9) Project Surroundings and Public Outreach (73)

A building's total emissions footprint does which of the following over time? A. Incrementally increases B. Incrementally decreases C. Remains the same D. Fluctuates

A. Incrementally increases This is Correct. Continuous monitoring and ongoing commissioning help maintain systems and keep their performance optimized to keep emissions lower over time. Most systems will degrade over time - everything from a white roof to the HVAC system incrementally raising a building's emissions unless steps are taken for prevention.

The operation of buildings, including landscaping, accounts for ____ of total water use in the United States. A. 6% B. 14% C. 18% D. 20%

B. 14% This is Correct.

Green buildings have on average energy use intensities that are ____ lower than in typical buildings. A. 12% B. 16% C. 24% D. 28%

C. 24% This is Correct. This comes from an independent study by the New Buildings Institute.

A study by the New Buildings Institute found that in green buildings, average energy use intensities (energy consumed per unit of floor space) are _____ than in typical buildings A. 24% lower B. 16% lower C. 32% lower D. 5% higher

A. 24% lower This is Correct.

Which percentage of the Earth's water is fresh water? A. 3% B. 5% C. 7% D. 10%

A. 3% This is Correct. We have limited water on the planet and a growing population, and drought conditions are stressing our limited existing water supply.

Before using graywater to irrigate a project's landscape the landscape architect should review: A. EPA Rainwater Management Model B. EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool C. Local codes D. ENERGY STAR WaterSense

A. EPA Rainwater Management Model EPA Rainwater Management Model is used for calculating rainwater runoff. B. EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool The WaterSense Water Budget Tool is used for calculating outdoor water use requirements. C. Local codes This is Correct. Local codes should be checked to see if using graywater for irrigation on the project is allowed. D. ENERGY STAR WaterSense WaterSense is the standard used for indoor plumbing fixtures.

What non-financial incentives can a municipality offer to encourage developers to build residential projects to green standards? A. Low interest loans B. Performance contracts for solar power C. Permit Expediting D. Appointments to the city council

A. Low interest loans This is a financial incentive that could only come from a bank or other type of investment company. With the exception of a public bond. B. Performance contracts for solar power This would come from a utility company or third party energy provider, not a municipality. C. Permit Expediting This is Correct. The local municipality is in control of building permit schedules. This is a common practice to incentivize green development. D. Appointments to the city council This would be illegal ;)

What is an economic benefit for the triple bottom line that LEED-certified buildings may have? A. More healthful and productive environments for occupants B. Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions C. Reduced waste sent to landfills D. Qualification for tax rebates

D. Qualification for tax rebates This is Correct. LEED-certified buildings are designed to deliver the following benefits: -Lower operating costs and increased asset value-Reduced waste sent to landfills -Energy and water conservation -More healthful and productive environments for occupants -Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions -Qualification for tax rebates, zoning allowances, and other incentives in many cities The first and last items in the list contribute directly to the economic bottom line.

Which is NOT a long term effects of climate change? A. Higher sea levels B. Higher temperatures C. Longer droughts D. Reduced CO2 emissions

D. Reduced CO2 emissions This is Correct. CO2 emissions are rising.

Extracting and sourcing raw materials in a responsible manner is intended to avoid all of the following EXCEPT: A. Deforestation B. Degradation of water sources C. Infringement of indigenous people's rights D. Threats to rare and endangered species E. Depletion of the ozone layer

E. Depletion of the ozone layer This is Correct. Ozone depletion is primarily addressed by a building's energy use and choice of refrigerants. The remaining choices are what can occur when raw material extraction is not done responsibly.

The linear use of resources where outputs are treated as waste contributes to the toxins accumulating in the atmosphere, water and on the ground. This has accelerated the pace of the planet's biggest problem which is: A. Poor water quality B. Products containing hazardous chemicals C. Climate change D. Indoor air quality

C. Climate change This is Correct. According to USGBC the biggest problem we face as a society is climate change, much of it stemming from the built environment and using nonrenewable energy, water, and materials at an ever increasing pace.

How can the greenhouse gas emissions caused by the built environment be reduced? A. Installing single pane glazing in buildings B. Implementing a waste-to-energy program C. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings D. Building on a greenfield site

C. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings This is Correct.

Regional priority credits are specific to: A. LEED credit category B. LEED rating system family (BD+C, ID+C, etc.) C. LEED project type (schools, healthcare, data centers, etc.) D. The state the project is located in

C. LEED project type (schools, healthcare, data centers, etc.) This is Correct. Each LEED project type may have different impacts so each rating system has its own RP credits. For example a warehouse may not have high priority for indoor water use if there are not a lot of occupants.

Economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility define a project's: A. Minimum Program Requirements B. Federal, state, and/or local regulations C. Triple bottom line D. Innovation

C. Triple bottom line This is Correct. One of USGBC's Guiding Principles is to promote the Triple Bottom Line: 'USGBC will pursue robust triple bottom line solutions that clarify and strengthen a healthy and dynamic balance between environmental, social, and economic prosperity.' The triple bottom line (also known as 'people, planet, profit') captures an expanded spectrum of values and criteria for measuring organizational (and societal) success: economic prosperity, environmental stewardship and social responsibility. In practical terms, triple bottom line accounting means expanding the traditional reporting framework to take into account ecological and social performance in addition to financial performance. 'People, planet and profit' succinctly describes the triple bottom lines and the goal of sustainability. You might hear the triple bottom line referred to in different ways: * The three P's: profit, planet, and people * The three E's: economics, ecology, social equity * Social capital (people), economic capital (profit), natural capital (planet) * Economic viability, environmental stewardship, social awareness: USGBC

A project building in a colder climate is located in a basin that replenishes the water supply each spring from the snow on nearby mountains. If the design team thinks ahead to the future, how would this influence the design of the project? A. Commissioning will be important B. Adaptive reuse should be considered C. Water conservation should be emphasized D. Natural gas for heating should be used

C. Water conservation should be emphasized This is Correct. Consider the information given and the goals of LEED - to curb climate change. Are snowpacks growing or shrinking due to climate change? Overall they are shrinking. If a building or area depends on the snowpack and the snowpack is diminishing, building design should consider water conservation for the future.

