LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

What are the minimum reductions required in impact categories during a whole-building life-cycle assessment?

1. 5% in at least 3 categories

2. 10% in at least 3 categories

3. 20% in at least 3 categories

4. No reductions required

The correct answer is: 10% in at least 3 categories

In the context of a whole-building life-cycle assessment, the correct answer emphasizes the need for a minimum reduction of 10% in at least three impact categories. This requirement aligns with the goal of promoting sustainable building practices by encouraging measurable improvements in environmental performance. By mandating a 10% reduction, the framework ensures that projects not only aim to minimize their negative impacts but also promote a more substantial commitment to sustainability in design and construction processes. The life-cycle assessment serves as a critical tool for identifying and assessing the various environmental impacts associated with building materials, energy consumption, and other factors throughout the life span of the building. By setting the minimum reduction at 10% across multiple categories, the LEED framework pushes projects to adopt strategies such as energy efficiency, material optimization, and waste reduction, fostering a more holistic approach to sustainability. This 10% benchmark provides a realistic yet challenging target, motivating project teams to innovate and implement effective solutions that go beyond the basic requirements while enhancing the building’s overall performance and sustainability profile.