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

What international alternative compliance path is available for material ingredient optimization?

1. ISO 14001

2. REACH Optimization

3. Green Globes Certification

4. Cradle to Cradle Certification

The correct answer is: REACH Optimization

The option that refers to an international alternative compliance path for material ingredient optimization is REACH Optimization. REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, which is a European Union regulation aimed at ensuring the safe use of chemical substances. REACH contributes to sustainable material management by promoting the assessment of chemical substances' impacts throughout their lifecycle. When implemented as part of material ingredient optimization, it helps organizations identify safer alternatives and reduce the environmental and health impacts of the chemicals used in construction materials. This focus on chemical safety and management aligns with LEED's objectives of promoting sustainable practices in building design and construction. By optimizing material ingredients in accordance with REACH, projects can more effectively contribute to reducing risk and improving overall environmental performance. The other options do not specifically serve as alternative compliance paths for material ingredient optimization in the same way that REACH does. For instance, ISO 14001 is a standard for environmental management systems but does not focus solely on material ingredients. Green Globes Certification is a separate green building rating system that does offer paths for sustainable practices, albeit without the same defined focus as REACH on material ingredients. Cradle to Cradle Certification emphasizes creating products with a positive impact but isn't specifically an international compliance path like RE