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more easily identify anomalies. Track all material quantities using the same unit (weight, volume).

Project teams must determine what materials are generated within the project boundary, the parties responsible for the information needed on each tracked material, and the diversion category for each material type. Teams must then determine how the items should be weighed and/or counted.

Use accurate, measured data (weights, volume) when possible. However, projects can use estimates where actual unit measures are not available.

CALCULATION FOR ALL MATERIALS (EXCEPT FOR REDUCTION AND REUSE)

Actual weight method [88] Using actual weights of the materials is the preferred and the most accurate method. The project team can obtain these in several ways. One method is using direct weights using inhouse scales. Another is to use waste tracked by third parties. This includes documents such as weight tickets, reports, and invoices. Typically, vendors will provide weights for materials collected in compactors and open top containers but not in toters or front-load dumpsters.

Estimated weight method If actual weights cannot be measured, estimated weights may be used to determine values of diverted and non-diverted materials.

To simplify reporting, projects can use the following method for determining a volume-to-weight conversion based on observation and/or service levels:

• Volume-to-weight estimation method for waste materials (non-diverted materials) . Determine the total amount of waste containers picked up in a given time period, typically one week. Add the volume for each material type collected over the time period. Assume every container picked up over the time period is 100% full at every collection time. Apply a volume to weight conversion factor and multiply the volume per material type to determine the total estimated weight for disposal.

• Volume-to-weight estimation method (diverted materials only) . Determine the total amount of reuse, recycling, or composting collected over a given time period, typically one week or over the course of a month. Add the volume for each material type collected over the time period. Assume every container picked up over the time period is 50% full at every collection time. This conservative assumption allows for less measurement but

88 Green Business Certification Institute, Inc., TRUE Diversion Data Additional Guidance Version 1.2 (GBCI, 2024), true.gbci.org/sites/default/files/resources/TRUE-Diversion-Data-Technical-Guidance_1.pdf.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Operations and Maintenance, April 2025 Launch Edition 196