1999 of which only a "negligible" amount was recovered. So small is PVC recycling, in fact, the amount recognized for discards equals the amount of material generated. Because PVC must be produced with a number of additives such as lead and cadmium to produce unique characteristics, it is difficult and expensive to reclaim resins. Most recycling that does occur is post-industrial which means that nearly everything that has entered the consumer market will eventually be landfilled or incinerated. The project team did evaluate the environmental impacts of those materials that were specified in lieu of PVC. For this project, a number of different products were specified where PVC might have conventionally been a "default" selection. These included, but were not limited to: - High density polyethylene (HDPE), for wastewater, potable water, foundation drainage and sprinkler systems. - Bentonite waterstops in lieu of PVC waterstops. - Linoleum (rapidly renewable material), in lieu of PVC flooring - Carpet tile with recycled PVC backing Could an innovation credit be achieved for the elimination of PVC (including the use of contract language to eliminate PVC) to the extent possible on this project?

Ruling:

PVC is an enormously controversial issue. To help resolve how the LEED program will deal with this issue, the Technical and Scientific Advisory Committee has been charged with reviewing the information sources available and to advise the LEED Steering Committee on whether (and if so how best) to give credit under LEED for the exclusion or minimization of PVC products in LEED buildings. Until this review process is completed and the determination made by the Steering Committee, the USGBC will not award a credit for minimization of PVC-containing products. For more information about the process under way to address this issue, see the following: http://www.usgbc.org/leed/tsac/pvcvinyl.asp Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/19/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Grants for PV Panels The Design Build Team for a government office building in California was given a stipulated sum for the entire scope of the project. In an effort to incorporate green strategies to the project that would otherwise not have economically feasible with the limited budget, the Design Build Team sought out new sources for funding, outside the Project stipulated sum, including federal, state and local grants and industry incentive programs. One identified source was a local utility that would donate photovoltaic panels under the stipulation that the panels had to be incorporated into the architecture, and not just added onto the building. The design team re-designed parts of the exterior, and worked with the exterior building envelope sub-contractors and the PV panel suppliers to develop systems to incorporate the PV panels directly into the exterior curtain wall. As a result, over 300 PV panels were incorporated into the project at no cost to the Owner. The PV wall system includes both structural butt-glazed panels and captured panels, which kept intact the original design intent. Question: Would the seeking out of funding sources for green features be considered an innovation point?

Ruling:

No, securing additional funding for green building features does not constitute an innovation. Rewarding projects that buy down first cost through incentive programs is contrary to the LEED objective of demonstrating green building performance within conventional cost assumptions. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/19/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 320,000 s.f. mixed-use project being designed and constructed to achieve various LEED NC 2.2 credits. The mixed use components consist of residential units, residential parking and commercial tenant space (shell only). The project is located in Solano County, CA. We are seeking an innovation credit for a Comprehensive Transportation plan based on the ID credit previously approved on 5/9/2003 The INTENT of this innovation credit is to provide occupants of the building additional options for Alternative Transportation and reduce the drive alone trips through the use of a Transportation Management Plan. The project is currently pursuing three SS 4 baseline credits including: a. Project is located within 1/4 mile of Bus service. b. Bicycle Storage is provided for residents and retail customers and employees. c. Preferred Parking is provided for low emitting/ fuel efficient vehicles . The Comprehensive Transportation Plan will include the following additional elements: a. The developer will provide free conferencing facilities to accommodate flexible work schedules and reduce the drive alone trips. A conference room with infrastructure for video conferencing/ telecommuting will be provided for use by residents. b. The Solano County Transportation Authority provides a number of transportation amenities/ alternates for its residents and information on the same will be displayed in the lobby and included in the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. Information and amenities include: i. Maps/ schedules/ contact info for Public Transportation ii. Information on incentives provided by Solana County Transportation Authority including: 1. Emergency Ride Home Program 2. "Bucks for Bikes" program (Up to 60% -$100 max of the cost of a bicycle) 3. Commuter Check Program 4. Carpool/ Vanpool incentives (Up to $100 Gas Card) c. The developer will provide 10 free bicycles for the use of residents. Bicycle maintenance and replacement will subsequently be part of the Home Owner\'s Association Submittals will include a. A floor plan showing conferencing facility within residential development. b. Copy of CCRs outlining available public transportation amenities. c. Commitment letter or receipt from developer for 10 bicycles.

Ruling:

This CIR is requesting that the project\'s listed transportation management measures be evaluated for compliance with an innovation in design credit. Innovation credits are awarded during the certification process, not through the CIR process. This ruling is provided as guidance about the likely outcome if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. The project is likely to be awarded the credit if the following items are clearly documented: 1) Achievement of SSc4.1, 4.2, and 4.4. 2) Access to the on-site workspace for all occupants for at least five years. 3) Construction and maintenance of the transportation information kiosk, including information on: rideshares, commuter checks, local transit options, and guaranteed ride home programs for at least five years. 4) Bike purchase or subsidies for 5 years, or 50 bicycles, whichever comes first. This ruling assumes that the mixed use project is essentially residential for the purposes of the credit. Per the SSc4.4 CIR ruling of 4/4/2005, the project is considered residential if the commercial square footage is less than 10% of the entire building. For further reference, a number of transportation management compliance strategies have been outlined in the "Innovation in Design Credit Catalog" available at http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3569 in addition to the precedent identified in the CIR ruling of 5/9/2003 cited. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

From the Innovation in Design Credit Catalog (March 2008), we find that a previous project received an ID credit for "building elevators with innovative technology that does not use hydraulic fluid, eliminating the need for a machine room and reducing the energy required [including demonstrating] the associated reduction of energy use." Our project is a large destination resort which includes 18 service and passenger elevators: 14 high-rise and 4 low-rise. Compared to conventional traction (high-rise) and hydraulic (low-rise) elevators typically specified for this type of project (based on a recent similar-scale resort project located near our project), the elevators for the project will have these benefits: Annual process energy cost will be reduced by 65% compared to that of conventional elevators: $8,400/yr vs $23,900/yr. The coated steel belts used in the proposed fourteen high-rise elevators have a lifespan twice that of conventional hoist-rope assemblies. This means that, for the fourteen high-rise elevators, the owner will need to replace 12,600 feet of steel belts half as often as for conventional elevators. The proposed fourteen high-rise elevators do not require lubrication because they do not have hoist ropes and machine rooms. This will eliminate, for each elevator, 1 gallon of petroleum-based and 3 -4 gallons of synthetic-base oil each year. Compared to the conventional approach of four low-rise hydraulic elevators, the proposed four traction elevators will use no hydraulic fluid, for a savings of 320 gallons. Elevator hydraulic fluid is typically a hydrocarbon. From BuildingGreen.com: "Leaking hydraulic oil, like all spilled oil, poses environmental risks in the form of soil and water contamination. Cleanup of hydraulic-oil-contaminated soils is a difficult and costly task.." All these elevators do not require a machine room. If we were including conventional elevators in our project, these machine rooms would total 3,200 sf. This additional space would require additional construction, including structural steel and framing, concrete, exterior and interior finishes, roofing, and electrical systems, for an added project cost of $1,120,000. Will this combination of benefits be sufficient for achievement of an ID credit?

Ruling:

The project team is requesting that an Innovation in Design credit for savings associated with using non-traditional elevators thereby reducing the annual energy cost, removing the use of hydraulic fluid, reducing the maintenance required for the steel belts, and eliminating the capital cost of installing elevator machine rooms. Some of the benefits proposed are already accounted for in other credits, and therefore not eligible to also contribute towards an innovation point. The cost savings associated with the elevator should be accounted for in an exemplary calculation as part of Energy and Atmosphere credit 1. Also, the capital cost reduction associated with removing elevator machine rooms is not typically used as support for an ID credit, which is awarded for a strategy that provides a significant and quantifiable environmental benefit. The proposed reduction of the decreased need to replace the steel belts and reduction of the hydraulic oils may be worthy of an innovation point, however further information will be needed for certification. For certification, please provide the calculations for the baseline of the use of steel belts and the hydraulic oils, as well as the reductions that can be seen from the proposed strategy. Additionally, please provide quantifiable information on the environmental benefits of the proposed strategy such as the associated carbon emissions reduction, or specific information on soil and water contamination reduction from the proposed strategy. Also, please include cutsheets for the proposed elevators. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to submit the following inquiry: will utilizing well system for irrigation of the landscaped portion of the school project\'s site qualify for "innovative performance"? The credit intent is to utilize well pumping water for irrigation from ground water aquifer instead of providing water for irrigation from storm water basins, so the storm water basins area can be utilized as a green space, except during rain. Although designed on the site dry storm water basins can be easily utilized as water detention ponds collecting rainwater to irrigate selective landscaped areas (playfields), the water well was used instead for this purpose. The following are requirements for "Innovative Performance" and description, how the proposed design\'s approach would meet these requirements: 1. Quantitative performance improvements. Location of the well in the middle of the playfields minimizes the irrigation piping. Ground water aquifer allows continuous, uninterrupted supply of filtered water. In the pumphouse adjacent to the well there is on-demand irrigation controller and AC Tech Variable Frequency Speed motor drive which controls well pumps. Both of these controllers allow for easy interface between the ground water well supply and the irrigation demand read by the irrigation controller\'s soil moisture sensors. 2. Comprehensive process and specification: Well system for irrigation addresses other aspects of the project in addition to irrigation. In the baseline approach, the source of irrigation would be rainwater collected in storm water basins - detention ponds. These standing water ponds would need to be enclosed for safety reasons on school premises, they could be also a breeding ground for mosquitoes, foreign matters collection and prone to contamination. By utilizing well for irrigation the dry storm water basin areas can be treated as green spaces at any time except for rain. They can be used for educational purposes such as play areas, PE practice fields, marching band practice, science projects, amphitheater and other uses. Also the green grassy spaces will generate more CO2 and will have direct positive benefit to the environment. The calculations that show water well system is sufficient and necessary supporting data will be provided as a part of credit submittal. 3. The credit is applicable to all other projects where climatological, soil and ground water data prove it viable.

Ruling:

No, utilizing well pumping water for irrigation from ground water aquifer does not qualify as innovative performance. The credit intent of WEc1, Water Efficient Landscaping, is to "limit or eliminate the use of potable water, or other natural surface or subsurface water resources available on or near the project site, for landscape irrigation". In addition, NC v2.2 WEc1 CIR ruling dated 9/19/2006 and NC v2.1 WEc1.2 CIR rulings dated 1/20/2004 and 11/5/2005 all state that the use of surface water or water drawn from receiving waters is not an acceptable way to meet the credit intent. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking approval of a concept for an innovation point for low emission office systems furniture and seating. Our project is a 280,000 SF office building that is registered for certification under LEED-NC v2.1. A developer is building the base building core and shell and a single tenant will lease the building. The project is currently in the design phase, and it is our goal to achieve LEED-NC EQ credits 4.1 through 4.4. Since over 75% of the floor area of the project will be occupied by open office systems furniture, and emissions from these systems will have a significant impact on IAQ, we plan to specify a low emission furniture system that complies with the requirements of LEED-CI EQ cr 4.5 (Low Emitting Materials, Systems Furniture and Seating). We believe that this merits an innovation point because LEED-NC does not address emissions from furniture, and in our project these emissions will have a significant impact on IAQ. In order to demonstrate compliance, we are proposing to comply with the intent, requirements, and submittals of LEED-CI EQ cr 4.5. We are requesting that the approval of this innovation point not be contingent on our project achieving any of the points in LEED-NC EQ cr 4. We are requesting this condition because we believe that even without the attainment of LEED-NC EQ cr 4, our proposed innovation point will significantly enhance IAQ, and it is above and beyond the scope of the EQ points in LEED-NC. We are also requesting that the attainment of this innovation point not be contingent on the attainment of LEED-NC EQ cr 4, because we can not be certain that we will actually be able to attain any of the points in LEED-NC EQ cr 4 until the construction of the project has been completed.