The built environment, including buildings and transportation systems, account for what percent of all greenhouse gas emissions? A. 1/4 B. 1/2 C. 1/3 D. 2/3

D. 2/3 This is Correct. About 2/3 of GHG emissions are attributed to the built environment.

In the United States buildings account for ____ carbon dioxide emissions. A. 42% B. 26% C. 34% D. 38%

D. 38% This is Correct. In the United States, buildings account for: 14% of potable water consumption 30% of waste output 40% of raw materials use 38% of carbon dioxide emissions 24% to 50% of energy use 72% of electricity consumption

What is an example of regenerative design? A. A net-zero energy building B. A building that uses rainwater onsite C. A project with a community recycling program D. A building that generates electricity and sends the excess to the grid

D. A building that generates electricity and sends the excess to the grid This is Correct. Regenerative design is 'sustainable plans for built environments that improve existing conditions. Regenerative design goes beyond reducing impacts to create positive change in the local and global environment.' - USGBC By generating more electricity than the project uses, the system is considered regenerative.

What metric is useful for determining the energy, water, solid waste, materials, and transportation impacts of buildings and communities? A. Ozone depletion potential B. CFC leakage rate C. H2O emissions D. Carbon emissions

D. Carbon emissions This is Correct.

For which of the following are the ICC International Codes used? A. Guiding code officials about hazardous chemicals contained in building materials B. Establishing energy-efficiency guidelines for public buildings C. Defining minimum indoor air quality standards D. Providing minimum safeguards for people at home, at school, and in the workplace

D. Providing minimum safeguards for people at home, at school, and in the workplace This is Correct. The International Codes, or I-Codes, published by ICC, provide minimum safeguards for people at home, at school, and in the workplace. The I-Codes are a complete set of comprehensive, coordinated building safety and fire prevention codes. Building codes benefit public safety and support the industry's need for one set of codes without regional limitations. Fifty states and the District of Columbia have adopted the I-Codes at the state or jurisdictional level. Federal agencies including the Architect of the Capitol, General Services Administration, National Park Service, Department of State, U.S. Forest Service, and the Veterans Administration also enforce the I-Codes. The Department of Defense references the IBC for constructing military facilities, including those that house U.S. troops both domestically and abroad. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands enforce one or more of the I-Codes.

What financial incentive can a municipality offer to a developer that proposes a green building? A. Percentage increase in the floor area ratio B. Increases in the allowable density C. Allowing a building to be have an increased height D. Tax credits

D. Tax credits This is Correct.

In the United States buildings account for ____ electricity consumption. A. 72% B. 56% C. 66% D. 74%

A. 72% This is Correct. In the United States, buildings account for: 14% of potable water consumption 30% of waste output 40% of raw materials use 38% of carbon dioxide emissions 24% to 50% of energy use 72% of electricity consumption

Sustainable plans for built environments that improve existing conditions is called: A. Adaptive reuse B. Net-zero energy project C. Regenerative design D. Passive design

A. Adaptive reuse Adaptive reuse is the design and construction of a building so that it can serve a future use that is different than its current use. B. Net-zero energy project Net-zero energy projects use no more energy from the grid than they produce on site. C. Regenerative design This is Correct. This is a description of regenerative design. D. Passive design Passive design uses sunlight and natural air-flows to help with heating, cooling, and lighting.

What must be considered in the project budget for a green building project that would not be part of a conventional project? A. Added building equipment to make the building more energy efficient B. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials C. Additional time in the schedule for construction D. Selecting only ENERGY STAR appliances

A. Added building equipment to make the building more energy efficient Green building doesn't necessarily require added equipment for efficiency. B. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials This is Correct. The manual states project teams should determine relevant design fees and construction costs. Also address: 1. Life-cycle cost analysis 2. Design and cost advice from experienced green building professionals 3. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials Life cycle costing is used to evaluate economic performance and takes into account operational and maintenance costs throughout the life of the product. C. Additional time in the schedule for construction 'One of the main potential benefits of IPD is the reduction of construction time due to the extensive planning and changes to project processes.' (AIA IPD Guide) D. Selecting only ENERGY STAR appliances While ENERGY STAR appliances do save more energy compared to non ENERGY STAR appliances, green buildings do not require ENERGY STAR appliances.

What low / no cost structural incentive can a municipality make to a developer to encourage green building? A. Allowing increases in the floor area ratio B. Green building grants C. Tax credits D. Fee waivers

A. Allowing increases in the floor area ratio This is Correct. Make sure you check out the document Green Building Incentive Strategies to learn about money-saving incentives: http://www.usgbc.org/Docs/Archive/General/Docs6248.pdf There are different incentives for rewarding developers or homeowners who practice green building techniques spurs innovation and demand for green building technologies. Structural incentives include: Expedited review / permitting process Density and height bonuses Financial incentives include: Tax credits Fee reductions / waivers Grants Revolving loan funds (low-interest loans) Non-financial incentives include: Technical assistance Marketing assistance

What options within LEED credits address different geographic and climactic regions while providing solutions to challenges faced by projects at a regional level? A. Alternative Compliance Paths B. Regional priority credits C. Innovation credits D. Minimum program requirements (MPRs)

A. Alternative Compliance Paths This is Correct. B. Regional priority credits Regional priority credits are not options within LEED credits. Regional priority credits are existing credits that USGBC chapters and the LEED International Roundtable have designated as being particularly important for their areas. C. Innovation credits D. Minimum program requirements (MPRs)

Which of the following is an example of the triple bottom line in practice? A. An energy efficient building built on a site with endangered species B. A building material purchased and shipped from overseas C. A building with good indoor air quality and minimal insulation D. A residential project that contributes to neighborhood revitalization

A. An energy efficient building built on a site with endangered species The environment would be negatively impacted by the loss of species. B. A building material purchased and shipped from overseas The environment would be negatively impacted by the transportation from overseas. C. A building with good indoor air quality and minimal insulation The minimal insulation would be bad for the environment and probably the occupants. D. A residential project that contributes to neighborhood revitalization This is Correct. This benefits the people and surrounding community with additional tax revenue.

