Studio4 LEED Green Associate 101 QA

LEED
Green Associate Exam Prep

101 Questions & 101 Answers
Question Set with Abbreviated Answers
Question Set with Full Answers and Reference Links
LEED
Green Associate Exam Prep
101 Questions & 101 Answers
Question Set with Abbreviated Answers
Question Set with Full Answers and Reference Links
01 January, 2011
2011 Studio4 LLC
S T U D I O 4
1 What rules should be used when selecting a LEED rating system when more than one system may apply?
(Choose 2)
A 25/75
B 40/60
C Use the rating system that is most applicable
D 75/25
2 To verify the compliance of a credit or prerequisite, a qualified member of the project team submits this:
A Letter of attestation
B LEED Scorecard
C CIR
D Credit Forms
3 This source consumes the largest amount of energy in buildings:
A Space Heating
B Office Equipment
C Water Heating
D Lighting
4 Legal protection of the ozone layer in the U.S. is provided by this:
A US DOE
B Montreal Protocol
C Kyoto Protocol
D ASHRAE Standards
5 2009 LEED rating systems, except LEED for Homes and LEED for ND, have what 3 structures?
(Choose 3)
A Credits
B Charrettes
C CIRs
D Minimum Program Requirements
E Prerequisites
6 The Energy Policy Act establishes what flush rate as the baseline water consumption for water closets?
A 1.0 gallons per flush
B 0.6 gallons per flush
C 1.6 gallons per flush
D 1.6 gallons per minute
7 The Triple Bottom Line evaluates the human and environmental effects associated with these:
A Federal, state and local codes
B Social, economics and environment
C Energy, water and air
D Global warming, ozone depletion and carbon emissions
LEED Green Associate
Sample Exam Questions & Answers
101 Questions
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S T U D I O 4
8 Construction and demolition debris cannot include 2 of these items:
(Choose 2)
A Rock
B Wood
C Soil
D Concrete
9
To qualify as a regional material, within what distance must a material be extracted, harvested or
recovered, and manufactured?
A 250 miles
B 100 miles
C 500 miles
D 1000 miles
10 Tenant improvement projects would be best suited for this 2009 LEED Rating System:
A LEED for Core & Shell
B LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
C LEED for Commercial Interiors
D LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations
11 For Storage and Collection of Recyclables, a building recycling program must include these items:
(Choose 3)
A Plastic
B Brick
C Cardboard
D Metal
E Hazardous materials
12 The two primary responsibilities of the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) are:
(Choose 2)
A Develops LEED Green Building Rating Systems
B Provides third party LEED professional credentialing
C Provides and develops LEED based education and research projects
D Provides third party LEED project certification
13 Regional Priority credits are new to LEED 2009 and are made available to the project for:
A Achieving the highest threshold level of the credit
B The zip code of the geographic location of the project
C Ensuring all environmental concerns associated with energy usage for the project location are achieved
D Determining all local environmental issues are achieved as identified by the Project Team
14 The LEED project boundary is defined as:
A The same as the site boundary
B The portion of the site that encompasses only the building and hardscape areas
C The boundary description that is submitted for certification
D The same as the attendance boundary
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S T U D I O 4
15
The 2009 LEED Rating System best suited for an office complex where the owner will occupy 60% of the
building would be:
16 The minimum FTE requirement per Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) for LEED Certification is:
A 25 FTE
B 1 FTE
C 10 FTE
D 1 FTE per 100 square feet
17 A popular program for comparing the energy performance of multiple buildings:
A ENERGY STAR
B EPAct 1992
C ASHRAE 90.1-2007
D ASHRAE 90.1-2004
18 What is unique about the Innovative Performance requirement for the Innovation in Design credit?
A It is not applicable to existing or similar strategies in the LEED rating system
B It is available for achieving the next incremental threshold of the credit
C It is available only for prerequisites
D It is available only for existing or similar credit strategies
19 The major consideration when developing a sustainable project budget:
A Final contractor bids
B Life Cycle Costs
C Construction hard costs only
D Triple Bottom Line
20 The EPAct 1992 water standard excludes which types of fixtures and equipment?
A Bidets
B Dishwashers
C Lavatory faucets
D Water closets
21 Which statement is true for a project to qualify for the LEED for Homes rating system?
A The project must be single family residential
B The project cannot be a multistory residential project
C The project can be a 3 story or less low-rise multifamily residential project
D The project can be an 8 story mid-rise multifamily residential project
22
Who can offer an alternative way to provide verification for a number of submittals in a project application
for LEED certification?
A LEED AP
B Licensed Professional
C Project Administrator
D LEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG)
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23 Source reduction relates to:
A Heat island effect
B Waste prevention
C Stormwater runoff
D Energy reduction
24 How many levels, or tiers, of LEED professional accreditation are available?
A 4
B 3
C 2
D 1
25 Consolidates and aligns credits and prerequisites to be consistent across all LEED 2009 rating systems:
A Credit weightings
B Regionalization
C Harmonization
26 The two primary responsibilities of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) are:
(Choose 2)
B Provides third party LEED professional credentials
C Develops and provides LEED based education and research projects
27 Two primary benefits of using pervious materials for hardscapes (parking lots, walks and patios):
(Choose 2)
A Decrease heat island effect
B Improve stormwater quantity
C Increase site open space
D Improve stormwater quality
E Allow collection of water for recycling
F Help implement stormwater management during construction activities
28 Credit Weightings are used to evaluate the credit with respect to:
A Environmental and human health
B Energy conservation
C Human health
D Environmental benefit
29 The Energy Policy Act of 1992 addresses these types of fixtures or equipment:
(Choose 2)
A Dishwashers
B Clothes washers
C Kitchen faucets
D Urinals
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30 Where can the USGBC logo not be used?
(Choose 2)
A Business cards
B Packaging
C Letterheads
D Products
E Email transmittals
31 What is the recommended process for the project team to follow to achieve LEED certification?
A Register the project, complete construction and request certification plaque
B Retain a LEED AP to certify the project meets all environmental requirements
C
Determine if project is appropriate for LEED; register the project with GBCI and pay registration fee;
prepare application; submit application and pay appropriate fees; application review; certification
D Demonstrate all prerequisites have been met and achieve a minimum of 40 credit points
32
Before submitting a CIR for technical assistance, what actions should the Project Team take when
considering a strategy for credit compliance but are unsure if the strategy would satisfy the necessary
requirements?
(Choose 3)
A Discuss the strategy with a USGBC regional chapter
B Search the CIR database to see if the same inquiry has been previously addressed
C Contact LEED customer service as a last resort
D Write a letter or call USGBC
E The Project Team should reevaluate the credit or prerequisite intent
F The strategy cannot be used if not addressed in the appropriate 2009 LEED Rating System
33 How are the sustainable categories in the LEED Scorecard arranged?
A By cost
B Alphabetically
C By credit weight
D By environmental category
34 The 2009 LEED category with the largest number of credit points and environmental impact is:
A Materials and Resources
B Sustainable Sites
C Energy and Atmosphere
D Water Efficiency
35 What does gerrymandering mean with regards to the LEED project boundary?
A Excluding portions of the site
B Using noncontiguous parcels of land
C Ensuring the project building area is no less than 10% of the site area
D Defining the site area to exclude spaces outside the building and hardscape areas
36 If the project site is 1.25 acres in size, what minimum gross floor area is required for the building?
A 2,348 sf
B 4,560 sf
C 12,500 sf
D 1,089 sf
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37 The Green Label Plus program establishes VOC limits for these materials:
A Carpet cushions
B Ceramic walls and floors
C Wood flooring
D Carpets
38 LEED projects cover a wide range building types and users. How does LEED define transient occupants?
(Choose 2)
A Retail customers
B Students
C Part time employees
D Full time receptionists
E Operations & Maintenance staff
39 Which strategy should a construction and demolition waste and recycling management plan address?
A Recycling PCB products
B To use comingled or separated recycling
C Selecting reused materials
D Selecting regional materials
40 Often a reduction in water use will offer greater benefits in this environmental area:
A Heat islands
B Stormwater quantity control
C Erosion control
D Energy consumption
41 According to the Environmental Protection Agency, how much time do Americans typically spend indoors?
A 75%
B 50%
C 90%
D 65%
42 ASHRAE standards address which of the following?
(Choose 4)
A Stormwater management BMPs
B Minimum requirements for the energy efficient design of most buildings
C Volatile Organic Compounds
D Minimum ventilation rates
E Thermal comfort conditions
F MERV ventilation air filters
43
By what system or program does USGBC allow a volume certification path to enable owners to integrate
LEED across the board as a standard feature of their design, construction and operations?
A USGBC Portfolio Program
B LEED Online
C ENERGY STAR
D 2009 LEED Rating Systems
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44 LEED 2009 offers 4 levels of certification. What is the highest level of certification a project can achieve?
A Platinum
B Certified
C Gold
D Silver
45 Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) does not include:
A Minimum daylighting requirements
B Permanent building or space
C Minimum floor area requirements
D Minimum building to site area ratio
46 The 2009 LEED Rating System best suited for new buildings that will be 25% occupied is:
B LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance
D LEED for New Construction
47 Implementing a CFC refrigerant phase out plan for chiller systems requires this to be done:
A Reduce the annual leakage rate of CFC based refrigerants to 5% or less
B The annual leakage of CFC refrigerants must be reduced to 25% or less
C CFC refrigerants must be replaced with natural refrigerants within 7 years
D CFC refrigerants must be replaced with HCFC refrigerants
48 Exemplary Performance is:
A Available for some prerequisites
B Not available for all credits
C Earned for all credits by doubling the maximum threshold for compliance
D Available for all credits
49
What option is available to comply with Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access if a
project is not located within 1/2 mile distance of a rail station or within 1/4 mile distance of a bus stop?
A Have additional stations or stops added to the route within the required walking distance
B Submit a CIR and request relief
C There is no alternative compliance path available
D Provide shuttle service to mass transit stations or stops
50 Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to address these environmental issues:
(Choose 2)
A Water efficiency
B Site restoration
C Heat island effect
D Stormwater management
51 Ventilation rates and Indoor Air Quality levels are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
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52 A project's hard cost budget would include these:
(Chose 2)
A Electrical system controls
B Wall coverings
C Office personal computers
D Furniture
53 Reducing potable water for flushing toilets may be permitted to use this type of water:
A Water reclaimed from toilets and urinals
B Blackwater
C Graywater
D Well water
54 CFC refrigerants represent what percentage of use in existing building water chiller systems today?
A 75%
B 50%
C 25%
D 10%
55 For a project to be certified, these minimum requirements must be achieved:
(Choose 2)
A Earn only a minimum number of credit points
B Have the LEED AP qualify achievement of all environmental credits
C Comply with all prerequisites and earn a minimum number of credit points
D Satisfy appropriate prerequisites and earn a minimum number of 50 environmental credit points
E Comply with the Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
56 Why would the project team submit a Credit Interpretation Request (CIR)?
A To receive approval for questionable credit strategies
B To appeal credits that have been denied
C To receive technical guidance on LEED credit strategies
D To communicate with project teams regarding credit interpretations on other projects
57 When an owner purchases RECs, they receive:
A Clean natural gas from the local utility company
B Environmental, social and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources
C Electricity from the local utility company
D Carbon credit offsets
58 What is the goal of IPMVP Volume III?
A Lighting and ventilation efficiency monitoring
B To provide the framework for assessing building performance
C Control and monitoring Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
D Stormwater quantity and quality control management
59 Sites seeking the Community Connectivity credit must achieve these 2 requirements:
(Choose 2)
A A site within 1/2 mile of a residential area with an average density of 10 units/acre
B A site within 1/4 mile of a bus stop
C A site within 1/2 mile of a rapid transit station
D A site within 1/2 mile of 10 basic services
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60 The EPA defines, in part, a brownfield site as:
A A site that has been previously developed and presently vacated
B A site that contains hazardous substances
C A barren site without vegetation
D A site that has been previously developed and presently occupied
61 Natural refrigerants are environmentally benign to the atmosphere. Which of the these are au naturel?
(Choose 3)
A H
2
O
B CO
2
C CFC
D Ammonia
E HCFC
F Halon
62
What is true about a material that was extracted 525 miles from the project site, partially assembled 650
miles from the project site with final assembly 100 miles from the project site?
