The links below contain guidelines for achieving each goal, including recommended processes for each design phase.
* Regional Priority (RP) credit for the following zip codes: 02134 (Allston, MA), 02138, 02139 (Cambridge, MA)
MR Prerequisite 1: Storage and Collection of Recyclables
MRp1 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual Design/Schematic Design | Include appropriately sized designated areas for recycling. Designate recycling zones for containers to facilitate occupant recycling practices. Ensure that this space remains part of the design. | Architect |
| Conceptual Design/Schematic Design | If applicable, include plans for recycling of common lab materials as well as waste vegetable oil and ground food scraps from the kitchen. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete. | Architect |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles

The intent of this credit is to design buildings for low-waste operations. Reducing per capita waste is an important component of the Harvard University Sustainability Principles. The first principle advocates "institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency ... and to decrease production of waste and hazardous materials, both in Harvard’s own operations and in those of its suppliers." This credit ensures that Harvard's buildings will have appropriate space dedicated to the collection and temporary storage of recyclables, and that recycling will be as easy as possible for occupants.
Environmental inquiry throughout the university community is an important aspect of the Sustainability Principles. During OFS waste audits, students collect data from trash that can then be utilized by staff to monitor and report on continuous improvement in reducing Harvard's waste.
Financial Considerations
Recycling is required by law in Cambridge. Including space for recycling early in the project process will avert any additional cost due to last-minute changes.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Provide an easily accessible dedicated area or areas for the collection and storage of materials for recycling for the tenant space. Materials must include at a minimum paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics, and metals."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 27
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide an easily accessible area that serves the entire building and is dedicated to the separation, collection and storage of materials for recycling including (at a minimum) paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics and metals."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 195
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Prepare documentation such as floor plans and site plans that highlight all recycling storage areas.
- Obtain a letter from the landlord outlining the building's recycling program."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 214
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect or owner, declaring that the area dedicated to recycling is easily accessible and accommodates the building’s recycling needs.
- Provide a plan showing the area(s) dedicated to recycled material collection and storage."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 195
Additional Resources
MRc1.1 Tenant Space --Long-Term Commitment
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"The occupant or tenant must commit to remain in the same location for a minimum of 10 years."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 28
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Occupant commits to remain in the same location for not less than 10 years."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 201
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Retain a copy of the signed tenant lease agreement for the space that stipulates no less than a 10-year commitment."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 219
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the building owner or other responsible party, declaring that the building occupant either owns its space or has signed a lease for at least 10 years."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 201
MRc1.2: Building Reuse - Maintain Interior Nonstructural Components
MRc1.2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design through Construction Documents | If applicable, maintain and preserve interior structural elements as much as possible in the building design. | Client/Owner, Architects |
| Construction Documents | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete. | Architect |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The purpose of this credit is to conserve and salvage existing material and cultural resources, and to reduce the environmental impacts of new construction. This design aspect supports the Harvard University Sustainability Principles. Reusing existing building stock encourages preservation of open space and campus ecosystems. Preservation of existing or historic buildings supports continuous institutional memory and university history.