What does the built environment refer to? A. Any environment that is human-made and provides a structure for human activity B. A process of continually improving buildings C. Structures that provide stronger connections to nature D. The green building movement

A. Any environment that is human-made and provides a structure for human activity This is Correct. The term built environment refers to any environment that is human-made and provides a structure for human activity, ranging in scale from personal shelter and buildings to neighborhoods and cities that can often include their supporting infrastructure, such as water supply or energy networks. B. A process of continually improving buildings The process of continually improving buildings is one of the goals of green building. C. Structures that provide stronger connections to nature Green buildings are structures that provide stronger connections to nature. D. The green building movement There are a number of motives to building green, including environmental, economic, and social benefits. However, modern sustainability initiatives call for an integrative and synergistic design to both new construction and in the retrofitting of an existing structure.

What is a negative environmental externality of locating a project in an area that does not have diverse uses or public transportation access, and is not densely developed? A. Availability of high-paying jobs B. Increased air pollution C. Increased development costs D. Increased tax base

A. Availability of high-paying jobs More jobs is a positive externality. B. Increased air pollution This is Correct. Every company, large or small, has "externalities" that typically do not show up in profit and loss reports. Environmental externalities are transactions in which one or more parties to the transaction are not compensated and may have little choice in the transaction. Air pollution, for example, is a visible externality of manufacturing, the cost of which is generally paid by others. Externalities can be either negative or positive for both parties affected. Consider the effects of locating an oil refinery adjacent to a residential neighborhood: air pollution and associated health effects, noise pollution, light pollution, increased traffic, risk of industrial accident (all negative externalities) and availability of high-paying jobs, increased tax base for schools and other infrastructure (positive effect). C. Increased development costs The development cost is not an externality, because the developer is going to pay them. The city is going to have to come up with the funds to install the infrastructure, but they do this hoping to increase the tax-base. D. Increased tax base

What are local ordinances? A. Building codes based on national model codes B. Local government regulations imposed to promote orderly development of private lands and prevent land-use conflicts C. A law usually found in a municipal code D. Recommendations for good building practices

A. Building codes based on national model codes This defines local codes. Local building codes represent the minimum codes that a project must adhere to. State and local jurisdictions may develop their own regulations or adopt building codes based on national model codes. State and local codes are typically based on national model codes published by the International Code Council (ICC) B. Local government regulations imposed to promote orderly development of private lands and prevent land-use conflicts This defines local zoning. C. A law usually found in a municipal code This is Correct. This defines what local ordinance is. Projects should prepare and review a list of the appropriate and applicable laws, codes, local ordinances, statutes, and industry-related standards relevant to the project. D. Recommendations for good building practices This is not the correct definition.

Relative to the LEED project design what has a low soft cost? A. Building commissioning B. Cost of the LEED charrette C. Facility management costs D. Carpet installation

A. Building commissioning Building commissioning costs are much higher than the cost of a one-day charrette. B. Cost of the LEED charrette This is Correct. The cost of the charrette and the time of each team member for the one day is pretty insignificant compared to the benefits and cost savings of the integrative process. C. Facility management costs This would be your ongoing operations costs, which is typically salaries for people. D. Carpet installation Carpet installation is a hard cost.Hard costs: By far the largest portion of the expenses in a construction budget, the hard costs are mostly comprised of the actual construction costs incurred to build the project. Examples include masonry, wood, steel, carpet, tile, mechanical systems, roofing.

What is an example of an ongoing operating cost? A. Carpet installation B. Attorney fees for building contracts C. Salaries for janitorial services in a building D. Design of a sedimentation control plan

A. Carpet installation Carpet installation is a hard cost.Hard costs: By far the largest portion of the expenses in a construction budget, the hard costs are mostly comprised of the actual construction costs incurred to build the project.Examples include masonry, wood, steel, carpet, tile, mechanical systems, roofing. B. Attorney fees for building contracts Attorney fees are a type of soft cost.A soft construction cost is one that is not directly related to building, construction, etc. These include building permit fees, architect fees, legal, financing, engineering fees, commissioning, and other costs incurred before and after construction. C. Salaries for janitorial services in a building This is Correct. Operating costs are another type of cost for a building in addition to hard and soft costs. These costs occur after the building is complete and up and running. These costs include utilities such as water and electricity as well as the costs of maintenance personnel - janitorial, landscape, security. D. Design of a sedimentation control plan Design of a sedimentation control plan is a soft cost.A soft construction cost is one that is not directly related to building, construction, etc. These include building permit fees, architect fees, legal, financing, engineering fees, commissioning, and other costs incurred before and after construction.

A developer for an office building will lease out spaces to tenants. What is the value to the developer for certifying the building? A. Certified green office buildings rent for 2% more than comparable buildings B. Certified green office buildings have guaranteed grants from local governments C. Certified green office buildings do not have to go through the permitting process D. Certified green office buildings receive 0% interest loans

A. Certified green office buildings rent for 2% more than comparable buildings This is Correct. Studies show on average a green building can charge higher building rents (2% on average) and have less empty tenant spaces than non-green buildings. B. Certified green office buildings have guaranteed grants from local governments Grants may be available but they aren't guaranteed. C. Certified green office buildings do not have to go through the permitting process The permitting process may be expedited but it would not be skipped. D. Certified green office buildings receive 0% interest loans Loans may be discounted but would not be free.

