Can a Green Team strategy that recognizes individuals who opt-in to an environmental awareness program be used to earn innovation credit? The program would utilize outward recognition, regular communication about environmental programs, educational materials, and a method for voting for credits during the LEED process.
Green Team programs and other educational strategies are commendable, and can include various strategies as described in the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Operations and Maintenance, but educational program components that directly contribute to the LEED certification process, such as meetings relating to LEED Certification or credit selection, are not eligible. Please see the educational program description under IOc1.1 for acceptable educational program components. Note that the education program strategies listed in the reference guide are geared toward 1) educating building occupants about how they can learn from the building and implement green practices at home (signage, website, newsletter); 2) visitors/general public who can learn about the building and its practices (tours, outreach programs); or 3) other building professionals who can apply the strategies of this building on other buildings (tours, case studies). At least two ongoing, actively educational components must be included. Each Innovation in Operations strategy is eligible for a maximum of one point. Applicable internationally.