A The material can contribute towards the recycled content credit
B The material does not meet complicance as a regional material
C The material contributes toward regional materials
D The material can contribute part of the product towards regional materials
63 During the charrette, the project team establishes an integrated design approach toward this major goal:
A Ensure the project will come in on budget
B To generate possible design solutions and strategies for a succcesful sustainable project
C Ensure the project will achieve certification
D Ensure the project will come in on budget and on schedule
64 Energy use intensity is an important factor in determing energy usage and refers to:
A The amount of energy consumed per unit floor space
B The total daily energy use
C Energy consumption divided by the site area
D The ratio of maximum daily energy use divided by the total annual energy use
65 The least affect to the ozone depletion potential is most likely by using this group of refrigerants:
A CFC-11 (ChloroFluoroCarbons)
B HCFCs (HydroChloroFluoroCarbons)
C HFCs (HydroFluoroCarbons)
D CFC-500 (ChloroFluoroCarbons)
66 The primary goal for preparing a sustainable building program is to:
A Bypass the split submittal process
B Assign team members credit responsibility
C Determine if the certification submittal will be done as a split submittal or a combined submittal
D Develop the project's environmental goals
67 What documentation is required for LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance certification?
A Documentation that no performance period overlaps with another performance period
B Verification that an addition is no more than 75% of the total building area
C Documentation that the building meets the minumum 5 FTE requirement
D Performance data for the building and site over time
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68 The greatest threat to global warming potential is presented by this group of refrigerants:
69 When selecting refrigerants, what is most important for the project team to take into account?
A The availability of the refrigerant
B An analysis of trade-offs between global warming and ozone depletion
C The cost of the refrigerant
D A determination of the refrigerant's overall global warming potential
70 The footprint of a building is defined as:
A The area of the building structure only
B The building structure and hardscapes
C The building structure and landscapes
D The entire project boundary
71 The government organization responsible for controlling ozone depleting substances in the U.S. is:
A DOE
B Montreal Protocol
C EPA
D USGBC
72 The intent of the 2009 LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance rating system is:
A
To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional buildings under
50,000 sf
B To certify the sustainability of additions onto existing commercial and institutional buildings
C To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional buildings
D
To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional buildings over
50,000 sf
73 A building's energy performance is addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
74 Sites seeking the Development Density credit must achieve these 2 requirements:
(Choose 2)
A A previously developed site
C A site in a community with a minimum density of 60,000 sf per acre net
75 Temperature, humidity and air speed are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
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76 The primary contributor to climate change is:
A Urban Redevelopment
B Greenhouse gases
D Ozone depletion
77 VOC limits for adhesives, sealants, paints and coatings are addressed by these standards:
(Choose 2)
A Green-e
B Green Seal
C Floor Score
D SCAQMD
78 Fire suppression systems are generally associated with these refrigerants:
A H
2
O
B Mercury
C Halons
D CO
2
79 Reducing potable water for landscaping irrigation could be achieved by:
A Using turf grass
B Increasing pervious surfaces
C Using drip irrigation
D Using non-native landscaping materials
80 Minimum ventilation rates are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D ASHRAE 61.2-2007
81 In the Development Density credit, the density radius calculation is used to:
A Define properties included in the development density calculation
B Define the area where basic services are located
C Define the project site area
D Measure any bus/rail line locations relative to the entrance of a building
82 Indoor Air Quality during construction is addressed by this standard:
(Choose 2)
A ASHRAE 62.1-2004
B ASHRAE 52.2-1999
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SMACNA
83 Local zoning ordinances would, typically, not apply to this:
A Landscaping
B Interior lighting densities
C Stormwater controls
D Open space requirements
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84 Which of the following are alternative fuel for vehicles?
A Methanol
B Ethanol
C Electric
D All of the above
85 Many building codes incorporate these standards:
(Choose 2)
A Green Seal
B UPC
C EPAct 1992
D IPC
86
Providing contact with GBCI, LEED Online and LEED Credit Form access occurs after this process has
been completed:
A J oining the USGBC national organization
B Project registration
C J oining a USGBC regional chapter
D Project submittal for certification
87 Which of the following strategies will not reduce the heat island effect - nonroof?
A Planting large non-native trees for shading
B Increase parking
C Using paving materials with SRI value of at least 29
D Placing at least 25% of the parking under shade
88 Credit Forms must be signed by this member of the project team:
A Declarant
B A LEED Accredited Professional
C Lead engineer
D Project manager
89 A building that has earned LEED NC certification could qualify for this rating system:
A LEED Building Design & Construction (New Construction)
B LEED Core & Shell
C LEED Interior Design & Construction (Commercial Interiors)
D LEED for Homes
E LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
90 A preconsumer recycled material:
A Kleenex
B Waste straw from a wheat farm
C Broken things
D Worn out clothing
91 This location would be more appropriate to consider for a new technology data center:
A Land that is 80 feet from a wetland as defined by the U.S. Code of Regulations CFR
B Land with plants listed on a federal or state threatened species list
C Developed site located 30 feet from a fishing stream
D 10 acres of a 100 acre farm defined by the USDA as prime farmland
E Undeveloped land that is 40 feet from a stream
F Undeveloped land whose elevation is 1 foot above the 100-year flood as defined by FEMA
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92 On a 1:12 sloped roof, these strategies could be used for compliance with Heat Island Effect - Roof:
(Choose 2)
A vegetated roof
B roof surface with SRI 18 or greater
C Metal roof with low SRI value
D roof surface of SRI 78 or greater
93 In order to qualify as Low Emission or Fuel Efficient Vehicles, this requirement must be met:
A Green Seal score of 30 or more
B Green-e score of 25 or more
C Green Label score of 40 or more
D Green Score of 40 or more
94
Promoting durability and high performance of the building enclosure and its components and systems
through design, materials selection and construction practices is a hallmark of this LEED for Homes
process:
A Integrated design
B Charrette
C Durability planning and management
95 In the Materials & Resources - Rapidly Renewable Materials credit, these items would qualify:
(Choose 2)
A Sunflower seed board panels
B Any material with a harvest rate of 15 years or less
C Cork flooring
D Brick
96 The person responsible for field verification and testing on a LEED for Homes project:
A LEED for Homes Provider
B LEED AP
C GBCI
D Green Rater
97 The ultimate goal of a Construction Waste Management Plan should be to:
A Incinerate on-site construction waste so it isn't taken to landfills
B Divert waste from landfills or incinerators by recyling back into the manufacturing process
C Provide proper facilities for waste collection
D Verify that as much waste as possible is taken to landfill nearest the project site
98
One of the most important environmental issues addressed by LEED is reducing greenhouse gas and 2009
LEED Green Building Rating Systems put a great deal of emphasis on reducing transportation needs. What
are common strategies that can be implemented by the project team to earn these credits?
(Choose 3)
A Provide no more than 3% parking over minimum local zoning requirements
B Place 50% of the required parking undercover
C Provide bicycle storage for 5% of the building users
D Size parking capacity to not exceed local zoning requirements
E Provide LEV vehicles for 5% of the total parking capacity
F Reserve parking spaces for occupants to encourage bicycle use
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99 To eliminate the use of refrigerants for HVAC systems in new projects, this strategy would be appropriate:
A Design a natural (passive) ventilation system
B Use only halons for cooling
C Design the building to be cooled with natural refrigerants
D Incorporate a mixed mode mechanical & natural system design
100 Which of the following statements define Life Cycle Cost and Life Cycle Assessment?
(Choose 2)
A Life Cycle Cost concentrates on economics
B Life Cycle Assessment concentrates on the environment and people
C Life Cycle Cost concentrates on the environment, people and economics
D Life Cycle Assessment concentrates economics
101 According to LEED, the site's open space requirements are defined by:
A The local building department
B The project's civil engineer
C The local zoning authority
D A consultant hired by the owner to negotiate permitting with the local authorities having jurisdiction
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S T U D I O 4
Domain Legend:
I Synergistic Opportunities and LEED Application Process
II Project Site Factors (Sustainable Sites)
III Water Management (Water Efficiency)
IV Project Systems and Energy Impacts (Energy & Atmosphere)
V Acquisition, Installation, and Management of Project Materials (Materials & Resources)
VI Improvements to the Indoor Environment (Indoor Environmental Quality)
VII Stakeholder Involvement in Innovation
VIII Project Surroundings and Public Outreach
1 B,C 21 C 41 C 61 A, B, D 81 A
2 D 22 B 42 B, D, E, F 62 B 82 B, D
3 A 23 B 43 A 63 B 83 B
4 B 24 B 44 A 64 A 84 D
5 A, D, E 25 C 45 A 65 C 85 B, D
6 C 26 A, C 46 A 66 D 86 B
7 B 27 B, D 47 A 67 D 87 B
8 A, C 28 A 48 B 68 C 88 A
9 C 29 C, D 49 D 69 B 89 E
10 C 30 B, D 50 A, D 70 A 90 B
11 A, C, D 31 C 51 C 71 C 91 C
12 B, D 32 B, C, E 52 A, B 72 C 92 A, D
13 B 33 D 53 C 73 A 93 D
14 C 34 C 54 B 74 A, C 94 C
15 D 35 A 55 C, E 75 B 95 A, C
16 B 36 D 65 C 76 B 96 D
17 A 37 D 57 B 77 B, D 97 B
18 A 38 A, B 58 B 78 C 98 C, D, E
19 B 39 B 59 A, D 79 C 99 A
20 B 40 D 60 B 80 C 100 A, B
101 C
101 Answers
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S T U D I O 4
Domain Legend:
1 What rules should be used when selecting a LEED rating system when more than one system may apply?
(Choose 2)
A 25/75
B 40/60
C Use the rating system that is most applicable
D 75/25
Many project teams have to choose between two or more rating systems that might be appropriate for the
same project; the following 40/60 rule provides guidance in this situation: to use this rule, first assign a
rating system to the different parts of the building (for example, Existing Buildings: O&M for an existing
structure, and New Construction for an addition being built onto it); Then choose the best rating system
depending on the resulting percentages
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
LEED Rating System Selection Policy: http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6667
2 To verify the compliance of a credit or prerequisite, a qualified member of the project team submits this:
A Letter of attestation
B LEED Scorecard
C CIR
D Credit Forms
Each LEED rating system will have its own set of submittal forms that must be completed and submitted
for documentation and verification; these credit forms may also be referred to as letter templates, credit
templates, submittal templates, or submittals; credit forms are dynamic PDF forms that can be filled out
and saved on a computer, then uploaded directly back to LEED Online; each credit form will list the
requirements for credit achievement as well as any documentation required for submittal, space for
mandatory and/or optional narratives and must be signed by the declarant; for credits that require
calculations, calculators are built in to indicate if the credit requirements have been met
101 Questions & Answers
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S T U D I O 4
Prerequisite/credit responsibility is assigned by the project administrator; the team member (Declarant)
that has been assigned responsibility for the prerequisite/credit by the administrator will fill out the credit
form and upload it to LEED Online when the required documentation has been prepared; once all of the
credit forms are uploaded for those prerequisites/credits being attempted, the project administrator will
submit the project for review either by a split or combined application submittal process; the split process
allows certain prerequisites/credits to be submitted during the Design Application Submittal phase and all
remaining prerequisites/credits will be submitted during the Construction Application Submittal phase; with
the Combined Application Submittal process, all prerequisites/credits will be submitted at the same time,
usually at, or after, completion of the project
LEED project registration and certification process: http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/building-certification/leed-
certification.aspx
LEED v2.2 Credit Templates: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1447
3 This source consumes the largest amount of energy in buildings:
A Space Heating
B Office Equipment
C Water Heating
D Lighting
As noted in the Green Building and LEED Core Concepts Guide, First Edition, according to the EPA,
Space Heating accounts for 38% of the energy used in buildings with Lighting being the second largest at
20%; note that there are sites and materials, including USGBC/GBCI, that list different % for the basic
elements that comprise the breakdown for energy usage, however Space Heating remains the major
contributor
For commercial energy use refer: http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/energyexplained/index.cfm?page=about_home
4 Legal protection of the ozone layer in the U.S. is provided by this:
A US DOE
B Montreal Protocol
C Kyoto Protocol
D ASHRAE Standards
The Montreal Protocol Treaty has global jurisdiction; CFC production in the United States ended in 1995 in
agreement to The Montreal Protocol Treaty; to implement the Montreal Protocol, the EPA established
Section 608 of the EPA Clean Air Act for regulating the use and recycling of ozone-depleting compounds
The Treatment by LEED of the Environmental Impact of HVAC Refrigerants:
http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/The-Treatment-by-LEED-of-the-
Environmental-Impact-of-HVAC-Refrigerants.sflb.ashx
5 2009 LEED rating systems, except LEED for Homes and LEED for ND, have what 3 structures?