Which of the following would be classified as a soft construction cost? A. Civil engineer consulting fee B. Construction worker labor costs C. Purchase of some steel D. Rental of a dumpster

A. Civil engineer consulting fee This is Correct. A soft construction cost is one that is not directly related to building, construction, etc. These can be architectural, legal, financing, engineering fees, commissioning, and other costs incurred before and after construction. B. Construction worker labor costs This is a hard cost. By far the largest portion of the expenses in a construction budget, the hard costs are mostly comprised of the actual construction costs incurred to build the project. Examples of hard costs include masonry, wood, steel, carpet, tile, mechanical systems, roofing. C. Purchase of some steel This is a hard cost. D. Rental of a dumpster This is a hard cost.

An additional cost that a green building project may have compared to a conventional project is: A. Consultant fees for green building experts B. Permit fees for plumbing C. Added utility costs D. Increased prices for selecting a sustainable site

A. Consultant fees for green building experts This is Correct. The manual states project teams should determine relevant design fees and construction costs. Also address: 1. Life-cycle cost analysis 2. Design and cost advice from experienced green building professionals 3. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials Life cycle costing is used to evaluate economic performance and takes into account operational and maintenance costs throughout the life of the product. B. Permit fees for plumbing All projects require plumbing permits. C. Added utility costs LEED buildings are supposed to have lower utility costs because the LEED prerequisites require using a percentage less energy and water than conventional buildings. D. Increased prices for selecting a sustainable site The price of the lot is a fixed price regardless of what you build on it. A site may cost more or less depending on the size and location.

What is the value of documenting and tracking a building's resource use? A. Contributes to knowledge that will advance research in the future B. Reduces first costs C. Reduces end-of-life costs D. Reduces a building's embodied energy

A. Contributes to knowledge that will advance research in the future This is Correct. USGBC collects water and energy usage from LEED projects. This information helps the development of future LEED rating system versions. B. Reduces first costs Resource tracking doesn't effect first costs. C. Reduces end-of-life costs This is not correct. D. Reduces a building's embodied energy Once the building is built the embodied energy that went into it is fixed. Tracking future resource use has no impact on this.

What is considered a positive externality of LEED-certified buildings on building occupants? A. Decreased absenteeism B. Energy efficiency improvements C. Reduced water consumption D. Improved daylighting

A. Decreased absenteeism This is Correct. Research shows that just like increased productivity, decreased absenteeism is a by-product of healthier buildings. B. Energy efficiency improvements Energy efficiency is not an externality for an occupant. C. Reduced water consumption Water reduction is not an externality for an occupant. D. Improved daylighting The daylighting itself is a design choice, not an externality. What the daylight provides (increased productivity, decreased absenteeism) is the externality.

What environmental externalities occur when buildings use significant quantities of potable water indoors? A. Decreased energy efficiency B. Increased water rates C. Increased environmental burdens on the water supply D. Increased stormwater runoff

A. Decreased energy efficiency The energy efficiency of a building is not an externality. B. Increased water rates Water rates would not be an environmental externality. C. Increased environmental burdens on the water supply This is Correct. Every company, large or small, has "externalities" that typically do not show up in profit and loss reports. Environmental externalities are transactions in which one or more parties to the transaction are not compensated and may have little choice in the transaction. Air pollution, for example, is a visible externality of manufacturing, the cost of which is generally paid by others. Externalities can be either negative or positive for both parties affected. Consider the effects of locating an oil refinery adjacent to a residential neighborhood: air pollution and associated health effects, noise pollution, light pollution, increased traffic, risk of industrial accident (all negative externalities) and availability of high-paying jobs, increased tax base for schools and other infrastructure (positive effect). D. Increased stormwater runoff Stormwater runoff would not increase if a building's indoor potable water use increases.

What organization develops building safety and fire prevention codes for the construction of residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools? A. Department of Energy (DoE) B. ASHRAE C. International Code Council D. Underwriters Laboratory (UL)

A. Department of Energy (DoE) DoE is not addressed in LEED. B. ASHRAE ASHRAE has a number of standards that have been adopted by LEED to meet the credit requirements of some of the credits. C. International Code Council This is Correct. The ICC creates codes for building and safety. Many of these codes are adopted by local jurisdictions and become part of the local building code. The codes are a complete set of comprehensive, coordinated building safety, plumbing, mechanical, fire prevention, energy efficiency codes, and accessibility. D. Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Underwriters Laboratory addresses product safety certification.

Which building project supports the triple bottom line? A. Energy efficient building that has poor acoustics B. Flooring material with a small carbon footprint extracted from an area that displaced local people C. Eco-resort built in an area with threatened species D. Building renovation in a federal empowerment zone

A. Energy efficient building that has poor acoustics Energy efficiency supports the triple bottom line. The poor acoustics do not because it negatively affect the occupants. B. Flooring material with a small carbon footprint extracted from an area that displaced local people The small carbon footprint supports the triple bottom line. Displacing people to get at the materials negatively affects people. C. Eco-resort built in an area with threatened species The eco-resort supports the triple bottom line. Building the resort in sensitive habitat negatively affects the planet. D. Building renovation in a federal empowerment zone This is Correct. Reusing a building in a high priority designated area supports all aspects of the triple bottom line.

What is an example of construction hard costs for an office condominium project? A. Fees to develop tenant agreements B. Financing Fees C. Irrigation fees for water use D. Masonry costs paid to a sub-contractor

A. Fees to develop tenant agreements This fee would be a soft cost. B. Financing Fees C. Irrigation fees for water use Water/electricity are ongoing operating costs. D. Masonry costs paid to a sub-contractor This is Correct. Masonry is a hard cost.

A project team wants to install a rainwater harvesting system to provide water to flush toilets but local code does not permit this. What should the project team do? A. Find alternative solutions for indoor water use reduction B. Submit a CIR to the LEED project reviewer C. Request an exception from the LEED project reviewer to allow the reduction anyway D. Have the plumbers install the system anyway

A. Find alternative solutions for indoor water use reduction This is Correct. Other solutions will need to be found to reduce potable water use indoors. B. Submit a CIR to the LEED project reviewer CIRs are for technical guidance on credits. C. Request an exception from the LEED project reviewer to allow the reduction anyway If the local code does not permit rainwater use, the project team can't get an exception to offset what would have been the reduction. D. Have the plumbers install the system anyway It would be nice if you could ignore local codes that sometimes don't make sense, but eventually a building code official will find the code violation.