Financial Considerations
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Maintain at least 40% or 60% by area ofthe existing non-shell, nonstructural components (e.g., walls, flooring and ceiling systems). The minimum percentage interior component reuse for each point threshold is as follows:"
Interior Reuse |
Points |
|---|---|
40% |
1 |
60% |
2 |
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 29
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Maintain at least 40% by area of the existing non-shell, non-structure components (walls, flooring and ceilings)."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 203
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "List shell attributes of existing building elements, the corresponding element IDs, the total area of new and existing elements, and the area of reused interior nonstructural elements."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 225
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, listing the retained elements and declaring that the credit requirements have been met."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 203
Additional Resources
MRc2: Construction Waste Management
MRc2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set a construction waste diversion goal of at least 95%, consistent with other Harvard projects. Include this goal in any demolition activities. An Innovation and Design Credit is also available for Exemplary Performance in this category for recycling more than 95% of construction waste (See ID: Construction Waste). As of July 1, 2006, Massachusetts landfills ban the disposal of asphalt pavement, brick, concrete, metals, and wood (310 CMR 19.017: Waste Disposal Ban Regulation, 19.017: Waste Bans). These materials must be recycled. Harvard has been able to achieve over 90% recycling in several LEED projects. | Client |
| Design Development | Work with a C&D Waste Management Consultant to develop a C&D Waste Management Plan and identify salvage opportunities and markets for recycling. | Contractor |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for construction waste management/recycling plan in the project specifications. | Architect |
| Construction | Prior to planning for demolition for renovation or new construction, contact Harvard Recycling and Waste Management to arrange salvage, reuse and recycling of existing building furniture and building components. | |
| Construction | Prior to planning for demolition for renovation, contact Harvard Recycling and Waste Management to arrange salvage, reuse and recycling of existing building furniture and building components. Harvard Recycling can also provide frequent recycling pickups for cardboard, cans, bottles and other packaging material routinely generated at construction sites. Contact Rob Gogan, Harvard Solid Waste and Recycling, rob_gogan@harvard.edu or 617-495-3042. | Contractor |
| Construction | Use the Harvard Construction Waste Management Audit Form form or develop a new form to track construction waste - Take photographs to document efforts. Submit weigh slips of all loads. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Contractor |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The intent of this credit is to reduce waste, fossil fuels burned in transit, and material consumption. The first of the six Harvard University Sustainability Principles is a commitment to continuous improvement in “institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency and use of renewable resources, and to decrease production of waste and hazardous materials, both in Harvard’s own operations and in those of its suppliers." The sixth sustainability principle states that Harvard commits to “establishing indicators for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement." The documentation required from the contractor to divert waste from disposal is one method for the university to monitor progress. See Institution Recycling Network's Construction Waste Management Comparison chart for Harvard projects.
Financial Considerations
Effective July 1, 2006, Massachusetts implemented a Waste Ban on disposal, incineration, or transfer for disposal of asphalt pavement, brick, concrete, and metal at solid waste disposal facilities. The ban also prohibits wood disposal or transfer for disposal at landfills. These materials must be recycled. The King County, Washington, Construction Recycling Program provides a calculator to determine recycling costs. John Gundling of Institution Recycling Network calculated the cost of recycling versus disposal for a project at Radcliffe, and found recycling to be less expensive.
LEED Requirements

[Blackstone Metal, Wood, and Aggregate Demolition/Construction Recycling]
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Recycle and/or salvage nonhazardous construction and demolition debris. Develop and implement a construction waste management plan that, at a minimum, identifies the materials to be diverted from disposal and whether the materials will be sorted on-site or comingled. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris do not contribute to this credit. Calculations can be done by weight or volume, but must be consistent throughout. The minimum percentage debris to be recycled or salvaged for each point threshold is as follows:"
Recycled or Salvaged |
Points |
|---|---|
50% |
1 |
75% |
2 |
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 30
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Develop and implement a construction waste management plan, quantifying material diversion goals. Recycle and/or salvage at least 50% (75%) of construction, demolition and packaging debris. Calculation may be done by weight or volume, but must be consistent throughout."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 211-212
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Track and keep a summary log of all construction waste generated by type, the quantities of each type that were delivered and landfilled, and the total percentage of waste diverted from landfill disposal.
- A project's construction waste management plan should, at a minimum, identify the diversion goals, relevant construction debris and materials to be diverted, implementation protocols, and parties responsible for implementing the plan."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 230
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met and listing each material or product used to meet the credit. Include details demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of reused materials and products and showing their costs and the total cost of all materials for the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 211-212
Additional Resources
A key lesson on diverting construction and demolition waste from landfills is to begin early in coordinating with any possible donor recipients in order to identify suitable building parts. In addition, the scheduling is crucial; deconstruction crew members need to be able to complete their work before a wrecking crew arrives on site.
Blank Harvard Waste Audit Form
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Construction Demolition Waste Project Planning Tools (includes cost calculators, bid specs, and guides)
MRc3.1: Materials Reuse *
MRc3.1 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for the salvaged materials. | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for Divisions 2 through 10 - Include estimated recycled content for those materials that are known. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor/Cost Estimator/Client |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for the resource reuse and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation - don't accept materials without proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track salvaged materials throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The intent of this credit is to encourage the reuse of building materials through salvage or refurbishment. Reusing resources reduces the extraction of materials from virgin resources, saves landfill space and saves money.
