LEED GA

Which of the following is an example of a source control waste reduction strategy? A. Using commingled recycling B. Pre-ordering materials cut to size C. Reusing salvaged materials onsite D. Installing recycling bins onsite

. Pre-ordering materials cut to size Source reduction is the first and best way to minimize waste. Source reduction starts at the source-such as pre-ordering materials cut to size and choosing modular construction, which generates less onsite waste.

What minimum contract length is required for an owner to purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) for LEED credit? A. 1 year B. 10 years C. 5 years D. 3 years

C. 5 years In LEED v4 5 years is the contract term for purchasing RECs.

What is the maximum number of project administrators that can be assigned to a LEED project? A. 1 B. Unlimited C. 2 D. 3

A. 1 There is only one project administrator per project.

What is the point range for a project to earn LEED Gold? A. 60-79 B. 70-79 C. 60-69 D. 50-59

A. 60-79 Certified 40-49 points Silver 50-59 points Gold 60-79 points Platinum 80+ points

A laboratory project requires a lot of special-use equipment and systems to keep the areas inside sterile. What would a sub-contractor need to safely handle a product during installation? A. A Material safety data sheet (MSDS) B. The quantity of recycled content in a product C. MERV 13 filters D. A Health product disclosure (HPD)

A. A Material safety data sheet (MSDS); Material Safety Data Sheets are intended to provide workers and emergency personnel with procedures to safely handle a product during fabrication, installation, or in a life-safety event. The information given in an MSDS is not a comprehensive disclosure of contents, nor does it fully address all potential health hazards that may be associated with a product.

Which projects would NOT be eligible for LEED certification? (choose 2) A. A new building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants B. A new building project that uses no refrigerants C. An existing building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants without having a CFC phase-out plan D. An existing building project that phases out the use of CFC-based refrigerants no later than 5 years after the project is completed E. A new building project that uses hydrocarbons (HCs) as refrigerants

A. A new building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants. New buildings cannot use CFC-based refrigerants. This is called Fundamental Refrigerant Management in LEED. C. An existing building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants without having a CFC phase-out plan. Existing buildings must have CFC phase-out plans for LEED certification.

Which of the following occupants would be classified as FTEs? (choose 2) A. A receptionist B. A librarian C. A cleaning person who only works in the evenings D. A delivery person

A. A receptionist B. A librarian

What type of water can NOT be used for irrigation purposes? A. Blackwater B. Rainwater C. Potable water D. Laundry water

A. Blackwater Waste water from toilets and urinals is considered blackwater and cannot be used for irrigation (unless it has been treated first).

As part of the integrative process, which of the following team members would be the most important for providing information about how the building will be used? A. Building users B. Architects C. Building owners D. Facility managers

A. Building users Their input in how they actually physically use the building, the day-to-day use, what times do they begin, what times do they leave, how many people go out for lunch all these things can really help inform the design of the project.

A developer is considering pursuing LEED for an eight-story, multi-family residential project. How would the baseline building performance be determined? A. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 B. By the project obtaining a HERS index C. By using the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager D. By obtaining an ENERGY STAR for Homes rating

A. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 In LEED BD+C projects use ASHRAE 90.1 to determine the baseline building performance.

How would a bicycle network be documented for a project? A. By including a vicinity map showing the bicycle network, route, and distance along the network to eligible destinations B. By use the area plan or map showing the project site and location of existing and planned bicycle networks within a quarter-mile (400-meter) radius of the project site. C. By drawing a straight-line radius from the origin and the bicycling segments in the radius. D. By creating a map showing the project, project boundary, transit stop locations, and walking routes and distances.

A. By including a vicinity map showing the bicycle network, route, and distance along the network to eligible destinations

Which of the following preventive maintenance tasks would a facility manager routinely perform to maintain indoor air quality? (choose 2) A. Calibrating sensors B. Conducting a flush-out C. Replacing air filters D. Dusting all blinds with electrostatic cloths

A. Calibrating sensors Checking the CO2 sensors and the outdoor airflow monitors are tasks the facility manager could do periodically to make sure the system is functioning as designed. C. Replacing air filters Replacing air filters should be done as part of a routine preventive maintenance schedule.

A project owner wants to provide financial support to a reforestation project. What would help with this goal? A. Carbon offsets B. Green power C. Building in a high-priority site D. On-site renewable energy

A. Carbon offsets Purchasing carbon offsets helps fund projects that decrease carbon emissions or remove carbon from the atmosphere. Examples of these types of projects include reforestation, changing land-use, and methane abatement.

A project team is reviewing potential sites for a new office building. Which of the following sites would be preferred? A. Choosing a site in a LEED for Neighborhood Development location B. Building on a greenfield C. Locating the site in an area with pedestrian access to 4 retail shops D. Selecting a site that requires occupants to drive 40 minutes each way to the building

A. Choosing a site in a LEED for Neighborhood Development location Project teams that select to build in a LEED-ND neighborhood are choosing a site that has connection with the surrounding community and good location and transportation attributes already. Note that LEED-ND projects may include residential uses, non-residential uses, or a mix.

What is an example of systems thinking? A. Considering how occupants will get to the project building B. Reviewing the schedule for the timing of the HVAC system installation C. Commissioning of the exterior lights D. Installation of a parking lot

A. Considering how occupants will get to the project building Systems thinking is a process of understanding how each part of the built environment affects every other part. It is the belief that the component parts of a system can best be understood in the context of relationships with each other and with other systems, rather than in isolation. These parts include project materials, building systems, site, people, and information. In this choice the people are considered and the relationship to the transportation options and/or parking at the site.

For new construction projects, which of the following tools enable the project team to understand the environmental impact of a building over its entire life? A. Cradle-to grave life cycle analysis (LCA) B. EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager C. ENERGY STAR rating D. LEED Online

A. Cradle-to grave life cycle analysis (LCA) A life-cycle assessment provides information on a building over all phases of its life. Using LCA in the design process helps the project team understand which short- and long-term impacts different design decisions will have, allowing them to make better design decisions.

LEED credit forms must be signed by which person? A. Declarant B. Local code official C. Project owner D. Project manager

A. Declarant A declarant is 'A LEED project team member who is technically qualified to verify the content of a LEED credit submittal template, and is authorized by the project administrator to sign the template and upload it to LEED Online. The Declarant must have had a significant degree of responsibility for the credit, i.e., participation with and/or oversight of either implementing the credit in the project building or of verifying its outcome.' (USGBC)

Changing the building envelope from single-pane glazing to double-pane glazing would result in which of the following? A. Decreased energy demand B. Increased energy efficiency C. Improved occupant controls D. Increased daylighting

A. Decreased energy demand The design of the building envelope (including the glazing) impacts the energy demand of the building. While more glazing (windows) increases daylighting, the heat gain from allowing more light in may increase HVAC loads. Double-pane glazing is a better insulator than single-pane glazing.

If a developer is looking for water efficient appliances to install in residences what label should they look for on the appliances? A. ENERGY STAR B. Green-e C. LEED Certified D. EPA Approved

A. ENERGY STAR

What can be used to compare the energy performance of two buildings? A. ENERGY STAR B. Green-e C. LEED D. LEED Online

A. ENERGY STAR ENERGY STAR is specific to energy performance and can be used to compare building performance.

What LEED credits reward projects for improving operational energy performance? (choose 2) A. Energy metering B. Green power and carbon offsets C. Demand response D. Commissioning

A. Energy metering Metering of the building systems helps the staff track any issues that would impact energy performance. D. Commissioning Commissioning and ongoing commissioning are intended to improve energy performance once the building is operational.

Which of the following does a site assessment evaluate? (choose 3) A. Geology B. Existing structures C. Surrounding density D. Hydrology E. Shading

A. Geology B. Existing structures D. Hydrology

Which of the following are green building rating systems that exist in addition to LEED? (choose 3) A. Green Star B. ASHRAE C. Green Globes D. WaterSense E. BREEAM

A. Green Star C. Green Globes E. BREEAM

Promoting the triple bottom line is a part of USGBC's: A. Guiding principles B. Strategic goals C. Mission D. Vision

A. Guiding principles USGBC has seven guiding principles outlined in the 2013-2015 strategic plan: PROMOTE THE TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE - USGBC will pursue robust triple bottom line solutions (people, planet, profit) that clarify and strengthen a healthy and dynamic balance between environmental, social, and economic prosperity. ESTABLISH LEADERSHIP - USGBC will foster both revolutionary and evolutionary leadership by championing societal models that achieve a more robust triple bottom line. RECONCILE HUMANITY WITH NATURE - USGBC will endeavor to create and restore harmony between human activities and natural systems. FOSTER SOCIAL EQUITY - USGBC will continue to respect all communities and cultures and aspire to be a fully inclusive movement that embraces opportunities which broaden and expand our reach through partnerships and initiatives. MAINTAIN INTEGRITY - USGBC will be guided by the precautionary principle in utilizing technical and scientific data to protect, preserve and restore the health of the global environment, ecosystems, and species. BE INCLUSIVE - USGBC will ensure inclusive, interdisciplinary, multi-sector, and democratic decision making with the objective of building understanding and shared commitments toward a greater common good. In this spirit, USGBC will continue to seek common ground and partner with allied, influential organizations and leaders in the field to confront mutual challenges. EXHIBIT TRANSPARENCY - USGBC will continue to operate in an organizational culture that places honesty, openness, and transparency above all else.

What should be included in a construction waste management plan: A. If any construction waste materials to be recycled will be commingled or separated. B. The distance products were purchased from the construction site. C. Which existing building materials - if any - will be reused. D. New technologies and materials that will help reduce waste.

A. If any construction waste materials to be recycled will be commingled or separated; The construction waste management plan will describe where construction and demolition debris is going to go. The plan outlines diverting construction debris from landfills through reusing, salvaging, and recycling materials. Part of this decision is to use commingled or separate recycling.

How can the greenhouse gas emissions caused by the built environment be reduced? (choose 2) A. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings B. Improving the energy efficiency of communities C. Implementing a waste-to-energy program D. Installing single pane glazing in buildings E. Building on a greenfield site

A. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings B. Improving the energy efficiency of communities

A project team decides to build up, instead of out, to reduce the building footprint. This strategy could help with _____. A. Increasing open space B. Construction activity pollution prevention C. Increasing diverse uses D. Increasing surrounding density

A. Increasing open space Reducing the building footprint could result in more open space around the building, assuming it wasn't then paved over.

