Reducing Heat Island Effect: Exceptional SSc7.1 Performance We are trying to determine if our project can potentially earn an Innovation Credit for exceeding the requirements of Credit SS-7.1, Landscape and Exterior Design to Reduce Heat Islands (Non-roof). Our project involves a new college residence hall with a new parking garage. Per the SS-7.1 CIR Ruling dated 6/25/2001, we have calculated that the new parking garage is equivalent to providing 50% of the parking underground. In addition, we have calculated that the light-colored impervious surfaces on the site (which includes the top, exposed parking level of the garage and other on-grade concrete walkways) will have an albedo of 0.3 and exceed 30% of the total impervious surface on the site. We have, therefore, both reduced the exposed area of parking via the parking garage structure, AND used light colored paving for over 30% of the exposed paving areas. Do these two strategies in tandem qualify for an Innovation Credit?
It is commendable to combine several strategies that will reduce the potential of heat island effect, yet the strategies described in your inquiry would not warrant an innovation credit. Building a multi-level parking garage where 50% of the parking is considered covered or underground will satisfy SSc7.1. The concrete used in the construction of the garage cannot be included in the amount of high albedo impervious surfaces because the project is already receiving recognition for the structured parking strategy. In addition, concrete construction is standard for parking structures and thus is not considered an innovative approach. Applicable internationally.