Ruling:

The project is inquiring about submitting a Low-Emitting Furniture proposal for an Innovation & Design point. It is acceptable for an NC project to achieve an ID point for Low-Emitting Furniture. As indicated in CIR Ruling 1/21/03, "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." To ensure a successful credit submittal, be sure to comply with the established credit intent and requirements of LEED-CI EQc4.5. Credit achievement will be independent of LEED-NC EQ credit 4, Low-Emitting Materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/7/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The IT department proposes moving the current server network to a virtual server network. The move would produce immediate benefits to both the IT department and Harris construction as a whole. Virtualization is a proven software technology that is rapidly transforming the IT landscape and fundamentally changing the way that people compute. Today\'s powerful x86 computer hardware was originally designed to run only a single operating system and a single application, but virtualization breaks that bond, making it possible to run multiple operating systems and multiple applications on the same computer at the same time, increasing the utilization and flexibility of hardware. In essence, virtualization lets us transform hardware into software. The use of software such as VMware ESX will allow us to transform or "virtualize" the hardware resources of an x86-based computer-including the CPU, RAM, hard disk and network controller-to create a fully functional virtual machine that can run its own operating system and applications just like a "real" computer. Multiple virtual machines share hardware resources without interfering with each other so that you can safely run several operating systems and applications at the same time on a single computer. Power Consumption Energy consumption is a critical issue for Harris IT today, whether the goal is to reduce cost, save the environment or keep our datacenter running. In the United States alone, datacenters consumed $4.5 billion worth of electricity in 2006. Industry analyst Gartner1 estimates that over the next 5 years, most enterprise data centers will spend as much on energy (power and cooling) as they do on hardware infrastructure. Virtualization allows us to reduce our energy costs and consumption by 80%. Most servers and desktops today are in use only 8-15% of the time they are powered on, yet most hardware consumes 60-90% of the normal workload power even when idle. VMware virtualization has advanced resource and memory management features that enable consolidation ratios of 15:1 or more which increase hardware utilization to as much as 85%. Once virtualized, a new feature of VMware Distributed Resource Scheduler (DRS) called Distributed Power Management (DPM) monitors utilization across the datacenter and intelligently powers off unneeded physical servers without impacting applications and users. With VMware virtualization we can dramatically reduce energy consumption without sacrificing reliability or service levels. Reduce the Environmental Impact of IT For Harris this equates to every server virtualized, we can save about 7,000 kilowatt hours, or four tons of CO2 emissions, every year. This means our 12 servers could be reduced to 4 servers through virtualization. The reduction in servers along with the savings in electricity with the reduced cooling requirements equate to as savings of 49,000 kilowatt hours, or 28 tons of CO2 emissions every year. Currently 60 cents of every dollar spent for data center energy is used for cooling equipment and not powering it. Conclusion In short the five major reasons to virtualize the Harris IT servers are: Server Consolidation and Infrastructure Optimization: Virtualization makes it possible to achieve significantly higher resource utilization by pooling common infrastructure resources and breaking the legacy "one application to one server" model. Physical Infrastructure Cost Reduction: With virtualization, we can reduce the number of servers and related IT hardware in the data center. This leads to reductions in real estate, power and cooling requirements, resulting in significantly lower IT costs. Improved Operational Flexibility & Responsiveness: Virtualization offers a new way of managing IT infrastructure and can help IT administrators spend less time on repetitive tasks such as provisioning, configuration, monitoring and maintenance. Increased Application Availability & Improved Business Continuity: Eliminate planned downtime and recover quickly from unplanned outages with the ability to securely backup and migrate entire virtual environments with no interruption in service. Improved Desktop Manageability & Security: Deploy, manage and monitor secure desktop environments that end users can access locally or remotely, with or without a network connection, on almost any standard desktop, laptop or tablet PC. Virtualization is a technology that can benefit Harris Construction. The employment of virtualization solutions will reduce IT costs while increasing the efficiency, utilization and flexibility of their existing computer hardware.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation that the implementation of virtualization in data centers may be considered for an innovation in design credit. Virtualization is a software technology that allows servers to run multiple operating systems on one server at a time. The strategies outlined in the request primarily focus on increased resource utilization, increased operational and application flexibility, and improving manageability and security, among other things. Other savings are just a by-product of the technology. This is not eligible for innovation in design credit. A similar CIR has been posted related to data transfer media dated 9/30/2008, under NCv2.1. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can a project earn ID credit for being in a LEED ND neighborhood? What level of certification or stage or review must the project have completed?

Ruling:

Yes, a project can earn ID credit for being in a LEED for Neighborhood Development certified project. The LEED-ND project must be certified, not just registered. LEED-ND projects at any certification level (Certified through Platinum) and any stage of certification (Stage 1, 2, or 3) are eligible.
**Update October 1, 2013 - The ruling below is no longer valid for project registered after 7/1/2013. As many prerequisites and credits within LEED-ND and LEED-NC address similar concepts, simply locating a NC project within LEED-ND neighborhood is not considered innovative and in some cases, can lead to double-counting the use of the same strategy in both Rating Systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/22/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Title: Whole Building Double Water Filtration to Obviate the Need for Bottled Water Intent: To minimize or eliminate the use of plastic water bottles in buildings by providing the purity levels afforded by bottled water through comprehensive building water filtration. The bottled water industry has grown substantially in the past decade. About 74% of Americans drink bottled water; one in five drinks only bottled. Demand is outstripping recycling capacity. According to the Container Recycling Institute, each year an ever smaller proportion of plastic bottles are recycled; from 2 out of 5 in the mid \'90s, to only 1 out of 7 today. Seventy million water bottles are disposed of each day, with 60 million going into landfills, oceans or incinerators. Our project plans to implement a two-stage water filtration system that provides water purity equal to or better than bottled water. Implementing water filtration technology is an answer to the severe environmental impact of bottled water, because it reconciles people\'s desire for pure, safe drinking water with the imperative of reducing waste. By installing two-stage water filtration - first at the main (point-of-entry, POE) and then downstream within kitchen cabinets (point-of-use, POU) -- and educating our occupants about the health and environmental advantages of the system, we anticipate a dramatic reduction in the purchase of bottled water in our building and associated waste. The two-stage configuration, and the specific equipment selected, are designed so as to minimize environmental impact by 1) at POE using negligible water for self-cleaning, and 2) at POU achieving significant filter cartridge longevity. Requirements: - Provide building-wide point-of-entry water filtration that removes particulate contamination equal to or smaller than 10 microns; AND - Provide point-of-use water filtration at 0.2 micron (fine enough to remove bacteria) and NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and 53 certified. AND - Educate building occupants about the system, how it works and its substantial environmental benefits. Benefits: - Obviate the need for bottled water by providing high performance and low impact two-stage water filtration that will substantially reduce the amount of plastic water bottles going to waste from our building. - Reduce the exposure to potentially harmful waterborne contaminants for the entire population through universal access to filtered water. - Reduce the energy required to heat water by screening out particulates that over time negatively impact system efficiency. - Reduce the amount of pollutants released in the manufacture and transportation of bottled water attributable to our building. There are 70 million bottles of water consumed in the US per day. Dividing that number by the total population of approximately 306,000,000, means that 23% of the US population is drinking one bottle of water a day. We believe this estimate to be conservative and that widespread adoption of two-stage water filtration could have a much bigger impact, especially in areas with known water quality problems. We estimate that our 1200 apartment project will have 2130 occupants. Therefore, 23% of 2130 = 479 people drinking one bottle of water a day times 365 days/yr = 174,835 bottles for this one building resulting in a reduction of 149,858 (6 out of 7) bottles going to landfill, oceans or incineration. New occupants will be given an orientation session at the time of lease by the property manager explaining the dual system, the POU maintenance requirements and why the cost and environmental impact of bottled water can be avoided in the building. The tenant environmental guideline will also detail the environmental impact of bottled water and describe the system benefits and performance. The filtration system will be a highlighted feature on all leasing and green building tours.

Ruling:

Installation of a water filtration system, with the intent of eliminating the use of plastic water bottles is an acceptable effort for achieving an Innovation in Design credit, as long as calculations and policy/program descriptions are provided as required by posted CIR ruling dated 11/15/2007, showing the quantifiable benefits that may result from the reduction of waste and transportation. Please provide the policy/program document which details the environmental impact of bottled water use and describes the system benefits and performance. Policy/program descriptions must also confirm that the building?provided filtered water will be available at 100% of kitchen sinks throughout the building, and that maintenance of all filtration system components and point?of?use filter replacement will be provided by the building owner per manufacturer\'s guidelines. For core and shell projects, these requirements will need to be part of a legally binding agreement with the tenants, such as a tenant lease or sales agreement. As part of the program/policy document project team will be required to outline an orientation program to educate building occupants about this sustainable feature of the building and the expected use of filtered water from sinks instead of bottled water; consider adding other green features on the building to this orientation. Documentation of the filtration system, education policy, and sales or lease agreement will need to be provided for certification. ***This CIR Ruling has been updated on 9/14/2009*** Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit is intended to demonstrate that Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) designed for distribution of natural gas and LPG (propane Gas) systems saves time, reduces cost, and is environmentally friendly where integrated in a holistic approach to a building project. This innovative technology is the only standard based natural gas and LPG (propane gas) system manufactured, designed sized and installed under the ANSI LC1 certification process. CSST is IAPMO, ICC and CSA listed; IFGC, UPC and NFPA-54 approved as a gas-piping material. This system is installed with fewer fittings eliminating leak paths in the natural gas or LPG (propane gas) system, thus making the system safer within a structure. The inherent flexibility and light weight will reduce costs and help prevent job related accidents. Most manufactures\' of CSST incorporate a fitting which uses a metal to metal seal with no gaskets or O-rings and features which allows for maintaining of the integrity of the Polyethylene jacket protecting the system from corrosion and harsh environments. The Polyethylene jacket, as required by ANSI LC1, is constructed to meet the ASTM E84 requirement for Fire /Smoke (25/50) making the system safer in the event of fire. This innovative technology eliminates the need for welding of natural gas and LPG piping and the dangers associated with such procedures, such as toxic fumes from welding gases, flux and brazing rods and smoke and soot caused by welding. This technology reduces respiratory problems associated with inhaling the toxic fumes resulting from welding of natural gas and LPG piping and eliminates the dangers of fire associated with welding of natural gas and LPG piping. It also eliminates personal injury associated with the use of welding and threading equipment. It is our intent to submit for this credit as a system which exceeds the LEED-NC performance as related to a safer environment during construction and safer system within a structure, for the life of the structure.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification as to whether the use of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing for distribution of natural gas and LPG warrants the award of an Innovation in Design credit. While the benefit of reduced exposure for construction workers and building occupants are laudable, this concern is addressed in EQ Credit 3.1: Construction IAQ Management Plan - During Construction. As stated on page 325 of the NCv2.2 Reference Guide, "This credit is not eligible for exemplary performance under the Innovation in Design Section". Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We are seeking further clarification on an Administrative CIR dated 8/10/2007 with a response dated 8/27/2007. Our project is also a mixed use project with a for sale residential component, parking and retail. The retail is 8% of the total building square footage. The tenant space is described as "a cold dark shell". The tenant will be responsible for the total fit-out including the mechanical systems. As noted in the referenced CIR we are also excluding any interior build-out work from the LEED rating. We have included energy and water use calculations for the building rating. Since the systems are undefined we assumed the most restrictive criteria. We will also provide a tenant guideline that will allow the tenant but not require the tenant to meet the LEED prerequisites and credits that the base building is pursuing. Please confirm as noted in the CIR Response, that the project guidelines will not require the tenant to meet the LEED prerequisites and credits, Including but limited to Prerequisites EA.1 EA.2 IAQ 2.

Ruling:

Yes, your interpretation of the CIR ruling dated 8/10/2007 is correct in that the tenant guidelines do not need to require FUTURE tenant fit-out work to meet any LEED prerequisites and credits. However, the tenant guidelines should include specific performance goals, information, and resource leads to help ensure that future tenant fit-outs CAN meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits pursued by the project. Please note, however, that any tenant fit-out work being done as part of the project scope does need to be included in all credits and prerequisites being pursued for LEED certification. In the CIR request above, it is unclear if ALL interior build-out work is being excluded or only the tenant build-out work associated with the 8% of retail space. If all tenant fit-out work is being excluded than the project would fall more appropriately under LEED for Core and Shell, as the general rule of thumb for use of LEED-NC is that the owner/developer is fitting-out at least 50% of the building\'s square footage. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/6/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

INQUIRY: To help stimulate the development of sustainable product evaluation and certification tools by building professionals, we are seeking to establish an innovation point for specification of products certified under the SMART & California Gold Sustainable Product Programs explained at: http://mts.sustainableproducts.com/SMART_Building_Product_Standard SMART & California Gold provide manufacturers with a transparent measure of sustainable product achievement through consensus based standards. They help customers purchase and specify products that are pursuing a broad definition of quality. Through SMART and California Gold, this broader definition of quality means using products and materials safe for public health and environment as measured by LCA and 12 life cycle impacts; using renewable energy and energy efficiency; using recycled and biobased organic materials with EPA best management practices; increased water conservation; facility and company achievements; social equity; and product reuse and reclamation. SMART & California Gold meet all 24 Sustainable Product Certification Criteria (SPC Criteria) found here: http://sustainableproducts.typepad.com/Sustainable_Product_Certification.... To qualify for this CIR, SMART Gold & California Gold must have at the manufacturing facility 60% Green-e Power or 60% conventional energy reduction from the baseline. SMART & California Platinum must have 80% Green-e or 80% conventional energy reduction for both the manufacturing facility and suppliers. Eighty percent of all SMART & California Gold credits reduce climate change pollution. If a candidate product achieves the necessary criteria, it is certified as a Silver, Gold or Platinum Sustainable Product and must complete independent third party global auditing requirements of manufacturer and supplier facilities. The following Intent, Requirements and Submittals for this Innovation in Design application are suggested: Intent: Help stimulate the development of certified sustainable products for use by building professionals. Requirements: Use SMART or California Gold Certified building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. The "cost value" of products for the purposes of this calculation will be discounted by 50% for Silver level products, and doubled for products certified at the platinum level: Cost value of products = (Silver x 0.5) + Gold (1.0) + (Platinum x 2) Submittals: Spreadsheet matrix with the following information: DEFAULT MATERIALS VALUE Total construction costs (hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 and 12** only): _______ Default materials cost (total Divisions 2-10 and 12** construction cost x 0.45): _______ OR ACTUAL MATERIALS VALUE Actual materials cost (excluding labor and equipment) hard costs for CSI Master Format 1995 Divisions 2-10 only): _______ - Material Name/Description - Manufacturer - Total Material Cost ($) - Percent Of Product SMART or California Gold Certified (% by Weight) - Compliant Product Value - Adjusted value (Silver x 0.5, Gold x 1.0, Platinum x2) Total "cost value" ($) of SMART or California Gold certified materials: _______ SMART or California Gold certified material value as a percentage of total materials cost*: _______ *To qualify for this ID credit the percentage of SMART or California Gold certified materials must be at least 2.5% of the total materials cost. **CSI Master Format 1995 Division 12 may be included in calculations if materials from Division 12 are used consistently with calculations in credits MRc3-7 in LEED-NC or MRc3-6 in LEED-CS. LEED-CI projects are required to include Division 12 components in the calculation of this ID point, as these components are required for calculations in CI credits MRc4-7. Please refer to the LEED-CI Reference Guide\'s credit calculation instructions for guidance in calculating these credits.

