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Option 3. Zero Waste Audit (1 point)

Conduct a zero waste audit of all inbound and outbound materials at least once during the 12month reporting period and analyze results.

REQUIREMENTS EXPLAINED

This credit offers projects multiple options to enhance waste reduction strategies within the existing building. Projects can earn a point for pursuing one of the three options under this credit. By implementing the strategies outlined in this credit, projects can improve waste diversion rates over time, supporting higher performance in future certifications. These strategies are designed to ensure buildings excel in waste diversion during operations by targeting specific actions and methods that are proven to reduce waste. The options draw inspiration from TRUE ’s preconditions and key credits, incorporating some of its most critical elements to enhance waste management performance.

Teams are encouraged to work with the owner, facility managers, and building occupants to optimize strategies that lead to successful waste diversion.

Option 1. Organics Recycling

When organic materials such as paper, food waste, and landscape trimmings are sent to landfills, they can decompose anaerobically, producing methane — a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Diverting organic waste through composting or anaerobic digestion can significantly reduce methane emissions and help lower the carbon footprint associated with a building’s waste profile.

IMPLEMENT AN ORGANICS RECYCLING/COMPOSTING PROGRAM

This path is only available to projects that do not have an existing program in place prior to the reporting period or projects seeking to expand an existing organic recycling program by introducing a new and separate waste stream, such as adding composting for landscape clippings in addition to an existing indoor food scrap recycling program.

Organic materials include any food waste, compostable packaging, grass clippings, hedge clippings, tree branches, and leaves which make this option a good fit for projects with kitchens, cafeterias, restaurants, or large landscapes.

The organics recycling program must include implementation guidance and training for staff assigned to manage and support the organics recycling program, along with signage at collection points to guide proper sorting. Effective training, signage, and implementation guidance assist in launching a successful organics program.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Operations and Maintenance, April 2025 Launch Edition 201