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 for 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 and audit requirements per MRp1 requirements.	Architect
Construction Documents	This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete.	Architect

 

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 states that "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 design element ensures that Harvard's buildings will have appropriate space dedicated to the collection and temporary storage of recyclables, and that it is easy as possible for occupants to recycle. 

 

Environmental inquiry throughout the university community is an important aspect of the Sustainability Principles.  During HGCI 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.

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-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Provide an easily accessible area that serves the entire building and is dedicated to the collection and storage of non-hazardous materials for recycling, including (at a minimum) paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics and metals."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 237

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"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-NC Version 2.1, page 187

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm that recycling collection areas have been provided, per requirements, to meet the needs of the project
• Confirm the types of materials that are being collected for recycling
• Provide an optional narrative describing any special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's prerequisite approach."

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

• "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-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 187

• "Please provide documentation demonstrating that the recycling areas indicated on the provided plan are appropriately sized to accommodate the recycling material volumes generated by building occupants.
• Also provide a brief narrative explaining the accessibility of the recycling area to building occupants."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

Harvard Recycling Program

Design Phase	Recommended Approach: Activities	Recommended Approach: Responsibilities
Pre-Design through Construction Documents	If applicable, maintain and preserve exterior structural elements as much as possible in the building design. Coordinate with Cambridge preservation rules.	Client/Owner Architects
Pre-Design	If the building is a Cambridge historic site, set up a Cambridge Historical Commission review.	Project Manager
Construction Documents	Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per MRc1 requirements.	Architect
Construction Documents	This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete.	Architect

The intent of this credit is to conserve and salvage existing material and cultural resources, and to reduce the environmental impact 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.

 

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

1.1 "Maintain at least 75% (based on surface area) of existing building structure (including structural floor and roof decking) and envelope (exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roofing material). Hazardous materials that are remediated as a part of the project scope shall be excluded from the calculation of the percentage maintained. If the project includes an addition to an existing building, this credit is not applicable if the square footage of the addition is more than 2 times the square footage of the existing building."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 241

 

1.2 "Maintain an additional 20% (95% total, based on surface area) of existing building structure (including structural floor and roof decking) and envelope (exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roofing material). Hazardous materials that are remediated as a part of the project scope shall be excluded from the calculation of the percentage maintained. If the project includes an addition to an existing building, this credit is not applicable if the square footage of the addition is more than 2 times the square footage of the existing building."

-LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 242

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

1.1 "Maintain at least 75% of existing building structure and shell (exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roofing material)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 191

 

1.2 "Maintain an additional 25% (100% total) of existing building structure and shell (exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roofing material)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 192

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Renovation of Hamilton Hall)

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm whether the project is strictly a renovation of an existing building or a renovation with an addition. For projects with additions, confirm the square footage of the new additions(s).
• Provide a tabulation of the existing and reused areas (sq.ft.) of each structural/envelope element.
• Provide an optional narrative describing any special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's prerequisite approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 246

 

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or other responsible party, listing the retained elements and declaring that the credit requirements have been met."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 191

 

 

"To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide:

• a demolition plan,
• pre-construction and post-construction plans,
• elevation drawings and/or photographs highlighting reused structure and shell elements and clearly demonstrating that 75% of the structure and shell was reused. [For 1.2, substitute 100%, OR 95% Shell/Structure and 5% Non-Shell/Structure]

If the project includes an existing building with a new construction addition please provide documentation demonstrating the square footage of each."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Wyss Hall (2 points pending) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Blackstone (1 point achieved) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (2 points pending) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Cambridge Historical Commission

Design Phase	Recommended Approach: Activities	Recommended Approach: Responsibilities
Pre-Design through Construction Documents	If applicable, maintain and preserve existing interior non-structural elements as much as possible in the building design.	Client/Owner, Architects
Construction Documents	Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per MRc1.3 requirements.	Architect
Construction Documents	This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete.	Architect

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.”

 

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Use existing interior non-structural elements (interior walls, doors, floor coverings and ceiling systems) in at least 50% (by area) of the completed building (including additions). If the project includes an addition to an existing building, this credit is not applicable if the square footage of the addition is more than 2 times the square footage of the existing building."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 243

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Maintain 100% of existing building structure and shell (exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roofing material) AND at least 50% of non-shell areas (interior walls, doors, floor coverings and ceiling systems)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 193

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm whether the project is strictly a renovation of an existing building or a renovation with an addition. For projects with additions, confirm the square footage of the new additions(s).
• Provide a tabulation of the existing and reused areas (sq.ft.) of each non-structural interior element.
• Provide an optional narrative describing any special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's prerequisite approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 247

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or other responsible party, demonstrating the retained elements and declaring that the credit requirements have been met."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 193

(Blackstone renovation, photo by Maria Valgenti)

 

"To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide:

• a demolition plan,
• pre-construction and post-construction plans, and
• elevation drawings highlighting reused interior walls, floor coverings and ceilings and demonstrating that 50% or more of the non-shell components were reused."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

To date, none of Harvard's LEED projects have achieved this credit.

