Learn how requiring contractors to use dimensional materials, prefabrication, and material efficient framing reduces landfill waste from LEED building projects. Expert Green Associate Exam tips.
Table of Contents
Question
The amount of landfill-destined waste generated during project construction can be reduced by requiring the general contractor to
A. burn paper and cardboard materials on-site
B. use contractor vehicles to disperse waste materials to multiple disposal sites within the project region
C. follow requirements for using dimensional construction materials, prefabrication or material efficient framing
D. take advantage of municipal waste pick-up to reduce the weight of the project’s construction material scraps
Answer
C. follow requirements for using dimensional construction materials, prefabrication or material efficient framing
Explanation
The amount of landfill-destined waste generated during project construction can be reduced by requiring the general contractor to follow requirements for using dimensional construction materials, prefabrication or material efficient framing.
These methods reduce the amount of material waste by minimizing cutting, fitting, and trimming on site, and by using standardized or modular components that can be easily reused or recycled. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the strategies for achieving materials and resources efficiency is to “reduce construction waste through efficient framing techniques”.
Using standard dimensional construction materials that come pre-cut to standard sizes helps reduce material waste compared to cutting custom sizes on-site. Prefabricating building components off-site in a controlled manufacturing environment also minimizes material waste. And using advanced framing techniques that optimize material usage, such as 24-inch stud spacing, likewise reduces the amount of lumber needed and wasted.
All of these practices – using dimensional materials, prefabrication, and material efficient framing – help substantially reduce the amount of construction waste that ends up in landfills. The other answer choices are incorrect:
A) Burning waste on-site is prohibited and releases air pollutants.
B) Dispersing waste to multiple sites still sends it to landfills.
D) Municipal waste pickup doesn’t reduce the amount of waste, just transports it.
Therefore, requiring contractors to use dimensional materials, prefabrication and efficient framing is the most effective way to minimize landfill waste. This aligns with LEED’s goals of environmental responsibility and resource conservation.
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.