Financial Considerations
Using salvaged materials saves the cost of purchasing new materials. However, The Davis Langdon study points out that most projects are not able to achieve the materials reuse credit "because there is not enough opportunity for use of salvaged, refurbished or reused materials, products or furnishings to meet the 5 percent of 10 percent thresholds" (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 18). For the full cite, see Financial Links.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials, the sum of which constitutes at least 5% or 10%, based on cost, of building (construction) materials, excluding furniture and furnishings. The minimum percentage materials reused for each point threshold is as follows:"
Reused Materials |
Points |
|---|---|
5% |
1 |
10% |
2 |
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 31
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials for at least 5% (10%) of building (construction) materials, excluding furniture and furnishings."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 219-220
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Track costs according to CSI MasterFormat 2004 Edition Divisions 3-10, 31 (Section 31.60.00 Foundations), and 32 (Sections 32.10.00 Paving, 32.30.00 Site Improvements, and 32.90.00 Planting)."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 237
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met and listing each material or product used to meet the credit. Include details demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of reused materials and products and showing their costs and the total cost of all materials for the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 219-220
Additional Resources
MRc3.2: Materials Reuse -- Furniture and Furnishings
MRc3.2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for the salvaged materials. | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for Divisions 3 through 10. Include estimated recycled content for those materials that are known. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor/Cost Estimator/Client |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for the resource reuse and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation - don't accept materials without proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track salvaged materials throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The intent of this credit is to encourage the reuse of building materials through salvage or refurbishment. Reusing resources reduces the extraction of materials from virgin resources, saves landfill space and saves money.
Financial Considerations
Using salvaged materials saves the cost of purchasing new materials. However, the Davis Langdon study points out that most projects are not able to achieve the materials reuse credit "because there is not enough opportunity for use of salvaged, refurbished or reused materials, products or furnishings to meet the 5 percent of 10 percent thresholds" (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 18). For the full cite, see Financial Links.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Use salvaged, refurbished or used furniture and furnishings for 30% of the total furniture and furnishings budget."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 32
LEED-CI Version 2.0
Use salvaged, refurbished or used furniture and furnishings for 30% of the total furniture and furnishings budget.
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 226
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Track actual costs for salvaged, reused, or refurbished furniture and furnishings."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 241
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met.
Provide a listing of the reused furniture and furnishings with their replacement value and documentation for the value of the balance of new furniture and furnishings."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 226
Additional Resources
MRc4: Recycled Content
MRc4 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for the recycled content of materials (over 20%). | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for Divisions 3 through 10. Include estimated recycled content for those materials that are known. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor/Cost Estimator/Client |
| Schematic Design | Research materials options with high recycled content. | Architect |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for the recycled content and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications. | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation (material cost and recycled content) - don't accept materials w/o proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track recycled content throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Purchasing recycled-content materials reduces the use of virgin materials and fosters a transition toward sustainability through the creation of an end market for materials that would otherwise be sent to the landfill. Recycled-content materials decrease production of waste in the operations of Harvard’s suppliers, one of the first goals of the Harvard University Sustainability Principles. Measuring the recycled content of building materials is “one indicator for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement," a tenet of the sixth sustainability principle.
Financial Considerations
The Davis Langdon study Cost of Green Revisited found that most projects can achieve this credit at "minimal or no added cost." (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 18). For the full cite, see Financial Links.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Use materials, including furniture and furnishings, with recycled content1 such that the sum of postconsumer2 recycled content plus 1/2 ofthe preconsumer3 content constitutes at least 10% or 20% based on cost of the total value of the materials in the project. The minimum percentage materials recycled for each point threshold is as follows:
Recycled Content |
Points |
|---|---|
10% |
1 |
20% |
2 |
The recycled content value of a material or furnishing is determined by weight. The recycled fraction of the assembly is then multiplied by the cost of assembly to determine the recycled content value.
Mechanical, electrical and plumbing components cannot be included in this calculation.
1 Recycled content is defined in accordance with the International Organization of Standards document, ISO 14021- Environmental labels and declarations - Self-declared environmental claims (Type II environmental labeling).
2 Postconsumer material is defined as waste material generated by households or by commercial, industrial and institutional facilities in their role as end-users of the product, which can no longer be used for its intended purpose.
3Preconsumer material is defined as material diverted from the waste stream during the manufacturing process. Reutilization of materials (i.e., rework, regrind or scrap generated in a process and capable of being reclaimed within the same process that generated it) is excluded."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 33
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Use materials, including Division 12 (Furniture and Furnishings), with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled content plus one-half of the post-industrial content constitutes at least 10% (20%) of the total value of the materials in the project.