Ruling:

Yes, the suggested criterion encourages innovation through product improvement and is thus acceptable for an innovation point, given proper documentation upon LEED application. Note that the MR TAG and others intend to work towards establishing a set of criteria for product evaluation and certification tools that are referenced in LEED, whether in innovation points or in rating system credit language; and once those criteria have been established, it will be necessary to revisit whether or not proposed innovation points based on this draft language should continue to be approved. Regardless of the state of above-mentioned process, this CIR proposal\'s approval sunsets one year from the ruling posting date, at which time it is to be considered for renewal. **** The USGBC has updated the ruling to this CIR as of 9/28/09 to state that the 1 year sunset provision established in the original Credit Interpretation Ruling related to the SMART and California Gold sustainable product certification programs is hereby extended to all pre LEED-2009 projects, pending the development and adoption of criteria and processes for recognition of third party certification programs in LEED. Said criteria will apply to all currently recognized and proposed future programs. **** Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
3/21/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 296,000 sf medical center. We are requesting consideration and guidance for a potential Innovation and Design point for the inclusion of a Healing Garden and Outdoor Place of Respite in the design of the building and site. Using criteria from the Green Guide to Healthcare Guideline system we have created a Healing Garden on site that provides patients, visitors, and staff accessible outdoor Places of Respite that takes into account: security and safety, supervised, sun orientation and other microclimatic factors, direct connection to the natural environment and garden spaces, noise of mechanical equipment, accessibility, way finding and orientation, strength and stamina of patients, activity and interest, privacy and security and proximity to building entries and restrooms. The Garden also provides choices and variety in the design of spaces, engaging the senses of sight, sound, touch, smell and is integrated with native plantings and garden elements. The intent of the garden is to provide places for quiet reflection that assist in the process of healing of patients and provide for the physical, emotional and spiritual well being of all users. The garden is sized appropriately to meet the needs of patients. Interior lobbies and public spaces adjacent to the garden space allow for viewing of the garden in passing throughout the day as well as during inclement weather. A growing body of research shows that patients, medical staff and other care givers experience positive health benefits from access to daylight, landscape views and garden spaces. Providing a variety of spaces for people to pause and experience their natural surroundings is an important design and whole-healthcare objective. The spaces are universally accessible and provide a variety of seating areas for both ambulatory and wheelchair users. Suggested Documentation includes: Area Tabulations and ratios that show: - Net program summary. - Site Plan(s) highlighting public outdoor places of respite equal to 5% min. of project net program area. - Floor Plans and site plans highlighting indoor and outdoor places of respite dedicated for staff/occupants use equal to an additional 2% of project net program area. - Garden Plans and sections illustrating orientation, accessibility, proximity to interior services, Plant material types and quantities, hardscape material types, textures, etc.

Ruling:

Although Innovation in Design credits are not awarded through the CIR process, the proposed strategy is similar to LEED for Healthcare SSc9.1 Places of Respite. An innovation credit would be considered based on the requirements of this LEED credit. In addition to the requirements outlined in the inquiry above, please note that there are some additional requirements under LEED for Healthcare. For the complete credit requirements, please see http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3468.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/29/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Title: Educational Outreach Program Intent: To broaden the public\'s knowledge and awareness of green building strategies from a lessons learned perspective and to use the facility as a full scale example. The intent of the design team is to submit for an Innovation and Design Credit for an Educational Outreach Program. The project is a Car Wash & Maintenance Facility (hereafter referred to as the Facility) for a major Metropolitan Transit Agency. Due to the nature of the Facility the building is not generally open to the public. Use of the facility is limited to staff and organized visitations, thus onsite general public education would not be lucrative. Instead of an onsite educational program the Agency has accomplished / will be accomplishing the following: Educational Outreach: Project was featured in the Agency\'s "Going Green" brochure that was distributed on Earth Day. The use of captured rain water at the new Facility was a component of the Agency\'s "Earth Day" car posters distributed throughout the car fleet. The Agency\'s web site prominently features the Facility and has an animation of the Car Washer showing the captured / recycled rain water feature. Also, this website has recently been upgraded, as required by an Executive Order of the Governor, to be "accessible" to the hearing/visually impaired. Educational flyers on the Building will be available at the main lobby to visitors. Presentations: Presented a paper on the project at the Railroad Environmental Conference at UIUC in 2002. (University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign) "Green" features of the new Maintenance Facility and Car Washer were part of the Transit Agency\'s "Building for Tomorrow" brochure and presentation at the UITP Conference on Sustainable Design. This was also presented at the APTA conference on the environment given in NYC. Tours: A delegation from MetroVal (Valencia Metro, Venezuela) went on a tour through the facility. There are also additional plans for a group of engineering students from Colombia University to tour the Facility. Awards: Applied for and received a "Green Apple" award (honorable mention) from NYC/DOB and the US-EPA for Green Building Design. Design Guidelines: Established Design Guidelines for "Sustainability" for implementation throughout the Capital Program that were a direct result of the Green Design efforts on this project. We propose to submit copies of all the brochures created as part of this outreach program as well as website information for viewing. This project is not the typical project for which LEED NC was originally designed. As a major Metropolitan Transit Agency - the project is very high profile and thus contributes to the expansion of green building into the mainstream. As such, we feel that these efforts should obtain an Innovation & Design credit. Please let us know if these efforts will garner us an additional credit and if not, what we may do to accomplish this under this specific type of facility and ownership. Additionally, we would also like to know what submittals will be necessary to establish sufficient evidentiary information for the USGBC review.

Ruling:

Your education and outreach program is eligible for an innovation point. It meets the general requirements established in the credit ruling dated 9/24/01. To document these strategies in your LEED certification submittal, please include the information from your CIR narrative and provide a copy of the Design Guidelines for Sustainability and other materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/2/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 26,000 square foot tenant space for a confidential client, a news provider. We will be utilizing LEED-CI. We\'re wondering if our limited-wall office space qualifies for an Innovation Credit. The space plan for the office will not include walls/partitions. The entire space will utilize an open office furniture system. Obviously there will be walls for restrooms and mechanical spaces but private offices and kitchen areas will not have hard walls. Intent Minimize materials and construction waste due by avoiding the construction of walls for private offices and kitchen area. Requirements We will calculate the amount of material (gypsum, metal studs etc.) our project will save (as well as construction waste avoided) based on the assumption that other offices similar to ours consist of 25% hardwalled areas. We will quantify the amount of CO2 saved from the extraction, manufacturing, and shipping of material which we will be saving by not constructing any hard walls.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an innovation in design credit for limiting constructed walls within a 26,000 square foot tenant space. While space planning such as this has clear advantages, it is simply good facilities management practice where "churn" is inevitable. The proposed strategy, while laudable, does not warrant the award of an innovation credit. Please refer to IDc1.2 CIR ruling dated 11/3/2006. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following Innovation & Design CIR is being submitted to assess whether the following criteria could qualify for an ID credit if all standards are met and documentation received: Intent - To provide a mechanism to support novel ideas to improve the environment at Union College. Through a competitive grant-based initiative, members of the Union College community have access to a $16,000 per year pool of funding to either make Union operations more sustainable or to conduct research that will make specific contributions to sustainability at the regional, national or global scale. Grant proposals are required to detail rationale, a project/research plan, anticipated outcome, detailed budget, and timeline, and are rated based on the benefit to environmental sustainability and feasibility. In the 2008-2009 academic year, ten different projects proposed by students, staff and faculty were awarded between $500 and $2000. With the opening of a new USustain headquarters located in Wold Science Center, the office of President Stephen Ainlay has committed to funding for two more academic years. Projects that directly impact the design and operations of the Wold Science Center or research projects that would be undertaken at the Wold Science Center will be especially encouraged. Requirement - Union will support grassroots sustainability ideas for the period 2009-2011. Supported projects will include specific reporting guidelines and communication procedures. The period of funding shall cover a period of no less than two academic years, for a total monetary amount of $48,000. Submittals - Presidential Green Grant RFP (Sept. 2008); Summaries of 2008-2009 proposals funded by Presidential Green Grants.

Ruling:

The innovation credit is based on the merits of the Union College providing funding in support of grassroots sustainability ideas that can impact the operations of the Union, or support research that contributes to sustainability at the regional, national or global scale. While the grant program is clearly focused on environmental issues and is commendable, it is unclear how this directly correlates to the design, construction or operations of the LEED project itself. It should be noted that for the LEED for New Construction rating system, innovation credits are awarded for green building strategies (not covered in the rating system) that demonstrate a comprehensive approach with significant, measurable environmental benefits. If the grant program was specifically (and only) focused on making the operations of the LEED project more sustainable, it may be possible to earn an innovation credit if specific measures were adopted based on the LEED for Existing Buildings Operations and Maintenance rating system for example. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/27/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent of credit: ---- Reduce operations related carbon footprint and encourage organizations associated with LEED projects to do likewise. Requirements for compliance: ---- Identify operational sources of carbon emissions not otherwise addressed by LEED. Establish the operational carbon footprint of the occupants of the LEED project verified by a recognized authority. (See CIR dated 6/29/06 for list of authorities). Obtain carbon offsets for the carbon footprint associated with operational sources of carbon emissions equal to or greater than 50% over 2 years**. Submittals: ---- 1. Signed letter template declaring that offsets equivalent to at least 50% of operational carbon emission loads associated with air travel, car travel, and natural gas for a period of at least two years have been obtained. 2. Narrative describing the project\'s approach to addressing carbon loads. 3. Calculation used to determine carbon emissions, resulting equivalence data, and quantity of offset measures required. 4. Certification document from a recognized source of carbon offset credits. Design Approach (Strategies) / Narrative: ---- Reliable analysis of construction related life cycle carbon emissions is difficult to obtain and verify at this time. Emissions data related to operations are more readily available and recognized authorities exist that can quantify the carbon emissions related to operations based on established metrics. This credit addresses carbon emissions other than those addressed by LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power. The following steps describe the actions needed to achieve this credit: Research currently available carbon emission measurement standards and offset options. Identify recognized service providers. (See CIR dated 6/29/06 for list of recognized authorities) List carbon emission sources specific to operations associated with the project in question. Run calculations on offset measures needed. Obtain carbon offset credits at least equivalent to 50% of operational carbon emission loads associated with natural gas, air travel, and car travel for a period of at least two years. This innovation credit meets the three basic criteria for innovation credits as described in the LEED Reference Guide: 1. Quantitative performance improvement: A baseline evaluation of the operational carbon footprint using methods specified by a recognized authority (Green-e for instance) establishes a starting point and is used to calibrate the quantity of carbon offset measures needed. 2. Comprehensive program: The program addresses business related carbon emissions related to air travel, car travel, and natural gas, not covered by LEED and augmenting similar efforts related to electrical loads achieved by meeting LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power requirements. 3. Applicability to other projects: This innovation credit provides an outline for any organization interested in addressing their operational carbon footprint. Similar ID credits related to post occupancy efforts are listed in the USGBC\'s Innovation & Design Credit Catalog (1 December 2007), including credits addressing: Green Cleaning; Monitoring Threatened & Endangered Species; Donation and Protection of Open Space (not assoc. with project site); Alternative Transportation Management Plan; Employee Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Food composting; Occupant recycling program; Waste reduction operations; Work at home program; LEED post-occupancy performance evaluation; Employee wellness; Educational program; Student report; Carbon offset; Environmentally preferable services; and Off site environmental benefit. ** Time period and % based on those established for the LEED-CI v2.0 EAc4 Green Power credit.