What is different about green building design compared to conventional design? A. Green building costs more B. Green building has longer schedules C. Green building uses an integrative process D. Green building does not have a bidding phase

A. Green building costs more This is sometimes true but not always. B. Green building has longer schedules This is not necessarily true. Green building does usually have a longer design phase. C. Green building uses an integrative process This is Correct. Green building has several additional phases compared to conventional design. D. Green building does not have a bidding phase Green building has a bidding phase.

What green building codes can be enforced by law? A. ISO 14001 B. LEED C. ENERGYSTAR D. International Green Construction Code

A. ISO 14001 ISO 14000 is a family of standards related to environmental management that exists to help organizations minimize how their operations negatively affect the environment; comply with applicable laws, regulations, and other environmentally oriented requirements; and continually improve in the above. - Wikipedia B. LEED LEED Rating Systems are not written in the form of enforceable codes, acting as optional approaches. C. ENERGYSTAR D. International Green Construction Code This is Correct. The IgCC is an actual code that is clear and enforceable, similar to codes for electricity and plumbing. The IgCC is a 'model' code, requiring adoption by a governing jurisdiction before it becomes law. In this way, the model language can, if necessary, be adapted to address local conditions and allows for publicly elected legislative bodies to have the final voice in adoption. An alternate path of compliance to the IgCC is the ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IESStandard 189.1, Standard for the Design of High Performance, Green Buildings Except Low-RiseResidential Buildings. Like the IgCC, Standard 189.1 is a set of technically rigorous Requirements covering water use efficiency, indoor environmental quality, energy efficiency, materials and resource use, and the building's impact on its site and its community.

If a project team increases the ventilation in a building and adds quality views to occupant spaces what will be the result? A. Improved productivity of the occupants B. Decreased air quality for the occupants C. Increased resource use for the project D. Decreased first costs

A. Improved productivity of the occupants This is Correct. Research shows by improving indoor air quality, adding daylighting and views, occupant productivity goes up. B. Decreased air quality for the occupants Increasing ventilation improves air quality. C. Increased resource use for the project These design decisions do not impact resource use. D. Decreased first costs Additional ventilation may increase energy demand. Adding views is probably not going to decrease costs.

Which of the following does green building help with creating? A. Increased externalities on ecosystem services B. Communities with open resource loops with linear impacts on the built environment C. Communities that are more vital to a healthy society D. High Priority Sites

A. Increased externalities on ecosystem services Rather, green buildings help create, DECREASED externalities on ecosystem services. B. Communities with open resource loops with linear impacts on the built environment Rather, green buildings help create, Communities with CLOSED resource loops with CIRCULAR impacts on the built environment (ie. recycling and reuse). C. Communities that are more vital to a healthy society This is Correct. Green communities can significantly affect the quality of life, as well as the environment. Reduced commute times, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced water use and resource consumption all help with the health of society. D. High Priority Sites LEED defines High Priority Sites as: an infill location in a historic district. * a site listed by the EPA National Priorities List; * a Federal Empowerment Zone site; * a Federal Enterprise Community site; * a Federal Renewal Community site; * a Department of the Treasury Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Qualified Low-Income Community (a subset of the New Markets Tax Credit Program); * a site in a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Qualified Census Tract (QCT) or Difficult Development Area (DDA); or * a local equivalent program administered at the national level for projects outside the U.S.

What is an example of value engineering? A. Increasing the diversion rate of recycled materials B. Replacing an asphalt parking lot with less costly crushed gravel that has higher SRI C. Selecting insulation with higher upfront costs but lower life cycle costs D. Choosing a flooring material that has higher costs and a lower environmental impact over a flooring material that has lower costs and a greater environmental impact

A. Increasing the diversion rate of recycled materials This contributes to sustainability but would not be considered value engineering because an alternative was not selected that reduced costs. B. Replacing an asphalt parking lot with less costly crushed gravel that has higher SRI This is Correct. Value engineering (VE) is a review process that identifies and selects the lowest lifecycle cost options in design, materials and processes that achieves the desired level of performance, reliability and customer satisfaction. USGBC defines value engineering to mean reducing costs while improving performance. In this example the project team is reducing cost by switching to crushed gravel and reducing the heat island effect by using a higher SRI product (thus improving performance). Gravel roads also allow for water to get through the pervious surface. C. Selecting insulation with higher upfront costs but lower life cycle costs This is an example of life cycle costing. D. Choosing a flooring material that has higher costs and a lower environmental impact over a flooring material that has lower costs and a greater environmental impact This is not value engineering but life cycle assessment because the environmental attributes are considered, not the performance of the product.

What is an example of an economic benefits for an owner of a green building? A. Increasing the tax base to the community B. Increasing the value of the ecosystem services C. Reduced disturbance of greenfield sites D. Reduced liabilities due to poor indoor air quality causing health issues

A. Increasing the tax base to the community This would be a social issue that benefits the community rather than something that benefits the building owner. B. Increasing the value of the ecosystem services This would be an environmental benefit for all plants and animals and humans co-creating that ecosystem. C. Reduced disturbance of greenfield sites Disturbing greenfields is an environmental issue rather than an economic issue. D. Reduced liabilities due to poor indoor air quality causing health issues This is Correct.One of the goals of the IEQ category is to create a healthier indoor environment for occupants. This results in reduced sick days and hopefully cleaner air. Buildings that have mold or contaminants can cause health problems which can lead to lawsuits from the occupants.