- The value of the recycled content portion of a material shall be determined by dividing the weight of recycled content in the item by the total weight of all material in the item, then multiplying the resulting percentage by the total value of the item.
- Mechanical and electrical components shall not be included in this calculation. Recycled content materials shall be defined in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission document, Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims, 16 CFR 260.7 (e), available at www.ftc.gov/bcp/grnrule/guides980427.htm."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 229-230
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Record product names, manufacturers' names, costs, percentage postconsumer content, and percentage preconsumer content.
- Retain cutsheets to document the listed products' recycled content."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 249
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the above requirements have been met and listing the recycled content products used. Include details demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of recycled content materials and products and showing their cost and percentage(s) of post-consumer and/or post-industrial content, and the total cost of all materials for the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 229-230
Additional Resources
MRc5: Regional Materials *
MRc5 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for local / regional materials (over 40%). An ID Credit is achievable if over 40% of materials are regional (by total cost). | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for Divisions 3 through 10. Indicate those materials that are likely to be extracted & processed regionally (500 mi). Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Schematic Design | Research local / regional material options. | Architect |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for the location of extraction and manufacture and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications (targeted materials). | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation (material cost & location / distance of extraction & manufacture) - don't accept materials without proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track regional materials throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The purchase of locally manufactured building materials supports the local economy, which aligns with the fourth Sustainability Principle to "support long-term economic, environmental and socially responsible decision-making." In addition to local economic benefits of the use of locally extracted and manufactured building materials, shorter distances are traveled in transport of the materials, thereby reducing energy use.
Financial Considerations
The study Green Value suggests that locally sourced materials can have a significant positive impact on the economy of the local community. (Green Value. Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, October 2005)
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"OPTION 1 (1 point)
Use a minimum of 20% of the combined value of construction and Division 12 (Furniture) materials and products that are manufactured1 regionally within a radius of 500 miles.
OR
OPTION 2 (2 points)
Meet the requirements for Option 1
Use a minimum of 10% of the combined value of construction and Division 12 (furniture) materials and products extracted, harvested or recovered, as well as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project.
1Manufacturing refers to the final assembly of components into the building product that is furnished and installed by the tradesmen. For example, if the hardware comes from Dallas, Texas, the lumber from Vancouver, British Columbia, and the joist is assembled in Kent, Washington, then the location of the final assembiy is Kent, Washington."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 34
LEED-CI Version 2.0
MRc5.1:
"Use a minimum of 20% of the combined value of construction and Division 12 (Furniture) materials and products that are manufactured regionally within a radius of 500 miles. Manufacturing refers to the final assembly of components into the building product that is furnished and installed by the tradesmen. For example, if the hardware comes from Dallas, Texas, the lumber from Vancouver, British Columbia, and the joist is assembled in Kent, Washington, then the location of the final assembly is Kent, Washington."
MRc5.2:
"In addition to the requirements of MR 5.1, use a minimum of 10% of the combined value of construction and Division 12 (Furniture) materials and products extracted, harvested or recovered, as well as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 237-238
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Compile a list of product purchases manufactured, extracted, or harvested regionally.
- Record manufacturers' names, product costs, distances between the project and manufacturer, and distances between the project and the extraction site.
- Retain cutsheets that document product manufacture locally within a 500-mile radius of the project site.
- In addition, for Option 2, prepare cutsheets to document extraction within a 500-mile radius of the project site."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 257
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
MRc5.1:
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met. Include calculations demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of regional materials/products and showing their cost, percentage of regional components, distance from project to manufacturer, and the total cost of all materials for the project."
MRc5.2
"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met. Include calculations demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of regionally extracted and manufactured materials/products and showing their cost, percentage of regional components, distance from project to the points of extraction and manufacture, and the total cost of all materials for the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, pages 237-238
Additional Resources
MRc6: Rapidly Renewable Materials
MRc6 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for renewable materials. | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for Divisions 3 through 10. Indicate materials that are likely to be renewable. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Schematic Design | Research renewable material options. | Architect |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for renewable materials and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications (targeted materials). | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation (rapidly renewable materials) - don't accept materials without proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track regional materials throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The intent of this credit is to select and incorporate rapidly renewable materials into the building and site design in order to encourage the development of those markets and to promote efficiency in the production of the building materials. The first of the Sustainability Principles states that the university is committed to continuous improvement in "demonstrating institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency and use of renewable resources...both in Harvard’s own operations and in those of its suppliers." In order to "support long-term economic, environmental and socially responsible decision-making," the university is committed to continuous improvement in developing planning tools such as life cycle analysis for different materials. Initial research shows that rapidly renewable materials are environmentally preferable because of their low embodied energy and their low toxicity.
