1.
Graywater is appropriate for use in which of the following scenarios? (Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Toilet flushing and irrigation
B. Cooling tower water
Explanation
Graywater, which is wastewater generated from sinks, showers, and laundry, can be reused for certain purposes. It is suitable for toilet flushing and irrigation as it can be treated and used for non-potable water needs. Additionally, graywater can also be used for cooling tower water, which helps in the cooling process of industrial equipment. Therefore, the correct answer is toilet flushing and irrigation, as well as cooling tower water.
2.
What is LEED’s Minimum Program Requirement (MPR) for project size in the LEED BD+C rating system?
Correct Answer
C. 1,000 Square Feet
Explanation
The LEED BD+C rating system requires a minimum project size of 1,000 square feet. This means that any project seeking LEED certification under this rating system must have a total floor area of at least 1,000 square feet. This requirement ensures that the project is of a certain size and scope to be eligible for LEED certification.
3.
What are the results of incorporating green measures through a comprehensive, holistic design?
Correct Answer
C. Credit synergies
Explanation
Incorporating green measures through a comprehensive, holistic design can result in credit synergies. This means that by implementing environmentally friendly practices and strategies, there can be a positive impact on the overall creditworthiness and financial performance of a project or organization. These credit synergies can include improved access to financing, lower borrowing costs, and increased market value.
4.
What is not covered under the LEED for Core and Shell rating system?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
B. Furniture, furnishings, and equipment (FF&E)
D. Tenant fit out
Explanation
The LEED for Core and Shell rating system covers various aspects of a building's design and construction. However, it does not include two specific elements: Furniture, furnishings, and equipment (FF&E) and Tenant fit out. These two components are typically the responsibility of the building occupants or tenants and are not directly controlled or regulated by the building owner or developer. Therefore, they are excluded from the scope of the LEED for Core and Shell rating system.
5.
What does a building need to have for community connectivity?
Correct Answer
C. Pedestrian access to basic services
Explanation
A building needs to have pedestrian access to basic services for community connectivity. This means that people should be able to easily walk to nearby essential services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, schools, and other amenities. This pedestrian access ensures that the community is well-connected and promotes walkability, making it convenient for residents to access necessary services without relying solely on vehicles or public transportation.
6.
How is a building's water savings calculated?
Correct Answer
A. By calculating the percentage reduction from a baseline case to the design case
Explanation
A building's water savings are calculated by comparing the amount of water used in a baseline case (previous water usage) to the amount of water used in the design case (current water usage). The percentage reduction between these two cases is then calculated to determine the building's water savings. This method allows for an accurate measurement of the actual reduction in water consumption achieved by the building.
7.
What information is needed to calculate the SRI of a material?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Reflectance
C. Emissivity
Explanation
To calculate the SRI (Solar Reflectance Index) of a material, two pieces of information are needed: reflectance and emissivity. Reflectance refers to the ability of a material to reflect sunlight, while emissivity refers to the ability of a material to emit thermal radiation. These two factors are important in determining how a material will absorb and release heat from the sun, which is crucial in evaluating its energy efficiency and heat island effect. The thickness of the material and thermal gradient are not directly related to calculating the SRI.
8.
What logo is used to designate membership with USGBC?
Correct Answer
E. USGBC member logo
Explanation
The correct answer is the "USGBC member logo." This logo is used to designate membership with USGBC, which stands for the U.S. Green Building Council. The USGBC is a non-profit organization that promotes sustainability in building design, construction, and operation. The USGBC member logo is used by individuals and organizations who are members of USGBC to showcase their commitment to green building practices.
9.
EPAct 1992 does NOT address what type of water consuming devices?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Cooling towers
C. Boilers
Explanation
EPAct 1992 does not address cooling towers and boilers as water consuming devices. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 primarily focuses on energy efficiency and conservation measures, particularly in buildings and appliances. While it does address water conservation to some extent, it mainly focuses on energy-related aspects such as lighting, heating, and cooling systems. Cooling towers and boilers are more specific to water management and are regulated by other standards and regulations.