Ruling:

The applicant submitted a CIR proposing an innovation and design credit in which projects would offset the emissions associated with tenant space operations. While this proposal does demonstrate environmental benefits, it cannot be approved at this time due to the complexities surrounding carbon accounting. USGBC is performing research in this area and will update this CIR ruling as necessary. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/22/2005
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Can Credits defined by one LEED Rating System be used as Innovation in Design Credits for other LEED Rating System? Example: Sustainable Purchasing - Reduced Mercury in Lamps

Ruling:

**Update 1/27/2017: This item is no longer valid. Please reference the Innovation Catalog: http://www.usgbc.org/credits/innovation-catalog instead**
The viability of innovation point applications using credits from other LEED Rating Systems will be considered on a case by case basis. LEED-EB MRc6 can by used for an innovation credit within LEED-NC. UPDATE 10/1/2012 - The availability of innovation point applications using credits from other LEED Rating Systems are posted on the GBCI website Reviewer Tips pages http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/building-certification/resources.aspx#tips. Additionally, please note that a Sustainable Purchasing - Reduced Mercury in Lamps strategy is allowed via LEED Interpretation 5500 which requires that projects comply with an average mercury content limit of 80 picograms in order to achieve an ID point. LEED ND credits applied to D&C projects are still reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and projects may request a CIR if they choose to. Also, now applicable to NCv2009.Since LEED-EB is a whole building rating system, the strategy must be applied to the entire project building.

see Innovation: Additional toxic material reduction - reduced mercury in light bulbs for guidance.

Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/31/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Summary: Interpretation ruling regarding (3) Innovation Credits: (2) credits for significantly exceeding MR Credit 5.1 & 5.2 (1) Credit for utilizing water efficient process load appliances, significantly impacting overall water usage within the residence hall buildings. Context: The scope of the project incorporates new construction of four residential halls on a college campus, which house more than 250 students and staff. Three of the buildings are three stories, and the other is four stories. Description: The following outlines the current calculation status for the project pertaining to MR Credits 5.1 & 5.2, and the impact of the water efficient clothes washers utilized: MR Credit 5.1 (Local regional materials) exceeds 65% of material cost baseline Material cost baseline was derived by subtracting mechanical, electrical, fittings & equipment, and conveying system costs from the direct cost, and then isolating the material costs (from labor). MR Credit 5.2 (Harvested) exceeds 150% of MR 5.1 baseline (50% of 20% benchmark). Based on CIR 12/1/2003, which was a clarification on CIR 10/18/01 stated: To have a consistent and comparable performance standard for all LEED projects, the requirement for MR Credit 5.2 is 50% of the minimum 20% benchmark needed for achieving MR Credit 5.1. Water Efficient Process Load Appliance Use Based on CIR 3/9/2004 (WE) process loads are not to be included in the calculations for the water efficiency credits, and only those fixture types covered under the Energy Policy Act of 1992 are to be included. A total of twelve clothes washing machines (3 per building) are included in the residence halls, which create a significant amount of water usage. In an attempt to reduce the water used, the owner purchased water efficient appliances (~30% less water used than standard appliances for this class). A range of standard washing machines of this class from different manufacturers would be gathered (and submitted) and averaged to establish the baseline. In comparison to the baseline load calculated for water usage covered under the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the clothes washers account for an amount equal to 46% of this load (8 loads per machine, per day). Therefore the use of water efficient washing machines is reduced by ~ 14%. Proposal: If both credit calculations substantially exceeds the next performance levels for each of the credits (also mentioned in CIR 12/1/2003), would (2) innovation credits be achievable with the appropriate support documentation? If the owner has taken action to not only reduce water usage for the fixtures (WE C3.1&3.2), but is also pursuing water reduction for the second largest use category of water for the buildings (showers are no.1), even though it is a process load, would (1) innovation credit be achievable if steps proposed above for establishing a baseline for the clothes washers were implemented?

Ruling:

The project is requesting verification that three separate strategies would each earn an innovation credit. Typically these should be addressed in separate CIRs. The project is correct that separate innovation credits can be earned for both MRc5.1 and MRc5.2. To achieve an innovation credit for MRc5.1, the total percentage of locally manufactured materials must be at least 40% of the total materials cost; for MRc5.2 the percentage must be at least 20% of the total materials cost. It is possible to achieve an innovation credit for reducing process water on the project. In order to achieve this credit, a whole building approach to process water must be used (including washing machines, dish washers, drinking fountains, cooling towers, etc.) The project must demonstrate a process water savings that is equal to or greater than 10% of the regulated water usage as calculated in WEc3. The project should obtain information on the average amount of water use for each type of equipment to determine an appropriate baseline and demonstrate that the increased efficiency compared to the baseline exceeds the 10% WEc3 threshold. Required submittals for this innovation would include: 1) A narrative explaining what strategies were used and how the baseline was developed. 2) Calculations demonstrating performance compared to the baseline. 3) Cut sheets showing water usage of equipment used. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects. Applicable internationally.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is now applicable to LEED NC v2.2 and NC v2009 rating systems.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
12/19/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We recognize that ID credits cannot be granted achievement via the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Please provide insight as to the type & level of documentation required to pursue such an ID credit. Title Pursuit of Company\'s Mission Zero objectives through the application of sustainability programs to new building construction and operation. Credit Intent To incorporate the building into the Owner\'s Company Mission Zero objectives, the new facility has been designed & will be operated under the site\'s ISO systems. This includes the application of the Owner\'s unique corporate programs; QUEST, EcoSense and Ecometrics, to ensure the new facility is operated to high standards of sustainable practice. These proprietary programs form part of the Owner\'s Mission Zero program to reduce the footprint of a manufacturing facility to a virtual zero point by 2020. The project is the first in Asia to operate under such programs, covering all aspects of waste, materials & utility reduction as well as addressing less tangible social aspects of sustainability. Credit Requirements Consideration of the requirements of operating the new facility under the Company\'s Mission Zero programs has been applied in a holistic manner to the design. The choice of pursuing the LEED certification for the building was a key aspect of this approach, other considerations were the overall building design to incorporate a natural ventilation system, submetering of utilities, drainage system, improved staff facilities, etc Project Approach The building & all operations will be under the company\'s ISO systems and Mission Zero initiatives. These programs have been operating since 1998 for the current factory. The programs to be applied under Mission Zero are: ISO9000 Internationally recognized Quality Assurance program ISO14000 Internationally recognized environmental management system where all environmental aspects are encompassed, managed for environmental responsibility, audited & verified. The management system is used to administer all the sub-programs as follows: Ecometrics Comprehensive monitoring of the utilities / materials usage of activities in the facility & relating these to output of the plant. The program facilitates benchmarking, driving & verify of results in the pursuit of the Mission Zero goal. It is utilized to drive, monitor & demonstrate reduction in resource usage for the output of the operation and target of reducing the footprint of the operation to virtually zero by 2020. Materials usage & percentage recycled content Utility Usage & percentage renewable usage Waste generated & percentage recycled Transportation Energy costs QUEST System of financial accounting of the waste reduction programs which operates from a benchmark point to reduce costs of waste by 10% per annum The program monitors performance in the following areas Internal Off-Quality External Off-Quality Correction Costs Process Waste Material Usage Variances Energy Costs - Renewable / Nonrenewable Inventory Losses Packaging Costs Non-Quality related correction costs EcoSense A program to drive less measurable but important aspects of sustainability addressing areas such as Operation to recognized Quality & Environmental standards (ISO9000 & ISO 14000) Sustainability Awareness of Shareholders; Employees, Customers, Suppliers, Neighbors Safety standard improvements Transportation impacts - commuting/business travel/supply chain Sociometrics - monitoring of the efforts to improve the social aspects of sustainability Waste & Energy Reduction Projects - encouraging both large & small scale improvement projects to reduce Emissions Reduction - auditing of all facility emissions Life Cycle Assessment programs The intent of all of these company initiatives area a comprehensive strategy w/ triple bottom line quantifiable benefits beyond the manufacturing industry standard - documentation of metric results are available for all of these programs.

Ruling:

It is not clear how the requirements outlined in the proposal demonstrate quantitative environmental benefits beyond the requirements set by the LEED NC Rating System, and thus do not qualify for an innovation credit. Green strategies related to operations and maintenance policies are addressed through the LEED EB Rating System. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
6/8/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to propose an innovation point for having a hotel use environmentally conscious and socially accountable textiles. Intent: To reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with textiles Requirements: Develop a procurement policy for facility purchased textiles (bedding and towels) that requires that at least three of the following product types be used for ALL associated textiles purchased for the facility: - Organic cotton (certified by be Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)) sheeting - Organic cotton (certified by be Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)) bathroom linens - Bamboo sheeting - Bamboo bathroom linens - Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certification (a globally uniform testing and certification system for textile raw materials. The tests for harmful substances comprise substances which are prohibited or regulated by law, chemicals which are known to be harmful to health, and parameters which are included as a precautionary measure to safeguard health) - Vegetal dyes (made from vegetables) - Kapok filled pillow inserts (Kapok is an all-natural fiber pulled from the seed pods of the kapok tree) Submittals: For the three compliant product types, please submit the following: - List manufacturer and product line - Item description (bedding, bathroom linens, etc) - Form of compliance (GOTS, Oeko-Tex, etc) - Letter from the manufacturer or manufacturer literature verifying compliance

Ruling:

The project is inquiring about achieving an innovation point for an environmentally responsible purchasing polity for hotel textiles. While this is an admirable pursuit, this credit intent goes beyond the design and construction scope of LEED-NC 2.2, and addresses areas that fall under operations and maintenance for the project. To achieve an innovation credit, the project must create a comprehensive sustainable purchasing policy that addresses environmentally friendly purchases for the hotel\'s ongoing consumables - including bedding and linens, housekeeping, and toiletries and amenities. To receive an innovation point, the project team will need to provide 1. A statement of purpose describing what the sustainable purchasing policy is trying to achieve from a health and environmental standpoint. 2. A copy of the sustainable purchasing program indicating contractual or procedural requirements for operations staff to comply with the guidelines. 3. A clear set of acceptable performance level standards by which to measure progress or achievement, such as Green Seal standard GS-37 (see www.greenseal.org) or California Code of Regulations, Title 17 Section 94509, VOC standards for cleaning products (go to www.calregs.com, click on "California Code of Regulations" and perform a keyword search for "94509") and other 3rd party certifications for other products (as indicated above). 4. Documentation of the sustainable purchasing policy, including a list of approved and prohibited products and practices. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Low-Cost HVAC For Green Buildings According to the R.S. Means Square Foot Costs, 25th Edition, the HVAC cost for a single-story office building 7,000 to 20,000 square feet in size will be $13 to $17 per square foot. This cost range is for a typical HVAC system that meets minimum building code requirements, but can not meet ASHRAE Standards 62 or 55. Our intent was to provide an HVAC system that met ASHRAE Standards 62 and 55 and used less energy while costing at least 20% less than a standard system. Our design approach combined air-to-air energy recovery with furnace/air conditioning units. The air-to-air energy recovery units deliver 1,648 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of outdoor air at constant volume or 38 cfm for each building occupant. This ventilation rate is almost twice the rate required by ASHRAE Standard 62. In addition, the air-to-air energy recovery units allow moisture transfer between the exhaust and outdoor air streams, helping to meet ASHRAE Standard 55 for comfort all year long. The total cost of the HVAC system is just $99,120 or $8.30 per square foot which includes all overhead and profit. This cost is 35% less than the lowest figure published by R.S. Means. Furthermore, the system uses 30% less cooling energy and 10% less heating energy than a system that just complies with ASHRAE Standard 90, and the system uses non-chlorinated refrigerant. This system is green and very cost effective.

Ruling:

Your proposal is not sufficient for an innovation credit. However, the system contributes towards the achievement of various other LEED prerequisites and credits. The ventilation rates and thermal comfort criteria relates to EQp1 Minimum IAQ Performance, EQc1 Carbon Dioxide Monitoring, EQc2 Ventilation Effectiveness, and EQc7 Thermal Comfort. The efficiency of the air-to-air heat exchanger can be accounted for under EAc1 Optimized Energy Performance. With all verifiable environmental benefits of the proposed system accounted for in the existing credits of the Rating System, the cost savings of the system itself does not demonstrate additional environmental benefit, and would therefore not qualify for an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/27/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

ID Credit Title: DIGITAL FACILTY MANUAL Credit Intent: Implement an electronic documents tool that will provide for easy access to all record documents of the facility. This paperless tool shall assist the facility manager in maintenance productivity since the documents will available for view in seconds. This tool will be provided at project turnover and the manual will aid the facility group in long term efficiency in energy and systems operations. Requirements for Compliance: Develop and implement a digital facility manual which will be used for facility operation and maintenance in lieu of traditional three-ring binder and as-built drawings. It shall also incorporate guidance on operating metrics and testing frequency. This tool shall include all divisions of work and provide hyperlinks between the equipment submittals and drawings so the facility operators can access record documents easily and thoroughly. The digital facility manual shall include: - All as-built drawings - All approved equipment submittals - All test records and reports - Preventative maintenance tasks and schedules Submittal: Confirm that a digital facility manual is being used and has replaced the need for hard-copy operations and maintenance documentation. Confirm that all as-built drawings, equipment submittals, test records and reports, preventative maintenance tasks and schedules are accessible through the digital facility manual. Provide letter from facility manager or owner the digital facility manual is being used.

