I think the Triple Bottom Line assessment (i.e. quantifying the value/impact of the design) would be beneficial in this category for 3 reasosn:
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Alignment with USGBC's Strategic Plan: Placing the ESG-Informed Design credit within the Integrative Process category would better align with the USGBC's strategic objectives, fostering a more cohesive approach to sustainability in building design and construction.
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Empowerment of Design Teams: By incorporating the ESG-Informed Design credit into the Integrative Process category, design teams would be equipped with the tools necessary to address first-cost hurdles with owners. This shift would enable teams to articulate the business case for sustainable design decisions more effectively, ultimately driving greater adoption of environmentally responsible practices.
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Recognition of Building Owner Priorities: Building owners increasingly prioritize the communication of ESG outcomes in their projects. By rewarding this behavior through the inclusion of the ESG-Informed Design credit in the Integrative Process category, the USGBC would incentivize and recognize owners' efforts to promote sustainability within the built environment.
Overall, relocating the ESG-Informed Design credit to the Integrative Process category holds the potential to enhance both the effectiveness and relevance of the LEED certification process.