Are there any programs that are currently "USGBC Approved" under multi-attribute optimization? If a product were to undergo Cradle to Cradle certificaiton, which looks at data from environmental practices and impacts, could this data be used to achieve Option 2, if pulled from the report and compared to a baseline?
You rely on LEEDuser. Can we rely on you?
LEEDuser is supported by our premium members, not by advertisers.
Go premium for
Melissa Vernon
Director of Client EngagementNatural Capital Partners
50 thumbs up
September 26, 2014 - 2:32 pm
I've received guidance from USGBC that a 'self-comparison' is an acceptable approach, in the absence of an industry average.
But remember, that it must be 3rd party verified.
One program that meets the credit intent is NSF 140, Sustainability Assessment for Carpet, which includes a credit that compares life cycle impacts from a baseline to present. (e.g. product formulation in 2000 vs today)
If that credit is earned, and the impacts are reduced in 3+ out of the 6 categories, then the product should contribute.
Interface has a letter documenting this approach.
It would only make sense for C2C to be applicable if there was a comparative aspect, and I haven't seen that included in the certification.
Jessica McNaughton
1 thumbs up
September 26, 2014 - 2:54 pm
So there is no definition of what the "industry average" is in general? You would have to ferret out some baseline standard based on the product line. I just find this Option 2 to be totally ambiguous and undefined. It seems as though LCA analysis that looks at these impacts should be an acceptable source of data that shows the measured impact. It sounds like the issue is what the comparative baseline is? Glad you found a solution for Carpet.