10.
What is source reduction?
Correct Answer
C. Decreasing the materials used for manufacturing products
Explanation
Source reduction refers to the process of decreasing the materials used for manufacturing products. This involves finding ways to minimize the amount of raw materials, energy, and resources required in the production process. By reducing the materials used, companies can decrease waste, conserve resources, and minimize environmental impact. This can be achieved through various methods such as redesigning products, using more efficient production techniques, and implementing recycling and reuse programs.
11.
What measurements does the baseline water case use?
Correct Answer
B. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 1992) flow and flush rates
Explanation
The correct answer is the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 1992) flow and flush rates. This means that the baseline water case uses the flow and flush rates specified in the EPAct 1992 as a measurement for water usage. This act sets standards for water efficiency in fixtures and appliances, so by using these rates, the baseline water case can determine the amount of water used in the project and compare it to the desired efficiency standards.
12.
A building has a parking garage with a total size of 100,000 SF. The parking garage has five levels of equal size. What is the parking footprint?
Correct Answer
A. 20,000 SF
Explanation
The parking footprint is 20,000 SF because the total size of the parking garage is 100,000 SF and it has five levels of equal size. Therefore, each level would have a size of 100,000 SF divided by 5, which equals 20,000 SF.
13.
In a new building how much CFC-based refrigerant can be used?
Correct Answer
D. None
Explanation
In a new building, no CFC-based refrigerant can be used. This is because CFC-based refrigerants are harmful to the ozone layer and contribute to ozone depletion. As a result, their use has been banned in many countries, and alternatives that are more environmentally friendly are now used. Therefore, it is not permissible to use any amount of CFC-based refrigerants in a new building.
14.
A project team has a question on the use of a particular strategy for reducing the heat island effect. How should the team submit the Credit Interpretation Request (CIR)?
Correct Answer
D. As a specific inquiry of 600 words or less using LEED Online
Explanation
The team should submit the Credit Interpretation Request (CIR) as a specific inquiry of 600 words or less using LEED Online. This method allows the team to provide all the necessary information and details about their question regarding the use of a particular strategy for reducing the heat island effect. It ensures that the request is properly documented and can be easily reviewed and responded to by the appropriate authorities.
15.
What types of energy sources generate the least air and water pollution?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Wind
C. Biofuel
Explanation
Wind and biofuel are the types of energy sources that generate the least air and water pollution. Wind energy is clean and renewable, as it does not produce any emissions or waste. Biofuel, on the other hand, is derived from organic matter and can be produced from renewable sources such as plants and agricultural waste. It is considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels as it emits lower levels of greenhouse gases and pollutants when burned. Both wind and biofuel contribute to reducing pollution and promoting a more sustainable energy system.
16.
A multi-building development has five buildings. Each building is on its own two-acre site. How is the LEED project boundary determined?
Correct Answer
D. The project team determines the boundary
Explanation
The LEED project boundary for a multi-building development is determined by the project team. This means that the team responsible for the development decides where the boundary lies. It could be based on various factors such as the overall site area, the location of the buildings, or any other relevant considerations. The boundary is not automatically determined by the size of the individual building sites or the total area of the development.
17.
A product made in part from cardboard boxes collected at curbside pickups or from an onsite comingled recycling area is an example of what material?
Correct Answer
A. Recycled material
Explanation
The product made from cardboard boxes collected at curbside pickups or from an onsite comingled recycling area is an example of recycled material because it is made from materials that have been previously used and then processed to create a new product.
18.
At a minimum, a project team must successfully do which of the following to obtain LEED certification?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Gather documentation for the prerequisites
B. Gather documentation for 40 points of the 110 points available
Explanation
To obtain LEED certification, a project team must successfully gather documentation for the prerequisites, which are the basic requirements that must be met. Additionally, they must gather documentation for 40 points out of the 110 points available. These points are earned by implementing various sustainable strategies and practices throughout the project. By meeting these two requirements, the project team demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and their ability to meet the standards set by LEED.
