This credit can be earned by any building, even those that don’t have large amounts of vegetation onsite. Projects that do have sufficient vegetation onsite earn two points, while projects that pursue the financial support option max out at one point.
Teams should be aware that the financial support option is not just a one-time contribution, and should plan budgets accordingly. Remember to retain documentation confirming your annual contributions for your future EBOM recertification efforts.
What’s New in LEED v4
- This credit has a new minimum threshold for onsite native vegetation. The requirement is now 20% of the total project site area including the building footprint and a minimum of 5,000 ft2 (465 m2).
- An option for annual financial support replaces the off-site option. The credit also stipulates a minimum level of financial support ($0.05 per ft2 for the total site area including the building footprint).
- Specific requirements have been added for organizations that receive financial support. For projects in the U.S., only a land trust accredited by the Land Trust Alliance that is within the same EPA Level III ecoregion or state as your building is acceptable.
Readiness Review Questions
- How much compliant area does the project need to meet the credit requirements?
- How much native or adapted vegetation does the current site already have? What are the opportunities to expand the area of native plantings?
- Can restoring areas onsite help improve the site’s appearance, reduce or eliminate maintenance, and/or improve rainwater management?
- Can native and adaptive vegetation contribute to the project’s goals for sustainable sites and water use reduction?
- Is there an accredited land trust that you’d be willing to support financially?