(Choose 3)
A Credits
B Charrettes
C CIRs
E Prerequisites
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S T U D I O 4
Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs): Identifies minimum characteristics that a project must
possess in order to be eligible for LEED Certification; these requirements define the types of buildings that
the LEED Green Building Rating Systems were designed to evaluate, and taken together serve three
goals: 1) to give clear guidance to customers, 2) to protect the integrity of the LEED program, and 3) to
reduce complications that occur during the LEED certification process
Prerequisites: In addition to the Minimum Program Requirements, each version of LEED contains unique
prerequisite requirements that must be satisfied in order to achieve certification; the term prerequisite
refers to a mandatory project characteristic, measurement, quality, value or function as identified within
the LEED rating system; prerequisites represent the key criteria that define green building
performance; each project must satisfy all specified prerequisites outlined in the LEED rating system
under which it is registered; failure to meet any prerequisite will render a project ineligible for certification;
prerequisites earn no points
Credits: In addition to meeting all applicable MPRs and prerequisites, project teams must satisfy a
combination of credits to achieve the requisite number of points necessary for the specific level of
certification desired; the phrase Credit means a non-mandatory project characteristic, measurement,
quality, value or function as identified within a LEED rating system; credits represent a particular facet of
sustainable design that contribute to overall green building performance; no single credit is mandatory;
credits are selected and pursued at the option of a LEED project team; credits are arranged in a series of
categories, each pertaining to a certain aspect of sustainable design; each Credit is associated with a
specific number of points; projects must be awarded a minimum number of points outlined in the LEED
rating system under which it is registered to achieve a particular level of certification, such as Certified,
Silver, Gold or Platinum
LEED prerequisites and credits work together as a flexible set of tools and strategies to accommodate the
circumstances of the project
LEED 2009 Minimum Program Requirements:
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=2102
6 The Energy Policy Act establishes what flush rate as the baseline water consumption for water closets?
A 1.0 gallons per flush
B 0.6 gallons per flush
C 1.6 gallons per flush
D 1.6 gallons per minute
EPAct 1992 establishes water consumption for fixtures used to calculate the baseline case
Flush fixtures are rated in Gallons Per Flush (gpf) and includes water closets and urinals
Flow fixtures are rated in Gallons Per Minute (gpm) and includes lavatories, sinks, showerheads and
prerinse spray valves
Per EPAct: water closets =1.6 gpf; urinals =1.0 gpf; lavatories =2.2 gpm; faucets =2.2 gpm;
showerheads =2.5 gpm;
The baseline case is calculated using the number of occupants and the EPAct 1992 flush and flow rates of
the fixtures; the design case is calculated using the number of occupants and the flush/flow rates for water
efficient fixtures such as WaterSense, HET, waterless urinals, dual flush water closets, etc.; subtract the
design case from the baseline case for amount of water savings
EPAct 1992 EPA National Efficiency Standards and Specifications for Residential and Commercial Water
Using Fixtures and Appliances: http://www.epa.gov/watersense/docs/matrix508.pdf
7 The Triple Bottom Line evaluates the human and environmental effects associated with these:
A Federal, state and local codes
B Social, economics and environment
C Energy, water and air
D Global warming, ozone depletion and carbon emissions
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The Triple Bottom Line evaluates human and environmental effects associated with performance; projects
certified under LEED Green Building Rating Systems demonstrate that they have addressed elements that
balance and enhance the three areas of the triple bottom line; another way to look at Triple Bottom Line is:
TBL = People, Planet and Profit
Reference: Green Building and LEED Core Concepts Guide
8 Construction and demolition debris cannot include 2 of these items:
(Choose 2)
A Rock
B Wood
C Soil
D Concrete
Excavated soil (soil & rocks) and land clearing debris (tree stumps) cannot contribute to this credit
Materials & Resources category: Construction Waste Management
Intent: To divert construction and demolition debris from disposal in landfills and incineration facilities;
Redirect recyclable recovered resources back to the manufacturing process and reusable materials to
appropriate sites
Requirements: Recycle and/or salvage nonhazardous construction and demolition debris; develop and
implement a construction waste management plan that, at a minimum, identifies the materials to be
diverted from disposal and whether the materials will be sorted on-site or comingled; excavated soil and
land clearing debris do not contribute to this credit; calculations can be done by weight or volume, but
must be consistent throughout
LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations Rating System (link to all 2009 LEED rating systems):
9
To qualify as a regional material, within what distance must a material be extracted, harvested or
recovered, and manufactured?
A 250 miles
B 100 miles
C 500 miles
D 1000 miles
All materials must be extracted, harvested (new) or recovered (reused) and manufactured (final assembly)
within a radius of 500 miles from the project site
Materials & Resources category: Regional Materials
Intent: To increase demand for building materials and products that are extracted and manufactured
within the region, thereby supporting the use of indigenous resources and reducing the environmental
impacts resulting from transportation
Requirements: Building materials or products must have been extracted, harvested or recovered, as well
as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project site for a minimum of 10% or 20%, based on cost of the
total materials value; if only a fraction of a product or material is extracted, harvested, or recovered and
manufactured locally, then only that percentage (by weight) can contribute to the regional value
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10 Tenant improvement projects would be best suited for this 2009 LEED Rating System:
LEED for Commercial Interiors rating system is appropriate for interior spaces that are undergoing
alteration work for at least 60% of the certifying gross floor area; if the following two statements describe
the project, then a New Construction and Major Renovation rating system should be used: 1) the entity
conducting the work leases OR owns and controls 90% or more of the building that the space is located in
and 2) there is new construction or major renovation occurring in 40% or more of the gross floor area of
the building
11 For Storage and Collection of Recyclables, a building recycling program must include these items:
(Choose 3)
A Plastic
B Brick
C Cardboard
D Metal
E Hazardous materials
A recycling program should include paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics and metals
Materials & Resources category: Storage and Collection of Recyclables
Intent: To facilitate the reduction of waste generated by building occupants that is hauled to and disposed
of in landfills
Requirements: Provide an easily accessible dedicated area or areas for the collection and storage of
materials for recycling for the entire building; materials must include, at a minimum: paper, corrugated
cardboard, glass, plastics and metals
Storage and Collection of Recyclables is a prerequisite
12 The two primary responsibilities of the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) are:
(Choose 2)
B Provides third party LEED professional credentialing
C Provides and develops LEED based education and research projects
The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) provides third party project certification and professional
credentials recognizing excellence in green building performance and practice; GBCI administers project
certification for commercial and institutional buildings and tenant spaces under the U.S. Green Building
Councils Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating Systems
addressing new construction and ongoing operations; GBCI also manages the professional credentialing
programs based upon the LEED Rating Systems including the LEED Green Associate and LEED AP
credentials
Developing LEED Green Building Rating Systems and providing/developing LEED based education and
research projects are responsibilities of USGBC
Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) information: http://www.gbci.org/Homepage.aspx
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13 Regional Priority credits are new to LEED 2009 and are made available to the project for:
A Achieving the highest threshold level of the credit
B The zip code of the geographic location of the project
C Ensuring all environmental concerns associated with energy usage for the project location are achieved
D Determining all local environmental issues are achieved as identified by the Project Team
Regionalization was created to identify the most prevalent environmental issues in the U.S. as they relate
to regional zip codes - what will be a concern in Florida may not be an issue in Michigan; there are 6
bonus credits available for each zip code but only 4 credits can be selected and used from this pool of 6;
one point is awarded for each Regional Priority credit earned while no more than 4 credits identified as
Regional Priority credits may be earned; projects outside of the U.S. are not eligible for Regional Priority
credits
Regional Priority category: Regional Priority
Intent: To provide an incentive for the achievement of credits that address geographically specific
environmental priorities
Requirements: Earn 1-4 of the 6 Regional Priority credits identified by the USGBC regional councils and
chapters as having environmental importance for a projects region; a database of Regional Priority credits
and their geographic applicability is available on the USGBC website; Regional Priority credits are not new
credits but identify environmental issues already addressed by existing credits in the rating systems; 6
existing credits have been identified by their environmental concerns relative to that specific zip code
LEED Regional Priority credits: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1984
14 The LEED project boundary is defined as:
A The same as the site boundary
B The portion of the site that encompasses only the building and hardscape areas
C The boundary description that is submitted for certification
D The same as the attendance boundary
LEED Project Boundary: The portion of the site submitted for LEED certification and is generally limited
to the site boundary; it must include all contiguous land that is associated with, and supports, normal
building operations for the LEED project building, including all land that was or will be disturbed for the
purpose of undertaking the LEED project; the LEED project boundary may not include land that is owned
by a party other than that which owns the LEED project unless that land is associated with and supports
normal building operations for the LEED project building; for projects developed on properties with
multiple buildings, such as campuses or industrial complexes, a reasonable property boundary, as
required for the project construction and local code, is permitted; LEED projects located on a campus
must have project boundaries such that if all the buildings on campus become LEED certified, then 100%
of the gross land area on the campus would be included within a LEED boundary
Project Boundary: The platted property line of the project
Property Boundary: The total area within the legal boundaries of the site
Attendance Boundary: Used by school districts to determine which students attend what school based on
where they live
15
The 2009 LEED Rating System best suited for an office complex where the owner will occupy 60% of the
building would be:
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LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations: In terms of construction scope, these rating
systems are appropriate for whole buildings that are undergoing new construction and/or major
renovations
LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations rating system is appropriate for all buildings with
functions not addressed by another rating system in this category; currently, there is only one other rating
system (schools); however, other market sectors such as healthcare and retail will be addressed in the
future
LEED for Schools rating system is appropriate for buildings that provide both core learning spaces and
ancillary learning spaces; it was designed with children in grades K-12 in mind, but it may be used for
other age levels as well
As a general rule, LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations will apply to new projects where the
Owner or tenant occupies greater than 50% of leasable space: LEED for Core & Shell projects will apply
to new projects where the Owner or tenant occupies 50% or less of leasable space
16 The minimum FTE requirement per Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) for LEED Certification is:
A 25 FTE
B 1 FTE
C 10 FTE
D 1 FTE per 100 square feet
LEED MPRs require 1 FTE on an annual average
LEED NC, CS, Schools and CI: The LEED project must serve 1 or more Full Time Equivalent (FTE)
occupant(s), calculated as an annual average in order to use LEED in its entirety; If the project serves less
than 1 annualized FTE, optional credits from the Indoor Environmental Quality category may not be
earned (the prerequisites must still be earned)
FOR LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance: The LEED project must serve 1 or more
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) occupant(s), calculated as an annual average in order to use LEED in its
entirety; if the project serves less than 1 annualized FTE, optional credits from the Indoor Environmental
Quality category may not be earned (the prerequisites must still be earned); the LEED project must be in a
state of typical physical occupancy, and all building systems must be operating at a capacity necessary to
serve the current occupants, for a period that includes all performance periods as well as at least the 12
continuous months immediately preceding the first submission for a review
The minimum gross floor area for LEED NC, C&, Schools and EB:O&M is 1,000 sf; For LEED CI the
minimum gross floor acres is 250 sf
The gross floor area of the project must be no less than 2% of the gross land area within the LEED project
boundary
17 A popular program for comparing the energy performance of multiple buildings:
A ENERGY STAR
B EPAct 1992
C ASHRAE 90.1-2007
D ASHRAE 90.1-2004
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department
of Energy helping to save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and
practices
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Internal benchmarking allows an organization to compare the energy use at a building or group of
buildings to that of others in that organization; the results can be used within an organization to compare
energy performance among buildings, to identify buildings with the greatest potential for improvement, to
track performance over time, to identify best practices at individual sites that can be replicated, and to
increase managements understanding of how to analyze and interpret energy data
External benchmarking buildings are compared to other, similar buildings; the results can be used to
assess performance relative to peers in the same sector or industry and across other sectors and
industries, to compare the energy performance of facilities against a national performance rating, to track
performance against industry or sector performance levels, to identify new best practices for improving
building performance, to increase understanding of how to analyze and evaluate energy performance, and
to identify high-performing buildings for recognition opportunities such as the ENERGY STAR label
Energy Star: http://www.energystar.gov/
Energy Star Benchmarking: http://www.energystar.gov/ia/business/EPA_BUM_CH2_Benchmarking.pdf
18 What is unique about the Innovative Performance requirement for the Innovation in Design credit?
A It is not applicable to existing or similar strategies in the LEED rating system
B It is available for achieving the next incremental threshold of the credit
C It is available only for prerequisites
D It is available only for existing or similar credit strategies
The question asks for Innovative Performance strategies and should not to be confused with Exemplary
(Exceptional) Performance strategies, as each is available through the ID category in credit IDc1
The project team should search through the rating system to make certain that the innovative
environmental strategy being considered is not already available, in some form, through any of the
existing prerequisites or credits in the rating system
ID credits for Innovative Performance are awarded for comprehensive strategies which demonstrated
quantifiable environmental benefits such as: Education Outreach Program; Green Housekeeping; High
Volume Fly Ash to divert waste materials from landfills; Low-Emitting Furniture & Furnishings; Organic
Landscaping/Integrated Pest Management Program; using a greenhouse gas budget to demonstrate
carbon neutral design and operations
Innovation in Design category: Innovation in Design
Intent: To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to achieve exceptional performance above
the requirements set by the LEED Green Building Rating System and/or Innovative Performance in Green
Building categories not specifically addressed by the LEED Green Building Rating System
Requirements: Achieve significant, measurable environmental performance using a strategy not
addressed in the LEED 2009 Green Building Rating Systems; Innovative Performance credits are not
applicable for existing credits within the rating system being used; One point is awarded for each
innovative performance credit achieved
Guidance on Innovation & Design (ID) Credits:
http://www.usgbc.org/Docs/LEEDdocs/IDcredit_guidance_final.pdf
19 The major consideration when developing a sustainable project budget:
A Final contractor bids
B Life Cycle Costs
C Construction hard costs only
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Life Cycle Costs (LLC) Synonymous with green building, cradle to grave costs that go beyond the initial
construction costs to include operation and maintenance of the building after occupancy, demolition costs
and reuse value at the end of the buildings life; Life Cycle Costs (LCC) encompass: Initial costs (design
and construction); Operating costs (energy, water, other utilities and personnel); Maintenance, repair and
replacement costs; Salvage value at the end of the buildings life
Hard Costs: These costs are the expenditures for the actual construction phases of the project such as
sitework, concrete, masonry, roofing, interior finishes such as carpet and painting, mechanical systems,
etc.; in general, these are the costs paid to the general contractor, subcontractors or material suppliers for
direct construction related activities and materials
Soft Costs: These are costs are for services outside the realm of what is done on the construction site;
they include architectural and engineering fees, permit fees, legal and real estate fees, interest paid for
the cost of doing the project, insurance, closing costs, etc
Sustainable Building Technical Manual, Part II, Pre-Design Issues:
http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/Sustainable-Building-Technical-Manual-Part-
