855773644-LEED-v5-BD-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition - Page 122

Extracted Content

• From grade up to 50 feet (15 meters) measured at all points.

  • Up to 20 feet (six meters) measured from the finished grade of a green roof.

  • At any distance from grade or roof for glass in guardrails and windshields.

REQUIREMENTS EXPLAINED

This credit requires the protection of healthy greenfield areas, restoring disturbed vegetation and soils with non-invasive native and adapted plants, and providing a designated zone for pollinator habitat. This credit also emphasizes integrating bird-friendly design to protect avian species by incorporating bird-friendly materials and design strategies.

Option 1. Preserve and Restore Habitat

PATH 1. GREENFIELD SITES

Greenfield areas are important for environmental conservation because they maintain biodiversity and protect the natural habitats for plants, animals, and insects. Greenfield areas have not been previously developed, graded, or disturbed and support open space, habitat, or natural hydrology. Preserving and protecting greenfield areas from development and construction activity within the project boundary is essential for maintaining a diverse ecosystem.

Forty percent of all greenfield areas on the site must be protected from all development and construction activity.

PATH 2. PREVIOUSLY DISTURBED SITES

Restoring previously disturbed sites is crucial to both the ecosystem and building occupants. Projects that re-establish natural conditions and bring back ecosystem life help rebuild degraded areas, protect soils, and enhance biodiversity and local ecosystems. Thoughtfully designed landscapes with greenery and trees also provide building occupants access to nature, which can positively affect mental health and productivity.

Choose areas that are best suited for restoration. Prioritize restoration strategies in areas with significant environmental damage, including areas with previous grading, compacted soils, equipment storage areas, and parking lots. Restoration strategies can include adding natural site elements, such as ponds, waterbodies, native or adapted vegetation, and other natural features, such as soil and rocks, supporting a site’s biodiversity. The project must restore at least 20% (for one point), or 40% (for two points), of previously disturbed areas to minimize environmental impacts and maintain biodiversity preservation for a significant portion of the site.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 112