19.
Which of the following does not help reduce the non-roof heat island effect?
Correct Answer
A. Increasing the number of above ground parking spaces
Explanation
Increasing the number of above ground parking spaces does not help reduce the non-roof heat island effect. The non-roof heat island effect refers to the phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures due to the absorption and re-emission of heat by various surfaces. In this case, increasing the number of above ground parking spaces would contribute to the heat island effect as it would result in more heat-absorbing surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete, being exposed to the sun.
20.
A project team has selected a previously developed lot in an urban area to build a new condominium. If the project site is near a public library what would this help with?
Correct Answer
B. Community connectivity
Explanation
Being near a public library would help with community connectivity. Public libraries are often considered community hubs, where people can gather, access resources, and engage in various activities. By locating the new condominium near a public library, the project team is promoting interaction and engagement within the community. This can foster a sense of belonging, encourage social interaction, and provide convenient access to educational and cultural resources for the residents of the condominium.
21.
The combination of reflectance and emittance is known as:
Correct Answer
C. Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)
Explanation
The combination of reflectance and emittance is known as the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI). Reflectance refers to the ability of a material to reflect solar radiation, while emittance refers to the ability of a material to release absorbed heat. The SRI is a measure that combines both of these properties to assess the ability of a material to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. It is commonly used in the construction industry to evaluate the energy efficiency and heat island reduction potential of different materials.
22.
What benefit to the environment does a project that uses Recycled Materials contribute?
Correct Answer
A. Reducing demand for virgin resources
Explanation
A project that uses recycled materials contributes to reducing the demand for virgin resources. By utilizing recycled materials, the project avoids the need to extract and process new raw materials, which helps to conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental impact of resource extraction. This practice also helps to minimize the associated air and water pollution that often occurs during the extraction and manufacturing processes. By reducing the demand for virgin resources, the project promotes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to resource utilization. Additionally, using recycled materials supports the circular economy and encourages the reuse and recycling of materials, further reducing waste and environmental degradation.
23.
What project issues are addressed by guidelines from SMACNA?
Correct Answer
D. Air quality issues from construction or renovation
Explanation
The guidelines from SMACNA address air quality issues that may arise during construction or renovation projects. These guidelines provide recommendations and standards for maintaining good air quality in indoor environments, including measures to control dust, allergens, and pollutants that may be released during construction activities. By following these guidelines, project teams can ensure that the air quality is not compromised and that occupants are not exposed to harmful substances during the construction or renovation process.
24.
What factor impacts the cost of earning LEED building certification?
Correct Answer
C. Square footage of the building
Explanation
The cost of earning LEED building certification is impacted by the square footage of the building. This means that the larger the building, the higher the cost of certification. The square footage of the building is an important factor as it determines the amount of materials, resources, and energy that will be required for construction and operation. Additionally, larger buildings may have more complex systems and designs, which can also contribute to increased certification costs.
25.
Which of the following projects would not meet the minimum program requirements for certification?
Correct Answer
A. A modular classroom that can be moved to another location on the school property
Explanation
A modular classroom that can be moved to another location on the school property would not meet the minimum program requirements for certification because it does not involve the construction of a new building. Certification typically requires the construction of a new building or major renovation that meets certain sustainability and energy efficiency standards. Since the modular classroom can be moved, it does not involve permanent construction and therefore would not meet the requirements for certification.
26.
Which prerequisite intends to reduce ozone depletion in LEED v4?
Correct Answer
B. Fundamental Refrigerant Management
Explanation
Fundamental Refrigerant Management is the prerequisite that intends to reduce ozone depletion in LEED v4. Refrigerants used in HVAC systems and other equipment can contribute to ozone depletion if not managed properly. This prerequisite focuses on minimizing the use of ozone-depleting substances and ensuring their proper handling, storage, and disposal. By implementing effective refrigerant management practices, LEED v4 aims to reduce the environmental impact of these substances and promote sustainability in building design and operation.
27.
How would a project team member determine if a credit has Regional Priority?
