1. IntroductionJonathan Ochshorn
© 2007 Jonathan Ochshorn.
Following is my selective summary of the "Innovation and Design Process" section of the LEED 2.2 New Construction Reference Guide, Second Edition, Sept. 2006. My commentary on the Reference Guide can be found in the red boxes within each of the chapters linked immediately above.
Up to four points are possible for developing and implementing strategies that address sustainability issues in ways that are either not covered in the LEED guidelines, or that substantially exceed LEED requirements. In order to get these points, the same sort of documentation, normally required for LEED credits, is expected: i.e., identifying the intent, the proposed requirements, the required submittals, and strategies (design approach).
There are some general guidelines for what constitutes an acceptable credit under this category:
Where existing LEED guidelines are exceeded, one should double the required outcome, or get to the next percentage increment;
Where something new is proposed, it must "demonstrate a comprehensive approach and have significant, measurable environmental benefits…"
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has created a category of people deemed especially qualified to organize and coordinate the LEED certification process: the so-called LEED accredited professional, or LEED AP. One gets to be a LEED AP by studying the LEED guidelines, paying $250 (USGBC members) or $350 (non-members), and passing an examination.* As long as a "principal participant" of the project team is a LEED AP, the project is in compliance with this credit, and gets a point.
* According to USGBC: "Exams scheduled with Prometric after January 10, 2008 will cost $300 for USGBC Members and $400 for Non-Members…"
First posted Nov. 2, 2007; last updated 29 January, 2008 [minor re-formatting]