Which of the following is an acceptable way to encourage building users to choose alternative transportation? A. Install preferred parking B. Allow off-street parking C. Install multi-level parking D. Share parking among two or more buildings

A. Install preferred parking Preferred parking is a perk for users that drive alternative transportation (green vehicles). Preferred parking is 'the parking spots closest to the main entrance of a building (exclusive of spaces designated for handicapped persons). For employee parking, it refers to the spots that are closest to the entrance used by employees.' - USGBC

Which of the following are effective ways to lessen the overall environmental consequences of an interior space over its lifetime? (choose 2) A. Installing demountable interior nonstructural walls B. Selecting a site located 1 mile (1,600 meters) from public transportation C. Selecting refurbished furniture D. Installing 1.6 gpf (6 lpf) toilets E. Choosing products that have a published Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

A. Installing demountable interior nonstructural walls This strategy is part of designing for flexibility which reduces the demand for new building materials over time. C. Selecting refurbished furniture Reusing materials or furnishings reduces the demand for new materials and thus preserves virgin resources.

A building owner's project includes a major HVAC renovation, significant envelope modifications, and core plumbing renovation. An interior fit-out is not part of the project. What LEED rating system would be most appropriate for this project? A. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell B. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings C. LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors D. LEED BD+C: New Construction

A. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell LEED Building Design and Construction: Core and Shell is for the exterior shell and core mechanical, electrical, and plumbing units, but not a complete interior fit-out. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell is the appropriate rating system to use if more than 40% of the gross floor area is incomplete at the time of certification. (-USGBC)

If a building has already earned LEED BD+C: New Construction certification what additional certifications could the building earn in the future? (choose 2) A. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings B. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell C. LEED for Neighborhood Development D. LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors

A. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings LEED O+M: Existing Buildings could be earned for the ongoing operations of the building. D. LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors could be earned for the interior spaces.

What is submitted to document that the requirements of a credit or prerequisite were met? A. LEED credit form B. Building operating plan C. LEED Project Checklist D. CIR

A. LEED credit form Each rating system will have its own set of forms that must be completed and submitted for documentation and verification. These credit forms accessed via LEED Online.

Which of the following statements regarding LEED Interpretations is NOT true? A. LEED interpretations are used to add new requirements to the LEED Rating System. B. LEED interpretations are reviewed by LEED committees comprised of member-selected green building practitioners and USGBC staff. C. LEED interpretations are an opportunity to contribute to LEED in a significant way. D. LEED interpretations can be applied to multiple projects.

A. LEED interpretations are used to add new requirements to the LEED Rating System. LEED interpretations are not an avenue for making significant changes or new requirements to the LEED rating system.

Grammatically, what language is the appropriate usage to describe a project that has been certified at any level? A. LEED-certified B. LEED certification C. LEED Certified certified D. LEED Certified

A. LEED-certified 'LEED-certified' with lowercase 'c' is used to describe a project that has been certified.

What LEED credit category rewards projects within relatively dense areas, near diverse uses, with access to a variety of transportation options, or on sites with development constraints? A. Location and Transportation B. Smart Location and Linkage C. Innovation D. Sustainable Sites

A. Location and Transportation

REACH Optimization would be used in which of the following credit categories? A. Materials and Resources B. Energy and Atmosphere C. Indoor Environmental Quality D. Location and Transportation

A. Materials and Resources REACH is the Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals. REACH requires all companies manufacturing or importing chemical substances into the European Union in quantities of one ton or more per year to register these substances. The main aims of REACH are to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, the promotion of alternative test methods, the free circulation of substances on the internal market, and enhancing competitiveness and innovation.

Which of the following is one of the most toxic and common sources of indoor air pollution in an existing building? A. Mercury B. CFCs C. Radon D. VOCs

A. Mercury Standard fluorescent lamps contain mercury.

A project team in a dry region is designing a project with an entryway that leads to a downtown city block. The building owner wants to reduce dirt, dust, and contaminants tracked into the building from people's shoes. Which of the following would be appropriate choices for an entryway system that would improve indoor air quality? A. Metal grills made of aluminum B. Marble tile extracted and manufactured locally C. Recycled wood flooring D. Steel grates E. Rubber mats manufactured overseas

A. Metal grills made of aluminum D. Steel grates E. Rubber mats manufactured overseas

Which of the following defines the types of buildings, spaces, and neighborhoods that the LEED rating system is designed to evaluate? A. Minimum Program Requirements B. Credits C. Prerequisites D. LEED Online

A. Minimum Program Requirements MPRs are the minimum characteristics or conditions that make a project appropriate to pursue LEED certification.

Indoor water use reductions require projections based on which of the following: A. Occupants' usage B. The cost of potable water C. The gross area of the building D. The number of fixtures installed

A. Occupants' usage When calculating indoor water use baselines or design cases, the calculations are based on the number of occupants in the building using the fixtures (50 employees, 600 students, etc.).

What are the goals of the Minimum Program Requirements? (choose 3) A. Protect the integrity of the LEED program B. Reduce certification process challenges C. Give clear guidance to customers D. Verify buildings are meeting environmental goals E. Ensure prerequisites are met

A. Protect the integrity of the LEED program B. Reduce certification process challenges C. Give clear guidance to customers

What are the goals of the Minimum Program Requirements? (choose 3) A. Protect the integrity of the LEED program B. Verify buildings are meeting environmental C. Reduce certification process challenges D. Give clear guidance to customers E. Ensure prerequisites are met

A. Protect the integrity of the LEED program C. Reduce certification process challenges D. Give clear guidance to customers

Which of the following can increase the heat island effect in urban areas? A. Reduced air flow from tall buildings and narrow streets B. Hardscapes shaded by trees C. Underground parking D. Large areas of turf grass

A. Reduced air flow from tall buildings and narrow streets; he primary cause of the heat island effect is dark surfaces such as rooftops or dark asphalt pavement that absorb heat and radiate it into the surrounding areas.

What are the environmental benefits of cogeneration? (choose 2) A. Reduced air pollution B. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions C. Reduced erosion and sedimentation D. Recharging of aquifers E. Reduced wastewater generation

A. Reduced air pollution B. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions

A rainwater harvesting system can help with: (choose 2) A. Reducing potable water use indoors B. Improving site restoration C. Reducing heat islands D. Runoff management

A. Reducing potable water use indoors; Rainwater can be diverted into cisterns or other storage tanks for use in landscaping, inside for fixture flushing, and for process water needs. D. Runoff management; Rainwater cisterns (tanks) can be used as a structural measure to remove pollutants from runoff.

Which of the following impact categories are given the greatest weight in LEED? A. Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change and Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being B. Protect and Restore Water Resources and Protect, Enhance and Restore Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services C. Build a Greener Economy and Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, Community Health and Quality of Life D. Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles and Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change

A. Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change and Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being

What environmental issue occurs from runoff? A. Sedimentation B. Heat islands C. Ozone depletion D. Increased municipal wastewater treatment costs

A. Sedimentation Rainwater consists of rainwater and melted snow that run off streets, lawns, farms, and construction and industrial sites. Runoff can lead to sedimentation. Sedimentation is where pollutants from natural or human activities add particles to water bodies. Pollutants come from soil, fertilizer, oil or gas on roadways, pesticides, etc. Runoff should be controlled onsite by harvesting the water, increasing open space, and reducing impervious surfaces.

WaterSense labels apply to what products? (choose 3) A. Showerheads B. Irrigation submeters C. Toilets D. Washing machines E. Private lavatory faucets

A. Showerheads C. Toilets E. Private lavatory faucets

Which part of the development process would inform design decisions, such as locating community gardens in areas with fertile soils? A. Site assessment B. Environmental site assessment C. Energy modeling D. Construction activity pollution prevention

A. Site assessment Site assessment is one of the most important parts of the integrative process and informs good design decisions. Environmental site assessment differs in that the intent is to assess for environmental contamination

Which of the following must occur to ensure energy-efficient design is carried through to efficient performance? A. Staff training B. Indoor air-quality monitoring C. Yearly maintenance of all non-energy related systems D. Sixty day post occupancy review after the building is certified

A. Staff training The staff must understand the systems and how to use them or else the design of the systems is irrelevant. For example, if a building has occupancy sensors to control lighting but someone turns on the manual override and never turns it back off, the automated lighting is no longer working as designed to save energy.

Which of the following are types of individual occupant spaces? (choose 3) A. Study carrel B. Hospital exam room C. Hotel guest room D. Open-office workstation E. Hotel front desk F. Auto service bay

A. Study carrel C. Hotel guest room D. Open-office workstation

Which of the following is NOT a component of the impact category Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, Community Health and Quality of Life? A. Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being B. Provide Affordable, Equitable and Resilient Communities C. Promote Access to Neighborhood Completeness Resources D. Promote Human Rights and Environmental Justice E. Create a Strong Sense of Place

A. Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being is a component of the impact category Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being.

Which of the following does LEED require for good indoor air quality? A. That smoking indoors is prohibited B. That a green cleaning policy is implemented C. That the building is kept clean during construction D. That low-emitting materials are specified

A. That smoking indoors is prohibited This is a prerequisite and is required for LEED certification

Which of the following LEED rating systems would the project team of a planned new three-story apartment building choose? A. The LEED Homes rating system that corresponds to the ENERGY STAR program in which they are participating. B. LEED BD+C: New Construction and Major Renovations C. LEED Multifamily Midrise D. LEED ND: Plan

A. The LEED Homes rating system that corresponds to the ENERGY STAR program in which they are participating. For LEED Homes and Multifamily Lowrise is used for single-family homes and multi-family residential buildings of one to three stories. Projects three to five stories may choose the homes rating system that corresponds to the ENERGY STAR program in which they are participating.

If a building owner enrolls in a demand response program, which of the following will happen? A. The building may have to decrease electricity use during peak times. B. The owner will have to purchase carbon dioxide equivalents equal to the annual grid-generated electricity. C. The owner will have to purchase RECs equal to fifty percent of the building's yearly electricity use. D. During off-peak times, the building's excess electricity may be sold back to the utility company.

A. The building may have to decrease electricity use during peak times. 'Demand response allows utilities to call on buildings to decrease their electricity use during peak times, reducing the strain on the grid and the need to operate more power plants, thus potentially avoiding the costs of constructing new plants.' - USGBC

Which of the following project team member(s) is typically responsible for developing the erosion and sedimentation control (ESC) plan for construction activity pollution prevention? A. The civil engineer(s) B. The LEED AP C. The architect(s) D. The project owner(s)

A. The civil engineer(s) The civil engineer is usually responsible for the plan. The landscape architect or general contractor may work on the plan's development.