Correct Answer
B. Visit the USGBC website
Explanation
To determine if a credit has Regional Priority, a project team member would visit the USGBC website. The USGBC website provides information on all the credits and their regional priorities. By visiting the website, the team member can access the necessary information and determine if the credit in question has a regional priority.
28.
What statement is true regarding products used to earn LEED credits?
Correct Answer
A. Products can only contribute to strategies that will help earn a credit
Explanation
The statement that is true regarding products used to earn LEED credits is that products can only contribute to strategies that will help earn a credit. This means that in order for a product to be considered for earning a LEED credit, it must be used in a way that aligns with the strategies outlined in the LEED rating system. Simply choosing products that are LEED certified or approved does not guarantee that a credit will be earned. The use of endorsed products, however, can help earn Innovation in Design credit, but this does not apply to all products used for LEED credits.
29.
For a LEED for Core & Shell project, what is the minimum amount of gross floor area the building must have to meet the minimum program requirements?
Correct Answer
B. 1,000 square feet (93 square meters)
Explanation
The correct answer for this question is 1,000 square feet (93 square meters). This is the minimum amount of gross floor area required for a LEED for Core & Shell project to meet the minimum program requirements.
30.
A counter made of recycled glass obtained and manufactured within 500 miles of project would contribute toward:
Correct Answer
B. Both regional and recycled materials
Explanation
The counter made of recycled glass obtained and manufactured within 500 miles of the project would contribute towards both regional and recycled materials. Regional materials refer to those that are sourced and manufactured within a specific geographic area, in this case within 500 miles of the project. Recycled materials, on the other hand, are materials that have been previously used and then processed to be used again. Since the counter is made of recycled glass obtained within the specified region, it satisfies both criteria of being regional and recycled materials.
31.
The type of refrigerant selected for a building will impact what LEED credit categories?
(Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
C. Indoor Environmental Quality
E. Energy and Atmosphere
Explanation
The type of refrigerant selected for a building will impact the LEED credit categories of Indoor Environmental Quality and Energy and Atmosphere. Indoor Environmental Quality is affected because certain refrigerants can release harmful substances into the air, impacting the overall air quality in the building. Energy and Atmosphere is impacted because the type of refrigerant used can affect the energy efficiency of the cooling system, which in turn affects the building's overall energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
32.
What organization is responsible for qualifying sources of off-site renewable energy acceptable by LEED?
Correct Answer
C. Center for Resource Solutions
Explanation
The Center for Resource Solutions is responsible for qualifying sources of off-site renewable energy acceptable by LEED. They are an organization that helps to promote clean energy and sustainable solutions. They provide certification and verification services for renewable energy and work with businesses and individuals to ensure that their energy sources meet certain standards. Through their work, they help to ensure that renewable energy used in LEED projects is reliable and meets the necessary criteria.
33.
Which of the following factors is NOT included in the calculations for Indoor Water Use Reduction? (Choose 2)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Whether or not lavatory sinks have automatic controls.
B. The total number of water‐efficient water closets and urinals in the building.
Explanation
The factors that are NOT included in the calculations for Indoor Water Use Reduction are whether or not lavatory sinks have automatic controls and the total number of water‐efficient water closets and urinals in the building. These factors are not considered because they do not directly affect the amount of water used indoors. The other factors listed, such as the flow rate of showerheads, FTE (Full-Time Equivalent), and the Average Gallons per Use (AGU) of dishwashers, are all relevant factors that contribute to the calculation of indoor water use reduction.
34.
A contractor purchased some carpet containing VOCs that was manufactured 250 miles from the project site. What LEED category would this material negatively impact?
Correct Answer
C. Indoor Environmental Quality
Explanation
The carpet containing VOCs, which stands for volatile organic compounds, would negatively impact the Indoor Environmental Quality category. VOCs are harmful chemicals that can be released into the air and negatively affect the indoor air quality. This can lead to health issues for occupants of the building. Therefore, the use of carpet with VOCs would have a negative impact on the Indoor Environmental Quality of the project.