Ruling:

The project team is proposing an Innovation in Design credit based on the merits of creating a digital facility manual to be used by facility operation and maintenance staff, in lieu of the traditional three-ring binder and as-built drawings. While this is commendable, the reduction of paper for this facility manual is relatively insignificant compared to the quantity of paper over the duration of the project\'s design and construction phase. As comprehensive, significant environmental benefits have not been identified, this proposal does not meet the requirements of an innovation credit. Applicable internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/19/2002
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ecologically Based Landscape Design and Pest Control: The project site is an urban infill site located in Sacramento, California. The project is an office building for the State of California, housing the Department of Education. Prior to the design and construction of the new office building, the site was a surface parking lot with a few trees surrounding the site on the perimeter. Adjacent to the project is a six-story apartment building and across from the site is the California State Capitol mall, a park like setting, with many differing plants and tree species represented. Contained within the project is a small pocket park, which separates the office building from the adjacent apartment building. The park was selected as a site for the State Arts in Architecture program, and a nationally known artist was selected for the art commission. In response to community outreach efforts, and in response to neighborhood concerns about open space, the Design Team for the project worked with the artist to develop a unique response. The team worked on the development of the landscape design using specific features listed below, coupled with the strategy of an ecologically based landscape management and maintenance program. The team also sought to use the project landscape as a means to educate and promote the use of organic based urban landscaping and agricultural farming and the use of beneficial insects as a substitute for pesticides. Features of the Ecologically based Landscape Design and Pest Control include: - An interpretive fountain and sculpture that uses gray water and that reflects the culture and environs of the Sierra Foothills; - Native plant materials, selected for their appropriateness to the climate, low water requirements, adaptation of the native cultural landscape of the region, and aesthetic appeal. Plant material was also selected for its ability to provide habitat for beneficial insects; - Organic landscape specifications including soil mix management, sub-surface drip irrigation, gray water and organic fertilizers; - An irrigation system that utilizes high efficiency drip technology and reduces water consumption by 63%; - A fertilizing and feeding plan, which includes a biological nutrient management using compost tea, injected into the irrigation system; - The project also has a retail component, designated as restaurant space. Once restaurant tenants are identified, the Design Team will work with the tenants to develop a composting process to recycle organic waste streams from the building and the restaurant tenants, including food waste, landscape pruning, etc. - Training of the building and grounds maintenance staff to monitor for insect pests and plant disease. Training the staff to release beneficial insects as the primary means of pest control, and training the staff to use soft pesticides and to avoid toxins. - Educational stations with plaques and graphics delineating the ecological methods utilized, beneficial insect and plant identification and their symbiotic relationships. - Consultation on pest problems and supplying beneficial insects to the project for the duration of the two-year warranty period. Question: Could this interpretive pocket park, developed with neighborhood concerns, educational goals and coupled with organic practices be considered an innovation point?

Ruling:

Yes, this project could attempt an innovation credit by addressing the education value of the "green" features of the park. A previous LEED Interpretation on the issue of an educational program in relation to buildings to achieve an innovation credit: please see Inquiry Number 0121-IDc11-092801. To summarize the earlier ruling, your project must be ACTIVELY instructional by including two of the three following elements: 1) comprehensive signage program to educate; 2) manual, guideline or case study to inform the design of other projects; 3) educational outreach program or guided tour focusing on sustainable living. As outlined in your inquiry, most of these elements are planned or already incorporated into the program in a very comprehensive way that reaches across many credit categories. Rather than focusing on a sustainable building education program as described in the previous inquiries, this project could focus on a sustainable site educational program that highlights green features throughout, as suggested in your narrative. You must be vigilant in your documentation of the measures described and provide adequate photos/drawings and other documentation along with narratives explaining your intent, the requirements, the submittals and the design approach, as directed in the Reference Guide. The opportunity to achieve innovation credits is designed for just such projects that either lie outside the existing LEED credits or exemplify exceptional performance in sustainability.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
1/3/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Design for Increased Physical Activity Credit Intent: The obesity epidemic is a major health crisis facing the American public, leading to the increased incidence of type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease among other ailments. Increased physical activity, as little as two minutes of stair climbing each day, could significantly reduce the rate of obesity in the country. Extensive studies by the Center for Disease Control and other independent researchers* have shown that there are four major elements of building design which encourage greater physical activity: A) Stairs - Signage prompts encouraging the use of the stairs. - Improved stairwell aesthetics through use of color, artwork, music, etc. - Favored central locations for stairwells. B) Access to exercise facilities - Weekly exercise classes - On-site walking trails - Gym or exercise room C) Improved streetscapes - Sidewalks/traffic safety - Comfort lighting - Aesthetic landscaping D) Community location - Urban density - Mixed use - Connectivity of pathways to destinations *Full text of these reports is available via email as files cannot be posted with CIRs. Credit Requirements As LEED already accounts for the items listed in C & D, we propose that the ID credit be earned through meeting 4 of the 6 items listed in A & B. Submittal A LEED-Online letter template including the project compliance narrative and floor plans highlighting the design elements included. Project Approach The Riverside Health Center is a partial renovation and addition project that will provide the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene with a contemporary facility to serve their Health Academy, Nutrition, Primary Care Clinic, STD Clinic, Family Daycare, and School Health programs. The building design will include a centrally located stair, signage prompts containing info on the benefits of taking the stairs. The stairwell itself has been enlarged to encourage greater use, will feature added ventilation, operable windows, and is to be included as a site for expressing the project\'s 1% for the arts. The 1% for arts is a city funded program that matches 1% of a project\'s construction budget towards a public art project. In addition to fulfilling all three stairwell improvements, the building features an exercise room, will offer weekly yoga classes, and includes an on-site community garden with landscaped pathways to encourage outdoor exercise.

Ruling:

Along with statistical data, additions to your approach could earn you an innovation credit. Currently, while the overall intent is laudable, it is unlikely that the proposal described above would earn an innovation credit. To earn an innovation credit, project teams must demonstrate innovative performance in Green Building categories not specifically addressed by the rating system. An example to enhance the approach might include design of the site to ensure that there are sidewalks of some minimum width to promote walking. These innovations need to be comprehensive in nature and have significant, measurable environmental benefits. This proposal focuses on fitness, health, and lifestyle related issues that are generally considered outside the scope of the LEED Rating system; LEED does promote productivity and overall wellness of building occupants. In addition, as written, it is unclear how the project team would demonstrate quantitative performance improvements for environmental benefit (establishing a baseline of standard performance for comparison to the final design). Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/10/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Low-Water Nursery Growing System for Plants Used in Landscaping The Southface Eco-Office project is requesting an Innovation and Design credit for the use of Gro-Eco plants in their landscaping. Growing plants for market in this manner requires four and a half times less water daily, and requires up to thirty percent less growing time when compared to traditional methods using overhead irrigation. The estimated water savings for the 400 plants used on site, with an average growing period of a year, was almost 70,000 gallons. The Gro-Eco system uses raised beds that are built and covered with weed cloth. Pockets are then dug in the beds to accommodate nursery pots of various sizes - only the upper third of each pot extends above the top of the bed. Irrigation drip tape runs down each row of plants along the tops of the containers, while another drip tube, buried under the cloth in the center of the bed, helps keep the roots cool. Moderating the temperature of the roots improves the health of the plants and further reduces the amount of water needed. Auxiliary benefits of such a system include: thirty to forty percent less chemical use and drastically reduced runoff, elimination of retention ponds and nitrogen leaching, less need for fungicide due to the elimination of excess moisture on leaves, lower energy costs, and less invasive site design due to the flexibility in drainage topography. For more information on the Gro-Eco process, please view the Florida Agriculture video produced for the 2007 Environmental Leadership Award. http://www.florida-agriculture.com/news/agen_fraleighnursery.htm The requirements for this credit would be to document all plants obtained from Gro-Eco for use on the Eco-Office project, and to provide evidence of the estimated water savings being claimed.

Ruling:

The projects proposal of selecting planting material which is grown in a method of growth which reduces the water, energy and chemical usage worth of an innovation credit, since this is not awarded under other material credits. However, to achieve an innovation credit the project must demonstrate that the proposed approach is a significant portion of the overall project materials budget. A possible approach could include: 1) Calculations showing the baseline water, energy and chemical use and documentation for how that was determined. 2) Calculations showing the alternate growing method and the significant reduction (such as a minimum of 50% reduction in potable water used for irrigation) in water, energy and chemicals. 3) Calculations showing that the landscaping which contributes to the water, energy and chemical reductions make up a minimum of 1% of the total materials based on cost for the project [Please add: the project team must meet the requirements and achieve WEc1.1 and 1.2 in order to be eligible for this ID credit proposal.] Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/4/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 198,000 square foot, high-rise dormitory on a university campus in an area with constant, prevailing trade winds. Due to its location, the project has provided natural ventilation for its building corridors as well as operable windows for all student apartments. In order to provide a comfortable environment for building occupants, we have undertaken a wind tunnel study, which is not typical design practice for this type of building. Two approaches were undertaken in this wind tunnel study: numerical calculations and a wind tunnel test. The numerical calculations considered input parameters such as wind speeds, wind pressure coefficients, air temperatures, opening sizes for doors and windows, and different air permeability rates for the windows, doors and cracks. The wind tunnel test was conducted by creating a 1:150 scale model of the building complex based on the drawings of the architects. The model of the planned building complex was instrumented with approximately 500 pressure taps to test for pressurization, and it was exposed to 36 different wind directions spaced 10 degrees apart (0 to 360 degrees). The building model was mounted on a turntable with a large inertial mass, allowing any wind direction to be simulated by rotating the model to the appropriate angle in the wind tunnel. The wind tunnel study resulted in a change to the project\'s natural ventilation design. It was determined that several windows needed to be moved to different fa

Ruling:

The applicant has requested confirmation of a potential Innovation and Design credit for a wind-tunnel study performed during project design. Though it is commendable for a design team to apply advanced analytical techniques to push the envelope of building design, the environmental benefits attributed to the results of such an analysis are already addressed within the rating system and therefore do not qualify for additional points. The comfort of the building occupants is adequately addressed in EQ Credits 7.1 and 7.2 for naturally ventilated buildings. Other benefits are addressed under EA Credit 1, EQ Credit 2 and EQ Credit 6.2. Applicable Internationally

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
1/30/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent: "To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to be awarded points for exemplary performance above the requirements set by LEED-CS Green Building Rating System and/or innovative performance in Green Building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED-CS Green Building Rating System." We are presenting this CIR in order to receive guidance about the likely outcome of the proposed Innovation Credit if accomplishments are proven by the certification submittals. INTENT To educate tenants on lifestyle changes that can improve their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing; build a sense of community; enhance the work environment; and promote alternative modes of transportation. REQUIREMENTS Provide tenants with access to a Working Well Program (WWP) for a minimum of three years. Provide a WWP coordinator on site three days per week. He/she shall be responsible for; organizing all activities, marketing events, conducting monthly special events, and recruiting other wellness experts as required, preparing regular reports for evaluation by management and an annual executive summary highlighting participation and tenant feedback, and delivering a wellness activities plan to the tenants on a monthly basis. SUBMITTALS Provide the letter template signed by the developer declaring that a WWP coordinator has been engaged for a minimum of three years. Provide a copy of the agreement between the Developer and WWP coordinator demonstrating that the Program will be provided for at least three years. If an audit is requested during the certification process: Provide a copy of the annual activity plan, including a brief description of each event and schedule. Provide a copy of tenant agreement sections or information package outlining the structure and costs of the WWP available to the tenant. DESIGN STRATEGIES The Program will serve to educate employees on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Seminars and activities should be used to promote alternative modes of transportation such as walking and cycling for increased fitness and reduced pollution. The public transportation and bicycle storage and shower facilities available to tenants will be promoted through the WWP, thus increasing their use and furthering the intent of the Sustainable Sites credits. The health and wellness information and activities should be selected such that they increase productivity through improved morale, reduced sick-time, and reduced workplace injuries. Communication between the WWP Coordinator and the Tenant should be ongoing to assess the demand for certain activities and information sessions to increase employee involvement. A tenant representative should be appointed to ensure that the needs of the tenant are being met by the WWP. Environmentally-friendly activities should be emphasized and specialists in sustainable living should be included in the education aspect of the Program. Sample WWP activities and features include:

Ruling:

The applicant is asking whether the proposed Working Well program is likely to be accepted as an innovation credit. Although innovation credits are not awarded through the CIR process, this proposal does not provide adequate justification of the environmental benefits of the program, and the human health benefits do not directly relate to the design, construction or operations of the building, which are the focus of the LEED-CS rating system. As stated in the CIR, the program is provided as an option for all tenants - there is no requirement or guarantee that any will participate. Further, the benefits of alternative transportation are already awarded through existing SSc4 credits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Intent To utilize a comprehensive Sustainability Plan for a televised event that extends LEED guidelines from building to an annual event. Proposed Requirements Develop and implement a Sustainability Plan that reduces consumption, increases recycling and reuse, offsets fossil fuel energy use and implements Green Education. Provide resource use and disposal baseline quantities and track improvements. Submittal to demonstrate compliance a) Provide resource consumption baselines for a timeline that includes pre-event preparation and the event itself. b) Provide quantifiable improvements for the event using the same timeline as the baseline. Summary of project design approaches The Live Television Production is a temporary facility for an annual single evening event lasting 10 days. - SITES - Transportation: all participants (presenters and production staff) were provided with GM flex fuel and hybrid vehicles. - WATER Conservation: All urinals are waterless at the venue saving 7 million gallons per year. Lavatory sensors are provided for premium seating restrooms - ENERGY: 10% energy reduction with an incremental decrease of 1% per year for 10 year commitment: Production lighting is designed to reduce electrical usage. 2 million kilowatt-hours of Green Power was provided that met three times the electricity needs of the award broadcast 666,000 kwh were used for the broadcast. - MATERIAL: Reuse: 100 % of all building material on the production set is donated to non profit foundations and memorabilia. - MATERIAL: Recycled content - All paper products had recycled content - Invitations, Posters and Programs are printed on Endeavour Recycled Paper, which is 30% post consumer waste, 50% recycled and is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. (1 LEED point for 50% FSC ) - Souvenir Telecast and awards celebration. Tickets are printed on stock that is 40% post-consumer waste and 60% recycled. - Tissue products 100% recyclable post-consumer napkins were used for five (5) full days of crew meals and craft services. vi) MATERIAL - Waste: 35% of waste is diverted from landfills by weight - Event generated 1,029 tons of trash, diverted 360 tons from landfill - Event is in compliance with assembly bill 2176 AB-2176. vii) IEQ -- Green Housekeeping: Venue uses two cleaning products that are green seal certified "Hillyard Chemicals. viii) Green Education - The promotion of all the "green" attributes of the event . Naras to confirm if the greening was indicated on any of the print material used for the event - Raise awareness of the availability and benefits of Green Power in Los Angeles and beyond. Green Volunteer Team responsible for placing recycling containers in key staff and public facing areas and educating people on what goes in the bins. In addition to managing the recycling stations, each volunteer had a document on hand to speak to the other aspects of the events that were green. ix) FOOD - Water sponsored by PRIMO, whose bottles are made from American grown corn oil, not petroleum - The 100% of food packaging is nature based and environmentally sustainable - 100% Sustainable Food for crew & parties - Regional, Organic, humane and environmentally-friendly food and food practices, including seafood, dairy, and produce - 100% Reusable service materials and accessories. Reusable service materials such as ceramic plates, glass tumblers and silverware included at crew meals and craft services. - Food Waste -- 100% food waste from the event was sorted, compacted and managed by New Market Waste Solutions for donation and composting. - Food Donation. Venue Concessionaire Partner donates edible left over food to the Angel Donation program at a local mission. Un-used food from the after-party (& crews) donated to local organization to feed the homeless in local shelters.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting confirmation on whether an innovation credit may be awarded based on sustainable practices relating to an annual event. Innovation credits are reserved for green building strategies that demonstrate innovative performance in green building that are not specifically addressed elsewhere in the rating system and/or demonstrate exceptional performance beyond existing credit requirements. While it is laudable that environmentally preferable practices be implemented for events, it does not appear that the proposed credit is related to green building practices and is therefore not eligible for an innovation credit. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/18/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

We would like to pursue an innovation credit for implementing an enhanced preventative maintenance and operations training program for our multifamily project, ensuring ongoing accountability through detailed education and training for building managers. Per the ID Credit Catalog, precedent has been set for NC projects earning credit for enhanced preventative maintenance and operations. Before developing the program and submitting the ID credit template, we would like to confirm our approach. We propose following the education guidance in LEED for Homes AEc2, Education of Building Manager, which is written specifically for multifamily buildings. Submittals will include a copy of training materials and other educational documents, a copy of the standard operating procedures manual, and a narrative about why this program goes beyond typical practice. Please confirm whether this is likely to earn an ID credit if appropriately implemented and documented. If not, please provide guidance as to what else would be needed to earn the ID credit.

Ruling:

The applicant is requesting approval of the methodology presented for achieving an Innovation in Design (ID) credit based on credit requirements for AEc2 of the LEED for Homes rating system. While it is common for projects to apply for ID credits based on applicable credit requirements from alternative rating systems, the proposed ID credit is not acceptable. Several of the credit requirements for AEc2 in LEED for Homes overlap with requirements already included in EAc3 and EAc5 of LEED-NC v2.2. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/16/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Our project is a 3 story multi-family apartment building in a metro area. Part of the site was previously developed and contained two houses. In lieu of demolition of these structures, one of the houses was moved from the property - being sold to a 3rd party who has moved the house to a new location and is continuing to use the house as a residence - thereby extending its useful life and purpose. The second structure was in poor condition and was unlikely to continue to be used as a residence. This structure was donated to the local municipality for use by the public safety/fire department as an educational/training tool as part of a live fire training exercise. This of course means that the house was burned as part of the training exercise and is no longer on the property. Our question is two fold: 1. The house that was moved rather than demolished and diverted from the waste stream continues to be used as a house and serves a family of four. We consider this a benefit as a family is provided affordable housing without the use and extraction of additional material resources. Also, because the house was moved it is being used in its entirety - diverting even more waste than would normally be realized through job site recycling. Should we include the weight of this house in our calculations for credit MR 2, and if so, how should we best estimate the weight of the structure? We will not be able to separate the weights of the various materials and components but will rather need to estimate the weight of the house en masse and list as a separate line item. or, should we apply for an Innovation and Design Credit for the reuse of the house? 2. The house that was donated to the local municipality for use by the public safety/fire department as an educational/training tool also diverted waste from the landfill. We understand that incineration of building materials and waste is not considered to meet the intent of MR 2 unless it is used as a biomass fuel generation source as determined by the ruling on 3/23/2004. However, use of this structure benefits the public good - by providing firefighters necessary educational and lifesafety training experience so that they are better prepared to fight fires and rescue people in danger - the use of the house in this manner thereby helps to save lives and extend the public good beyond the material value of the structure. All of the burned material was removed from the site prior to the contractor\'s mobilization and control of the site. May we apply for an Innovation and Design Credit for this work? Supporting documentation will include narratives, a statement of activity by the public safety/fire department and an environmental report stating that the house contained no hazardous materials at the time of the fire fighting exercise.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing two measures: to include a relocated house in the calculations for MRc2 or to receive an innovation point for this measure, and to reuse an existing house for a fire department training use and achieving an innovation point using this strategy. The relocation of the first structure mentioned warrants an innovation point, as this reuse measure achieves a higher environmental impact than recycling of the materials of the house alone. Alternatively, the house can be included in MRc2 calculations; if the total project\'s diversion rate for MRc2 is 95% or higher, an ID point for exemplary performance can be pursued. The proposal for the second structure (donation for public safety/fire department use) can be included in the MRc2 calculations but does not warrant an innovation point alone. Consulting a structural engineer on the weights of both houses for these calculations is encouraged in order for the weights of the materials to be the most accurate.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/5/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Ozone System in Lap Pool and Spa: exceptional IEQ Our project is a sports facility with a 6-lane, 25m swimming pool and 2 spas. Instead of the conventional chlorine system, we are using an ozone system to treat the water. The Ozone system has the following advantage: - Destroys bacteria, mold and mildew - Eliminates spores, yeasts, fungus and inactivates viruses - Aids the removal of minerals such as iron and manganese - Water is softer and has neutral pH - Leaves no unpleasant chemical or smell, no chloramines build-up, the by-products of ozone are heat and pure oxygen - No irritation to the eyes, nasal passages or throat - Will not cause dry skin, bleached hair or faded swimwear - Reduce chlorine consumption to a minimum, saving money on maintenance, and avoid storing such toxic chemical on site. To summarize, the system reduces the use of chlorine greatly (50-75% depending on splash limit). Unlike chlorine, ozone leaves no unpleasant odors or residual chemicals in the pool and spas. It eliminates the problems of red and irritated eyes, dry skin, faded swim wear and other problems associated with chlorine. We believe that this system has significantly increased the indoor environment quality of the project, especially when the pool and spas are frequently used being in a sports facility instead of a private residence. And a large amount of occupants will be benefited. Therefore, we would like to use this for one of our Innovation and Design Credits. Please advice on the feasibility.

Ruling:

The proposed strategy, if incorporated properly, may warrant an innovation credit. The use of an ozonation system that is properly sized and integrated into the swimming pool treatment system will allow ozone to act as the primary oxidizer and disinfectant. Since there is no uniform standard which has been established for ozonation of pools, ozone design criteria for disinfection in the United States is based primarily around US EPA Drinking Water Guidelines. Dose rate values between .4 mg-O3/l are normally cited and .8 mg-O3/l is commonly used. While LEED encourage approaches that reduce the use of toxic chemicals, additional information is required to provide a complete assessment of credit achievement in this case. Please describe limited reduction of chlorine (e.g., state if regulations require a minimum level of chlorine), and provide detailed explanation and proof of substantial environmental benefits (quantified as much as possible). See IDc1.1 CIR review dated 5/21/2003 for further guidance on this issue including appropriate documentation. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/20/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Innovation and Design 1- Biodiesel for Construction fleet We are seeking approval for an ID Innovation and Design credit for mandating all vehicles and on-site equipment operated during construction to run on B20 Biodiesel fuel instead of diesel. INTENT Reduce air pollution and health impact associated with construction transportation. REQUIREMENTS Project construction vehicles and on-site equipment are required to use B20 as primary fuel source. Supplier transportation vehicles would be required to provide proof of purchase for another trip equal or more in distance. CREDIT DOCUMENTATION SUBMITTALS - Written contract between construction managers and biofuel supplier to maintain provision of Biodiesel B20 storage on site. - Proof of purchase from sub contractors and material suppliers for distance travelled for said project. APPROACH AND IMPLEMENTATION All vehicles built after 1990 have the ability to run B20 without requiring any retrofit to use B20. On site storage of Biodiesel B20 upto 500 gallons will ensure all construction vehicles and on site equipment have direct access for refueling. Sub contractor vehicles need to submit receipts as proof of purchase. All other vehicles arriving at the site without using B20 will be required to purchase B20 for equal or more distance. Local biofuel suppliers have been identified and to be introduced to all subcontractors. A detailed education and training session will be carried out with General Contractor and sub-contractors prior to commencement of the project. Partnership with local groups like Space Coast Clean Cities Coalition, Federal Department of Energy and Clean-Cities will introduce the idea of using bidiesel to the community. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES - 1 unit of energy used to produce biodiesel B100 gives output of 3.24 units of fuel energy, diesel outputs 0.8 fuel energy. - Petroleum based diesel is a non-renewable fuel. - Construction vehicles travel through local communities causing smog and ground level ozone due to the air pollutants and particulate matter emitted. - EPA\'s study carried out in 2002 notes B20 blend of biodiesel vehicles are observed to emit 20% less Hydrocarbons and 12% less Carbon Monoxide (CO), and 12% less Particulate Matter. - Non-road engines are also expected to emit less Particulate Matter (PM) and CO when operated on Biodiesel B20 blend. - Biodiesel is produced from agricultural resources. They are renewable, local and cause less pollution in production and transportation. Purchase and use of Biodiesel supports the local economy and farmers growing the crop. HEALTH ISSUES - As per research carried out by EPA, the impact of biodiesel on total toxics is beneficial, i.e. total toxics are on average reduced when biodiesel is added to conventional diesel fuel. - B20 reduces emission of cancer causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nPAH) as compared to diesel operated engines. - Other chemicals borne off petroleum based diesel like formaldehyde and benzene are absent in Biodiesel.