Which of the following project team members is responsible for verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements? A. The commissioning authority B. The mechanical engineer C. The LEED project reviewer D. The project administrator

A. The commissioning authority This is another way of asking who is responsible for commissioning.' Commissioning is 'the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements.' - USGBC

Which of the following identifies the biggest difference in the integrative process compared to a conventional building process? A. The integrative process is iterative. B. The integrative process involves all project team members. C. The integrative process includes a schematic design phase. D. The integrative process has a completion date.

A. The integrative process is iterative. The integrative process is, 'An iterative, collaborative approach that involves a project's stakeholders in the process from visioning through completion of construction and throughout building operation.' - USGBC

What is the purpose of having a LEED AP on a project? A. To streamline the LEED process B. For building commissioning C. To serve as the project administrator D. To submit all project data

A. To streamline the LEED process The purpose (or intent) of having a LEED AP on the project is to 'support and encourage the design integration required by LEED to streamline the application and certification process'.

Which of the following would be considered graywater? A. Untreated laundry water B. Recycled water from the city C. Water from a dishwasher D. Air conditioning condensate

A. Untreated laundry water Graywater is defined by the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) as untreated house-hold wastewater which has not come into contact with toilet waste or kitchen sinks.

When there are two or more rating systems that might be applicable to a project, how should the project team decide which rating system to use? A. Use the 40/60 rule B. Choose the rating system that has the most regional priority credits C. Choose the rating system that will result in the lowest certification costs D. Check with local code what rating system to use

A. Use the 40/60 rule LEED has a 40/60 rule to help project teams decide on a rating system: If a particular rating system is appropriate for 40% or less of a LEED project building or space, then that rating system should not be used. If a particular rating system is appropriate for 60% or more of a LEED project building or space, then that rating system should be used. Project teams with buildings and spaces that do not fall into the scenarios described in a) and b) must independently assess their situation and decide which rating system is most applicable.

What does LEED accept as part of a building design to qualify as open space for projects in urban areas? A. Vegetated (green) roofs B. Balconies C. Shaded parking lots D. Higher density buildings

A. Vegetated (green) roofs A vegetated roof may count as open space for projects in urban areas.

A vehicle meeting which standard would be considered a green vehicle? A. Vehicle with a minimum green score of 45 on the ACEEE annual vehicle guide B. SCAQMD air quality standards C. EPA Transportation and Air Quality standard D. Green-e Certified

A. Vehicle with a minimum green score of 45 on the ACEEE annual vehicle guide Vehicles must have a green score of 45 or more from the ACEEE annual vehicle rating guide to qualify for LEED credit.

In which of the following instances would a project team need to use the ITE Transportation Planning Handbook? A. When calculating a project's parking capacity B. When determining if a bicycle network is adequate C. When reviewing planned future public transportation routes D. When locating existing rights-of-way when determining surrounding density

A. When calculating a project's parking capacity When reducing parking, project teams will use the ITE Transportation Planning Handbook to determine recommended parking.

What year does the Montreal Protocol phase out HCFCs? A. 2015 B. 2030 C. 2020 D. 1995

B. 2030 Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are a class of ozone-depleting chemicals used now primarily as refrigerants and foam blowing agents to replace CFCs. Although their ozone-depleting potential is less than that of CFCs, their global warming potential is quite high. Developed countries are already reducing their consumption of HCFCs to meet their phaseout obligations under the Montreal Protocol which call for a 90% reduction from baseline by 2015 and a 100% reduction by 2030.

A United Nations study indicates that which of the following percentages of the ecosystem services that have been assessed worldwide are currently degraded or used unsustainably? A. 30% B. 60% C. 50% D. 40%

B. 60%

What amount of time do people in the United States spend on average indoors? A. 80% B. 90% C. 60% D. 70% E. 50%

B. 90% The importance of the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) category is partly due to how much time people spend indoors. How healthy the indoor environment is, such as air quality, is related to human health.

What does a REC represent? A. The amount of energy purchased from a Green-e supplier B. The environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources C. The quantity of fossil fuels avoided by purchasing renewable energy, expressed in tons RECs are expressed in kilowatt hours. D. The amount of energy an electricity provider purchases from renewable sources

B. A REC represents the environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources. These attributes may be sold separately from the underlying commodity electricity. RECs represent the reduced emissions of renewable energy compared to conventional fossil fuels. RECs are sold separately allowing people to purchase the 'greenness' of the electricity.

For international projects aiming to achieve indoor water reductions, which of the following standards should be followed if WaterSense labeled fixtures are not available? A. ASHRAE B. A local equivalent C. I-Codes D. Green-e

B. A local equivalent International projects need to follow local equivalent standards when one of the U.S. standards is not available or applicable.

What is an example of a negative feedback loop? A. Warming oceans releasing greenhouse gasses which would warm the ocean even more B. A thermostat whose temperature feedback indicates to the system when to turn off C. Increased heat islands require more mechanical cooling which generates more greenhouse gas emissions causing the need for more cooling D. A warmer atmosphere melts more ice, changing the Earth's albedo which further warms the atmosphere

B. A thermostat whose temperature feedback indicates to the system when to turn off A negative feedback loop is a system where the output may signal the system to stop changing. Here the thermostat tells the system to stop running if a certain temperature threshold is reached.

What are the roles of USGBC? A. Promoting the triple bottom line and administering the LEED exams B. Administering and creating the LEED rating systems and issuing LEED building certifications C. Auditing member companies and providing building grants to for-profit companies D. Overseeing LEED credential maintenance and third-party technical reviews of registered LEED projects

B. Administering and creating the LEED rating systems and issuing LEED building certifications: USGBC is responsible for administering and creating the LEED rating systems. USGBC issues LEED building certifications once they have been approved by GBCI's third-party review.

A building owner in a hot climate wants to include a green roof for insulation and an air-tight building for energy efficiency. During the integrative process what would need to be discussed as part of this strategy? A. If the building has extensive glazing cooling loads will increase B. Bringing in additional fresh air for indoor air quality C. The green roof will increase the heat island effect D. Acoustic performance will be poor

B. Bringing in additional fresh air for indoor air quality A negative synergy with a tight building envelope is the air inside becomes stagnant. Fresh air and increased ventilation needs to be brought in to improve air quality. However by increasing ventilation more energy is needed.

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

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

Which of the following are LEED impact categories? A. Social Capital, Natural Capital, and Economic Capital B. Build a Greener Economy and Protect and Restore Water Resources C. Natural Context, Infrastructural Context, and Social Context D. Reuse Dependence on Fossil Fuels and Create a Strong Sense of Place

B. Build a Greener Economy and Protect and Restore Water Resources; Impact Categories answer the question: 'What should a LEED project accomplish?': Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being Protect and Restore Water Resources Protect, Enhance and Restore Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles Build a Greener Economy Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, and Community Quality of Life

Where should smoking be prohibited for a project? (choose 3) A. Walking trails B. Building entrances C. Operable windows D. Air intakes E. Garages

B. Building entrances C. Operable windows D. Air intakes LEED requires prohibiting smoking in all BD+C projects. Smoking should not occur around any building opening that could allow the smoke to enter the building.

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. Purchasing carbon offsets D. Using on-site renewables

B. Building location 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.

A project owner is locating an office building on a greenfield near a wetland. The project team has goals of protecting sensitive ecosystems, reducing the heat-island effect, designing a healthy building, and reducing energy demand. Given these goals, where should the project team start? A. By sourcing local materials B. By completing an early site assessment C. By finding out if the owner can lease a renewable energy system D. By determining if a demand response program is available from the local utility company

B. By completing an early site assessment The question lists four goals; the site assessment is the one choice that impacts all of these other goals. If a project team has the opportunity to pick where the building will be built, nearly every other LEED credit is going to tie into that single decision. Before the project team commits to a building location, they first need to know why they would want to put it there. The team can't make that decision without a site assessment, asking questions such as: Where on the site is the shade? Which way does the wind blow? Where does the rainwater flow? Where are there sensitive ecosystems? How far away from any roads is the building? Where are the utilities?

A data center is located in a remote, forested area. In which of the following ways could the project team reduce light pollution? A. By installing lights that shine upward B. By installing surfaces and lights that reduce glare C. By placing exterior lights close to the project boundary D. By increasing the number of exterior lights

B. By installing surfaces and lights that reduce glare Good exterior lighting design results in the reduction of three forms of light pollution: uplight, glare, and light trespass.

Approximately 50% of chillers in existing buildings use what refrigerant? A. HCFC-22 B. CFC-11 C. NH3 D. HFC-23

B. CFC-11 A centrifugal chiller is one of the most economical means to cool large buildings. These units use water and a refrigeration cycle to provide cooling.

Which of the following documents establishes the terms and conditions of the LEED Certification Program to which the building owner is bound? A. Agent's authority B. Certification agreement C. LEED certification D. Owner's project requirements

B. Certification agreement; The purpose of the Agreement is to establish the terms and conditions of the LEED Certification Program (the 'Program,') to which You (and Your Agent, if any) are bound.

What LEED credits reward projects for improving operational energy performance? (choose 2) A. Green power and carbon offsets B. Commissioning C. Energy metering D. Demand response

B. Commissioning Commissioning and ongoing commissioning are intended to improve energy performance once the building is operational. C. Energy metering Metering of the building systems helps the staff track any issues that would impact energy performance.

Which of the following is NOT a minimum program requirement (MPR)? A. Reasonable LEED boundaries B. Commitment to sharing whole-building C. Compliance with project size requirements D. Permanent location on existing land

B. Commitment to sharing whole-building energy and water usage data In LEED v4 the sharing of energy and water data are now prerequisites within the rating systems and no longer MPRs.

Which of the following building components contribute to the plug load? A. Recessed lighting B. Computers C. HVAC system D. Elevators

B. Computers The plug load or receptacle load is 'the electrical current drawn by all equipment that is connected to the electrical system via a wall outlet.'

What does the LEED Volume Program help with? A. Comparing baseline energy use among buildings B. Cost-effective LEED certification on a volume scale C. Comparing design case energy use among buildings D. Policy support for LEED documentation

B. Cost-effective LEED certification on a volume scale Among other things the LEED Volume Program provides a cost-effective path to achieving LEED certification on a volume scale.

