Under LEED-NC v2.0 projects with a total gross area of 200,001 square feet or greater are to provide at least 500 square feet of space dedicated to recycling activities in order to meet MR Prerequisite 1. Previous CIRs (9/28/2001 & 4/9/2007) have ruled that the recycling space need not be fully in the building, as long as the intent of the Prerequisite is met - to reduce building occupant generated waste that is disposed of in landfill. Our project consists of the major renovation of 1,300,000 square feet of office space in a dense urban area (midtown Manhattan, NYC). At present there is no space specifically set aside for recycling activities, aside from storage of routine supplies such as plastic bags. Waste from the building is processed for recycling however, through the services of a local hauler who accepts commingled recyclables and removes them to a downstream sorting and recycling center. There waste can be separated into paper, cardboard, glass, plastics and metals. An adequately sized container is available in the enclosed loading dock, accessible to building staff at all times for waste disposal. Wet refuse is handled separately. Due to the space requirements imposed by an intense urban setting, this is in fact the recycling method for virtually all waste generated in commercial buildings in Manhattan. Please advise us if this arrangement is adequate to achieve Materials and Resources Prerequisite 1.
Yes, the arrangement described is consistent with the intent and requirements of this prerequisite. The areas dedicated to the separation, collection, and storage of recyclables do not need to be located within the building and can be located on-site so long as the space meets the credit intent, the project occupants needs and those of the collection infrastructure, per page 238 of the LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide dated October 2005. Table 1 of the Reference Guide provides space allocation guidelines, not requirements. The issue regarding the use of a hauler who handles commingled waste was addressed in the LEED-NC v2.2 CIR dated 12/15/2006. In cases where trash is separated from recyclables, easily accessible recycling bins must be provided within the building for tenant use. This can be in the form of individual bins in each office or in each common area as appropriate to the tenant situation/layout. Applicable Internationally.