II.sflb.ashx
20 The EPAct 1992 water standard excludes which types of fixtures and equipment?
A Bidets
B Dishwashers
C Lavatory faucets
D Water closets
Not included in the scope of EPAct 1992: Commercial steam cookers; commercial dishwashers;
automatic commercial ice makers; commercial clothes washers; residential clothes washers; standard and
compact residential dishwashers
Included in the scope of EPAct 1992: water closets; urinals; lavatory faucets; sink faucets; showerheads;
EPAct 1992 establishes water use for the baseline case
21 Which statement is true for a project to qualify for the LEED for Homes rating system?
A The project must be single family residential
B The project cannot be a multistory residential project
C The project can be a 3 story or less low-rise multifamily residential project
D The project can be an 8 story mid-rise multifamily residential project
LEED for Homes rating system is appropriate for single family and low-rise (1-3 stories) multifamily
residential buildings that are undergoing new construction or a gut rehab; if they contain kitchens,
dormitories and assisted living facilities may use LEED for Homes, at the project teams discretion; if the
kitchens are in-unit, as opposed to central, project teams are strongly encouraged to use LEED for
Homes; Mid-rise (4-6 stories) multifamily residential buildings, dormitories, and assisted living facilities
may use either LEED for Homes OR the LEED for Homes Mid-Rise Pilot Rating System (again, if kitchen
facilities are present), which is a modified version of LEED for Homes
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22
Who can offer an alternative way to provide verification for a number of submittals in a project application
for LEED certification?
A LEED AP
B Licensed Professional
C Project Administrator
D LEED Technical Advisory Group (TAG)
The phrase Licensed Professional refers to a person formally certified by a licensing board to practice as
a Professional Engineer, Registered Architect, or Registered Landscape Architect; the Licensed
Professional Exemption offers an alternative way to provide verification for a number of submittals in a
project application for LEED certification
23 Source reduction relates to:
A Heat island effect
B Waste prevention
C Stormwater runoff
D Energy reduction
Waste prevention, also know as "source reduction," is the practice of designing, manufacturing,
purchasing, or using materials (such as products and packaging) in ways that reduce the amount or
toxicity of trash created; reusing items is another way to stop waste at the source because it delays or
avoids that item's entry in the waste collection and disposal system; source reduction, including reuse, can
help reduce waste disposal and handling costs, because it avoids the costs of recycling, municipal
composting, landfilling, and combustion; source reduction also conserves resources and reduces pollution,
including greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming
EPA source reduction information: http://www.epa.gov/waste/conserve/rrr/reduce.htm
24 How many levels, or tiers, of LEED professional accreditation are available?
A 4
B 3
C 2
D 1
There are three (3) tiers available for accreditation: LEED Green Associate; LEED AP with Specialty:
LEED AP Fellow
LEED accreditation information: http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/professional-credentials/credentials.aspx
25 Consolidates and aligns credits and prerequisites to be consistent across all LEED 2009 rating systems:
A Credit weightings
B Regionalization
C Harmonization
Harmonization is the structure used to consolidate, align and update all existing LEED 2009 rating
systems into their most effective common denominator providing a pool of prerequisites/credits for all
LEED 2009 rating systems
A scrub of the existing Credit Interpretation Rulings (CIRs) was conducted and necessary precedent-
setting and clarifying language has been incorporated into the prerequisites/credits; necessary precedent
setting and clarifying information from Credit Interpretation Rulings (CIRs) were incorporated into the
rating systems; LEED for Homes and LEED for ND will not be changed under LEED 2009
LEED Harmonization information: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1971
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26 The two primary responsibilities of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) are:
(Choose 2)
B Provides third party LEED professional credentials
C Develops and provides LEED based education and research projects
USGBC is responsible for developing the LEED Green Building Rating Systems and LEED based
education and research projects; the LEED green building certification system is the preeminent program
for rating the design, construction and operation of green buildings; USGBC provides top quality
educational programs on green design, construction, and operations for professionals from all sectors of
the building industry; USGBC also hosts Greenbuild, the largest international conference and expo
focused on green building
Professional credentialing and project certification are responsibilities of GBCI
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) information:
27 Two primary benefits of using pervious materials for hardscapes (parking lots, walks and patios):
(Choose 2)
A Decrease heat island effect
B Improve stormwater quantity
C Increase site open space
D Improve stormwater quality
E Allow collection of water for recycling
F Help implement stormwater management during construction activities
Pervious materials are more porous than impervious materials which allows stormwater to penetrate
through the material to reduce the amount of surface runoff and filter what reaches the subsurface
Sustainable Sites category: Stormwater Design - Quantity Control
Intent: To limit disruption of natural hydrology by reducing impervious cover, increasing on-site infiltration,
reducing or eliminating pollution from stormwater runoff and eliminating contaminants
Strategies: Design the project site to maintain natural stormwater flows by promoting infiltration; specify
vegetated roofs, pervious paving and other measures to minimize impervious surfaces; reuse stormwater
for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation, toilet and urinal flushing, and custodial uses
Sustainable Sites category: Stormwater Design - Quality Control
Intent: To limit disruption and pollution of natural water flows by managing stormwater runoff
Strategies: Use alternative surfaces (e.g., vegetated roofs, pervious pavement, grid pavers) and
nonstructural techniques (e.g., rain gardens, vegetated swales, disconnection of imperviousness,
rainwater recycling) to reduce imperviousness and promote infiltration and thereby reduce pollutant
loadings
28 Credit Weightings are used to evaluate the credit with respect to:
A Environmental and human health
B Energy conservation
C Human health
D Environmental benefit
Credit Weightings are a matrix that measure the credit's ability to impact different environmental and
human health concerns; LEED awards more points to credits that will have greater positive impacts on
what matters most - energy efficiency and CO2 reductions
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Credit Weighting information: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1971
29 The Energy Policy Act of 1992 addresses these types of fixtures or equipment:
(Choose 2)
A Dishwashers
B Clothes washers
C Kitchen faucets
D Urinals
Included in the scope of EPAct 1992: water closets; urinals; lavatory faucets; sink faucets; showerheads;
Not included in the scope of EPAct 1992: Commercial steam cookers; commercial dishwashers;
automatic commercial ice makers; commercial clothes washers; residential clothes washers; standard and
compact residential dishwashers
EPAct 1992 establishes water use for the baseline case
30 Where can the USGBC logo not be used?
(Choose 2)
A Business cards
B Packaging
C Letterheads
D Products
E Email transmittals
USGBC Logo guidelines: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1835
31 What is the recommended process for the project team to follow to achieve LEED certification?
A Register the project, complete construction and request certification plaque
B Retain a LEED AP to certify the project meets all environmental requirements
C
Determine if project is appropriate for LEED; register the project with GBCI and pay registration
fee; prepare application; submit application and pay appropriate fees; application review;
certification
D Demonstrate all prerequisites have been met and achieve a minimum of 40 credit points
The project team should first review the LEED 2009 Green Building Rating Systems and determine if the
project can achieve certification and if so, would it be appropriate to pursue certification; if the project
team determines to pursue certification, a project administrator is selected and that person will submit for
registration and pay the applicable fee; the project administrator will then determine which team
member(s) are best suited for each prerequisite/credit and assign them responsibility for that
prerequisite/credit; the project administrator will periodically review the project status of each
prerequisite/credit via LEED Online; when the prerequisites/credits have been sufficiently documented,
the project administrator will upload and submit application for certification and pay the applicable fee;
GBCI will review the application submittal and respond accordingly to each prerequisite/credit; after all
prerequisite/credit submittals have been successfully achieved, GBCI will issue a final ruling that
certification will be awarded on a level determined by the credits achieved; the certification is not final until
the project team accepts the final ruling
LEED registration and certification process: http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/building-certification/leed-
certification.aspx
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32
Before submitting a CIR for technical assistance, what actions should the Project Team take when
considering a strategy for credit compliance but are unsure if the strategy would satisfy the necessary
requirements?
(Choose 3)
A Discuss the strategy with a USGBC regional chapter
B Search the CIR database to see if the same inquiry has been previously addressed
C Contact LEED customer service as a last resort
D Write a letter or call USGBC
E The Project Team should reevaluate the credit or prerequisite intent
F The strategy cannot be used if not addressed in the appropriate 2009 LEED Rating System
The project team should first reevaluate the prerequisite/credit as a final check that they are at an impasse
with regards to understanding their strategy compliance; the second step would be to search the CIR data
base to see it a similar CIR had been submitted and ruled upon; the project team then could contact
customer service for advice; if none of these paths prove to be successful, the project team should then
submit a CIR
The Credit Interpretation Request (CIR) and ruling process was established for project applicants seeking
technical and administrative guidance on how LEED credits apply to their projects and vice versa; CIRs
apply to only one prerequisite or credit; CIRs cost $220 per request
Guidelines for CIR Customers: http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/Guidelines-for-
CIR-Customers.sflb.ashx
33 How are the sustainable categories in the LEED Scorecard arranged?
A By cost
B Alphabetically
C By credit weight
D By environmental category
A LEED Scorecard (checklist) replicates the corresponding 2009 LEED Rating System which is organized
by environmental categories
The LEED Scorecard is a tool that lists all sustainable (environmental) categories, prerequisites and
credits for the appropriate rating system and has (3) columns of boxes marked "YES", "NO" and
"MAYBE"; the project team marks each credit they intend to pursue and the scorecard will automatically
total the score to indicate a "Target Level" of certification; the project team can make adjustments at any
time since this is only a tool to use for final determination of the credits that will be submitted; it is
advisable to add a few credits when submitting the project for certification as a safety factor in the event
some credits are denied when ruled upon by GBCI
LEED Rating Systems: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222
34 The 2009 LEED category with the largest number of credit points and environmental impact is:
A Materials and Resources
B Sustainable Sites
C Energy and Atmosphere
D Water Efficiency
Energy and Atmosphere (EA) has the most points available and offers the most environmental impact
For LEED NC: Sustainable Sites =26 pts; Water Efficiency =10 pts; Energy & Atmosphere =35 pts;
Materials & Resources =14 pts; Indoor Environmental Quality =15 pts
Energy & Atmosphere category: Entire category
LEED Rating System Structures: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1991
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35 What does gerrymandering mean with regards to the LEED project boundary?