Success in LEED and green building design is best accomplished through an integrative design process that prioritizes which of the following: A. Rapid design schedules B. Cost-effectiveness over both the short and long term C. Each practitioner designing subassemblies and system components for the most benefit and the least cost D. Limiting the disciplines of the project team to those members who are available most frequently

B. Cost-effectiveness over both the short and long term 'Success in LEED and green building design is best accomplished through an integrative design process that prioritizes cost-effectiveness over both the short and long terms and engages all project team members in discovering beneficial interrelationships and synergies between systems and components.' - USGBC

What are examples of structural incentives that may be available to a developer to encourage green building? (choose 2) A. Tax credits B. Density bonuses C. Grants D. Expedited review of permits E. Fee waivers

B. Density bonuses D. Expedited review of permits

Why is it important to categorize spaces in LEED? A. It helps with floor area calculations B. Depending on the space categorization, the credit requirements may not apply C. Smaller spaces have lower baseline requirements D. The types of spaces are used to determine building density

B. Depending on the space categorization, the credit requirements may not apply The space types in LEED sometimes have different requirements. For example, the lighting requirements may differ for an individual occupant (task lighting) or for a shared multi-occupant space (occupancy sensors).

A refrigerated warehouse project in the design phase could reduce its electricity demand by taking which of the following actions? A. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits B. Enrolling in a demand response program C. Purchasing all electricity from a wind farm D. Purchasing carbon offsets to counter GHG emissions

B. Enrolling in a demand response program 'Demand response allows utilities to call on buildings to decrease their electricity use during peak times, reducing the strain on the grid and the need to operate more power plants, thus potentially avoiding the costs of constructing new plants.' A demand response program can work for the most demanding energy projects - data centers, refrigeration, or fully occupied buildings in areas that hit 110 F degrees in the summer.

Which of the following use-type categories determine diverse uses? (choose 2) A. Stores B. Food retail C. Restaurants D. Civic and community facilities

B. Food retail D. Civic and community facilities There are five categories of use types: Food retail Community-serving retail Services Civic and community facilities Community anchor uses

Which of the following are green building rating systems that exist in addition to LEED? (choose 3) A. ASHRAE B. Green Globes C. Green Star D. WaterSense E. BREEAM

B. Green Globes C. Green Star E. BREEAM BREEAM is the world's leading environmental assessment method and rating system for buildings.

A project team is removing from the design a solar car shading device that also serves as a fueling station. Which of the following is this most likely to impact? (choose 2) A. Rainwater management B. Green vehicles C. Heat island reduction D. Reduced parking footprint

B. Green vehicles Green vehicles require recharging stations. Taking away the fueling station impacts this requirement. C. Heat island reduction Solar car shading devices are a shading strategy for reducing heat islands.

What statement is true regarding HydroChloroFluoroCarbons (HCFCs)? A. LEED requires zero use of HCFCs B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs C. HCFCs are a type of natural refrigerant D. HCFCs are refrigerants currently banned by the Montreal Protocol

B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs

What statement is true regarding HydroChloroFluoroCarbons (HCFCs)? A. HCFCs are a type of natural refrigerant B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs C. LEED requires zero use of HCFCs D. HCFCs are refrigerants currently banned by the Montreal Protocol

B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs.

Which of the following has the greatest direct impact on global warming? A. Size of a project's impermeable areas B. HVAC operating efficiency C. SRI of a building's roof D. Building orientation

B. HVAC operating efficiency How efficiently HVAC equipment is directly impacts how much fossil fuel is burned to heat and cool a building.

Which of the following site types is considered high-priority? A. Land with endangered habitat B. Historic district C. Area on or within fifty feet (fifteen meters) of a wetland D. Previously developed land

B. Historic district High priority sites include: Historic districts Priority designation sites (Federal Empowerment Zones, EPA National Priorities List, etc.) Brownfield

Including task lighting and increasing ventilation levels in a new building has what effect on the triple bottom line? A. Decreased maintenance B. Increased occupant performance C. Decreased ozone depletion D. Lower first costs

B. Increased occupant performance Strategies that improve employees' health and productivity over the long run have a large return on investment. Studies show happier employees are more productive.

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

B. Incrementally increases 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.

A data center in a rural area wants to be net-zero. Which of the following design decisions will help the project team achieve this? A. Purchase carbon offsets B. Install a photovoltaic system on site C. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) D. Provide all occupants with electric vehicles

B. Install a photovoltaic system on site On-site renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal) would help the project generate all of the electricity it needs.

What is lighting power density measured in? A. Footcandles per floor area B. Installed lighting power per unit area C. The quantity of light trespass on adjacent sites, measured in watts D. Number of luminaires per unit area

B. Installed lighting power per unit area Lighting power density is the installed lighting power per unit area (the amount of electrical power used to illuminate a space). It is usually expressed in Watts per unit of area. Reducing the lighting power density can reduce energy use.

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

B. LEED project type (schools, healthcare, data centers, etc.) 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.

If a project owner wants to create a landscape with plants that require watering, which of the following is the minimum outdoor water reduction from a baseline required for a new office project? A. 20% B. 40% C. 30% D. 10%

C. 30%

What is the impact of creating a dense, compact mixed-use neighborhood? A. Increased in flooding from stormwater runoff and the heat island effect B. Less pavement for roads and less infrastructure for utilities C. Increased in the travel time to work for occupants D. Decreased availability of alternative transportation

B. Less pavement for roads and less infrastructure for utilities If buildings are closer together and hold more occupants, less roads and utility infrastructure is required. This saves on materials which reduces demand for virgin materials and transportation of those materials.

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

B. Life cycle costing Project teams should determine relevant design fees and construction costs, including: 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.

How does USGBC support achievement of its mission 'to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life'? (choose 2) A. Financial incentives B. Local chapters C. Free consulting D. GBCI E. LEED green building program

B. Local chapters E. LEED green building program

What LEED credit category rewards projects within relatively dense areas, near diverse uses, with access to a variety of transportation options, or on sites with development constraints? A. Smart Location and Linkage B. Location and Transportation C. Innovation D. Sustainable Sites

B. Location and Transportation

What are the economic benefits of installing a vegetated roof? A. Lower investment cost compared to roof surfaces with high SRI B. Lower cooling costs for HVAC C. Increased habitat for birds D. Provides occupants a connection to the outdoors

B. Lower cooling costs for HVAC Vegetated roofs are great insulators. They act as a barrier between the sun's heat and keep that heat from entering the building through the roof. Because of this added insulation the costs to cool the building can be reduced.

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? (choose 2) A. Reduced heat islands B. Lower maintenance costs C. Reduction in rainwater runoff D. Longer product life

B. Lower maintenance costs 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. D. Longer product life According to some studies and some LEED documentation vegetated roofs have a longer product life than conventional roofs. Maybe that is due to the yearly maintenance and upkeep that should occur.

What are examples of spaces that are typically unoccupied? A. Gymnasium B. Mechanical room C. Airplane hanger D. Inactive storage area in a warehouse E. Data center floor area F. Private office

B. Mechanical room D. Inactive storage area in a warehouse E. Data center floor area

Why would a landscape designer choose native landscaping in an arid climate? (choose 2) A. Increase occupant well-being and productivity B. Minimize evapotranspiration C. Heat island reduction D. Provide linked habitat corridors in urban areas E. Support integrated pest management (IPM)

B. Minimize evapotranspiration Evapotranspiration is the combination of evaporation and plant transpiration into the atmosphere. Evaporation occurs when liquid water from soil, plant surfaces, or water bodies becomes vapor. (USGBC) E. Support integrated pest management (IPM) Native plants help with an IPM strategy.

Which of the following defines the types of buildings, spaces, and neighborhoods that the LEED rating system is designed to evaluate? A. Prerequisites B. Minimum Program Requirements C. Credits D. LEED Online

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.

What is required of all new LEED buildings? A. Must have access to public transportation, manage rainwater, and have a FAR of at least 1.5 B. Must be a permanent structure, use a reasonable site boundary, and have a minimum floor area C. Must have an ENERGY STAR score of 50, use sustainable building materials, and have preferred parking D. Must have a minimum building height, have a daylighting strategy, and provide for occupant comfort

B. Must be a permanent structure, use a reasonable site boundary, and have a minimum floor areaThe Minimum Program Requirements are: - Must be in a permanent location on existing land - Must use reasonable LEED boundaries - Must comply with project size requirements

What are the basic types of LEED improvements that are updated through revisions on a regular development cycle? (Choose 3) A. LEED reviewer comments B. Next version of LEED C. Errata and Addenda D. Credit interpretation requests E. LEED technical requests F. Adaptations

B. Next version of LEED C. Errata and Addenda F. Adaptations

An owner wants to install a photovoltaic system on the building's rooftop and sell the excess electricity back to the utility company. Which of the following would be aided by this strategy? A. Demand response B. On-site renewable energy C. Carbon offsets D. Green power

B. On-site renewable energy Net metering is the term for selling excess electricity back to the grid. Net metering can only be done when on-site renewable energy systems are present.

What type of products would carry a Green Seal label? A. Brick B. Paints C. Carpet D. Wood

B. Paints Green Seal is a nonprofit organization that has created several standards used to certify products that are more environmentally friendly. This includes paints, coatings, and cleaning products.

Which of the following is the median payback period for the commissioning of new buildings? A. 3.9 years B. 1.5 years C. 4.8 years D. 2.6 years

C. 4.8 years Commissioning can be expensive but, compared to the savings it achieves over time, it's one of the best investments a building owner can make.

What term refers to a mandatory project characteristic, measurement, quality, value or function as identified within the LEED rating system? A. Credit B. Prerequisite C. Minimum Program Requirement D. Exemplary performance

B. Prerequisite 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.

What are the key criteria that define green building performance? A. Minimum program requirements B. Prerequisites C. Innovative designs D. Third party standards

B. Prerequisites The prerequisites are the key criteria that define green building performance.

Which of the following is a difference between Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) and a carbon offset? A. RECs are purchased B. RECs are tradable commodities C. RECs must be purchased locally D. RECs encourage the reduction of GHG emissions

B. RECs are tradable commodities This is a difference between the two.

A large home builder is developing a new neighborhood with 200 homes. What strategies would help the builder save on material costs and conserve materials? (choose 3) A. Low VOC paints B. Reducing hallways C. Advanced framing D. Select products that ship with less packaging E. Structural insulated panels F. Choose products made in factories that support worker health

B. Reducing hallways C. Advanced framing E. Structural insulated panels

In an integrated approach to rainwater management, which of the following actions should a project team take to reduce runoff volume and improve water quality? A. Assess the site for environmental contamination B. Replicate the natural hydrology and water balance of the site C. Control soil erosion from construction activities D. Provide habitat and promote biodiversity

B. Replicate the natural hydrology and water balance of the site This question asks about the intent and goals of rainwater management.