What statement is true regarding green building? A. LEED buildings were increasingly common until construction costs rose 30% in the last two years B. Green design is a cost neutral add-on C. The construction of green buildings have no major significant cost difference to non-green buildings D. LEED teams are achieving certification through widely diverse methods

A. LEED buildings were increasingly common until construction costs rose 30% in the last two years LEED building is still taking place despite increases in construction costs. B. Green design is a cost neutral add-on Green design should not be an add-on. Green design should be considered in the pre-design phase. When green design is considered later (construction) phase the costs go up significantly and the building usually doesn't perform as well. C. The construction of green buildings have no major significant cost difference to non-green buildings This is Correct. According to Cost of Green Revisited - The 2006 study shows essentially the same results as 2004: there is no significant difference in average costs for green buildings as compared to non-green buildings. D. LEED teams are achieving certification through widely diverse methods LEED teams are achieving LEED certification through similar, low cost approaches. Most times the strategies among projects are very similar for those projects that have similar goals. Widely diverse methods would indicate every project is doing something significantly different than other projects.

What review practice identifies design alternatives that reduce costs while yielding higher performance? A. Life cycle assessment B. Life cycle costing C. Value engineering D. Environmentally responsive design

A. Life cycle assessment Life cycle assessment (LCA) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service. LCA evaluates environmental performance. This view takes into account the whole life of a product or project (not assessing it from a single point in time). B. Life cycle costing Life cycle costing (LCC) is the evaluation of the total cost of a building or product over its useful life, including initial, maintenance, repair and replacement costs as well as savings. LCC evaluates economic performance. C. Value engineering This is Correct. Value engineering (VE) is review process that identifies and selects the lowest lifecycle cost options in design, materials and processes that achieves the desired level of performance, reliability and customer satisfaction. USGBC has redefined value engineering to mean reducing costs while improving performance. In conventional building many building features are VEd out to cut the budget. Because of the integrative process in green buildings, VEing out a feature often messes up the performance of the system as a whole. For example if a building owner decides to take out better quality and more costly insulation, the building's utility bills will most likely go up and the HVAC system could be undersized. D. Environmentally responsive design Environmentally responsive design is a design approach that incorporates sustainable strategies into the design of a building.

What term refers to the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service caused or necessitated by its existence? A. Life cycle assessment B. Soft cost C. Hard cost D. Life cycle costing

A. Life cycle assessment This is Correct. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service. LCA evaluates environmental performance. This view takes into account the whole life of a product or project (not assessing it from a single point in time). B. Soft cost A soft construction cost is one that is not directly related to building, construction, etc. These include building permit fees, architect fees, legal, financing, engineering fees, commissioning, and other costs incurred before and after construction. C. Hard cost By far the largest portion of the expenses in a construction budget, the hard costs are mostly comprised of the actual construction costs incurred to build the project. The hard-cost categories are the bricks and mortar of the project. Examples of hard costs include masonry, wood, steel, carpet, tile, mechanical systems, roofing. D. Life cycle costing Life cycle costing (LCC) is the evaluation of the total cost of a building or product over its useful life, including initial, maintenance, repair and replacement costs as well as savings. LCC evaluates economic performance.

Compared to a conventional building, a green building project and construction budget will also include: A. Life cycle costing B. Fees to review local laws and standards C. Costs to implement erosion control plans D. Soft costs

A. Life cycle costing This is Correct. The manual states project teams should determine relevant design fees and construction costs. Also address: 1. Life cycle costing 2. Design and cost advice from experienced green building professionals 3. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials Life cycle costing compares different designs to determine the best long-term investment. All building expenses are included in the analysis including: Initial costs (design + construction) Operating costs (utilities, water, electricity, people)Maintenance costs (repair, replacement, upkeep) B. Fees to review local laws and standards Reviewing things like local zoning and ordinances are applicable to all building projects. C. Costs to implement erosion control plans All projects have erosion control - it is required at the federal level. D. Soft costs All projects have soft costs. Soft costs: These costs involve all of the other fees involved in the completion of the project. You would include your attorney fees, other professional fees, testing, appraisal, marketing, office, and overhead expenses. Soft costs are those expenditures necessary to complete a project but not directly 'bricks and mortar,' such as design and consultant fees, communications costs, interim housing, moving or relocation costs, and additional district staffing.

What process identifies the high-performance building systems that will save money over the life of a project? A. Life-cycle costing B. Value engineering C. Life-cycle assessment D. First costs

A. Life-cycle costing This is Correct. Life cycle costing (LCC) is the evaluation of the total cost of a building or product over its useful life, including initial, maintenance, repair and replacement costs as well as savings. LCC evaluates economic performance. LCC compares different designs to determine the best long-term investment. All building expenses are included in the analysis including: Initial costs (design + construction) Operating costs (utilities, water, electricity, people) Maintenance costs (repair, replacement, upkeep) B. Value engineering Value engineering is an organized methodology that identifies and selects the lowest cost options in design, materials and processes that achieves the desired level of performance, reliability and customer satisfaction. C. Life-cycle assessment Life cycle assessment (LCA) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service. LCA evaluates environmental performance. This view takes into account the whole life of a product or project (not assessing it from a single point in time). D. First costs First costs identify only the design and construction of a building, not its ongoing operating costs.

What specifies the set of rules for the minimum acceptable level of safety for buildings? A. Local zoning B. Building codes C. American Institute of Architects D. Local ordinances

A. Local zoning Zoning is a method of land use regulation used by local governments in most developed countries. Zoning may be use-based (regulating the uses to which land may be put), or it may regulate building height, lot coverage, and similar characteristics, or some combination of these. B. Building codes This is Correct. The main purpose of building codes are to protect public health, safety and general welfare as they relate to the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. The building code becomes law of a particular jurisdiction when formally enacted by the appropriate authority. C. American Institute of Architects The AIA is a leading professional membership association for licensed architects. D. Local ordinances A local ordinance is a law usually found in a municipal code.

