Learn about effective strategies like stormwater pollution prevention plans that help construction projects achieve LEED sustainability goals and certification.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following is a strategy that can help projects meet on site sustainability goals during construction?
A. Update the LEED checklist
B. Perform a value engineering exercise
C. Purchase Renewable Energy Certificates
D. Implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan
Answer
The best strategy that can help construction projects meet on-site sustainability goals for LEED certification is:
D. Implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan
Explanation
Implementing a stormwater pollution prevention plan during construction can help projects meet on-site sustainability goals. This plan outlines measures to control runoff and prevent soil erosion, which can carry pollutants into nearby water bodies. By managing stormwater on-site, projects can protect local water quality while also recharging groundwater supplies.
A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is a comprehensive plan that outlines measures to prevent stormwater contamination, control sedimentation and erosion, and comply with the requirements of stormwater permits during construction.
Implementing a SWPPP helps achieve several LEED credits related to sustainable sites and water efficiency. It minimizes pollution from stormwater runoff, prevents soil erosion and sedimentation, and protects natural hydrology and waterways. Key elements of a SWPPP include:
- Erosion and sediment controls like silt fences, vegetative buffers, and sediment basins
- Proper materials storage and waste management to prevent spills and contamination
- Regular site inspections and maintenance of control measures
- Training construction personnel on SWPPP protocols
The other options, while relevant to the LEED process, do not directly help meet on-site sustainability goals during construction:
A) Updating the LEED checklist tracks progress but doesn’t implement sustainable practices.
B) Value engineering optimizes project value but isn’t necessarily focused on sustainability.
C) Purchasing RECs supports renewable energy in general but doesn’t address on-site impacts.
In summary, implementing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan is the most effective strategy given in the options that directly helps construction projects meet LEED goals for on-site sustainability. A well-designed SWPPP minimizes a project’s environmental impacts and supports the achievement of key LEED credits.
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.