I understand that LEED does not count land clearing debris in its construction waste recycling numbers, however, it also does say in the manual that "any construction debris processed into a recycled content commodity that has an open-market value may be applied to the construction waste calculation." In our case, we used the wood material from several trees that were cut down for ceramic kiln fuel in the new building. This material would have been purchased on the open market if this site resource had not been re-purposed. I believe this meets the intent of the credit (just like crushed concrete fill re-used on site), by preventing/replacing purchase of new virgin tree materials on the open market and also diverting this material from landfill. Some of it was also used for mulch that will be used on site in the landscape. What is your opinion on this matter? Thank you.
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Michelle Teague
Architect, LEED ConsultantPolk Stanley Wilcox Architects
39 thumbs up
June 13, 2012 - 9:37 am
Kelly, I doubt the weight of the wood in question will sway calculations much but if you include it in your waste management plan you could try it. The credit intent of MRc2 to "reduce demand for virgin resources . . . " I interpret is referring to construction materials and not consumables. The worst that will happen is the reviewer will strike it out. Good work on saving the owner money through salvaging the wood for their use, but it may not be worth the trouble to document it and defend it in a review.
Where LEED may not reward your team for this move, its common sense that should resonate with the owner.