Financial Considerations
The Davis Langdon study found that in previous LEED versions, the cost for compliance to these credits was significant, even though some rapidly renewable materials could be incorporated into the project at low cost. The high percentage threshold made it difficult to identify enough materials to meet it. More recent LEED versions (v2.2 and above) have lowered the threshold, making this credit more achievable. (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 19). For the full cite, see Financial Links.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"Use rapidly renewable construction and Division 12 (Furniture and Furnishings) materials and products for 5% of the total value of all materials and products used in the project, based on cost. Rapidly renewable building materials and products are made from plants that are typically harvested within a 10-year or shorter cycle."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 35
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Use rapidly renewable construction and Division 12 (Furniture and Furnishings) materials and products, made from plants that are typically harvested within a 10-year or shorter cycle, for 5% of the total value ($) of all materials and products used in the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 243
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 3
- "Compile a list of rapidly renewable product purchases.
- Record manufacturers' names, materials costs, the percentage of each product that is rapidly renewable criteria (by weight), and each compliant value.
- Retain cutsheets that document rapidly renewable criteria."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 264
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other
responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met. Include calculations
demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of rapidly renewable products.
Show their cost and percentage of rapidly renewable components, and the total cost of all materials for the project."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 243
Additional Resources
MRc7: Certified Wood
MRc7 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set high goals for FSC certified wood. | Client |
| Schematic Design | Develop an estimate for the materials costs for all wood products permanently installed on the project. Indicate those materials that could most easily be FSC certified. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Schematic Design | Research FSC certified wood options. | Architect |
| Design Development/ Construction Documents | Include requirements for certified wood and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications (targeted materials). | Architect |
| Construction Documents | Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications. | Contractor/OFS |
| Construction | Review submittals for appropriate documentation (material cost & FSC chain-of-custody information) - don't accept materials w/o proper documentation. | Architect |
| Construction | Track FSC wood throughout project and give regular updates. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet. | Contractor |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal requirements. | Architect |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | OFS or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The intent of this credit is to specify and utilize Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood for structure, framing, rough carpentry and finish carpentry. The use of FSC certified wood promotes the long term health and productivity of forests. The goal of the first Sustainability Principles is to "demonstrate institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency and use of renewable resources, and to decrease production of waste ... both in Harvard’s own operations and in those of its suppliers." By specifying FSC certified wood, the university encourages its suppliers to provide sustainable products, thereby influencing the market place.
Financial Considerations
FSC certified wood costs 0-15% more than non-certified wood.
LEED Requirements
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
LEED-CI Version 3
"When using new wood-based products and materials, use a minimum of 50% that are certified in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council's principles and criteria. Division 12 (Furniture) material value is included in the determination of the certified wood content."
- LEED 2009 for Commercial Interiors Rating System, page 36
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"When using new wood-based products and materials, use a minimum of 50% that are certified in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council’s Principles and Criteria. Division 12 (Furnishings & Furniture) material value is included in the determination of the certified wood content."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 249
LEED Submittals

LEED-CI Version 3
- "Prepare the CSI MasterFormat 2004 Divisions 3-10 cost to determine the net construction materials cost.
- Prepare the CSI MasterFormat 2004 Division 12 (Furniture and Furnishings) cost to determine the net construction materials cost.
- Track certified wood purchases and retain associated COC documentation.
- Collect copies of vendor invoices for each certified wood product.
- Maintain a list that identifies the percentage of certified wood in each purchase."
- LEED-CI Version 3 Reference Guide, page 273-274
(Complete descriptions of documentation requirements are on LEED-Online)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the architect, interior designer, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit requirements have been met and listing the FSC-certified materials and products used. Include calculations demonstrating that the project incorporates the required percentage of FSC-certified materials/products and their cost together with the total cost of all materials for the project. For each material/product used to meet these requirements, provide the vendor’s or manufacturer’s Forest Stewardship Council chain-of-custody certificate number."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0, page 249
Additional Resources
Updated: Wednesday, August 5, 2009 5:21 PM