Which of the following impact categories are given the greatest weight in LEED? A. Protect and Restore Water Resources and Protect, Enhance and Restore Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services B. Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change and Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being C. Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles and Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change D. Build a Greener Economy and Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, Community Health and Quality of Life

B. Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change and Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being

Which of the following elements should be considered to facilitate communication in school classrooms? (choose 3) A. Air filters with high MERV ratings B. Soft surfaces C. Duct insulation D. Increased ventilation E. Building geometry

B. Soft surfaces Architectural finishes that include soft surfaces improve acoustics. Fabric-covered walls or acoustic tiles are some examples. C. Duct insulation Air flowing through the HVAC system can make loud whistling and whooshing noises. Duct insulation reduces the noise of the air flow. E. Building geometry The geometry of the space is critical to good acoustics. Consider a concert hall - are the acoustics good or bad? Probably good because of the effort put into the geometry of the space. There are designs that improve acoustics and designs that make for poor acoustics, such as high ceilings.

Which of the following does not aid in the identification of sensitive habitats? (choose 2) A. ACEEE B. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service C. The NatureServe Heritage Program D. FEMA E. The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations

B. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service The Fish and Wildlife Service keeps a list of threatened and endangered species. C. The NatureServe Heritage Program NatureServe Heritige Program classifies species and ecological communities under different ratings.

Commissioning of a building is intended to verify the building and its systems meet which of the following: A. Occupant preferences B. The owner's project requirements C. HVAC specifications D. Local building code

B. The owner's project requirements Commissioning is 'the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements.' The owner's project requirements (OPR) are 'a written document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project.' - USGBC

What part of LEED Online can be used to obtain a real-time snapshot of the project's progress? A. The project checklist B. The project timeline C. The credit assignments D. The review comments

B. The project timeline The project timeline gives an overview of all the steps of the project's process via real-time snapshots.

What does the emissivity of a material refer to? A. The environmental benefits of the material over time B. The ratio of energy radiated by a particular material to energy radiated by a black body at the same temperature C. How hot a surface gets relative to standard black and standard white surfaces D. The measure of a material's ability to reflect sunlight (including the visible, infrared, and ultraviolet wavelengths) on a scale of 0 to 1

B. The ratio of energy radiated by a particular material to energy radiated by a black body at the same temperature: The emissivity of a material is the ratio of energy radiated by a particular material to energy radiated by a black body at the same temperature. It is a measure of a material's ability to radiate absorbed energy.

What does ASHRAE 55 specify? A. Energy performance B. Thermal comfort C. Commuting surveys D. Indoor air quality

B. Thermal comfort ASHRAE 55 Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy help with defining what makes a comfortable indoor environment for occupants. Indoor conditions are considered acceptable if 80% or more of occupants find them acceptable.

Which of the following is a priority designation used in LEED? A. To help projects locate near existing infrastructure B. To encourage investment in economically disadvantaged or low-income areas C. To prevent project teams from building in sensitive habitats D. To encourage project teams to build in a LEED-ND project area

B. To encourage investment in economically disadvantaged or low-income areas The high-priority site credit helps project teams identify priority development areas. LEED projects can earn points for building in what tend to be disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Who develops ongoing improvements to LEED? A. World Green Building Council (WGBC) B. USGBC member-based volunteer committees in conjunction with USGBC staff C. USGBC Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs) D. USGBC Board of Directors

B. USGBC member-based volunteer committees in conjunction with USGBC staff; LEED is developed by USGBC member-based volunteer committees, subcommittees, and working groups in conjunction with staff. LEED development follows a structure that includes a balanced representation of stakeholders and management of conflict of interest, to ensure that the development of LEED is transparent and consensus-based. The LEED committee structure balances market needs and constraints with consistency and technical rigor in the development and improvement of the credits within LEED, to ensure the quality and integrity of the LEED brand.

A business owner is building an office in a city that has air quality issues during the summer. The owner wants to hear recommendations for design decisions that improve indoor air quality. Which of the following are strategies that would achieve the project goal? (choose 2) A. Use natural ventilation B. Use materials with low VOC emissions C. Install walk-off mats in the entryways D. Permit smoking around side entrances only E. Orient the building east to west

B. Use materials with low VOC emissions Low-emitting materials improve indoor air quality. C. Install walk-off mats in the entryways Walk-off mats help capture dust, dirt, and contaminants people could otherwise track into the building.

Which factor would increase outdoor water use? A. Increasing planting density B. Using turfgrass for groundcover C. Using low-impact development (LID) strategies D. Installing submeters

B. Using turfgrass for groundcover Turfgrass requires large amounts of irrigation and would impact the project's ability to reduce outdoor water use.

Which of the following are credit categories found in the LEED scorecard? A. LEED AP B. Water Efficiency C. Sustainable Sites D. Materials and Resources E. Indoor Air Quality F. Energy Performance

B. Water Efficiency C. Sustainable Sites D. Materials and Resources Categories: Location and Transportation Sustainable Sites Water Efficiency Energy and Atmosphere Materials and Resources Indoor Environmental Quality Innovation

Projects may be able to use some of the same techniques for both ______________: A. designing for flexibility and open space. B. construction activity pollution prevention and habitat conservation and restoration. C. exterior lighting reduction and quality views. D. site assessment and submetering.

B. construction activity pollution prevention and habitat conservation and restoration. Both of these are intended to preserve and protect greenfields during the construction process. A project team may be able to share strategies between them and achieve synergy.

Where should a project team go for updates and errata for the LEED BD+C: New Construction rating system? A. LEED reference guides B. usgbc.org C. GBCI.org D. LEED online

B. usgbc.org Any updates, changes, errata to any LEED rating system are found on USGBC's website and nowhere else.

What is the median payback period for the commissioning of existing buildings? A. 1.5 years B. 1 year C. 0.7 years D. 2.8 years

C. 0.7 years

The baseline water use of a lavatory faucet is: A. 1.0 gpf (3.8 lpf) B. 2.2 gpf (8.3 lpf) C. 2.2 gpm (8.3 lpm) D. 1.0 gpm (3.8 lpm)

C. 2.2 gpm (8.3 lpm) 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm) (8.3 lpm) per the EPAct of 1992.

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

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

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

C. A law usually found in a municipal code 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.

A construction waste management plan should address what items? A. The disposal of hazardous materials and corporate sustainability reporting B. A community recycling program and source reduction C. A target diversion rate and what materials should be diverted from the waste stream D. Where onsite waste can be incinerated and where certified wood can be procured

C. A target diversion rate and what materials should be diverted from the waste stream: A construction waste management plan should address what materials will be diverted from the landfill, as well as how they will be diverted and how the plan will be policed. For example; will we recycle cardboard? What types of bins will we need? Where will they be stored? How will we protect the material from rain?

When evaluating materials that would help with heat-island reduction, which of the following is the MOST important material attribute? A. Thermal emittance B. An SRI C. A three-year aged SR value D. An SR

C. A three-year aged SR value New in LEED v4 is the three-year aged SRI value as a performance measurement of roofing/hardscape materials. The three-year aged SR or SRI value is 'a solar reflectance or solar reflectance index rating that is measured after three years of weather exposure.' - USGBC What this indicates is how good the product is going to be performing after three years outside. Consider a highly reflective white roof. When it's installed, it's clean and bright white, but the sun beats down on it day after day, it gets rained on, dust in the air collects on it, etc. After a period of time, it's no longer as bright, and thus performs less optimally. The three-year aged rating takes this into account.

Which of the following is an alternative compliance path to the International Green Construction Code (IgCC)? A. LEED B. ASHRAE 90.1 C. ASHRAE 189.1 D. BREEAM

C. ASHRAE 189.1 An addition to the technical content of the IgCC is the inclusion of ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1, Standard for the Design of High Performance, Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, as an alternate path of compliance. Standard 189.1 is a set of technically rigorous requirements, which like the IgCC, covers criteria including water use efficiency, indoor environmental quality, energy efficiency, materials and resource use, and the building's impact on its site and its community.

Which of the following actions can NOT be performed by a project team member using LEED Online? A. Managing public-facing project details B. Submitting technical inquiries regarding LEED credits C. Accessing web-based reference guides D. Coordinating resources among project team members

C. Accessing web-based reference guides The web-based reference guides are accessible only through a user's USGBC online account, not through LEED online.

LEED requires which of the following to be done in order for a project to earn certification? A. Include a LEED AP on the project B. Have the project administrator be a LEED AP C. Achieve all prerequisites for the rating system D. Meet the Minimum Program Requirements E. Achieve at least 50 points

C. Achieve all prerequisites for the rating system ALL prerequisites must be met for the rating system. If even a single prerequisite cannot be achieved in the rating system being certified under the project cannot earn LEED certification. D. Meet the Minimum Program Requirements All Minimum Program Requirements must be met.

What statement is true regarding the evaluation process if a project team is considering a new technology to bring more sunlight into a building? A. Further evaluation is not necessary if new information becomes available B. The technology does not need to be evaluated in relation to other systems C. Adequate time for research and testing will be needed for evaluation D. If it is a proven technology, alternatives do not need to be considered

C. Adequate time for research and testing will be needed for evaluation Many green and sustainable building practices are relatively new to the industry. Project teams should allocate adequate time for additional research and analysis of options, as well as testing and inspections. These tasks can be assigned to a small task group.

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

C. Alternative Compliance Paths ACPs allow international projects to identify equivalent means of demonstrating compliance to the credit requirements. For example, where an equivalent country's reference standard exists, an ACP can allow for the use of that standard.

Which of the following best describes the LEED charrette? A. Meetings with the project team at least monthly to review project status, introduce new team members to project goals, discuss problems, formulate solutions, review responsibilities, and identify next steps. B. At least eight hours of training (extending a full day or over several days) on the green aspects of the project, as well as ways in which the trades can contribute to achieving each LEED prerequisite and attempted credits C. An intensive, multiparty workshop that brings people from different disciplines and backgrounds together to produce specific deliverables D. The operational hand-off between the project team and the facility manager and building occupants during which the control of systems is reviewed

C. An intensive, multiparty workshop that brings people from different disciplines and backgrounds together to produce specific deliverables

A project owner that chooses to use onsite renewable energy sources instead of oil, coal, and natural gas gets what economic benefit of the triple bottom line? A. Contributing to national security vulnerability B. Decreasing destructive extraction processes C. Avoiding escalating market prices D. Protection from uncertain supplies

C. Avoiding escalating market prices Renewable energy sources are sustainable, unlike nonrenewable sources which are limited cannot be replenished as fast as they are being consumed. This question asks about an economic benefit avoiding nonrenewable pricing fluctuations.