Ruling:

The applicant is proposing an ID credit for the use of B20 biodiesel fuel for vehicles and on-site equipment operated during construction. Based on the description of utilizing an alternative fuel strategy (such as providing bio-diesel B20 for the various construction-type equipment), this would represent a reasonable innovation credit. However, the credit and documentation would need to support a comprehensive approach and demonstrate significant and measurable environmental benefits. Below is a list of some recommended guidelines that can be used to support the overall strategy\'s benefits. 1.) Identify the proposed innovation credit\'s intent and requirements. Establish the performance threshold above baseline and include the submission requirements and the design approach used to satisfy the requirements. 2.) Quantify the environmental benefits based on recognized scientific data for the fuel type, such as the cited EPA research study. 3.) Establish a baseline of the amount of diesel used (in gallons) during the construction process and compare that to the amount of bio-diesel used in the same time period. 4.) Compare and quantify the environmental benefits, e.g. reduction in various pollutants and gases (CO2, NOx, CO, SOx and particulate matter) of the bio-diesel B20 strategy versus standard fossil based diesel fuel. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/14/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project team is seeking clarification as to whether an enhanced Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) would qualify as an Innovation Credit. The General Contractor, Hensel Phelps Construction Company, has developed and implemented a program to monitor construction pollution prevention and ensure soil erosion and sediment controls during construction. Hensel Phelps developed a trial program in 2007 to assess their effectiveness in assuring compliance with specified pollution prevention strategies. Results of the trial indicated dramatic performance improvements in the implementation of pollution prevention practices during construction. Consequently, the company has adopted this program as standard practice for all of its projects. The Prerequisite for Sustainable Sites requires prevention of: 1. Loss of soil during construction by stormwater runoff and/or wind erosion, including protecting topsoil by stockpiling for reuse, 2. Prevent sedimentation of storm sewer or receiving streams, and 3. Prevent polluting the air with dust and particulate matter. While all construction sites attempt to fulfill this prerequisite by putting in place controls, these precautions are rarely monitored and thus not repaired when necessary. Hensel Phelps Construction actively evades this negligence by implementing a much more thorough Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. The program contains a comprehensive plan for ensuring compliance through extensive training, routine audits, documentation, and maintenance. An HPCC employee not on the project team is employed to audit the site\'s SWPPP Program. Three to seven days after the initial assessment, a follow-up inspection is conducted. Throughout the lifetime of the project, at least one HPCC employee that is part of the construction crew is assigned to oversee the upkeep of the soil erosion and sediment control measures on a monthly basis. This surveyor will walk the site to ensure that the control measures are in good shape. Documentation guidelines and performance metrics are also included to allow for thorough monitoring and assessment of the plan\'s effectiveness. Reports from the third party inspections of the SWPPP are forwarded to the Vice President, General Superintendent, Project Superintendent(s) and the Area Superintendent(s) to ensure that it receives the appropriate attention. Then the monthly inspections are recorded in detailed reports called "Stormwater Risk Management- Construction SWPPP Field Inspection Report." The report includes general information and summarizes the number of findings, the severity of these findings, calculations of how the findings are scored, and the percentage of the corrections made due to the findings. The summary is followed by maps of the construction site with markings of problem areas. The report then progresses into further detail with documentation of each finding including a deadline for correction. The follow-up inspection section indicates if any correction was attempted, any necessary explanation, and the follow up finding severity rating in a similar format. Photos of the site are also present from both initial and follow- up inspections. Continuous implementation of this program will provide substantial contributions to maintaining water quality. In addition, the success of this program provides a model for other project teams seeking to improve stormwater pollution controls and minimize damage to waterways resulting from construction practices. Hensel Phelps received an Environmental Achievement Award in 2008 in recognition of these ongoing benefits from the Mid-Atlantic Environmental Protection Agency. According to the EPA\'s website: "This award recognizes and rewards projects that have significant sustained, measurable, and replicable environmental results for a clearly defined environmental issue in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia; must have reduced pollution and/or protected public health and the environment; has innovative ideas, approaches, techniques, and/or technologies; and demonstrated leadership and outreach to others."

Ruling:

The project is seeking clarification if an enhanced inspection program for their Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan is eligible for exemplary performance for Sustainable Sites prerequisite 1. Per the LEED NC 2.2 Reference Guide, this prerequisite is not eligible for exemplary performance. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/27/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

TITLE: Environmentally-friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil INTENT: Eliminate the use of commonly used hazardous materials REQUIREMENTS: Replace hazardous, non-renewable transformer oils with a safe, environmentally friendly substitute. SUBMITTALS: Provide a LEED Letter Template, signed by the electrical engineer or responsible party, listing the product substituted for the commonly used hazardous substance. Provide product literature showing the material is non-hazardous, and environmentally friendly. DESIGN APPROACH: The project is installing a new transformer able to use an environmentally friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil. The specified equipment is a 2000 kVA, exterior, fluid cooled utility transformer. This transformer steps down the 22.9 kV campus distribution voltage to 460/277 volts for utilization within the building. The specified and installed transformer contains 640 gallons of Envirotemp FR3 oil. Envirotemp FR3 oil is derived from 100% edible seed oils and food grade additives. This product meets the U.S. EPA criteria for "Ultimate Biodegradability" classification. Additional testing for acute aquatic toxicity and oral LD50 tests have proven the non-toxic qualities of this fluid. This oil is also exempt from the Federal Regulation of Used Oils. For most power system installations, the serving utility company provides and installs the electrical service transformer. At the University of Florida, the campus power distribution is owned and maintained by the University. As a consequence, each construction project purchases and installs the exterior utility transformer and makes the connections to the campus power distribution network. Until recently, the only choice for the transformer insulating and cooling fluid was petroleum-based products such as mineral oil. At this project, the LEED team and Owner took advantage of the new, plant based oils, now available to be specified in the utility transformer purchased and installed for this project.

Ruling:

The project is inquiring whether the use of an environmentally-friendly, non-hazardous transformer oil for the building\'s sole transformer would qualify for an innovation credit. The transformer oil can contribute to MRc6, Rapidly Renewable Materials, and thus an innovation credit is not warranted. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/24/2001
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Credit Title: Green Building EducationINTENT: To provide public education focusing on green building strategies and solutions.REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMITTALS: Credit 1.1 (1 point) Provide permanent educational displays illustrating at least one component of each of the five major green building categories in the LEED rating system:Sustainable SitesWater EfficiencyEnergy and AtmosphereIndoor Environmental QualityMaterials and Resources- Provide narrative to describe the intended green building education program that will use the displays.- Provide narrative to describe the selected green building educational displays.- Provide design drawings of the educational displays and their locations in the building.Credit 1.2 (1 point) Provide educational outreach focusing on sustainable living and building practices to serve the general public.- Provide education program with identifiable tasks and outcomes geared toward sustainable living and building practices.- Develop an ongoing education program to provide access to practical methods for homeowners and others for sustainable living and building practices.SUMMARY OF REFERENCED STANDARDS: There are no such referenced standards for this credit.GREEN BUILDING CONCERNS: Public education is necessary to encourage green building practices in public programs, private development, and residential communities. The purpose of this innovative credit is to encourage public education in green building projects and provide a strategy to meet that goal.Mission Statement: To inspire people to live more sustainably, using flexible and achievable standards for building and landscaping practices in such a way as it will protect our local and regional natural resources.DESIGN APPROACH: Even though this credit is designed with an environmental education center in mind, the principles of public education can be applied to either public or private structures. For example, office buildings, although a private enterprise, have employees coming and going each day. A building that is didactic and is reinforced with clearly defined educational displays can have a significant impact on the user\'s understanding of the built and natural environment. Transforming thoughtful design solutions into educational opportunities is the intent of this credit. Also, disseminating effective and practical information on sustainable living and building practices to the general public is a fundamental way to make changes in our society.

Ruling:

To take advantage of the educational value of the green building features of a project and to earn a LEED point, any approach should be ACTIVELY instructional. 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. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/25/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is being submitted to assess whether this proposed ID credit may qualify for a point assuming that all proposed standards are met and all documentation is made. ID Credit Title: Recycled Landscape Material - 50% (post-consumer + 1/2 pre-consumer) Narrative Statement of Credit Intent: Increase the demand for recycled landscape inorganic materials as a method for diverting materials from landfills. Narrative Statement Describing Credit Requirements: Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of the post-consumer recycled content plus one half of the pre-consumer content constitute 50 % of the inorganic landscape material used in the project based on cost. Submit manufacturer / MSDS information, and material invoices indicating the purchase and delivery for all inorganic landscape materials. Indicate the percentages of post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled materials used. Narrative Describing Project\'s Approach to the Credit: This project is a tire sales and service facility which generates a large volume of waste tires annually. We will be using used tire mulch for our landscape mulch purposes. The tires are either finely ground or shredded enough to allow water infiltration, but are heavy enough that they are not easily moved by flood conditions to receiving streams and storm water systems. The material is clean, non-toxic, and does not produce toxic leachate. In addition, they are no more flammable than traditional wood based mulches. Other materials that may be used include weed control geotextiles with recycled content and recycled plastic hard trim or edging.

Ruling:

The use of recycled tires as landscaping material should be included in calculations for MRc4 Recycled Content and thus does not warrant award of an Innovation in Design credit. Depending on the origin of this product, it may also contribute to MRc5, Regional Materials. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/25/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

Taylor 28 is a mixed-use project that includes multi-family residential over ground floor retail with underground parking in addition to outdoor plazas and courtyard spaces. The project is located in downtown Seattle, Washington. The project has three above-grade, podium level courtyards that are composed of concrete pavers, raised planting areas, and a small amount of wood decking (ipe). The project has strong design intent focused on minimizing the heat island effect and thus is pursuing and will likely achieve the Sustainable Sites credits for Heat Island Effect for Non-Roof (SSc7.1) and Roof (SSc7.2). We believe the project also satisfies the intent of the Exemplary Performance pathway for Heat Island Effect Non-Roof since 100% of the parking is underground. However, we are confused about how best to demonstrate that accomplishment due to the complexity of our project, contribution of multiple strategies, and imprecise language in the reference guide. Please provide clarification on how to document this credit, given the circumstances described. Even though the roof already satisfies the criteria for SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect, Roof, the roof is reexamined in determining compliance with the Exemplary Performance pathway for SSc7.1 since portions cover the underground parking. As previously mentioned, the project will easily achieve the 50% threshold for SSc7.1, by either or both of the available options. However in order to achieve the SSc7.1 Exemplary Performance threshold of 100%, it seems the project is required to demonstrate that any portion of roof that covers parking has a minimum solar reflectance index (SRI) of 29. We believe that the project satisfies the intent of the credit but is having trouble matching the circumstances of the project to the submittal requirements. As you will read below, only by the strictest definition of the requirements, does the project fail to satisfy the requirements. The following four ways demonstrate both in isolation and in cooperation why our project should be awarded full credit for the Exemplary Performance for SSc7.1: 1. Area-weighted Average SRI - The area-weighted average SRI value for surfaces that are above underground parking is 75, which is composed of the following three elements: a. Roof - White TPO membrane, SRI = 82, Area over parking = 36,483 sf b. Courtyard - Concrete pavers, SRI = 40, Area over parking = 4,742 sf c. Courtyard - Ipe decking, SRI = 27, Area over parking = 1,634 sf The area of vegetation and a corresponding SRI is excluded from the Area-weighted Average SRI. However, it is worth noting that vegetation on the courtyards covers 4,535 sf (9.5%) and further reduces the heat island effect and would increase the average SRI if vegetation could be valued using the SRI metric. The percentage of the total area covering underground parking for each of the four materials is as follows: a. Roof - White TPO membrane, percentage of total roof area: 77% b. Courtyard - Concrete pavers, percentage of total roof area: 10% c. Courtyard - Vegetation, percentage of total roof area: 9.5% d. Courtyard - Ipe decking - percentage of total roof area: 3.5% 2. Shading: The three podium-level courtyards are located one story above street level and are significantly shaded by five levels of residential units that surround them. Due to this, the courtyards are further mitigated from any heat island effect by shading. In fact, using the LEED prescribed shading calculations (qualifying area shaded is the average of areas shaded at 10 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. on the solstice), even though they only technically apply to the Option 1 compliance path, demonstrates that shade from the building will cover 47 % of the total courtyard area, and 51% of the total wood decking area. This further reduces the influence of the wood decking in contributing to the heat island effect. In addition, tree plantings in the larger courtyard will also contribute to shading of the pavement. 3. The LEED-NC Reference Guide gives an explicit definition of what qualifies a project for the Exemplary Performance Pathway for SSc7.1, "Project may be awarded an innovation point for exemplary performance by demonstrating that.2) 100% of the on-site parking spaces have been located under cover". There is no mention of the requirement that "Any roof used to shade or cover parking must have an SRI of at least 29" as is mentioned in the credit language. Furthermore, the roof in question was not merely put in place as a parking shade, but instead to cover the building, which is already included in SSc7.2 Heat Island Effect, Roof, which this project is already achieving. 4. Amenity Space: The project is sited in a dense urban area, where residential development is part of a strategy to create vibrant neighborhoods. In creating such communities, it is important to provide outdoor amenity spaces for the residents that allow for a respite from the hectic pace of urban life. These courtyards provide simple outdoor gathering spaces comprised of a variety of materials which allow residents to relax in a visually rich outdoor space within the harsher city environment. As a footnote, the Ipe wood decking in question was sent for testing at a laboratory, at a not insignificant cost, to determine its actual SRI value and its impact on the heat island effect. Since new Ipe decking has very different properties than Ipe decking that is a few years old due to the effect of weathering (the brownish wood weathers to a silvery gray over time), a partially-weathered sample was tested. It is our belief that this was the appropriate approach as for most of the life of the building, the weathered Ipe decking will be in place, and only for the first few years would the decking exhibit its as-installed brownish look. Since the sample available for testing was only partially weathered, we believe this further strengthens our argument, as over time the SRI value will slowly increase, likely moving from its tested value of 27 and eventually crossing the threshold of 29. In conclusion, the Taylor 28 project has located 100% of its parking underground to avoid paving even a single black asphalt parking space, is located in a dense urban environment where amenity spaces-especially those with natural wood elements-are limited and essential to community and producing peaceful outdoor spaces, and has multiple strategies in place to respond to the intent of reducing the heat island effect. The wood decking is only slightly under an SRI of 29, comprises only 9.5% of the over-parking roof area, is 51% shaded via LEED shading methodology, and the remaining roof areas and vegetation will also drastically reduce the heat island effect-combining to nearly trivialize the contribution of the Ipe decking to the heat island effect, while providing a great amenity space and natural element in a dense urban environment. For these reasons and everything described above, we believe that this project should be awarded both Heat Island Effect credits as well as an Innovation in Design point for Exemplary Performance for credit SSc7.1.