35.
For the purposes of LEED certification, a project building includes all areas except:
Correct Answer
D. Shared parking structure on a neighboring property that is part of another LEED project
Explanation
A project building, for the purposes of LEED certification, includes all areas except for a shared parking structure on a neighboring property that is part of another LEED project. This means that the grounds around the building, an occupied and operational building, and parking lots are all considered part of the project building. However, a shared parking structure on a neighboring property that is part of another LEED project is excluded from the definition of a project building.
36.
What strategy for improving water efficiency can be applied to all areas of water use: indoor, outdoor, and process water systems?
Correct Answer
A. Using non-potable water
Explanation
Using non-potable water is a strategy for improving water efficiency that can be applied to all areas of water use. Non-potable water refers to water that is not suitable for drinking but can be used for other purposes such as irrigation, flushing toilets, or industrial processes. By using non-potable water for these purposes, it reduces the demand for fresh, potable water, thereby conserving water resources. This strategy can be implemented both indoors and outdoors, as well as in process water systems, making it a comprehensive approach to improving water efficiency.
37.
Which of the following are LEED strategies to reduce single occupant automobile transportation to the project site?
Correct Answer
C. Designate preferred parking spaces for carpools
Explanation
Designating preferred parking spaces for carpools is a LEED strategy to reduce single occupant automobile transportation to the project site. This strategy encourages carpooling by providing convenient parking spaces for those who choose to share rides. By designating these spaces, it incentivizes people to carpool, reducing the number of single occupant vehicles and promoting more sustainable transportation options. This helps to decrease traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions associated with individual car use.
38.
What would NOT qualify as a previously developed site?
Correct Answer
C. Greenfield lot donated to the city
Explanation
A greenfield lot donated to the city would not qualify as a previously developed site because it refers to a piece of land that has never been developed or built upon. In this case, the lot has not undergone any previous development or changes, and it is being given to the city in its original, undeveloped state. Therefore, it does not meet the criteria of a previously developed site.
39.
What is the primary difference between LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance and the other LEED rating systems?
Correct Answer
B. Measures building performance over a period of time
Explanation
LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance is different from the other LEED rating systems because it specifically measures building performance over a period of time. This means that it focuses on the ongoing operations and maintenance of a building, rather than just the design and construction phase. The other LEED rating systems may consider building performance, but they do not have the same emphasis on long-term monitoring and improvement.
40.
What helps reduce urban sprawl?
Correct Answer
B. Community connectivity
Explanation
Community connectivity helps reduce urban sprawl by promoting the development of compact, walkable neighborhoods. When communities are well-connected with a network of streets, sidewalks, and public transportation, people are more likely to live, work, and play within a smaller area. This reduces the need for long commutes and encourages the use of alternative modes of transportation such as walking or biking. By fostering community connectivity, urban sprawl can be mitigated as people are more inclined to stay within their local neighborhoods, resulting in a more sustainable and compact urban environment.
41.
What would a project team use to compare different product's abilities to reject solar heat?
Correct Answer
B. Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)
Explanation
A project team would use the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) to compare different product's abilities to reject solar heat. SRI is a measure of a material's ability to reflect solar heat, with higher values indicating better heat rejection. This index takes into account both the solar reflectance and the thermal emittance of a material. By comparing the SRI values of different products, the project team can determine which product is more effective in rejecting solar heat.
42.
To meet the minimum program requirements for a new park welcome center, how big does the welcome center need to be if the LEED project boundary is 100,000 square feet?
Correct Answer
B. 2,000 square feet of gross floor area
Explanation
The correct answer is 2,000 square feet of gross floor area. This means that the welcome center needs to have a minimum size of 2,000 square feet in terms of its total floor area. This requirement is based on the LEED project boundary, which is stated to be 100,000 square feet. Therefore, the welcome center should be at least 2% of the total LEED project boundary.
43.
What are three important factors of the LEED Green Building Rating System?