A Excluding portions of the site
B Using noncontiguous parcels of land
C Ensuring the project building area is no less than 10% of the site area
D Defining the site area to exclude spaces outside the building and hardscape areas
Per MPR: Gerrymandering of a LEED project boundary is prohibited: the boundary may not unreasonably
exclude sections of land to create boundaries in unreasonable shapes for the sole purpose of complying
with prerequisites or credits
It is important to note that the LEED project boundary must be used consistently across all credits; this
applies also with Full Time Equivalent (FTE) counts
36 If the project site is 1.25 acres in size, what minimum gross floor area is required for the building?
A 2,348 sf
B 4,560 sf
C 12,500 sf
D 1,089 sf
Per MPR: The gross floor area of the LEED project building must be no less than 2% of the gross land
area within the LEED project boundary
minimum gross floor area =gross land area * 0.02 =(1.25 acres x 43,560 (sf/acre) * 0.02 =54,450 sf *
0.02 =1,089 sf
37 The Green Label Plus program establishes VOC limits for these materials:
A Carpet cushions
B Ceramic walls and floors
C Wood flooring
D Carpets
Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus program addresses VOC limits for carpets
Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program addresses VOC limits for carpet cushions
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Low Emitting Materials - Flooring Systems
Intent: To reduce the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating and/or harmful to the
comfort and well-being of installers and occupants
Requirements: All carpet installed in the building interior must meet the testing and product requirements
of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus program; all carpet cushion installed in the building
interior must meet the requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program
Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI): http://www.carpet-rug.org/commercial-customers/green-building-and-the-
environment/green-label-plus/index.cfm
38 LEED projects cover a wide range building types and users. How does LEED define transient occupants?
(Choose 2)
A Retail customers
B Students
C Part time employees
D Full time receptionists
E Operations & Maintenance staff
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LEED defines 4 types of occupants: Full Time Staff; Part Time Staff; Peak Transients (students,
volunteers, visitors, customers); Residents
It is important to note that Full Time Equivalent (FTE) counts must be used consistently across all credits;
this applies also with the LEED project boundary
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): Regular building occupant who spends 40 hours per week in the project
building; part time or overtime occupants have FTE values based on their hours per week divided by 40;
multiple shifts are included or excluded depending on their intent and requirements of the credit
Full Time Equivalent building occupants: Measure equal to the total number of hours all building
occupants spend in the building during the peak 8 hour occupancy period divided by 8 hours
For Full or Part Time Staff calculate the Full Time Equivalent (FTE) occupants based on a standard 8
hour occupancy period; A Full Time 8 hour occupant has an FTE value of 1.0 (i.e. a Full Time occupant
works 8 hours per day, the FTE =8 / 8 =1.0); A Part Time occupant has a FTE value based on work
hours per day divided by 8, (i.e. if a Part Time occupant works 4 hrs per day, the FTE =4 / 8 =0.5); Total
FTE occupants =Total occupant hours / 8 hours; Transient occupants are calculated by applying a
numerical factor based on the occupancy type
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation
Water Efficiency category: Indoor water and wastewater calculations
39 Which strategy should a construction and demolition waste and recycling management plan address?
A Recycling PCB products
B To use comingled or separated recycling
C Selecting reused materials
D Selecting regional materials
Comingling is the process of recycling materials that allows for the disposal of various materials in one
container that is separate from waste; the recyclable materials are not sorted until they are collected and
brought to a sorting facility; different rules apply for verification when implementing comingled recycling
redirect recyclable recovered resources back to the manufacturing process and reusable materials to
appropriate sites
Requirements: Recycle and/or salvage nonhazardous construction and demolition debris; develop and
land clearing debris do not contribute to this credit; calculations can be done by weight or volume, but
40 Often a reduction in water use will offer greater benefits in this environmental area:
A Heat islands
B Stormwater quantity control
C Erosion control
D Energy consumption
Reducing water consumption can save energy and improve environmental well being; in many buildings,
the most significant savings associated with water efficiency results from reduced energy costs; water
efficiency cuts costs by reducing the amount of water that must be treated, heated, cooled and distributed -
all of which requires energy
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Water Efficiency category: Water Use Reduction, Water Efficient Landscaping and Process Water
Use reduction
41 According to the Environmental Protection Agency, how much time do Americans typically spend indoors?
A 75%
B 50%
C 90%
D 65%
According to the EPA, on average, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors where the indoor air quality
can be 2 - 5 times worse than the air quality outdoors
EPA - Indoor Air Quality: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/index.html
EPA - Green Building Practices: http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/pubs/gbstats.pdf
42 ASHRAE standards address which of the following?
(Choose 4)
A Stormwater management BMPs
B Minimum requirements for the energy efficient design of most buildings
C Volatile Organic Compounds
D Minimum ventilation rates
E Thermal comfort conditions
F MERV ventilation air filters
ASHRAE Standard 52.2-1999 Method of Testing General Ventilation Air Cleaning Devices for Removal
Efficiency by Particle Size standard for methods for testing air cleaners for 2 performance characteristics:
the device's capacity for removing particles from the air stream and the device's resistance to airflow;
MERV air filters
ASHRAE Standard 55-2004 Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy identifies the
factors of thermal comfort and the process for developing comfort criteria for a building space and its
occupants; indoor space environmental and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental
conditions acceptable to 80% of the occupants within a space
ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality specifies minimum ventilation
rates; these rates are used to improve indoor air quality as part of the IEQ credit category
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 establishes minimum requirements for the energy efficient design of
buildings (not included are single family homes or multifamily homes less than 3 stories) with regards to
the building envelope, HVAC, service water heating, power, lighting and other equipment
ASHRAE: http://www.ashrae.org
43
By what system or program does USGBC allow a volume certification path to enable owners to integrate
LEED across the board as a standard feature of their design, construction and operations?
A USGBC Portfolio Program
B LEED Online
C ENERGY STAR
D 2009 LEED Rating Systems
The USGBC Portfolio Program allows organizations to achieve LEED certification on a volume scale
USGBC Portfolio Program: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1729
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44 LEED 2009 offers 4 levels of certification. What is the highest level of certification a project can achieve?
A Platinum
B Certified
C Gold
D Silver
The four LEED certification levels are: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum
LEED project certification levels: Certified 40-49 points; Silver 50-59 points; Gold 60-79 points; Platinum
80+points
Refer to Green Building and LEED Core Concepts Guide
45 Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs) does not include:
A Minimum daylighting requirements
B Permanent building or space
C Minimum floor area requirements
D Minimum building to site area ratio
Minimum Program Requirements:
MPR: Must: 1) comply with environmental laws; 2) must be a complete, permanent building or space; 3)
must use a reasonable site boundary; 4) must comply with minimum floor area requirements; 5) must
comply with minimum occupancy rate; 6) must commit to sharing whole-building energy and water usage
data; 7) must comply with a minimum building area to site area ratio
46 The 2009 LEED Rating System best suited for new buildings that will be 25% occupied is:
B LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance
D LEED for New Construction
LEED for Core & Shell rating system is appropriate for whole buildings in which the entity pursuing
certification controls the design and construction of all primary structural components and the exterior skin
but not the interior fit-out (with the exception of common spaces, such as lobbies, etc)
As a general rule, LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations will apply to new projects where the
Owner or tenant occupies greater than 50% of leasable space: LEED for Core & Shell projects will apply
to new projects where the Owner or tenant occupies 50% or less of leasable space
47 Implementing a CFC refrigerant phase out plan for chiller systems requires this to be done:
A Reduce the annual leakage rate of CFC based refrigerants to 5% or less
B The annual leakage of CFC refrigerants must be reduced to 25% or less
C CFC refrigerants must be replaced with natural refrigerants within 7 years
D CFC refrigerants must be replaced with HCFC refrigerants
The project is permitted 5 years from the project completion date to phase out the use of CFC refrigerants
of existing chilled water systems while maintaining a 5% or less leakage rate; for systems connected to a
central chilled water system, an alternative compliance path is permitted requiring an economic analysis
showing replacement or conversion is not economically feasible by taking more than 10 years to payback
the investment
Energy & Atmosphere category: Fundamental Refrigerant Management
Intent: To reduce stratospheric ozone depletion
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Requirements: Zero use of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) based refrigerants in new base building heating,
ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems; when reusing existing base building
HVAC equipment, complete a comprehensive CFC phase-out conversion prior to project completion;
phase-out plans extending beyond the project completion date will be considered on their merits
Fundamental Refrigerant Management is a prerequisite
48 Exemplary Performance is:
A Available for some prerequisites
B Not available for all credits
C Earned for all credits by doubling the maximum threshold for compliance
D Available for all credits
Innovation in Design category: Innovation in Design
Intent: To provide design teams and projects the opportunity to achieve exceptional performance above
the requirements set by the LEED Green Building Rating System
Requirements: Achieve Exemplary Performance in an existing LEED Green Building Rating System; as
a general rule of thumb, ID credits for Exemplary Performance are awarded for achieving the next
incremental percentage threshold or doubling the credit requirements of an existing credit; one point is
awarded for each exemplary performance credit achieved
Exemplary Performance is also referred to as Exceptional Performance
The LEED rating system reference guides will indicate which credits are available for Exemplary
Performance
An example of earning an exemplary point would be with MRc5 Regional Materials that awards 1 point for
using 10% regional materials and 2 points for using 20% regional materials. An Exemplary Performance
point is available for this credit for achieving the next incremental threshold of 30%.
Another example is EAc6 Green Power that awards 1 point for engaging a 2 year renewable energy
contract to provide 35% of the building's electricity from renewable sources; in this instance, an Exemplary
Performance point is warded for doubling the threshold and providing 70% electricity from renewable
sources
Guidance on Innovation & Design (ID) Credits:
http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/Guidance-on-Innovation-and-Design-
Credits.sflb.ashx
49
What option is available to comply with Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access if a
project is not located within 1/2 mile distance of a rail station or within 1/4 mile distance of a bus stop?
A Have additional stations or stops added to the route within the required walking distance
B Submit a CIR and request relief
C There is no alternative compliance path available
D Provide shuttle service to mass transit stations or stops
A campus or private bus is a bus or shuttle service that is privately operated and not available to the
general public; in LEED, a campus or private bus line that falls within 1/4 mile of the project site and
provides transportation service to the public can contribute to earning the credit
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Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs) interpret the intent of the credit and do not offer relief aside from the
opinion of the CIR reviewing body
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Public Transportation Access
Intent: To reduce pollution and land development impacts from automobile use
Requirements:
Option 1: Rail Station Proximity: Locate the project within 1/2-mile walking distance (measured from a
main building entrance) of an existing or planned and funded commuter rail, light rail or subway station
Option 2: Bus Stop Proximity: Locate the project within 1/4-mile walking distance (measured from a main
building entrance) of 1 or more stops for 2 or more public, campus, or private bus lines usable by building
occupants
50 Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to address these environmental issues:
(Choose 2)
A Water efficiency
B Site restoration
D Stormwater management
Stormwater can be collected and used for irrigation, fixture flushing and process water; harvesting
rainwater can reduce the quantity of stormwater; rainwater harvesting can consist of strategies such as:
rain barrels; cisterns; retention ponds
Sustainable Sites and Water Efficiency categories: Stormwater quantity control and water use
reduction
51 Ventilation rates and Indoor Air Quality levels are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality specifies minimum standard
ventilation rates and indoor air quality (IAQ) levels
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring, Increased Ventilation and
Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
52 A project's hard cost budget would include these:
(Chose 2)
A Electrical system controls
B Wall coverings
C Office personal computers
D Furniture
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Hard Costs: costs for expenditures of the actual construction phases of the project such as sitework,
concrete, masonry, roofing, interior finishes such as carpet and painting, mechanical systems, etc.; in
general, these are the costs paid to the general contractor, subcontractors or material suppliers for direct
construction related activities and materials
Soft Costs: costs for services outside the realm of what is done on the construction site; they include
architectural and engineering fees, permit fees, legal and real estate fees, interest paid for the cost of
doing the project, insurance, closing costs, etc
Life Cycle Costs (LCC): Synonymous with green building, cradle to grave costs that go beyond the
initial construction costs to include operation and maintenance of the building after occupancy, demolition
costs and reuse value at the end of the buildings life; Life Cycle Costs (LCC) encompasses: Initial costs
(design and construction); Operating costs (energy, water, other utilities and personnel); Maintenance,
repair and replacement costs; Salvage value at the end of the buildings life
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53 Reducing potable water for flushing toilets may be permitted to use this type of water:
A Water reclaimed from toilets and urinals
B Blackwater
C Graywater
D Well water
Graywater: domestic wastewater composed of wash water from kitchen, bathroom and laundry sinks, tubs
and washers; the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) defines graywater as untreated household wastewater
that has not come in contact with toilet waste; the International Plumbing Code (IPC) defines graywater as
wastewater discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, showers, clothes washers and laundry sinks; some
states will allow kitchen sinks to be included with graywater; some communities allow the use of water
treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for nonpotable uses
Blackwater: wastewater from toilets and urinals; definitions vary where wastewater from kitchen sinks,
showers and bathtubs are considered as blackwater under some jurisdictions
Potable water: water that meets or exceeds EPAs drinking water quality standards and is approved for
human consumption by the state or local authorities having jurisdiction; water from municipal supplies and
well water are considered potable water
Stormwater: runoff water resulting from precipitation that flows over surfaces and usually to storm sewers
or waterways
The quality of any alternative source of water used must be taken into consideration based on its
application or use; Check with local codes for stormwater or graywater reuse
54 CFC refrigerants represent what percentage of use in existing building water chiller systems today?
A 75%
B 50%
C 25%
D 10%
Approximately 50% of existing buildings still use CFC-11 as a refrigerant, and many of these remaining
chillers are old, inefficient and often leaky; retrofitting them is not cost-effective
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55 For a project to be certified, these minimum requirements must be achieved:
(Choose 2)
A Earn only a minimum number of credit points
B Have the LEED AP qualify achievement of all environmental credits
C Comply with all prerequisites and earn a minimum number of credit points
D Satisfy appropriate prerequisites and earn a minimum number of 50 environmental credit points
E Comply with the Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)
A project must comply with all MPRs, prerequisites and earn a minimum number of credit points; at least
40 points must be earned for a building to be LEED Certified at the base level (Certified)
LEED project certification levels: Certified 40-49 points; Silver 50-59 points; Gold 60-79 points; Platinum