Which of the following has the greatest direct impact on global warming? A. SRI of a building's roof B. Size of a project's impermeable areas C. HVAC operating efficiency D. Building orientation

C. HVAC operating efficiency How efficiently HVAC equipment is directly impacts how much fossil fuel is burned to heat and cool a building.

A. Installing a community solar garden Solar is a type of renewable energy that neither reduces demand nor increases efficiency. B. Siting the buildings close to each other C. Building a district heating and cooling system D. Purchasing carbon offsets

C. Building a district heating and cooling system A district energy system (DES) is 'a central energy conversion plant and transmission and distribution system that provides thermal energy to a group of buildings Individual buildings served by a district energy system don't need their own boilers or furnaces, chillers or air conditioners. The district energy system does that work for them, providing valuable benefits including improved energy efficiency overall.

A developer is considering pursuing LEED for an eight-story, multi-family residential project. How would the baseline building performance be determined? A. By the project obtaining a HERS index B. By obtaining an ENERGY STAR for Homes rating C. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 D. By using the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager

C. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 In LEED BD+C projects use ASHRAE 90.1 to determine the baseline building performance.

If a building owner selected a project site in an existing community with proximity to existing utility lines and street networks, in which of the following ways would it save on project costs? A. By increased availability of grid-source renewable energy B. By increased opportunities to participate in demand-response programs C. By reduced infrastructure costs D. By reduced costs of electric transmission

C. By reduced infrastructure costs: If a building owner locates the project near existing utilities, they can usually save on having the utilities connected to the site because the distance and materials needed to do so would be reduced.

A project owner wants to provide financial support to a reforestation project. What would help with this goal? A. Building in a high-priority site B. On-site renewable energy C. Carbon offsets D. Green power

C. Carbon offsets Purchasing carbon offsets helps fund projects that decrease carbon emissions or remove carbon from the atmosphere. Examples of these types of projects include reforestation, changing land-use, and methane abatement.

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

C. Decreased absenteeism Research shows that just like increased productivity, decreased absenteeism is a by-product of healthier buildings.

Which of the following are phases of a LEED integrative process? (choose 3) A. Financing B. Value Engineering C. Design and Construction (Implementation) D. Occupancy, Operations, and Performance Feedback E. Discovery

C. Design and Construction (Implementation) USGBC defines Implementation as, 'This phase begins with what is conventionally called 'Schematic Design.' It resembles conventional practice in its structure, but integrates all of the work and collective understanding of system interactions reached during the Discovery Phase.' D. Occupancy, Operations, and Performance Feedback USGBC defines this stage as, 'This third stage focuses on implementing performance measurement and creating performance feedback mechanisms. Such feedback is critical for informing building operations, so the degree to which established performance targets have been met can be assessed and so corrective actions can be taken.' E. Discovery USGBC defines discovery as, 'This is the most important phase of the integrative process; it can be thought of as an extensive expansion of what is conventionally called 'Pre-Design.' It is unlikely that a project's environmental goals will be achieved cost-effectively if this phase is not rigorously engaged as a discreet phase of the design process. Discovery work needs to be accomplished before 'putting pencil to paper' . . . in other words, before schematic design begins.'

The total land area of a project site covered by buildings, streets, parking areas, and other typically impermeable surfaces constructed as part of the project is the: A. LEED neighborhood B. Stormwater retention area C. Development footprint D. Restored area

C. Development footprint This is the correct definition of development footprint.

Regularly occupied spaces would include which of the following: A. Break room B. Restroom C. Dorm room D. Corridor

C. Dorm room For LEED only, the dorm room is considered a regularly occupied space.

The developer of a school project in a sunny region suggests using light shelves to bring daylight into some of the classrooms. Which of the following issues would arise as a result of this strategy? A. Reduction of low-emitting materials B. Interference with outside views C. Glare reduction D. Decreased acoustic performance

C. Glare reduction Anytime daylight is brought into the building, glare reduction needs to be considered, no matter what method is used to bring in the daylight.

Which of the following strategies can a project team combine to mimic natural systems and manage rainwater? A. Piping and conveyance B. Submetering irrigation systems and replacing potable water with non-potable water C. Green infrastructure (GI) and low-impact development (LID) D. Xeriscaping and monitoring yearly rainfall

C. Green infrastructure (GI) and low-impact development (LID) Green infrastructure is 'a soil- and vegetation-based approach to wet-weather management that is cost-effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Green infrastructure management approaches and technologies infiltrate, evapotranspire, capture and reuse stormwater to maintain or restore natural hydrologies.' - USGBC Low-impact development is 'an approach to managing rainwater runoff that emphasizes on-site natural features to protect water quality by replicating the natural land cover hydrologic regime of watersheds and addressing runoff close to its source. Examples include better site design principles (e.g., minimizing land disturbance, preserving vegetation, minimizing impervious cover) and design practices (e.g., rain gardens, vegetated swales and buffers, permeable pavement, rainwater harvesting, soil amendments). These are engineered practices that may require specialized design assistance.' - USGBC

To qualify for LEED, carbon offsets must be which of the following? A. Purchased and used within the same state or locale. B. ENERGY STAR labeled C. Green-e Climate certified (or equivalent) D. Green-e Energy certified (or equivalent)

C. Green-e Climate certified (or equivalent); Green-e Climate certification is for qualifying carbon offsets for LEED.

Which of the following refrigerants are banned under the Montreal Protocol? (choose 2) A. Isopentane B. HFCs C. HCFCs D. CFCs

C. HCFCs Under the Montreal Protocol no production and no importing of any HCFCs is permitted after 2030. A 90% phase-out is required by 2015 of HCFCs. D. CFCs CFCs were banned under the Montreal Protocol in 1995.

The use of open grid pavement can help a project achieve points in what LEED areas? (choose 2) A. Outdoor Water Use Reduction B. Open Space C. Heat Island Reduction D. Rainwater Management

C. Heat Island Reduction Open grid pavement is pavement that is less than 50% impervious and contains vegetation in the open cells. LEED accepts this type of pavement for the use of reducing heat islands. The reason behind this is because the vegetation in the open cells replaces heat absorbing surfaces just like any other plant. D. Rainwater Management Open grid pavement helps manage runoff by reducing the quantity of impervious surfaces.

Each LEED credit and prerequisite includes the intent of the credit/prerequisite. What is the 'intent' of a credit/prerequisite? A. Outlines concerns specific to specific regions B. Details the level of performance needed to achieve a credit C. Identifies the main sustainability goal or benefit of the prerequisite or credit D. Addresses the synergies and trade-offs between credits

C. Identifies the main sustainability goal or benefit of the prerequisite or credit This is USGBC's definition of a LEED intent.

Which of the following is NOT a strategy for reducing potable water use for irrigation? A. Use treated wastewater B. Install smart-sensor technology C. Install building-level metering D. Only use grass for play fields or other activities that require turf

C. Install building-level metering Building level metering will track the whole building's water use but not allow a determination regarding whether the irrigation potable water use is being reduced. Irrigation water use would have to be tracked separately.

What project design strategy would minimize a project's water usage the most? A. Increasing the area of permeable surfaces B. Minimize the quantity of hardscapes on the project site C. Installing a landscape that needs no irrigation D. Directing runoff into retention ponds or bioswales

C. Installing a landscape that needs no irrigation; A landscape that requires no irrigation uses less water.

Decreasing the parking footprint of a project can be accomplished by which of the following actions? A. Building in places well served by transit B. Locating projects in high-density, mixed-use areas C. Instituting transportation demand management strategies D. Separating employee and visitor parking E. Not including the parking area in the LEED project boundary

C. Instituting transportation demand management strategies;Transportation demand strategies are things like providing preferred parking to carpools that can reduce single-occupancy vehicle use: Telecommuting Compressed workweeks Shuttle service between the site and commercial/residential centers Subsidize public transportation to users to encourage them to use it

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

C. International Code Council 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)

Which LEED rating system has pre-certification? A. LEED BD+C: New Construction B. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings C. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell D. LEED BD+C: Schools E. LEED ID+C: Commercial Interiors

C. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell 'Once a project is registered as a LEED BD+C: Core and Shell project, the project team may apply for precertification. LEED BD+C: Core and Shell precertification is a formal recognition by the USGBC given to a candidate project for which the developer/owner has established a goal to develop a LEED BD+C: Core and Shell building. Once precertification is granted, the developer/owner can market the building's proposed green features to potential tenants and financiers.' -USGBC

What rating system has a credit category named Smart Location and Linkage? A. LEED ID+C B. LEED O+M C. LEED ND D. LEED BD+C

C. LEED ND Smart location & linkage credits promote walkable neighborhoods with efficient transportation options and open space.

How does USGBC support achievement of its mission 'to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life'? (choose 2) A. Free consulting B. GBCI C. LEED green building program D. Financial incentives E. Local chapters

C. LEED green building program E. Local chapters

What statement is true regarding HydroFluoroCarbons (HFCs)? A. The HFC refrigerant group includes NH3, CO2, and propane B. HFCs have high ozone depletion potential C. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential D. HFCs are scheduled to be banned under the Montreal Protocol

C. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential; HFCs typically have a low ozone depletion potential but a high global warming potential.

Which of the following are credit categories found in the LEED scorecard? (choose 3) A. Indoor Air Quality B. LEED AP C. Materials and Resources D. Sustainable Sites E. Energy Performance F. Water Efficiency

C. Materials and Resources D. Sustainable Sites F. Water Efficiency

An owner wants to install a photovoltaic system on the building's rooftop and sell the excess electricity back to the utility company. Which of the following would be aided by this strategy? A. Carbon offsets B. Demand response C. On-site renewable energy D. Green power

C. On-site renewable energy Net metering is the term for selling excess electricity back to the grid. Net metering can only be done when on-site renewable energy systems are present.

