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lanes, and road networks, to ensure the project integrates well with existing mobility options and promotes sustainable transportation. The evaluation requires an analysis of diverse land uses in the vicinity, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational spaces. This will help determine how the project might influence the functional balance of the area.

The assessment highlights the importance of reviewing the local community’s sustainability commitments. These include city-wide goals to reduce GHG emissions or promote energy efficiency, highlighting that the project can support broader efforts to create a more sustainable future. Identifying and complying with relevant accessibility codes and standards is crucial. This helps the project strengthen the project’s adherence to legal requirements regarding access for people with disabilities, while following best practices for creating inclusive, barrier-free environments.

HUMAN USE AND HEALTH IMPACTS The third category evaluates the project’s effects on human use and its impact on public health and well-being. This involves a thorough assessment of the community’s current access to essential resources and assess the overall quality of life for residents. It is important to assess whether the project will address or alleviate these challenges, particularly regarding the availability of affordable housing. The assessment must also consider the community’s access or proximity to social services, such as healthcare facilities, educational opportunities, and support networks.

Community safety is another important factor for public health and well-being. Projects that incorporate features such as public spaces, adequate lighting, and pedestrianfriendly designs can foster a sense of safety and belonging. Projects must also consider the protections and working conditions for the local supply chain and construction workforce. This ensures ethical practices and fair treatment. Within the scope of reason, this includes prioritizing local procurement and employment to support the local economy, providing fair wages and benefits to workers, establishing safe jobsite conditions, and implementing transparent labor practices to prevent exploitation and unjust treatment.

OCCUPANT EXPERIENCE The fourth category considers the project’s impact on the overall occupant experience. The goal is to thoroughly examine how the design and construction of the project can influence the health, comfort, and well-being of its occupants. This includes an analysis of key environmental factors such as the availability of natural daylight, the quality and orientation of views, the opportunity to provide operable windows for fresh air circulation, as well as air and water quality. Additionally, it considers how external elements – such

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 29