80+points
56 Why would the project team submit a Credit Interpretation Request (CIR)?
A To receive approval for questionable credit strategies
B To appeal credits that have been denied
C To receive technical guidance on LEED credit strategies
D To communicate with project teams regarding credit interpretations on other projects
The Credit Interpretation Request (CIR) and ruling process was established for project applicants seeking
technical and administrative guidance on how LEED credits apply to their projects and vice versa; CIRs
apply to only one prerequisite or credit and are project specific for 2009; CIRs cost $220 per request
The project team should first reevaluate the prerequisite/credit as a final check that they are at an impasse
with regards to understanding their strategy compliance; the second step would be to search the CIR data
base to see it a similar CIR had been submitted and ruled upon; the project team then could contact
customer service for advice; if none of these paths prove to be successful, the project team should then
submit a CIR
57 When an owner purchases RECs, they receive:
A Clean natural gas from the local utility company
B Environmental, social and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources
C Electricity from the local utility company
D Carbon credit offsets
Renewable electricity has two components: 1) electricity generated and 2) the environmental attributes
associated with renewable electricity; the electricity is distributed via regional grid systems
It is important to understand that the electricity associated with a Renewable Electricity Certificate (REC)
is sold separately and is used by another party; the consumer of a REC receives only a certificate
representing the purchase of the environmental attributes of renewable energy. In essence, it is supporting
the promotion of renewable energy
RECs, also known as Green tags, Renewable Electricity Certificates, or Tradable Renewable Certificates
(TRCs), are tradable, non-tangible energy commodities in the United States that represent proof that 1
megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from an eligible renewable energy resource (renewable
electricity); all purchases of green power is based on the quantity of energy consumed and not the cost
Green Power is renewable energy generated from off-site resources
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On-site Renewable Energy systems are not classified by LEED as Green Power, but renewable energy
that is generated on-site by a variety of sources such as: Photovoltaic systems; Wind energy systems;
Solar thermal systems; Bio-fuel base electrical systems; Geothermal heating systems; Geothermal
electrical systems; Low-impact hydroelectric power systems, Wave and tidal power systems
Energy & Atmosphere category: Green Power
Intent: To encourage the development and use of grid-source, renewable energy technologies on a net
zero pollution basis
Requirements: Engage in at least a 2 year renewable energy contract to provide at least 35% of the
buildings electricity from renewable sources, as defined by the Center for Resource Solutions Green-e
Energy product certification requirements
Center of Resource Solutions: http://www.resource-solutions.org/index.php
Guide to Purchasing Green Power: http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/Guide-to-
Purchasing-Green-Power.sflb.ashx
58 What is the goal of IPMVP Volume III?
A Lighting and ventilation efficiency monitoring
B To provide the framework for assessing building performance
C Control and monitoring Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control
D Stormwater quantity and quality control management
International Performance Measurement for Verification Protocol (IPMVP), Volume III provides best
practice techniques for verifying energy performance in new construction; Option D: Calibrated Simulation
and Option B: Energy Conservation Measure Isolation are the only 2 of the 4 available options permitted
to be used
Energy & Atmosphere category: Measurement and Verification
59 Sites seeking the Community Connectivity credit must achieve these 2 requirements:
(Choose 2)
A A site within 1/2 mile of a residential area with an average density of 10 units/acre
C A site within 1/2 mile of a rapid transit station
Bus stops and rapid transit stations refer to elements associated with mass transit and apply to Alternative
Transportation - Public Transportation Access
Sustainable Sites category: Development Density and Community Connectivity
Intent: To channel development to urban areas with existing infrastructure, protect greenfields, and
preserve habitat and natural resources
Requirements: Option 2: Construct or renovate a building on a site that meets the following criteria: 1) is
located on a previously developed site; 2) is within 1/2 mile of a residential area or neighborhood with an
average density of 10 units per acre net; 3) is within 1/2 mile of at least 10 basic services; 4) has
unobstructed pedestrian access between the building and the services
Examples of basic services include: bank; place of worship; convenience grocery; day care center;
cleaners; fire station; beauty salon; hardware; laundry; library; medical or dental office; senior care center;
park; pharmacy; post office; restaurant; school; supermarket; theater; community center; fitness center;
museum
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60 The EPA defines, in part, a brownfield site as:
A A site that has been previously developed and presently vacated
B A site that contains hazardous substances
C A barren site without vegetation
D A site that has been previously developed and presently occupied
EPA: With certain legal exclusions and additions, the term "brownfield site" means real property, the
expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence
of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant
Sustainable Sites category: Brownfield Redevelopment
Intent: To rehabilitate damaged sites where development is complicated by environmental contamination
and to reduce pressure on undeveloped land
Requirements:
Option 1: Develop on a site documented as contaminated (by means of an ASTM E1903-97 Phase II
Environmental Site Assessment or a local voluntary cleanup program)
Option 2: Develop on a site defined as a brownfield by a local, state, or federal government agency
EPA Brownfields definition: http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/overview/glossary.htm
61 Natural refrigerants are environmentally benign to the atmosphere. Which of the these are au naturel?
(Choose 3)
A H
2
O
B CO
2
C CFC
D Ammonia
E HCFC
F Halon
Natural refrigerants are environmentally benign to the atmosphere: CO
2
(carbon dioxide); H
2
O (water);
NH
3
(ammonia); HC (hydrocarbons); Air
62
What is true about a material that was extracted 525 miles from the project site, partially assembled 650
miles from the project site with final assembly 100 miles from the project site?
A The material can contribute towards the recycled content credit
B The material does not meet complicance as a regional material
C The material contributes toward regional materials
D The material can contribute part of the product towards regional materials
Regional Materials can be a single material or a product that is made of several materials; for products
containing several materials, only the materials that comply with the requirements of the credit can
contribute to the credit; to achieve partial compliance, the material must be locally harvested
Materials & Resources category: Regional Materials
Intent: To increase demand for building materials and products that are extracted and manufactured
within the region, thereby supporting the use of indigenous resources and reducing the environmental
impacts resulting from transportation
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Requirements: Building materials or products must have been extracted, harvested or recovered, as well
as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project site for a minimum of 10% or 20%, based on cost, of the
total materials value; if only a fraction of a product or material is extracted, harvested, or recovered and
manufactured locally, then only that percentage (by weight) can contribute to the regional value
63 During the charrette, the project team establishes an integrated design approach toward this major goal:
A Ensure the project will come in on budget
B To generate possible design solutions and strategies for a succcesful sustainable project
C Ensure the project will achieve certification
D Ensure the project will come in on budget and on schedule
During the predesign phase, environmental guidelines are established as an important component of
green building development to direct the activities of the design team from the predesign stage through all
subsequent stages of the project
The project team, during the predesign phase, should develop a building program that should include: the
physical constraints of the project; budget; schedule; general room by room description; the project's
environmental vision and goals and it's design criteria and priorities; criteria for energy efficiency, indoor
air quality, materials selection, waste and demolition recycling as well as other green requirements;
consideration of the local cultural and climatic factors including ease of pedestrian and mass transit
access
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64 Energy use intensity is an important factor in determing energy usage and refers to:
A The amount of energy consumed per unit floor space
B The total daily energy use
C Energy consumption divided by the site area
D The ratio of maximum daily energy use divided by the total annual energy use
This method adjusts either the amount of energy consumed or expenditures spent, for the effects of
various building characteristics, such as size of the building, number of workers, or number of operating
hours, to facilitate comparisons of energy across time, fuels, and buildings; Btus =kWh/sf/yr
U.S. Energy Information Administration: http://www.eia.doe.gov/
65 The least affect to the ozone depletion potential is most likely by using this group of refrigerants:
HFCs, typically, have a negligible impact on the ozone layer
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66 The primary goal for preparing a sustainable building program is to:
A Bypass the split submittal process
B Assign team members credit responsibility
C Determine if the certification submittal will be done as a split submittal or a combined submittal
D Develop the project's environmental goals
A building program develops a clear understanding of the owner's or clients expectations of the building
and the function of the entire building as these relate to the project's environmental vision and goals
A building program should include: the physical constraints of the project; budget; schedule; general room
by room description; the project's environmental vision and goals and it's design criteria and priorities;
criteria for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, materials selection, waste and demolition recycling as well
as other green requirements; consideration of the local cultural and climatic factors including ease of
pedestrian and mass transit access
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67 What documentation is required for LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance certification?
A Documentation that no performance period overlaps with another performance period
B Verification that an addition is no more than 75% of the total building area
C Documentation that the building meets the minumum 5 FTE requirement
D Performance data for the building and site over time
LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance certification requires performance data for the
building and site over the continuous unbroken time during which sustainable operations performance is
being measured
Additions can be no more than 50% of the total building area
Performance periods must overlap and terminate within one week of each other
The minimum FTE requirement is 1
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance Guide, Introduction:
http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/LEED-for-Operations-and-Maintenance-
Reference-Guide-Introduction.sflb.ashx
68 The greatest threat to global warming potential is presented by this group of refrigerants:
HFCs, typically, have a negligible impact on the ozone layer but have a significant GWP value
69 When selecting refrigerants, what is most important for the project team to take into account?
A The availability of the refrigerant
B An analysis of trade-offs between global warming and ozone depletion
C The cost of the refrigerant
D A determination of the refrigerant's overall global warming potential
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An objective analysis of trade-offs between global warming and ozone depletion that comes from a full
understanding of all interacting pathways and the effects on economic activities, human health, and
terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems
70 The footprint of a building is defined as:
A The area of the building structure only
B The building structure and hardscapes
C The building structure and landscapes
D The entire project boundary
Building Footprint: The area of the site occupied by the building structure, not including parks,
landscapes and other nonbuilding related facilities
Development Footprint: The area affected by the development of the project site activity; Hardscapes
access roads, parking lots, nonbuilding facilities and the building itself are all included in the development
footprint
O&M Glossary: http://www.gbci.org/Libraries/Credential_Exam_References/LEED-for-Operations-and-
Maintenance-Reference-Guide-Glossary.sflb.ashx
71 The government organization responsible for controlling ozone depleting substances in the U.S. is:
A DOE
B Montreal Protocol
C EPA
D USGBC
The U.S. federal agency primarily responsible for the management of air quality and atmospheric
protection issues is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; the Clean Air Act amendments passed by
Congress require that EPA develop and implement regulations for the responsible management of ozone-
depleting substances in the United States; EPA has published a range of regulations for the protection of
the ozone layer; because of their relatively high ozone depletion potential, several man-made compounds
including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), carbon tetrachloride, methyl
chloroform, methyl bromide, and halons were targeted for phase-out
EPA Ozone Depletion: http://www.epa.gov/Ozone/intpol/
72 The intent of the 2009 LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance rating system is:
A
To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional buildings under
50,000 sf
B To certify the sustainability of additions onto existing commercial and institutional buildings
C
To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional
buildings
D
To certify the sustainability of ongoing operations of existing commercial and institutional buildings over
50,000 sf
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LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance rating system is appropriate for existing
whole buildings; typically, these buildings undergo only improvement work, however, it is normal and
acceptable for different levels of construction work to be going on in different parts of a building, if the
majority of the floor area remains occupied; project teams in this situation should review the 40/60 rule
and the Minimum Program Requirements Supplemental Guidance on MPR #5, for Compliance with the
minimum occupancy rate and must be in a state of typical physical occupancy, and all building systems
must be operating at a capacity necessary to serve the current occupants, for a period that includes all
performance periods as well as at least the 12 continuous months immediately preceding the first
submission for a review; must serve 1 or more Full Time Equivalent (FTE) occupant(s), calculated as an
annual average in order to use LEED in its entirety; if the project serves less than 1 annualized FTE,
optional credits from the Indoor Environmental Quality category may not be earned (the prerequisites
must still be earned).