A building with a vegetated roof is going to require additional costs for more materials to support the structure and for waterproofing, as well as plant materials. What are the life-cycle costing benefits of a vegetated roof? A. Lower maintenance costs and Reduction in rainwater runoff B. Longer product life and Reduced heat islands C. Lower maintenance costs and Longer product life D. Reduction in rainwater runoff and Reduced heat islands

A. Lower maintenance costs and Reduction in rainwater runoff B. Longer product life and Reduced heat islands C. Lower maintenance costs and Longer product life This is correct. In contrast to conventional roofs which require cleaning, patching and re-sealing, the plants to that work on green roofs. Green roofs can be attributed to lower maintenance costs because they absorb the shocks and stresses and protect the waterproofing membrane from puncture or deterioration. According to some studies and some LEED documentation, vegetated roofs have a longer product life than conventional roofs. Partly due to the yearly maintenance and upkeep that should occur. Moreover, these benefits are clearly related to on-going operations and maintenance costs, ie. life-cycle costing. Whereas the other choices include life-cycle analysis benefits. D. Reduction in rainwater runoff and Reduced heat islands These are benefits, HOWEVER, they are not life-cycle costing benefits as the question ask. Reducing runoff volume is an environmental benefit which would be determined by life-cycle analysis (environmental analysis), not life-cycle costing. in addition, Reducing heat islands is an environmental benefit which would be determined by life-cycle analysis (environmental analysis), not life-cycle costing.

The triple bottom line can be described as: A. People, planet, profit B. Socially responsible enterprise and investment C. Integration of a building with its natural surroundings D. The cost of green building

A. People, planet, profit This is Correct. Sustainability in the building sector can be measured by achieving the triple bottom line: sustainable practices that benefit the planet, people, and profit. B. Socially responsible enterprise and investment This is the double bottom line. This term is not used in green building. C. Integration of a building with its natural surroundings This is not the correct definition. D. The cost of green building This is not the correct definition.

What is an example of a construction hard cost? A. Permit fees B. On-site renewable energy system C. Reporting on a building's energy consumption over time D. Payments received from recycled materials

A. Permit fees Permit fees are a soft cost. A soft construction cost is one that is not directly related to building, construction, etc. These include building permit fees, architect fees, legal, financing, engineering fees, commissioning, and other costs incurred before and after construction. B. On-site renewable energy system This is Correct. An onsite renewable energy system is a mechanical system and would be a hard cost. C. Reporting on a building's energy consumption over time D. Payments received from recycled materials This isn't a cost but a potential source of income.

A business owner that purchases a fleet of green delivery vehicles reduces what externality? A. Pollution added to the environment B. Sales tax revenue to the community C. The comfort of the drivers D. Additional parking spaces for green vehicles

A. Pollution added to the environment This is Correct. By purchasing the green vehicles the externality of pollution is reduced. B. Sales tax revenue to the community Sales tax revenue would go up if the vehicles were purchased locally. C. The comfort of the drivers This is not impacted. D. Additional parking spaces for green vehicles Parking spaces may need to increase.

If a developer is planning on building a multi-family residential project what is the most important element for the project team to research for opportunities and limitations. A. Proximity to mass transit B. Local zoning C. Nearby LEED BD+C projects D. Availability of Recycling Haulers

A. Proximity to mass transit This is important, but not as urgent as zoning. B. Local zoning This is Correct Local zoning is always more important than following the LEED standard C. Nearby LEED BD+C projects Nearby BD+C projects would not impact the design decisions. D. Availability of Recycling Haulers This is important, but not as urgent as zoning.

Globally, transportation is responsible for what percent of greenhouse gas emissions? A. 20% B. 25% C. 30% D. 35%

B. 25% This is Correct. Selecting sites in dense areas where existing infrastructure exists helps reduce automobile use, as addressed in the Location and Transportation credits.

The green design approach taken by LEED: A. Reduces the environmental harms of buildings and restores the balance of natural systems B. Is useful only in urban areas where there is existing infrastructure C. Can only be used on projects with large budgets to offset the higher expenses of green building D. Emphasizes occupant health over saving energy

A. Reduces the environmental harms of buildings and restores the balance of natural systems This is Correct. "LEED is designed to address environmental challenges while responding to the needs of a competitive market. Certification demonstrates leadership, innovation, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. LEED gives building owners and operators the tools they need to immediately improve both building performance and the bottom line while providing healthful indoor spaces for a building's occupants." - USGBC B. Is useful only in urban areas where there is existing infrastructure LEED projects exist in urban and suburban areas. C. Can only be used on projects with large budgets to offset the higher expenses of green building When using an integrative process for green building the costs come out about the same compared to conventional buildings. Projects with large and small budgets have used LEED effectively. D. Emphasizes occupant health over saving energy The Energy and Atmosphere category in all LEED rating systems can earn more points than any other category, including IEQ which primarily addresses occupant health.

What is the most impactful way that a project can help to reverse contribution to climate change? A. Reducing fossil-fuel based energy consumption B. Using salvaged materials C. Choosing healthy building materials D. Locating the project near diverse uses

A. Reducing fossil-fuel based energy consumption This is Correct. Reversing contribution to global climate change is one of the LEED impact categories. Because of the large quantities of energy buildings consume, reducing their energy use (and thus their fossil-fuel based energy consumption) has the most impact on climate change. B. Using salvaged materials Reusing materials helps conserve resources. C. Choosing healthy building materials Healthy building materials addresses occupant health. D. Locating the project near diverse uses Locating near diverse uses is intended to promote walkability and reduce automobile use. However the building uses far more energy than automobiles.

