LEED CoreConcepts&Strategies_3rd edition - Page 061

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Attention to each of those factors can reduce the consequences of transportation. Land use decisions can help reduce the length and frequency of vehicle trips and encourage shifts to more sustainable modes of transportation. Vehicle technology determines the quantity and types of energy and support systems needed to convey people and goods to and from the site. Fuel determines the environmental effect of vehicle operation. Current efforts to improve vehicle fuel efficiency and reduce the carbon intensity of motor fuels may be insufficient to meet greenhouse gas reduction goals unless accompanied by significant changes in land use and human behavior. Regardless of substantial investments in technology and alternative energy, poor planning can still cause a net increase in greenhouse gas emissions as commuters weigh options for how they travel to and from work, school, home, and errands.

Promoting alternative transportation as a convenient and viable option through site selection, design, and incentives benefits both the building occupants and the developer. The LEED rating systems give project teams flexibility when considering site-specific needs and opportunities for alternative transportation. Project teams can reduce transportation effects by ensuring access to alternative modes of transportation, encouraging walking and bicycling, and providing fueling facilities for alternative-fuel vehicles. Project teams are also rewarded for reducing the number and length of automobile trips by locating in high-density areas or infill sites already served by mass transit. Sites without access to public transportation start at a disadvantage and may require additional attention to transportation, particularly local land use design and alternative fuels. It is still possible for such a project to substantially reduce its transportation effects if the team focuses on local connectivity and the energy efficiency of the vehicles used to serve its needs. For example, an office complex without transit access might provide incentives for carpooling, or facilities for alternative-fuel vehicles like plug-in hybrids.

STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS TRANSPORTATION IN DESIGN AND PLANNING:

•• LOCATE NEAR PUBLIC TRANSIT. Select a project site within easy walking distance of an existing transportation network.

•• LIMIT PARKING. The lack of parking spaces on the project site will spark interest in alternative transportation options.

•• ENCOURAGE BICYCLING. Install secure bike racks and showers for commuters.

STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS TRANSPORTATION IN OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE:

•• ENCOURAGE CARPOOLING. Designate preferred spaces for carpool vehicles in the parking area.

•• PROMOTE ALTERNATIVE-FUEL VEHICLES. Provide a convenient refueling station on the site.

•• OFFER INCENTIVES. Develop an alternative commuting incentive program for building occupants.

•• SUPPORT ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION. Promote alternatives to singleoccupant car commuting at the building and/or city level.

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