Ruling:

The project team is requesting clarification on the requirements for exemplary performance for SSc7.1. The project team is correct - the Reference Guide states that exemplary performance for SSc7.1 may be awarded an innovation point for exemplary performance by demonstrating that, per option 2, 100% of the on-site parking spaces have been located under cover. In addition to the required documentation, a site plan verifying that 100% of parking is underground should be included. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
9/30/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The project team is seeking clarification to the requirements for Building Shell Commissioning outlined in the Innovation in Design Credit Catalog from March 2008. The credit is found on page 14 of that document and states: Building Shell Commissioning (approved) Requirements: Commission the building envelope in addition to a "fair amount of attention paid to the shell design during the design review process".
Submittals:

  • Narrative describing commissioning process and issues found
  • Building shell construction checklist Our project will create a mock up of the façade and a third party will test for air tightness testing and moisture management. Revisions to the façade design will be incorporated, as necessary, based upon the results of the mock-up test. Once construction has begun and the façade is in place, the same testing agency will visit the site 3 times and test 4 areas during each visit to ensure the façade is performing as designed. The areas will be selected at random and the general contractor will not know in advance where the spot checking will take place. The agency shall report any deficiencies to the general contractor and will re-test the area to ensure corrections were made. Once the façade is complete, the agency will perform thermal imaging and report any areas where the change in temperature is greater than 1 degree Celsius. The testing will be performed in accordance with the following standards:
  • ASTM E 283 Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen. ASTM E 330 Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
  • ASTM E 331 Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
  • AAMA 501.1-94 Standard Test Method for Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls and Doors for Water Penetration Using Dynamic Pressure

We would like confirmation that the above mentioned procedures would merit an Innovation in Design credit or what additional testing would be required to earn a credit.

Ruling:

The project team has proposed an ID credit for commissioning the building envelope. The size, scope, construction type and other details of the envelope have not been included. Please ensure that these details are included in the final submission. The approach described in the request is satisfactory for award of an ID credit, however please note that ID credits cannot be awarded via CIR. It is required that the submittal documentation meets the requirements of EAp1 - Fundamental Commissioning, as stated in the LEED NCv2.2 Reference Guide. In addition, refer to the documentation as well as the additional testing that is outlined in Credit Interpretation Request 10/3/2008. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/23/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

The following proposed innovation in design credit language is intended to demonstrate accomplishment of Comprehensive Exterior VOC Emitting Materials Reduction above and beyond requirements set forth in existing LEED credits. We recognize that an ID credit cannot be granted achievement through the CIR process, but request the review of this proposed approach for viability and appropriateness as written to support a project earning an ID credit by meeting these requirements. Proposed Title: Comprehensive Exterior VOC Emitting Materials Reduction Intent: Provide a safe and healthy outdoor environment for both construction teams and building occupants. Reduce outdoor pollution resulting from construction practices and material selection. Requirements: Significantly reduce the amount of VOCs released to the outdoor air through construction practices and materials selection by specifying low VOC emitting products for each of the following if/as incorporated in the project: ? Factory applied cool roof coating (rather than field applied) ? No added urea-formaldehyde composite wood exterior doors ? Low VOC siding materials (composite wood and cement product) ? Low VOC pesticides and vegetation care products ? Heat island effect: roof- meet LEED-NC SS7.2 credit requirements Submittal: In addition to all corresponding submittal requirements for existing LEED credits, document specific efforts to reduce VOCs external to the building, and describe how a comprehensive exterior VOC reduction that address control and mitigation has been realized. Design Approach: ? Source Control: minimize VOC sources from being installed/used in the exterior building and site construction ? Mitigation: maintain outdoor air quality to minimize VOC presence ? Identify sources of VOCs within the exterior building and site design, and specify low VOC or VOC free alternatives. ? Locate site in area accessible to existing public transportation networks, provide bike storage and showering facilities, provide preferred parking for low emitting and fuel efficient vehicles, and base parking capacity on actual user needs rather than code or precedent for building type. ? Green Seal Standard GC-03 exterior paints, primers, and coatings ? SCAQMD Rule #1168 compliant concrete sealant ? Low VOC exterior caulks and adhesives ? Separate pedestrian traffic flow patterns from vehicle flow patterns ? Heat island effect: non-roof- meet LEED-NC SSc7.1 credit requirements ? SCAQMD Rule #1168 compliant wood stains and wood sealers ? Low VOC decking materials (composite wood and cement product)

Ruling:

The proposed requirements and approach to an ID credit have merit. In order to justify an ID credit, the requirements would need to be more comprehensive than stated, and you would need to provide additional environmental context. To be comprehensive, the requirements should include the VOC limits for concrete sealants and caulks, exterior paints, wood stains and sealers, and metal stains and sealers. Also, the project should describe the regional air quality context to justify the restriction of outdoor emissions of VOCs. For example, the importance of man-made VOC emissions in smog formation varies between regions. If you decide to pursue an ID credit for this approach, be sure to include the full component of chemical products in the requirements and to quantify both the health and environmental benefits. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/13/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project involves the construction of a land mark addition to one of the world\'s premier art museums. As such a world famous architect based out of Paris, France was contracted to design the 260,000 square foot addition. We would like to propose an innovation in design credit based on electronic transmission of submittal review packages with the assumption that we will be saving sending hardcopies back and forth to Europe. Would the following be considered for an innovation credit? Credit Intent: Reduce the project\'s carbon footprint Credit Requirements: 1. Document the total number of submittal packages reviewed by the architect. For the purposes of the calculations, we will assume a standard submittal package size of 10 pages of 11x17 paper, and five copies of each submittal 2. Based on the above assumption, calculate a total weight of submittal packages that would have been sent to Europe. 3. Provide evidence of the weight capacity and fuel use of a standard aircraft used to ship packages to Europe. 4. Indicate the total savings of harmful emissions from NOT shipping hard copies of the submittal packages. As a side note, the use of electronic transmission not only reduces the project\'s carbon footprint, but has the added benefit of faster review of the submittals, likely reducing the overall time of construction.

Ruling:

While the practice of electronic transmission of submittal review packages is laudable, it does not warrant an innovation credit. The electronic transmission of submittal review packages is not only becoming common practice, but it is a relatively small part of the larger impacts of an international team, e.g. travel, other shipping, etc. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/6/2009
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

DESCRIPTION Proposed achievement of this credit involves production of a fifteen minute video overview of the resort\'s LEED and green features. INTENT Previous rulings have indicated a minimum of two of the following solutions were required to achieve a point for public education within the Innovation and Design category: - Comprehensive signage program - Development of a manual, guideline, or case study - Educational outreach program or guided tour It is the intent of this CIR to seek a ruling that would permit the use of digital media (i.e., video) to serve, as an alternate path to all of the above. REQUIREMENTS Utilize digital media to expand upon the delivery of public education through: - Providing context to the LEED plaque (to be located in the lobby) by playing back the video on a flat screen adjacent to the plaque. This will provide expansive meaning to a plaque that will be viewed by thousands of people each year - including many who are not familiar with USGBC or LEED. Additionally, this would also reduce the traditional use of lobby paper products to tell the green story. Such paper products can sometimes go underutilized and/or are quickly discarded. - Educating visitors on the LEED and non-LEED green attributes of the resort by the daily and multiple playbacks (minimum 4 times each day) of the video on the resort\'s dedicated in-room television channel. This would achieve USGBC\'s goal of educating visitors to the project. - Educating new employees by playback of the video as part of their initial training and orientation. This would achieve USGBC\'s goal of educating employees. - Reaching a larger audience beyond those traveling to the resort by featuring the video on the resort\'s website and the corporation\'s environmental initiatives website. In essence the video provides a virtual, as opposed to physical guided tour, of the project without expanding facilities unnecessarily in order to conduct tours of the back of house physical plant. This would complement USGBC\'s goal of sharing the successes of this project with others who may not have the opportunity to visit the project. SUBMITTALS LEED Design Application Milestone: - Proposed location of lobby LEED plaque and adjacent flat screen - Story treatment/synopsis LEED Construction Application Milestone submittals would include: - Shooting script - Shooting schedule - Schedule of daily playback on the in-room resort channel - Web address/proposed design for the resort and environmental affairs websites that would host the video.

Ruling:

The proposed innovation credit is based on using digital media, in the form of a video, which will provide information about the green features of the building. While commendable, this approach alone does not substantiate a comprehensive green education program to warrant achievement of an innovation credit. An additional strategy should be adopted, and must be actively instructional, such as an educational outreach program or guided tour, or a comprehensive signage program built into the building\'s respective spaces. Please refer to the established requirements for this as noted in the LEED-NC v2.1 CIR ruling dated 09/24/2001. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/2/2008
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This project utilizes a parallel water distribution system (Viega\'s Manabloc) for domestic water on all lavatories, mop sinks, and water coolers (water closets are served by grey water). The design uses two strategically placed manifolds located close to the hot water recirculation loop. Individual supply lines from the manifolds are routed the shortest possible distance to each fixtures (hot and cold) in a home-run style minimizing lengths to

Ruling:

The project team is inquiring as to whether a reduction in building water use for achieved by means other than the measures recognized in WE credit 3 is eligible for an ID credit. A major difference between the proposed measure and the fixture efficiency used in WEc3 is that the savings from this proposed piping design depend on the relative use of hot water and only apply to that fraction of the overall water use. As a result, in order to justify an ID credit for this system, the project would need to demonstrate that the projected water savings attributable to the piping design are equal to or greater than 10% of the total regulated water use in WEc3. The description provided references a 40% improvement overall conventional piping design (the report was not accessible via the CIR system). You will need to clarify whether this 40% savings is relative to total building water use or just hot water use, etc. It is assumed that the project is already achieving WE credit 3.1 and 3.2. If those credits are not already being achieved, you would simply apply this same approach as an alternate compliance path for WEc3, as opposed to an ID credit.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
8/27/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:

This CIR is not for an I.D. credit, but for an Administrative CIR. We are developing a mixed use building New York City consisting of a residential tower above core & shell retail spaces. The retail spaces will be fit-out by tenants after the completion of construction. We are fitting-out well over 50% of the building\'s square footage and will be seeking a LEED-NC rating. The design and construction of our building will ensure that the future fit-out spaces ARE ABLE to meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits we are pursuing and ARE REQUIRED to be designed so as not to degrade the LEED status of the original LEED-NC project. We propose to exclude any interior build-out work from the LEED but provide tenant fit-out guidelines for the project submission (per administrative CIR 9/17/04). Further, we are not relying on any future tenant design and construction activities to earn the credits included the original LEED-NC project. Our question concerns what our tenant guidelines must REQUIRE (through binding contract) from our first and all future tenants in fitting-out their spaces. We understand from previous CIRs that requiring compliance with all prerequisites and credits pursued by the original LEED-NC project will earn an I.D. credit, but we are unclear about what is required if the I.D. credit is not pursued. Please confirm which, if any, of the following measures must be required (as opposed to being encouraged through the tenant guidelines): a) The future tenant fit-out spaces must achieve all seven LEED-NC prerequisites; b) The future tenant fit-out spaces must meet the forthcoming LEED criteria for earning 2 points under Optimize Energy Performance; c) The future tenant fit-out spaces must ONLY achieve those LEED-NC prerequisites that directly affect the performance of the original LEED-NC project (e.g. complying with EQp2 if air systems are shared, spaces are connected, etc.); d) The future tenant fit-out spaces must achieve all LEED credits that directly affect the performance of the original LEED-NC project (e.g. complying with EQc4 if air systems are shared, etc.). Thank you for your consideration.

Ruling:

The inquiry is seeking clarification on what measures tenant guidelines must require from tenants for fitting-out their spaces in the building. Based on previous LEED-NC v2.1 Administrative Inquiry CIRs concerning tenant guidelines, project teams need not require any particular measures for tenant fit-out spaces. Per LEED-NC v2.1 Administrative Inquiry CIR ruling dated 2/22/2005, the tenant guidelines should ensure that future tenant fit-outs CAN meet LEED prerequisites and requirements for the credits pursued by the project. Applicable Internationally.

Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes

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