73 A building's energy performance is addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 establishes minimum requirements for the energy efficient design of
buildings with regards to the building envelope, HVAC, service water heating, power, lighting, other equip
Energy & Atmosphere and Sustainable Sites categories: Minimum Energy Performance, Optimize
Energy Performance, On-Site Renewable Energy and Lighting Power Densities
74 Sites seeking the Development Density credit must achieve these 2 requirements:
(Choose 2)
A A previously developed site
C A site in a community with a minimum density of 60,000 sf per acre net
Bus stops and rapid transit stations refer to elements associated with mass transit and apply to Alternative
Transportation - Public Transportation Access; basic services are a requirement for Community
Connectivity
Requirements: Option 1: Construct or renovate a building on a previously developed site AND in a
community with a minimum density of 60,000 square feet per acre net; The density calculation is based on
a typical two-story downtown development and must include the area of the project being built
75 Temperature, humidity and air speed are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SCAQMD
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ASHRAE Standard 55-2004 Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy identifies the
factors of thermal comfort and the process for developing comfort criteria for a building space and its
occupants; indoor space environmental and personal factors that will produce thermal environmental
conditions acceptable to 80% of the occupants within a space
Environmental factors include temperature, thermal radiation, humidity and air speed; Personal factors
include activity and clothing
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort, Thermal
Comfort - Design and Verification
76 The primary contributor to climate change is:
A Urban Redevelopment
B Greenhouse gases
D Ozone depletion
For over the past 200 years, the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, and deforestation have
caused the concentrations of heat trapping "greenhouse gases" to increase significantly in our
atmosphere; these gases prevent heat from escaping to space, somewhat like the glass panels of a
greenhouse; greenhouse gases are necessary to life as we know it, because they keep the planet's
surface warmer than it otherwise would be; but, as the concentrations of these gases continue to increase
in the atmosphere, the Earth's temperature is climbing above past levels; other aspects of the climate are
also changing such as rainfall patterns, snow and ice cover, and sea level
The intent of Urban Redevelopment is to improve already existing buildings and infrastructures
EPA Climate Change: http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/
77 VOC limits for adhesives, sealants, paints and coatings are addressed by these standards:
(Choose 2)
A Green-e
B Green Seal
C Floor Score
D SCAQMD
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113 Architectural Coatings: VOC
limits for paints and coatings
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1168 VOC limits for adhesives,
sealants and sealant primers
Green Seal Standard GC-03 VOC limits for anti-corrosive and anti-rust paints
Green Seal Standard GS-11 VOC limits for commercial flat and nonflat paints
Green Seal Standard GC-36 VOC limits for aerosol adhesives
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Low Emitting Materials - Adhesives & Sealants and Paints &
Coatings
Green Seal: http://www.greenseal.org/
SCAQMD: http://www.aqmd.gov/
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78 Fire suppression systems are generally associated with these refrigerants:
A H
2
O
B Mercury
C Halons
D CO
2
Under the Clean Air Act (CAA), the U.S. banned the production and import of virgin halons 1211, 1301,
and 2402 beginning J anuary 1, 1994 in compliance with the Montreal Protocol On Substances That
Deplete The Ozone Layer; recycled halon and inventories produced before J anuary 1, 1994, are now the
only sources of supply; halons are chemicals commonly used in fire suppression systems and cause
ozone depletion
Energy & Atmosphere category: Enhanced Refrigerant Management
Intent: To reduce ozone depletion and support early compliance with the Montreal Protocol while
minimizing direct contributions to climate change
Requirements: Option 2: Do not operate or install fire suppression systems that contain ozone-depleting
substances such as CFCs, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) or halons
EPA Ozone Layer Depletion: http://www.epa.gov/Ozone/basicinfo.html
79 Reducing potable water for landscaping irrigation could be achieved by:
A Using turf grass
B Increasing pervious surfaces
C Using drip irrigation
D Using non-native landscaping materials
Drip irrigation provides water to the plant's root system as opposed to watering leaves and surrounding
ground as with conventional sprinkler systems
Water Efficiency category: Water Efficient Landscaping
Intent: To limit or eliminate the use of potable water or other natural surface or subsurface water
resources available on or near the project site for landscape irrigation
Requirements: Option 1: Reduce by 50%: Reduce potable water consumption for irrigation by 50% from
a calculated midsummer baseline case; reductions must be attributed to any combination of the following
items: plant species, density and microclimate factor; irrigation efficiency; use of captured rainwater; use
of recycled wastewater; use of water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for nonpotable
uses
80 Minimum ventilation rates are addressed by this standard:
A ASHRAE 90.1-2007
B ASHRAE 55-2004
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D ASHRAE 61.2-2007
ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality specifies minimum ventilation
rates; these rates are used to improve indoor air quality as part of the IEQ credit category
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring, Increased Ventilation and
Controllability of Systems - Thermal Comfort
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81 In the Development Density credit, the density radius calculation is used to:
A Define properties included in the development density calculation
B Define the area where basic services are located
C Define the project site area
D Measure any bus/rail line locations relative to the entrance of a building
The density radius places an imaginary boundary centered at the project building entrance according to
the formula Density Radius (sf) =3 x square root [site area (acres) x 43,560 (sf/acre)]; the average density
is then calculated from the buildings that are inside of, and touch, this imaginary boundary; the sum of
these along with the density of the project must be equal to or greater than 60,000 sf/acre
Requirements: Option 1: Construct or renovate a building on a previously developed site AND in a
community with a minimum density of 60,000 square feet per acre net; the density calculation is based on
a typical two-story downtown development and must include the area of the project being built
82 Indoor Air Quality during construction is addressed by this standard:
(Choose 2)
A ASHRAE 62.1-2004
B ASHRAE 52.2-1999
C ASHRAE 62.1-2007
D SMACNA
ASHRAE Standard 52.2-1999 Method of Testing General Ventilation Air Cleaning Devices for Removal
Efficiency by Particle Size Standard for methods for testing air cleaners for 2 performance characteristics:
the device's capacity for removing particles from the air stream and the device's resistance to airflow;
MERV air filters
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA) IAQ Guidelines for
Occupied Buildings under Construction, 2nd edition, Chapter 3, November 2007 Guidelines for
maintaining healthful indoor air quality during demolitions, renovations and construction
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan - During
Construction
SMACNA: http://www.smacna.org/
83 Local zoning ordinances would, typically, not apply to this:
A Landscaping
B Interior lighting densities
C Stormwater controls
D Open space requirements
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Zoning laws are found in almost every municipality in the United States, affecting land use, lot size,
building heights, density, setbacks, landscaping, exterior lighting and other aspects of property use
Building codes are laws or standards established and enforced by local government to address areas such
as structural integrity, insulation, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, lighting, fire protection, life safety, etc.
84 Which of the following are alternative fuel for vehicles?
A Methanol
B Ethanol
C Electric
D All of the above
Alternative-fuel vehicles are those vehicles that use fuels such as electricity, hydrogen, propane,
compressed natural gas, liquid natural gas, methanol, and ethanol; gas-electric hybrids are also included
in this group
Low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles are those vehicles that are either classified as Zero Emission
Vehicles (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved a minimum Green Score of 40 on
the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide
Diesel fuel is not an alternative source of fuel
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Low-Emitting and Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Requirements:
Option 1: Provide preferred parking for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle
parking capacity of the site; providing a discounted parking rate is an acceptable substitute for preferred
parking for low-emitting/fuel-efficient vehicles
Option 2: Install alternative-fuel fueling stations for 3% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site;
liquid or gaseous fueling facilities must be separately ventilated or located outdoors
Option 3: Provide low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles for 3% of full-time equivalent (FTE) occupants;
provide preferred parking for these vehicles
Option 4: Provide building occupants access to a low-emitting or fuel-efficient vehicle-sharing program
zipcar: http://www.zipcar.com/
California Air Resources Board: http://www.arb.ca.gov/homepage.htm
American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy: http://www.aceee.org/
85 Many building codes incorporate these standards:
(Choose 2)
A Green Seal
B UPC
C EPAct 1992
D IPC
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Publication IAPMO/American National
Standards Institute UPC 1-2006, Uniform Plumbing Code 2006, Section 402.0, Water Conserving Fixtures
and Fittings: UPC defines water conserving fixtures and fittings for water closets, urinals and metered
faucets
International Code Council, International Plumbing Code 2006, Section 604, Design of Building Water
Distribution Systems: IPC defines maximum flow rates and consumption for plumbing fixtures and fittings,
including public and private lavatories, showerheads, sink faucets, urinals and water closets
EPAct 1992 is a U.S. act that addresses energy and water use in commercial, institutional and residential
facilities
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86
Providing contact with GBCI, LEED Online and LEED Credit Form access occurs after this process has
been completed:
A J oining the USGBC national organization
B Project registration
C J oining a USGBC regional chapter
D Project submittal for certification
Registering a project with GBCI provides: 1) point of contact between GBCI and project, 2) access to
LEED Online tools, 3) access to LEED Credit Forms and 4) Ensures maximum potential for achieving
certification
LEED Online project registration elements: Account login; Project type selector; General project
information; Primary contact information; Project owner information; Project details, Payment information
certification.aspx
87 Which of the following strategies will not reduce the heat island effect - nonroof?
A Planting large non-native trees for shading
B Increase parking
C Using paving materials with SRI value of at least 29
D Placing at least 25% of the parking under shade
Increasing the number of parking spaces would increase the amount of pavement surface and, therefore,
increase the heat island effect for nonroofs
Heat island effect refers to the absorption of heat by dark surfaces, such as buildings and hardscapes,
then radiating that heat into nearby areas; generally, heat is absorbed by these surfaces during the
daytime then released to the atmosphere during the evening when the ambient temperatures are cooler;
LEED defines a heat island as an area whose temperatures are at least 10 degrees higher than those of
surrounding suburban or rural areas
Sustainable Sites category: Heat Island Effect - NonRoof
Intent: To reduce heat islands1 to minimize impacts on microclimates and human and wildlife habitats
Requirements: Use any combination of the following strategies for 50% of the site hardscape (including
roads, sidewalks, courtyards and parking lots):
Option 1:
Provide shade from the existing tree canopy or within 5 years of landscape installation. Landscaping
(trees) must be in place at the time of occupancy
Provide shade from structures covered by solar panels that produce energy used to offset some
nonrenewable resource use
Provide shade from architectural devices or structures that have a solar reflectance index (SRI) of at
least 29
Use hardscape materials with an SRI of at least 29
Use an open-grid pavement system (at least 50% pervious)
Option 2:
Place a minimum of 50% of parking spaces under cover; any roof used to shade or cover parking must
have an SRI of at least 29, be a vegetated green roof or be covered by solar panels that produce energy
used to offset some nonrenewable resource use
EPA Heat Island Effect: http://www.epa.gov/hiri/
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88 Credit Forms must be signed by this member of the project team:
A Declarant
B A LEED Accredited Professional
C Lead engineer
D Project manager
The declarant is the person who must sign a credit form and each credit form can have a different
declarant
Each LEED rating system will have its own set of submittal forms that must be completed and submitted
for documentation and verification; these credit forms may also be referred to as letter templates, credit
templates, submittal templates, or submittals; credit forms are dynamic PDF forms that can be filled out
and saved on a computer, then uploaded directly back to LEED Online; each credit form will list the
requirements for credit achievement as well as any documentation required for submittal, space for
mandatory and/or optional narratives and must be signed by the declarant; for credits that require
calculations, calculators are built into the forms to indicate if the credit requirements have been met
Prerequisite/credit responsibility is assigned by the project administrator; the team member (Declarant)
that has been assigned responsibility for the prerequisite/credit by the administrator will fill out the credit
form and upload it to LEED Online when the required documentation has been prepared; once all of the
credit forms are uploaded for those prerequisites/credits being attempted, the project administrator will
submit the project for review either by a split or combined application submittal process; the split process
allows certain prerequisites/credits to be submitted during the Design Application Submittal phase and all
remaining prerequisites/credits will be submitted during the Construction Application Submittal phase; with
the Combined Application Submittal process, all prerequisites/credits will be submitted at the same time,
usually at, or after, completion of the project
certification.aspx
LEED v2.2 Credit Templates: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1447
89 A building that has earned LEED NC certification could qualify for this rating system:
A LEED Building Design & Construction (New Construction)
B LEED Core & Shell
C LEED Interior Design & Construction (Commercial Interiors)
D LEED for Homes
E LEED Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance
Buildings certified under the NC, CS or Schools may also be certified under EB O&M
Buildings certified under CS may also be certified under CI
LEED Neighborhood Development may earn additional points for construction or retrofit of certified
buildings which are part of the development
LEED Rating Systems: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222
90 A preconsumer recycled material:
A Kleenex
B Waste straw from a wheat farm
C Broken things
D Worn out clothing
Recycled Content materials are classified as preconsumer and postconsumer content
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Preconsumer content would include materials that can no longer be used for their original purpose;
process waste that an industry has sold or traded to another through the marketplace; a composite board
manufacturer may obtain sawdust from a lumber mill or a landscaper buying wood chips from a lumber
mill; these materials never made it to the marketplace as originally intended; cotton insulation is created
from scraps from other manufacturing processes before the scraps reach consumers; flyash and
magazine overruns are considered as preconsumer content materials also
Postconsumer content are materials that have been manufactured and sold, but no longer of value to
the consumer; remodeling a kitchen and setting the old cabinets along side the curb; aluminum, paper,
plastic and glass are also postconsumer content; recycled content products generally contain a percentage
