Learn how designers and builders can significantly reduce water usage in green buildings compared to conventional buildings, according to the USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam.
Table of Contents
Question
Designers and builders can construct a green building that uses significantly less water than a conventional building by incorporating which opportunity?
A. Use of potable water
B. Native plant landscapes
C. Invasive plant landscapes
D. Not tracking water metering
Answer
B. Native plant landscapes
Explanation
Designers and builders can construct a green building that uses significantly less water than a conventional building by incorporating native plant landscapes. Native plant landscapes are plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, and require little or no irrigation, fertilization, or pesticides.
They also provide habitat for wildlife, reduce stormwater runoff, and enhance the aesthetic value of the site. The LEED Green Associate Candidate Handbook states that one of the intents of the Sustainable Sites category is to “conserve water by using native or adapted plants”.
Designers and builders can construct a green building that uses significantly less water than a conventional building by incorporating native plant landscapes. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and rainfall patterns, requiring minimal to no irrigation once established. This greatly reduces the need for potable water for landscaping purposes.
In contrast:
A) Using potable water for landscaping is wasteful and does not reduce water usage.
C) Invasive plants often require more water and maintenance than native plants.
D) Not tracking water metering provides no inherent reduction in water usage.
Therefore, utilizing native, drought-tolerant plants in the landscaping is an effective way to reduce the water footprint of a green building compared to a conventional one. Other water-saving methods include low-flow plumbing fixtures, rainwater capture, and greywater reuse. But in terms of the landscaping specifically, native plants provide the most significant opportunity to minimize irrigation needs and potable water consumption.
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.