Learn the key LEED strategy to create a smaller building footprint while maximizing the floor area ratio. Expert advice for the USGBC LEED Green Associate Exam.
Table of Contents
Question
Which LEED strategy creates a smaller footprint and maximizes the floor area ratio?
A. Increase density
B. Increase population
C. Increase surrounding diversity
D. Increase hardscape around building
Answer
A. Increase density
Explanation
Increasing density means building more units or floor area on a given site, which reduces the amount of land and resources needed per unit or occupant. This also creates a smaller footprint and maximizes the floor area ratio (FAR), which is the ratio of the total building floor area to the site area. Increasing density can help achieve credits in the Location and Transportation category, such as Surrounding Density and Diverse Uses.
Increasing density is the LEED strategy that creates a smaller building footprint while maximizing the floor area ratio (FAR). The floor area ratio is the total floor area of the building divided by the size of the property on which it is built.
By increasing density – building taller rather than wider – projects can fit more usable floor space on a smaller piece of land. This approach reduces the building’s footprint, minimizing its impact on the environment. It also uses land more efficiently.
In contrast:
- Increasing population does not directly impact the building footprint or FAR.
- Increasing surrounding diversity refers to mixed-use development and also does not necessarily affect the footprint/FAR.
- Increasing hardscape (paved surfaces) around the building would actually increase the footprint’s impact, not reduce it.
Therefore, increasing density is the only strategy listed that creates a smaller footprint while maximizing the FAR, which aligns with LEED’s sustainable site goals. It’s a key concept to understand for the LEED Green Associate Exam.
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.