of both preconsumer and postconsumer content materials
Manufacturing scrap that is reclaimed and used to manufacture the same item does not count as
preconsumer content or postconsumer content
Materials & Resources category: Recycled Content
Intent: To increase demand for building products that incorporate recycled content materials, thereby
reducing impacts resulting from extraction and processing of virgin materials
Requirements: Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of postconsumer recycled content
plus 1/2 of the preconsumer content constitutes at least 10% or 20%, based on cost, of the total value of
the materials in the project; the recycled content value of a material assembly is determined by weight;
the recycled fraction of the assembly is then multiplied by the cost of assembly to determine the recycled
content value
91 This location would be more appropriate to consider for a new technology data center:
A Land that is 80 feet from a wetland as defined by the U.S. Code of Regulations CFR
B Land with plants listed on a federal or state threatened species list
C Developed site located 30 feet from a fishing stream
D 10 acres of a 100 acre farm defined by the USDA as prime farmland
E Undeveloped land that is 40 feet from a stream
F Undeveloped land whose elevation is 1 foot above the 100-year flood as defined by FEMA
Although this site is within the 50 foot setback from a water body, it was previously developed and,
therefore, allowed to earn the credit
Sustainable Site category: Site Selection
Intent: To avoid the development of inappropriate sites and reduce the environmental impact from the
location of a building on a site
Prerequisites: Do not develop buildings, hardscape, roads or parking areas on portions of sites that meet
any of the following criteria:
Prime farmland as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the United States Code of Federal
Regulations
Previously undeveloped land whose elevation is lower than 5 feet above the elevation of the 100-year
flood as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Land specifically identified as habitat for any species on federal or state threatened or endangered lists
Land within 100 feet of any wetlands as defined by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR and
isolated wetlands or areas of special concern identified by state or local rule, OR within setback distances
from wetlands prescribed in state or local regulations, as defined by local or state rule or law, whichever is
more stringent
Previously undeveloped land that is within 50 feet of a water body, defined as seas, lakes, rivers,
streams and tributaries that support or could support fish, recreation or industrial use, consistent with the
terminology of the Clean Water Act
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S T U D I O 4
Land that prior to acquisition for the project was public parkland, unless land of equal or greater value as
parkland is accepted in trade by the public landowner (park authority projects are exempt)
92 On a 1:12 sloped roof, these strategies could be used for compliance with Heat Island Effect - Roof:
(Choose 2)
A vegetated roof
B roof surface with SRI 18 or greater
C Metal roof with low SRI value
D roof surface of SRI 78 or greater
Both the vegetated roofs and roofs with high SRI value surfaces are acceptable for the low sloped roof in
addition to a combination of high SRI and vegetated roofs
Sustainable Sites category: Heat Island Effect - Roof
Intent: To reduce heat islands1 to minimize impacts on microclimates and human and wildlife habitats
Requirements:
Option 1:
Use roofing materials with a solar reflectance index (SRI) equal to or greater than 29 for a steep sloped
roof and 78 for a low sloped roof for a minimum of 75% of the roof surface; roofing materials having a
lower SRI value than those listed below may be used if the weighted rooftop SRI average meets the
following criteria:
Area Roof Meeting Minimum SRI / Total Roof Area X SRI of Installed Roof / Required SRI is equal to or
greater than 75%
Option 2:
Install a vegetated roof that covers at least 50% of the roof area
Option 3:
Install high-albedo and vegetated roof surfaces that, in combination, meets the the following criteria:
Area Roof Meeting Minimum SRI / 0.75 +Area of Vegetated Roof / 0.5 is equal to or greater than the total
roof area
Emissivity is the ability of a material to emit heat by radiation, solar reflectance (albedo) is the measure of
a materials ability to reflect sunlight and Solar Reflectance Ratio (SRI) is the measure of a materials
ability to reject solar heat. The ideal relationship is lower emissivity and higher albedo and SRI. Pavement
and roofing materials that exhibit these qualities are often referred to as cool pavements and cool roofs
EPA Heat Island Effect: http://www.epa.gov/hiri/
93 In order to qualify as Low Emission or Fuel Efficient Vehicles, this requirement must be met:
A Green Seal score of 30 or more
B Green-e score of 25 or more
C Green Label score of 40 or more
D Green Score of 40 or more
Green Seal refers to standards establishing VOC limits for Low-Emitting Materials (paints, coatings,
sealants)
Green Label refers to standards establishing VOC limits for Low-Emitting Materials (carpets, carpet
cushions)
Green-e establishes standards and guidelines for Renewable energy (Center for Resource Solutions)
Low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles are those vehicles that are either classified as Zero Emission
Vehicles (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved a minimum Green Score of 40 on
the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide
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Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Low-Emitting and Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy: http://www.aceee.org/
94
Promoting durability and high performance of the building enclosure and its components and systems
through design, materials selection and construction practices is a hallmark of this LEED for Homes
process:
A Integrated design
B Charrette
C Durability planning and management
Durability is essential to LEED for Homes and is placed at the forefront of the rating system; durability is
practiced, to some degree, in all LEED projects by considering the life cycle benefits of materials and
building/material reuse
Innovation & Design category: Durability Management Process
Intent: Promote durability and high performance of the building enclosure and its components and
systems through appropriate design, materials selection and construction practices
Prerequisites:
Durability Planning: 1) identify all moderate and high risk durability issues for the building enclosure; 2)
develop specific measures to respond to those issues; 3) identify and incorporate all the applicable indoor
moisture control measures; 4) incorporate the measures from 1 and 2 into the project documents; 5) list all
the liability measures and indicate their locations in the project documents in a durability inspection
checklist
Durability Management: During construction, the builder shall have a quality management process in
place to ensure installation of the durability measures
LEED for Homes Rating System: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=147
95 In the Materials & Resources - Rapidly Renewable Materials credit, these items would qualify:
(Choose 2)
A Sunflower seed board panels
B Any material with a harvest rate of 15 years or less
C Cork flooring
D Brick
Examples of rapidly renewable materials: bamboo flooring; plywood; cotton batt insulation; sunflower seed
board panels; wheatboard cabinetry; wool carpeting; cork flooring; bio-based paints; geotextile fabrics; soy-
based insulation; straw bales
Materials & Resources category: Rapidly Renewable Materials
Intent: To reduce the use and depletion of finite raw materials and long-cycle renewable materials by
replacing them with rapidly renewable materials
Prerequisites: Use rapidly renewable building materials and products for 2.5% of the total value of all
building materials and products used in the project, based on cost. Rapidly renewable building materials
and products are made from plants that are typically harvested within a 10-year or shorter cycle
96 The person responsible for field verification and testing on a LEED for Homes project:
A LEED for Homes Provider
B LEED AP
C GBCI
D Green Rater
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S T U D I O 4
A Green Rater is an individual who works as part of the LEED for Homes Provider team to perform field
inspections and performance testing; Green Raters may work closely with the individual project teams to
assist the design and construction professionals in meeting their sustainability goals
LEED for Homes Providers are local and regional organizations chosen by USGBC to provide certification
services to LEED for Homes projects in their local or regional markets
LEED for Homes Rating System: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=147
97 The ultimate goal of a Construction Waste Management Plan should be to:
A Incinerate on-site construction waste so it isn't taken to landfills
B Divert waste from landfills or incinerators by recyling back into the manufacturing process
C Provide proper facilities for waste collection
D Verify that as much waste as possible is taken to landfill nearest the project site
The goal of the Construction Waste Management Plan is to divert construction, demolition, packaging and
land clearing debris from disposal in landfills or incinerators by redirecting recyclable recovered resources
back to the manufacturing process and redirect reusable materials to appropriate sites. The plan should
also include procedures for proper disposal of PCBs and other contaminants and a asbestos containing
materials (ACM) management plan
redirect recyclable recovered resources back to the manufacturing process and reusable materials to
appropriate sites
Prerequisites: Recycle and/or salvage nonhazardous construction and demolition debris; develop and
land-clearing debris do not contribute to this credit; calculations can be done by weight or volume, but
98
One of the most important environmental issues addressed by LEED is reducing greenhouse gas and
2009 LEED Green Building Rating Systems put a great deal of emphasis on reducing transportation
needs. What are common strategies that can be implemented by the project team to earn these credits?
(Choose 3)
A Provide no more than 3% parking over minimum local zoning requirements
B Place 50% of the required parking undercover
C Provide bicycle storage for 5% of the building users
D Size parking capacity to not exceed local zoning requirements
E Provide LEV vehicles for 5% of the total parking capacity
F Reserve parking spaces for occupants to encourage bicycle use
Although this site is within the 50 foot setback from a water body, it was previously developed and,
therefore, allowed to earn the credit
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Bicycle Storage and Changing Rooms
Prerequisites: Provide secure bicycle racks and/or storage within 200 yards of a building entrance for 5%
or more of all building users (measured at peak periods); provide shower and changing facilities in the
building, or within 200 yards of a building entrance, for 0.5% of fulltime equivalent (FTE) occupants
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity
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S T U D I O 4
Prerequisites: Size parking capacity to meet but not exceed minimum local zoning requirements; provide
preferred parking for carpools or vanpools for 5% of the total parking spaces
Provide infrastructure and support programs to facilitate shared vehicle use such as carpool drop-off
areas, designated parking for vanpools, car-share services, ride boards and shuttle services to mass
transit
Sustainable Sites category: Alternative Transportation - Low-Emitting & Fuel Efficient Vehicles
Prerequisites:
Option 1: Provide preferred parking for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles for 5% of the total vehicle
parking capacity of the site; providing a discounted parking rate is an acceptable substitute for preferred
parking for low-emitting/ fuel-efficient vehicles
Option 2: Install alternative-fuel fueling stations for 3% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site;
liquid or gaseous fueling facilities must be separately ventilated or located outdoors
Option 3: Provide low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles for 3% of full-time equivalent (FTE) occupants;
provide preferred parking for these vehicles
Option 4: Provide building occupants access to a low-emitting or fuel-efficient vehicle-sharing program;
the following requirements must be met: One low-emitting or fuel-efficient vehicle must be provided per
3% of FTE occupants
For the purposes of this credit, low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles are defined as vehicles that are
either classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) by the California Air Resources Board or have achieved
a minimum green score of 40 on the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) annual
vehicle rating guide
99 To eliminate the use of refrigerants for HVAC systems in new projects, this strategy would be appropriate:
A Design a natural (passive) ventilation system
B Use only halons for cooling
C Design the building to be cooled with natural refrigerants
D Incorporate a mixed mode mechanical & natural system design
Design and operate the facility without mechanical cooling and refrigeration equipment; where mechanical
cooling is used, utilize base building HVAC&R systems for the refrigeration cycle that minimize direct
impact on ozone depletion and global climate change; select HVAC&R equipment with reduced refrigerant
charge and increased equipment life; maintain equipment to prevent leakage of refrigerant to the
atmosphere; use fire suppression systems that do not contain HCFCs or halons
Indoor Environmental Quality category: Enhanced Refrigerant Management
Intent: To reduce ozone depletion and support early compliance with the Montreal Protocol while
minimizing direct contributions to climate change
Prerequisites: Option 1: Do not use refrigerants
100 Which of the following statements define Life Cycle Cost and Life Cycle Assessment?
(Choose 2)
A Life Cycle Cost concentrates on economics
B Life Cycle Assessment concentrates on the environment and people
C Life Cycle Cost concentrates on the environment, people and economics
D Life Cycle Assessment concentrates economics
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S T U D I O 4
Life Cycle Cost =LCC =Economics
Life Cycle Assessment =LCA =Environment and People
Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis is a method for assessing the total cost of ownership. It takes into account
all costs of acquiring, owning and operating, and the eventual disposal of a building. Sustainable design
requires an analysis of a building over its entire life and life cycle cost analysis identifies which high
performance building systems will save money over the life of the building. For example: Product A may
cost less and have a life expectancy of 5 years whereas Product B may cost a little more but have a life
expectancy of 15 years, making Product B a better choice due to it having a better life cycle cost. All of
the building expenses that can be calculated are included in the analysis:
Initial costs (design and construction)
Operating costs (energy, water, other utilities and personnel)
Maintenance, repair and replacement costs
Salvage value at the end of the buildings life
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an informed choice of building materials and systems that minimizes
the negative impacts of the building and land use on people and the environment. The process begins as
early as planning and design, analyzes construction activities and then goes beyond convention by
including building operations and the eventual retirement and renewal of materials. In essence, a life cycle
assessment considers the building along with its materials and components, from their extraction,
manufacture and transport, to their use, reuse, recycling and disposal. A cradle-to-grave analysis.
II.sflb.ashx
101 According to LEED, the site's open space requirements are defined by:
A The local building department
B The project's civil engineer
C The local zoning authority
D A consultant hired by the owner to negotiate permitting with the local authorities having jurisdiction
As with all LEED credits local, state and federal authorities will govern the minimum standards for the
design and construction of a project unless the LEED referenced standards and methodologies can be
proven more stringent; typically maximum density, setbacks, landscaping, stormwater management as
well as other issues will be mandated by local zoning ordinances
Sustainable Sites category: Site Development - Maximize Open Space
Intent: To promote biodiversity by providing a high ratio of open space to development footprint
Prerequisites:
Case 1: Sites with Local Zoning Open Space Requirements
Reduce the development footprint1 and/or provide vegetated open space within the project boundary such
that the amount of open space exceeds local zoning requirements by 25%
Case 2: Sites with No Local Zoning Requirements
Provide a vegetated open space area adjacent to the building that is equal in area to the building footprint
Case 3: Sites with Zoning Ordinances but No Open Space Requirements
Provide vegetated open space equal to 20% of the project site area
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