What is the most common way to meet the requirements of off-site renewable energy? A. Installing a rooftop photovoltaic array B. Directly purchasing green power from local utility companies C. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits D. Obtaining energy from a geothermal system

C. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs); The most common way (according to LEED) of meeting the requirements of off-site renewable energy is by purchasing RECs. Many local utility companies currently are either closed markets or do not offer renewable alternatives. RECs have no geographic constraints, because they are sold separately from electricity. A project in Maine can purchase RECs from any other state.

Which of the following is a benefit of a building owner choosing to install a wind turbine on site to reduce the building's use of grid-source nonrenewable energy? A. Heat island reduction B. Lower liabilities C. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions D. Decreased up-front building costs

C. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions When renewable energy (wind, geothermal, solar) is chosen over nonrenewable energy (oil, coal, natural gas), greenhouse gas emissions are decreased.

In commercial buildings, on average which end use consumes the most energy? A. Ventilation B. Cooling C. Space heating D. Lighting

C. Space heating Space Heating - 36% Lighting - 21% Cooling - 8% Water Heating - 8% Ventilation - 7% Refrigeration - 6% Cooking - 3% Computers - 2% Office Equipment - 1% Other - 8%

A bioswale would be used to help earn credit in what LEED category? A. Energy and Atmosphere B. Indoor Environmental Quality C. Sustainable Sites D. Water Efficiency

C. Sustainable Sites Bioswales are landscape elements designed to remove silt and pollution from surface runoff water during and after construction. They consist of a swaled drainage course with gently sloped sides and filled with vegetation, compost and/or riprap. Bioswales would be used to help capture and improve the quality of runoff.

Some credits have an LPE option. What does LPE mean? A. That a credit is a LEED Pilot credit B. That a LEED Accredited Professional is primarily responsible for the credit C. That the credit has a Licensed Professional Exemption D. That the credit will pursue LEED Exemplary Performance

C. That the credit has a Licensed Professional Exemption Licensed Professional Exemption (LPE) is an optional credit documentation path in which professionals can submit license information and a declaration of compliance in lieu of a number of otherwise required submittals.

A university client asks about certifying multiple buildings. Which of the following is an appropriate response? A. The Neighborhood Development rating system would be used to streamline the documentation process. B. The Campus Program is used for certifying multiple buildings if they are adjacent to each other. C. The Campus Program can be used for projects not necessarily uniform in design or operations but located on a single campus location. D. The LEED Volume Program is always used for certifying more than one building.

C. The Campus Program can be used for projects not necessarily uniform in design or operations but located on a single campus location. This choice is the correct description of the Campus Program. LEED volume is for prototype-based projects, usually in different areas. Campus is for projects located on a single campus. A big university with many satellite schools building the same classroom in multiple, distant locations would be LEED Volume. A school classification doesn't automatically indicate a Campus Program.

A project developer is creating an erosion and sedimentation control plan. The plan must conform to which of the following requirements? A. The landscape architect's site elevations B. The LEED ESC Plan C. The EPA Construction General Permit or the local equivalent D. The Owner's Project Requirements (OPR)

C. The EPA Construction General Permit or the local equivalent An erosion and sedimentation control plan is required for the Construction Activity Pollution Prevention prerequisite. The plan must conform to the EPA Construction General Permit or local equivalent, whichever is more stringent.

Which of the following project team members is responsible for verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements? A. The project administrator B. The mechanical engineer C. The commissioning authority D. The LEED project reviewer

C. The commissioning authority This is another way of asking who is responsible for commissioning.' Commissioning is 'the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements.' - USGBC

When conducting a confidential occupant survey to rate the lighting, acoustics, temperature, and cleanliness of a building, who is primarily responsible for reviewing the results and taking any corrective action? A. The architect(s) B. The building owner(s) C. The facility manager(s) D. The occupant(s)

C. The facility manager(s) The facility manager is the primary person responsible for the survey and its follow-up corrective action. That is not to say the other choices would not be involved - just to a lesser degree.

What is true about an integrative process? A. The integrative process results in longer construction schedules B. The integrative process is a linear process C. The integrative process is applicable to any phase in the life cycle of a building or land-use project D. The integrative process is only used for new construction design processes

C. The integrative process is applicable to any phase in the life cycle of a building or land-use project The integrative process can be applied to any type of project no matter the stage of the project.

When choosing products that have Environmental Product Declarations (EPD), which factor is used in determining if LEED credit can be earned? A. The cost of the qualifying products as a percentage of the total project cost B. The number of different permanent and temporary products used from one manufacturer C. The number of different permanently installed products used from different manufacturers D. The cost of the qualifying products as a percentage of the total building envelope material's cost

C. The number of different permanently installed products used from different manufacturers: When purchasing materials a certain number of products must be selected to meet LEED credit requirements. For LEED a product must be a permanently installed building product, and is defined as 'an item that arrives on the project site either as a finished element ready for installation or as a component to another item assembled on-site.'

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 project administrator should re-run the energy model B. The electrical contractor can proceed with the design C. The project team must alter the design The strategy will need to be reworked to fit with the local D. A LEED reviewer must approve the existing strategy

C. The project team must alter the design The strategy will need to be reworked to fit with the local electrical code.

Energy efficiency is defined as: A. Any strategy that reduces resource use 20% from a baseline comparison B. The replacement of any older building product with a newer building product C. The use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same function as a conventional item D. Any strategy that reduces resource use 10% or more from a baseline comparison

C. The use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same function as a conventional item; A LED light bulb that uses less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light is an example of energy efficiency. The decision to replace an incandescent light bulb with a LED is an example of energy conservation.

What best defines the property area? A. Platted property line of the project defining land and water within it B. Portion of the project site submitted for LEED certification C. Total area within the legal property boundaries of the site; it encompasses all areas of the site, including constructed and non-constructed areas D. Total area within the platted property line not including any non-constructed areas

C. Total area within the legal property boundaries of the site; it encompasses all areas of the site, including constructed and non-constructed areas The property boundary and/or property area is the total area within the legal property boundaries of the site; it encompasses all areas of the site, including constructed and nonconstructed areas.

What is the International Green Construction Code (IgCC) intended to replace? A. ASHRAE 189.1 B. LEED C. Traditional building codes D. ENERGY STAR

C. Traditional building codes The IgCC provides the building industry with language that both broadens and strengthens building codes in a way that will accelerate the construction of high performance green buildings.Jurisdictions that adopt the IgCC into their building codes can enforce them.

Who develops ongoing improvements to LEED? A. USGBC member-based volunteer committees in conjunction with USGBC staff B. World Green Building Council (WGBC) C. USGBC Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs) D. USGBC Board of Directors

C. USGBC Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs) Under the direct management of the LEED Technical Committee, TAGs recommend technical solutions to rating system development and maintenance issues. The groups provide a consistent source of technical advice to LEED committees and working groups regarding credit and prerequisite improvement and supporting tool development.

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

C. Value engineering; 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.

When calculating building energy performance, what is included as process energy? (choose 3) A. Instant hot water heater B. High efficient HVAC unit C. Washing machine D. Elevator E. Desktop computer F. Walkway lighting

C. Washing machine D. Elevator E. Desktop computer The best way to remember the difference is process energy generally comes from equipment that is plugged into a wall outlet (except escalators and elevators)

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

D. 14%

What minimum indoor water savings are LEED projects required to achieve? A. 0% B. 15% C. 10% D. 20%

D. 20% The Water Use Reduction prerequisite requires a 20% reduction of the design case compared to the baseline case.

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

D. 72%

What is each LEED rating system made up of? A. Interpretations B. 3rd party standards C. Impact categories D. A combination of credit categories

D. A combination of credit categories Within each of the credit categories, there are specific prerequisites projects must satisfy and a variety of credits projects can pursue to earn points.

What site selection would promote walkability and reduce vehicle distance traveled? A. A site near mass transit B. A site near a solar garden C. A site near public parking D. A site with pedestrian access between diverse uses

D. A site with pedestrian access between diverse uses: A diverse use is a distinct, officially recognized business, nonprofit, civic, religious, or governmental organization, or dwelling units (residential use) or offices (commercial office use). It has a stationary postal address and is publicly available. It does not include automated facilities such as ATMs, vending machines, and touchscreens.

The purchasing policies for the ongoing operations of a building should address which of the following? A. Durable goods B. Utility rates C. Pest control service D. Ongoing consumables E. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)

D. Ongoing consumables Ongoing consumables are 'a product that has a low cost per unit and is regularly used and replaced in the course of business. Examples include paper, toner cartridges, binders, batteries, and desk accessories. Also known as ongoing purchases.' - USGBC

Which of these sites if selected would most help with increasing diversity of uses? A. A site that has underground parking and open space on the property B. A site located next door to an ATM C. A site located within walking distance of a commuter rail line D. A site within walking distance to a public park

D. A site within walking distance to a public park; A diverse use is a distinct, officially recognized business, nonprofit, civic, religious, or governmental organization, or dwelling units (residential use) or offices (commercial office use). It has a stationary postal address and is publicly available. It does not include automated facilities such as ATMs, vending machines, and touchscreens. Examples include: Bank, Church, Supermarket Day care, Dry cleaner, Fire station Salon, Hardware store, Library, etc

Which of the following project features does NOT promote biodiversity? A. An intensive green roof B. An extensive green roof C. Financially supporting a conservation organization D. A soccer field

D. A soccer field A soccer field would have turf grass on it. Monocultures are a single species of plant such as turf grass. Monocultures do not promote biodiversity.

What does a carbon offset represent? A. A tradable commodity representing proof that a unit of electricity was generated from a renewable resource B. The energy consumption divided by the number of square feet in a building C. The primary measure of energy consumption associated with buildings D. A unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced, avoided, or sequestered to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere.

D. A unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced, avoided, or sequestered to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere.

Which of the following actions can NOT be performed by a project team member using LEED Online? A. Submitting technical inquiries regarding LEED credits B. Coordinating resources among project team members C. Managing public-facing project details D. Accessing web-based reference guides

D. Accessing web-based reference guides The web-based reference guides are accessible only through a user's USGBC online account, not through LEED online.

When thinking about room layouts early in the design process, which of the following should be considered? A. Environmental tobacco smoke control B. Entryway systems C. Using materials with recycled content D. Acoustics

D. Acoustics Acoustics are often overlooked, but they should be considered early in the design process when designing room layouts in order to select a room design that aids this element.

