Learn which building component – high-efficiency HVAC, double-glazed windows, commissioning, or native landscaping – has the biggest direct impact on reducing a building’s greenhouse gas emissions. Expert-written explanation for the LEED Green Associate certification exam.
Table of Contents
Question
Which component directly reduces a building’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions?
A. High-efficiency HVAC
B. Double-glazed windows
C. Building Commissioning (Cx)
D. Native plant landscaping
Answer
A. High-efficiency HVAC
Explanation
A high-efficiency HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system can directly reduce a building’s greenhouse gas emissions by using less energy than a standard system. Since most energy production involves the burning of fossil fuels, which releases greenhouse gases, using less energy results in fewer emissions.
Of the options listed, a high-efficiency HVAC system will have the most direct impact on reducing a building’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. HVAC systems are one of the largest energy consumers in buildings. Improving HVAC efficiency through measures like high-efficiency equipment, optimal sizing, proper zoning and controls, heat recovery, and economizers will significantly reduce the building’s energy consumption. Since most building energy still comes from burning fossil fuels, cutting energy usage directly decreases GHG emissions.
The other options have sustainability benefits but less direct GHG reduction:
- Double-glazed windows improve the thermal performance of the building envelope, indirectly reducing HVAC loads and the associated emissions. However, this is a less direct impact than the HVAC system efficiency itself.
- Building Commissioning helps ensure that building systems like HVAC are functioning properly and efficiently. While important, commissioning itself doesn’t directly reduce emissions.
- Native plant landscaping reduces the need for irrigation, fertilizer, and maintenance. This cuts emissions from water pumping and fertilizer production. However, these are relatively minor emission sources compared to HVAC energy use.
In summary, while all of these strategies support green building goals, upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system will have the most direct and substantial impact on decreasing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with operating the building. This is why A is the best answer for this LEED GA exam question.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.