(Choose 3)
Correct Answer(s)
B. It is market-driven
C. It is voluntary
D. It is consensus-based
Explanation
The LEED Green Building Rating System is market-driven because it responds to the demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings in the market. It is voluntary, meaning that participation in the rating system is not mandatory but rather a choice made by building owners and developers. Additionally, the system is consensus-based, meaning that it is developed through a collaborative process involving stakeholders from various sectors to ensure that it represents a broad consensus on sustainable building practices.
44.
On a project with older existing HVAC&R system that uses CFCs, what can the project team do to earn LEED certification?
Correct Answer
B. Replace the CFCs with natural refrigerants
Explanation
To earn LEED certification on a project with an older HVAC&R system that uses CFCs, the project team can replace the CFCs with natural refrigerants. This is because CFCs are harmful to the environment, contributing to ozone depletion and global warming. By replacing them with natural refrigerants, which are more environmentally friendly, the project team can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and meet the requirements for LEED certification. Purchasing carbon credits or Renewable Energy Certificates can also offset the environmental impact to some extent, but replacing the CFCs is a more direct and effective solution. Replacing the CFCs with Halons is not a suitable option as Halons are also harmful to the environment.
45.
Which of the following would be classified as a soft construction cost?
Correct Answer
C. Civil engineer consulting fee
Explanation
A soft construction cost refers to expenses that are not directly related to the physical construction of a building but are necessary for the project. In this case, the civil engineer consulting fee would be classified as a soft construction cost because it is an expense incurred for professional services required during the planning and design phase of the construction project. The other options, such as the down payment on the property, rental of a dumpster, and purchase of steel, are more directly related to the physical construction process and would be classified as hard construction costs.
46.
How many of the 110 possible LEED points can be earned for addressing regionally specific environmental issues?
Correct Answer
D. 4
Explanation
Four of the 110 possible LEED points can be earned for addressing regionally specific environmental issues. This means that a project can earn up to four points by implementing strategies that specifically address environmental concerns that are unique to the project's region. These strategies may include measures to conserve water, reduce energy consumption, or protect local ecosystems. By addressing these regionally specific issues, a project can demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and earn points towards LEED certification.
47.
How can the heat island effect on the roof of a building be reduced?
Correct Answer
B. Installing a green roof
Explanation
Installing a green roof can help reduce the heat island effect on the roof of a building. Green roofs are covered with vegetation, which helps to absorb and deflect heat from the sun. This natural insulation can lower the temperature on the roof surface and in turn, reduce the amount of heat transferred into the building. Additionally, green roofs can also help to improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and provide habitat for wildlife.
48.
The use of native plants on the project site can most assist projects teams with what other sustainable intents?
Correct Answer
B. Protecting existing local habitat
Explanation
The use of native plants on the project site can most assist project teams with protecting existing local habitat. Native plants are well adapted to the local environment and provide food and shelter for native wildlife. By using native plants, project teams can help preserve and enhance the natural habitat, promoting biodiversity and supporting the local ecosystem. This sustainable intent aligns with the goal of protecting and conserving the existing local habitat.
49.
A reduction in overall water quality due to an increase in the concentration of chemical nutrients would be an example of which of the following?
Correct Answer
B. Eutrophication
Explanation
Eutrophication refers to the process where a body of water becomes enriched with excessive nutrients, often caused by human activities such as agriculture and sewage discharge. This increase in chemical nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, leads to an overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants. As these plants die and decompose, they consume oxygen, leading to a depletion of oxygen levels in the water. This reduction in overall water quality, caused by an increase in nutrient concentration and subsequent oxygen depletion, is a clear example of eutrophication.
50.
What items would NOT be included in comingled recycling?
Correct Answer
C. Stone
Explanation
Stone would not be included in comingled recycling because it is not a material that can be recycled in the traditional sense. Stone is a natural material and does not go through the same recycling process as items like cardboard, plastic, and aluminum cans. These items can be broken down, processed, and turned into new products, while stone cannot. Therefore, it would not be included in comingled recycling.