A LEED credit that supports local economies and strengthens the green building industry and supply chains supports what impact category? A. Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles B. Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, Community Health and Quality of Life C. Global Biodiversity, Habitat Protection and Land Preservation D. Build a Greener Economy

D. Build a Greener Economy Category components are: - Enhance the Value Proposition of Green Building - Strengthen the Green Building Industry and Supply Chain - Promote Innovation and Integration of Green Building Products and Services - Incentivize Long Term Growth and Investment Opportunities - Support Local Economies

Which of the following are LEED impact categories? A. Reuse Dependence on Fossil Fuels and Create a Strong Sense of Place B. Natural Context, Infrastructural Context, and Social Context C. Social Capital, Natural Capital, and Economic Capital D. Build a Greener Economy and Protect and Restore Water Resources

D. Build a Greener Economy and Protect and Restore Water Resources These Impact Categories answer the question: 'What should a LEED project accomplish?':

What is USGBC's vision? A. Transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated B. See the transformation of a built environment that leads to a sustainable future C. Lead and accelerate the transformation to high-performing, healthy green buildings, homes, and communities throughout the United States D. Buildings and communities that will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within a generation

D. Buildings and communities that will regenerate and sustain the health and vitality of all life within a generation This is USGBC's vision.

How would access to quality transit be documented? A. By a map showing the project site, location, type of transportation resources, and driving distances to each location. B. By an area plan or map showing the project site and location of transit stop locations within a 1/4 mile (400-meter) radius of the project site C. By an area plan or map showing the project site and location of transit stop locations within a 1/2 mile (800-meter) radius of the project site D. By a map showing the project, project boundary, transit stop locations, walking routes, and distances to those stops

D. By a map showing the project, project boundary, transit stop locations, walking routes, and distances to those stops

Once occupants are in a building, how can the project team maintain ongoing energy efficiency? A. By purchasing Renewable Energy Credits B. By comparing the performance against C. By retrocommissioning D. By monitoring building automation systems

D. By monitoring building automation systems Building automation systems (BAS) collect data about a building's systems and track it over time. The data can be used to determine trends or anomalies, which can then serve to help fix or update the systems.

The Green Label Plus certification is used for what material? A. Wood B. Floors C. Cleaning products D. Carpets

D. Carpets Green Label Plus certified carpets have low VOC content.

What type of system is more sustainable? A. Neutral system B. Dynamic system C. Open system D. Closed system

D. Closed system A closed system is a system with a closed loop, and is thought of as more sustainable. For example, plants growing in a field, grow, produce oxygen, take in water, then die and decay which helps plants grow. Closed systems can be linked so one system uses the byproducts of another.

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

D. Contingencies for research of unconventional techniques or materials 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

Which of the following actions are aided by completing a life-cycle assessment (LCA) of a building during the design process? (choose 2) A. Reducing change orders B. Decreasing the project costs C. Shortening the construction schedule D. Determining the materials that best fit the project over the building's life E. Reducing the amount of materials used

D. Determining the materials that best fit the project over the building's life One reason to do an LCA of a building is to be able to compare different material choices and see how they impact the project over the building's life. E. Reducing the amount of materials used An LCA provides insight into the building design. Through this process the materials may be reduced.

An environmental product declaration (EPD) for LEED must conform to which of the following standards? A. ASHRAE B. Local code or jurisdiction C. Green-e D. ISO

D. ISO The International Standards Organization (ISO) standards are used for EPDs in LEED.

Which of the following assess environmental performance of products and services and provide guidance on improving their environmental performance? A. ASHRAE B. LEED C. IESNA D. ISO 14000

D. ISO 14000 The ISO 14000 product oriented standards include Environmental Labels and Declaration, Life Cycle Assessment, and Design for Environment. These standards are intended to be applicable for assessing the environmental performance of products and services as well as providing guidance on improving their environmental performance.

Each LEED credit and prerequisite includes the intent of the credit/prerequisite. What is the 'intent' of a credit/prerequisite? A. Addresses the synergies and trade-offs between credits B. Details the level of performance needed to achieve a credit C. Outlines concerns specific to specific regions D. Identifies the main sustainability goal or benefit of the prerequisite or credit

D. Identifies the main sustainability goal or benefit of the prerequisite or credit

What would be the direct result of specifying more costly, high-performance windows during the Construction phase? A. Decreased overall project costs B. Inexpensive downsizing of the HVAC system C. Less energy consumed by the building D. Increased building costs

D. Increased building costs This type of last-minute effort to improve efficiency is what drives up the costs of green building. If this decision had occurred in the design the HVAC system could have been downsized and cost less.

Which of the following is effective at reducing potable water use indoors? A. Installing fixtures that meet the EPAct 1992 standard B. Implementing cooling tower water management C. Installing submeters D. Installing low-consumption flush fixtures and low-flow rate faucets

D. Installing low-consumption flush fixtures and low-flow rate faucets; The intent of the Water Efficiency category is to reduce potable water demand (not increase it).

Who is responsible for ensuring the use of the consensus process to evolve LEED in accordance with the mission, guiding principles, and strategic plan of USGBC? A. LEED Technical Committee B. LEED Board of Directors C. LEED Technical Advisory Groups D. LEED Steering Committee

D. LEED Steering Committee LSC is an integrated group of volunteers and staff charged with developing and maintaining LEED as a leadership tool, preserving the integrity of the LEED rating systems, and ensuring the use of the consensus process to evolve LEED in accordance with the mission, guiding principles, and strategic plan of USGBC. A standing committee of USGBC Board of Directors, the LEED Steering Committee is the governing body of all LEED committees.

What is one difference between LEED Interpretations and project CIRs? A. LEED interpretations are not published publicly. B. LEED interpretations can only be used by the C. LEED interpretations are created by certification review teams. D. LEED interpretations are precedent-setting.

D. LEED interpretations are precedent-setting.

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

D. Life-cycle assessment Life cycle assessment evaluates a product's 'environmental impact'. 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. 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.

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

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. LCC compares different designs to determine the best long-term investment.

LEED rewards projects for all of the following design strategies EXCEPT which of the following: A. Locating the project in an area with nearby uses B. Locating the project in a historic district C. Limiting parking D. Locating the project near existing utilities

D. Locating the project near existing utilities While locating the project near existing infrastructure reduces the strain on the environment, LEED does not award points for a strategy such as locating a project close to existing power or sewer lines.

What credit category rewards project teams for taking advantage of existing patterns of development and land density? A. Regional Priority B. Sustainable Sites C. Innovation D. Location and Transportation

D. Location and Transportation LT focuses on the surrounding community of the project and what currently exists - is there public transportation, existing infrastructure, a previously developed site to build on, etc.?

What statement is true regarding HydroFluoroCarbons (HFCs)? A. The HFC refrigerant group includes NH3, CO2, and propane B. HFCs have high ozone depletion potential C. HFCs are scheduled to be banned under the Montreal Protocol D. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential

D. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential HFCs typically have a low ozone depletion potential but a high global warming potential.

What type of water is rainwater? A. Potable water B. Graywater C. Blackwater D. Non-potable water

D. Non-potable water In most jurisdictions rainwater is considered non-potable.

What best defines the project boundary? A. Total area within the legal property boundaries of the site; this encompasses all areas of the site, including constructed and nonconstructed areas B. Total area within the platted property line not including any non-constructed areas C. Portion of the project site submitted for LEED certification D. Platted property line of the project defining land and water within it

D. Platted property line of the project defining land and water within it The project boundary is the platted property line of the project defining land and water within it. (-USGBC)

Which of the following legally binding documents describe the quality of the materials to be used on the project? A. Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) B. Cradle-to-Grave Analysis C. Health Product Declaration (HPD) D. Specifications

D. Specifications Specifications are created by architects and given to the contractor for the purposes of purchasing the right quantity and type of materials. Specifications include drawings of what is to be built. They are legally binding documents.

What financial incentives can a municipality offer to a developer that proposes a green building? (choose 3) 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 E. Revolving loan funds F. Fee waivers

D. Tax credits E. Revolving loan funds F. Fee waivers

What does a REC represent? A. The amount of energy an electricity provider purchases from renewable sources B. The amount of energy purchased from a Green-e supplier C. The quantity of fossil fuels avoided by purchasing renewable energy, expressed in tons D. The environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources

D. The environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources; These attributes may be sold separately from the underlying commodity electricity.RECs represent the reduced emissions of renewable energy compared to conventional fossil fuels. RECs are sold separately allowing people to purchase the 'greenness' of the electricity. This allows anyone to purchase an REC even if the power to their building is not green power.

SMACNA guidelines should be followed for what reason? A. To develop a green cleaning program B. To select carpets with low VOCs C. To establish an integrated pest management plan D. To minimize indoor air quality issues caused by construction

D. To minimize indoor air quality issues caused by construction; SMACNA guidelines are used for some LEED credits in the Indoor Environmental Quality credit category. The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Contractors Association (SMACNA) has a set of indoor air quality guidelines that are used to help manage air quality issues resulting from construction and renovation.

For what purpose would a project team do a life-cycle assessment? A. To calculate a project's indoor baseline water use B. To measure the VOC content between different paints C. To compare the raw materials of different products D. To understand the trade-offs of material selection and energy performance

D. To understand the trade-offs of material selection and energy performance; One reason to do an LCA of a building is to be able to compare different material choices and see how they impact the project over the building's life.

A healthcare project team in the pre-design phase is discussing ways to protect patient privacy. Which of the following strategies would help achieve this goal? A. Designing waiting areas with views to the outdoors B. Reducing the building's footprint C. Placing recovery rooms toward the core of the building D. Using sound isolation

D. Using sound isolation Sound isolation is part of acoustic performance. In healthcare, patient privacy is important - discussions between doctors and patients should be private. Sound isolation helps achieve this.

Which of the following is NOT a component of the impact category Enhance Social Equity, Environmental Justice, Community Health and Quality of Life? A. Promote Access to Neighborhood Completeness Resources B. Promote Human Rights and Environmental Justice C. Create a Strong Sense of Place D. Provide Affordable, Equitable and Resilient Communities E. Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being

E. Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being Support Occupant Comfort and Well-Being is a component of the impact category Enhance Individual Human Health and Well-Being.

What are the roles of GBCI? (choose 3) A. Overseeing LEED credential maintenance B. Auditing USGBC Member Companies C. Administration of the LEED exams D. Approving the LEED Rating Systems E. Promoting the triple bottom line F. Third-party technical reviews of registered LEED projects

What are the roles of GBCI? A. Overseeing LEED credential maintenance C. Administration of the LEED exams F. Third-party technical reviews of registered LEED projects