Date
Inquiry

For our high rise multifamily project, we propose a slightly different approach to earning an ID point for education and awareness. This is a hybrid of (a) the approach described in LEED CIR rulings IDc1.1-9/24/2001 and IDc1.1-2/4/2003 for LEED-NC projects, and (b) requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant. We believe this will be the most effective approach for a multifamily community. Please confirm whether this strategy is likely to earn an ID point if appropriately implemented and documented, and if not, what additional activities would be necessary to earn the credit. (1) We will provide "operations training" similar to that outlined in LEED for Homes AEc1. A package of information distributed to all residents upon move-in will include (a) operations guidance for the energy efficient equipment and other "green" features of the apartment home, (b) additional information such as energy- and water-saving tips, waste reduction/recycling tips, guides to energy-efficient appliances and home electronics, guides to sustainable furniture choices, and information on green cleaning products and strategies, and (c) copies of the building\'s LEED checklists. Building managers will do a walk-through/tour with all new residents, showing the LEED features of the apartment and the building. In addition to the mandatory (1) above, we propose to implement two of the following five activities to promote public awareness for residents, visitors, and the broader community (selection of specific items will depend on further analysis of opportunities and interest in the community): (2) Build a comprehensive signage program into the building\'s spaces to educate the occupants and visitors of the benefits of green buildings. (3) Implement procedures for leasing/marketing staff and property managers to educate (through conversations and building tours) potential residents and other visitors on the building\'s sustainable design and construction. All leasing/marketing staff and property managers would receive instruction and training on how to use the guides during all leasing and promotional activities. (4) Offer a workshop to interested residents and members of the community approximately six months after occupancy, providing attendees with actively instructional, educational information on sustainable living. (5) Generate a newspaper article highlighting the new building\'s sustainable design and construction. The article will have two goals: educate the general public on the benefits of green buildings, and share our successful strategies with other developers interested in building LEED apartment communities. (6) Publish a web site with at least two pages that provides detailed information about the features and benefits of the LEED project. (Same two goals as (5) above.)

Ruling

It is acceptable to use requirements of LEED for Homes AEc1-Education of the Homeowner or Tenant as a basis for an innovation credit for Education and Awareness for residential projects under LEED-NC v2.2. To earn this credit, projects must fully comply with the requirements of AEp1.1 and either AEc1.2 or AEc1.3. Project teams must also show that they have provided the training for ALL occupants, whether new or existing. Note: this ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.

Internationally Applicable
Off
Campus Applicable
Off
Credits