The U.S. Green Building Council's LEED ratings system does not certify building materials or products specifically. However, the materials used in building will contribute to (or detract from) LEED points earnings. There are several organizations that rate building products, appliances, and other materials for their green characteristics. Those products with a favorable rating will likely be LEED-contributing.
LEED has methods for determining how much a product, material or process will contribute to ratings. Materials must be sustainably grown, harvested, produced and transported, thus promoting waste reduction, reuse and recycling. A comprehensive use of LEED-contributing products will result in a high rating for the finished building, be it remodel, renovation or new construction.
LEED measures building performance and construction in six different areas:
- Sustainable Sites
- Water Efficiency
- Energy & Atmosphere
- Materials & Resources
- Indoor Environmental Quality
- Locations and Linkages
A LEED-contributing product or material can fall into any of these categories, whether it's a solar water heater or reclaimed lumber from a local barn. Have a look at the following known LEED-contributing products and materials and learn how to locate some of your own.
Products, Materiels, Homes and Manufacturers related to LEED contributing Product or Material
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