Best Practices

If your project does not achieve SSc2, then all of the open space must be vegetated—consider providing pocket parks or sports fields.

Avoid delays by determining your zoning option early in the design process. Typically, planned unit developments (PUDs) or contract zones (with negotiated amounts of open space) have some gray areas surrounding zoning requirements in cases where such zoning requirements were negotiated with the zoning department. If you’re unsure of the correct compliance path, check with

The architect typically knows what the zoning requirements are. If not, check with local zoning office or city planning department. Some cities or counties provide this information online. 

Several software packages are available to perform these types of computational fluid dynamics models, including AIRPAK and FLOVENT (see Resources).

Follow the modeling guidelines outlined in the LEED Reference Guide and consult with a qualified engineer to meet these requirements.

Calculations should note the size of operable windows, trickle vents and louvers, and indicate the effects of both wind and stack-induced pressure differentials on the building’s ventilation and airflow.

The ventilation strategy must also be assessed for different operational periods throughout the entire day and in each season of the year.

Your analysis must address major building factors, including building orientation, to determine exposure to sun and wind; the amount of glazing; internal heat gains; and local weather conditions.

You can increase ventilation rates by adjusting all dampers and louvers in the ventilation system throughout the building. In addition, visually inspect all intake vents and registers and remove any obstructions that restrict outdoor airflow.

Several third-party voluntary programs provide tools and guidance to calculate GHG emissions, including WRI/WBCSD, Energy Star, and EPA Climate Leaders.