Learn about the intent behind the location valuation factor in the LEED Green Associate certification exam. Discover how it incentivizes purchasing products that support the local economy.
Table of Contents
Question
The intent of the location valuation factor is to incentivize the purchase of products that
A. reduce transportation emissions
B. support the local economy and workers
C. emit no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
D. comply With responsible extraction regulations
Answer
B. support the local economy and workers
Explanation
The location valuation factor is a concept that applies to several credits under the Materials and Resources credit category in LEED v4. It means that if the purchased products or materials are extracted, manufactured, and purchased within 100 miles (160 kilometers) of the project, LEED will award the project in the credit calculations by valuing those products at 200% of their cost. This is to incentivize the purchase of products that reduce transportation emissions and environmental impacts associated with long-distance shipping.
The intent of the location valuation factor in LEED is to encourage and incentivize purchasing products and materials that are extracted, manufactured, and purchased locally. By prioritizing local sourcing, this factor aims to support local economies and workers in the region where the project is located.
Purchasing locally has several key benefits:
- It reduces transportation emissions and costs associated with shipping products long distances. However, this is a secondary benefit and not the primary intent.
- It stimulates local economic activity by keeping money circulating within the community. Local businesses and manufacturers are supported and more local jobs are maintained.
- It makes it easier to verify that products are extracted and manufactured responsibly, since local laws and regulations apply. However, responsible extraction is covered by a separate factor.
- Locally sourced products are less likely to contain or emit high levels of VOCs, but this again is not the main purpose of this factor.
So in summary, while the location valuation factor has several positive sustainability impacts, its core intent is to bolster local economies by driving demand for locally sourced products and materials. This supports area businesses and workers while keeping more money in the local community.
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.