What helps a project take advantage of the environmental assets of the area they live in? A. Regional Priority credits B. Minimum Program Requirements C. Prerequisites D. Local building code

A. Regional Priority credits This is Correct. Regional priority credits are bonus points projects can earn by addressing environmental concerns (water shortages) and environmental assets (abundant sunlight) in their areas. B. Minimum Program Requirements MPRs are the minimum characteristics or conditions that make a project appropriate to pursue LEED certification. These requirements are foundational to all LEED projects and define the types of buildings, spaces, and neighborhoods that the LEED rating system is designed to evaluate. C. Prerequisites In addition to the Minimum Program Requirements, each version of LEED contains unique prerequisite requirements that must be satisfied in order to achieve certification. The term prerequisite refers to a mandatory project characteristic, measurement, quality, value or function as identified within the LEED rating system. Prerequisites represent the key criteria that define green building performance. Each project must satisfy all specified prerequisites outlined in the LEED rating system under which it is registered. Failure to meet any prerequisite will render a project ineligible for certification. D. Local building code Local building codes represent the minimum codes that a project must adhere to. State and local jurisdictions may develop their own regulations or adopt building codes based on national model codes. State and local codes are typically based on national model codes published by the International Code Council (ICC)

How does LEED encourage focusing on regional issues? A. Regional priority credits B. Adhering to all local building codes C. Using reasonable LEED boundaries D. Awarding more points to those projects that have ENERGY STAR ratings

A. Regional priority credits This is Correct. B. Adhering to all local building codes Following local codes is necessary but the building codes may not have a focus on the environmental issues of the locale. C. Using reasonable LEED boundaries This is Minimum Program Requirement (MPR). D. Awarding more points to those projects that have ENERGY STAR ratings This is not correct.

Which of the following has the lowest soft cost? A. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) B. Legal fees for building contracts C. Self-guided education program on the green features of a project D. Construction waste hauling fees

A. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) RECs - a soft cost - can be expensive. B. Legal fees for building contracts Legal fees are a soft cost. Contracts and the lawyers that review/write them are quite expensive. C. Self-guided education program on the green features of a project This is Correct. Many projects in the past have earned Innovation credits by included an on site education program showing the green features of the building. Post some signs around the project, develop an online case study, promote a project tour and create a map, and you are well on your way. This would not be that expensive to do. D. Construction waste hauling fees This is a hard cost.

What accounting methodology is used to evaluate the economic performance of a product or system over its useful life? A. Triple bottom line accounting B. Cradle-to-cradle C. Life cycle assessment D. Life cycle costing

A. Triple bottom line accounting B. Cradle-to-cradle C. Life cycle assessment Life cycle assessment (LCA) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service. LCA evaluates environmental performance. This view takes into account the whole life of a product or project (not assessing it from a single point in time).LCA evaluates a products 'environmental impact'. This differs from life cycle costing evaluates a product's 'economic performance'. D. Life cycle costing This is Correct. Life cycle costing (LCC) is the evaluation of the total cost of a building or product over its useful life, including initial, maintenance, repair and replacement costs as well as savings. LCC evaluates economic performance.

Which of the following is most important to the design and construction of a building for emissions reduction? A. Choosing sustainable materials B. Building location C. Using on-site renewables D. Purchasing carbon offsets

B. Building location This is Correct. Consider the same building design for one building located in the suburbs and one located in a dense urban center. Which reduces emissions more? The one in the suburbs requires users to drive automobiles to it each day throughout its life which could be longer than 30 years, contributing to more than half of the project's emissions.

What is the term for the analysis of the environmental aspects and potential impacts associated with a product, process, or service? A. Triple bottom line accounting B. ASHRAE Level I audit C. Life-cycle assessment D. Life-cycle costing

A. Triple bottom line accounting The triple bottom line - society, environment, and the economy - guides USGBC policies. B. ASHRAE Level I audit This term is outside the scope of the exam objectives and is only listed as a distractor. C. Life-cycle assessment This is Correct. Life cycle assessment evaluates a product's 'environmental impact'. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service. LCA evaluates environmental performance. This view takes into account the whole life of a product or project (not assessing it from a single point in time). The goal of LCA is to compare the full range of environmental and social damages assignable to products and services to be able to choose the least burdensome one. D. Life-cycle costing Life cycle costing (LCC) is the evaluation of the total cost of a building or product over its useful life, including initial, maintenance, repair and replacement costs as well as savings. LCC evaluates economic performance.

From where are most local codes adopted? A. USGBC B. International Code Council C. California laws D. Federal regulations

A. USGBC USGBC helps set green building standards through LEED, not local codes. B. International Code Council This is Correct. Local building codes represent the minimum codes that a project must adhere to. State and local jurisdictions may develop their own regulations or adopt building codes based on national model codes. State and local codes are typically based on national model codes published by the International Code Council (ICC) C. California laws California laws are usually more stringent than other areas of the country. The laws usually migrate over time to other parts of the United States. D. Federal regulations

What is an example of a structural incentive that may be available to a developer to encourage green building? A. Tax credits B. Density bonuses C. Grants D. Fee waivers

B. Density bonuses This is Correct. Make sure you check out the document Green Building Incentive Strategies to learn about money-saving incentives: http://www.usgbc.org/Docs/Archive/General/Docs6248.pdf There are different incentives for rewarding developers or homeowners who practice green building techniques spurs innovation and demand for green building technologies. Structural incentives include: Expedited review / permitting process Density and height bonuses Financial incentives include: Tax credits Fee reductions / waivers Grants Revolving loan funds (low-interest loans) Non-financial incentives include: Technical assistance Marketing assistance

A team for a school project is reviewing potential site locations and building designs. What would have the greatest impact on improving test scores for the students? A. Installing low-emitting furniture and desks B. Orienting the building to maximize daylighting C. Locating the building in a walkable neighborhood D. Including an indoor swimming pool

B. Orienting the building to maximize daylighting This is Correct. Studies show that increasing daylighting in school classrooms can increase test scores by 7% to 18%.

What is true if a building code official finds an issue between a proposed energy efficiency strategy and the city's building electrical code? A. The electrical contractor can proceed with the design B. The project team must alter the design C. A LEED reviewer must approve the existing strategy D. The project administrator should re-run the energy model

B. The project team must alter the design This is Correct. The strategy will need to be reworked to fit with the local electrical code.

If a state has a green building code and a project team wants to pursue LEED certification: A. The state building code requirements can be used instead of the LEED requirements B. The state building code requirements have precedent over the LEED requirements C. LEED requirements can be used instead of the state building code requirements D. The project team can follow either the state building code requirements or the LEED requirements

B. The state building code requirements have precedent over the LEED requirements This is Correct. Any state or local building codes have precedent over LEED.