 

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. See MA Waste Ban FAQ for more information. Harvard has been able to achieve over 90% recycling in several LEED projects.	Client
Design Development	Work with the 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	Conduct a pre-construction meeting to review recycling goals and strategies to create a Recycling and Waste Management Plan. Identify materials for recycling and proposed recycling strategies, including end-markets, recycling methodology, and handling/storage techniques. Determine a location for the recycling containers, as well as signage.	Contractor, Client Project Manager, Architect
Construction	Involve subcontractors in the implementation of the Recycling and Waste Management Plan. Hold regular recycling meetings in conjunction with subcontractor safety meetings to determine the potential volume of recycling materials to be generated by each trade. Discuss procedures for each trade. Set goals and methodology to evaluate performance. Include recycling requirements in all project documents.	Contractor, Waste Management Consultant, Sub-contractor
Construction	Provide interim recycling reports, and adjust the plan based on evaluation of the reports. Regularly post the weights of materials recycled or reused. Reinforce the recycling message in meetings with General Contractor and subs. Clearly label all containers with signage to reduce the chance of contamination.	Contractor, Waste Management Consultant, Sub-contractor
Construction	Contact Harvard Recycling and Waste Management, which can provide frequent recycling pickups for cardboard, cans, bottles and other packaging material routinely generated at construction sites. For renovations, Harvard can also arrange salvage, reuse and recycling of existing building furniture and building components.	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/Post-Construction	Hold a post-construction meeting to review successes and/or lessons learned, for future projects.	Contractor, Waste Management Consultant, Client Project Manager
Construction/Post-Construction	Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per MR c2 requirements.	Contractor
Construction/Post-Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

The intent of this credit is to reduce waste, reduce fossil fuels burned in transit, and reduce 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.

 

Effective July 1, 2006, Massachusetts implemented a Waste Ban on disposal, incineration, or transfer for disposal at solid waste disposal facilities for asphalt pavement, brick, concrete, and metal. The ban also prohibits wood disposal or transfer for disposal at landfills. These materials must be recycled. The King County, Washington, Construction Recycling Program website 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.

Some contractors are concerned that costs will increase as workers sort waste. Lessons from a Harvard internship in C&D waste from summer 2002 are that the key is to not work longer, but to work smarter. It takes 73 minutes as opposed to 78 minutes to dump off-cuts from gypsum board as opposed to stacking it and dollying it to a dumpster for recycling. The salvaged, clean gypsum can be used to make acoustic ceiling tiles.

 

[Blackstone Metal, Wood, and Aggregate Demolition/Construction Recycling]

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

2.1 "Recycle and/or salvage at least 50% of non-hazardous 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 commingled. 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."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 249

2.2 "Recycle and/or salvage an additional 25% beyond MR Credit 2.1 (75% total) of non-hazardous construction and demolition debris. 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."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 250

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

“Develop and implement a waste management plan, quantifying materials diversion goals. Recycle and/or salvage at least 50% of construction, demolition and land clearing waste. Calculations can be done by weight or volume, but must be consistent throughout.”

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 199

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Complete the construction waste calculation tables in the Submittal Template. The following information will be required to fill in theses tables: general description of each type/category of waste generated; location of receiving agent (recycle/landfill) for waste; quantity of waste diverted (by category) in tons, or cubic yards.
• Provide a narrative describing the project's construction waste management approach. The narrative should include the project's Construction Waste Management Plan. Please provide any additional comments or notes to describe special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's credit approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 252

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

“Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or other responsible party, tabulating the total waste material, quantities diverted and the means by which diverted and declaring that the credit requirements have been met.”

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 199

 

(Blackstone salvaged windows)

 

“To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide

• the project's Construction Waste Management plan,
• documentation of recovery rate (if commingled), and
• waste hauling certificates or receipts.
• Include a brief narrative explaining how and to where each waste type is diverted if not already included in the LEED Letter Template.

If an existing building is being saved and contributes to this calculation, provide a narrative explaining the assumptions for those calculations.”

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

Blackstone (2) (99.42%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (2) (97.10%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

90 Mount Auburn Street (2) (96.26%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

 

Several recent Harvard LEED projects have achieved extremely high recycling rates. Blackstone recycled over 99% of waste. Set recycling goals early and high. Blackstone specified 87.5% recycling in its CD specifications, but achieved much higher. Over 95% of waste was recycled at Hamilton Hall, Mather Dunster, and 90 Mount Auburn Street, and over 90% at Schlesinger Library. An Innovation and Design credit is available for projects achieving over 95% recycling rates. Several Harvard projects have worked with the Institution Recycling Network to divert significant amounts of waste from the landfill. In spring of 2005, IRN shipped walk-in refrigerators from Blackstone to Sri Lanka for tsunami relief. Contact: John Gundling, jgundling@ir-network.com or 603-568-1436.

 

Harvard Real Estate Services, FAS Project Management and Harvard University Dining Services have all worked with Facilities Maintenance Organization and the Boston Materials Resource Center to cull valuable resources before the wrecking ball hits. 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. In addition, we can 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.  

 

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)

 

Boston Materials Resource Center

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. See model Specifications language for recycled content 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/HGCI
Construction	Review submittals for appropriate documentation – don't accept materials w/o 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 and audit requirements per MR c3 requirements.	Architect
Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

The intent of this design element is to encourage the reuse of building materials through salvage or refurbishment. Reusing resources is a low-embodied energy solution with a low environmental impact. The Sustainability Principles point Harvard University in a direction toward effective use of local resources. The implementation of this design element reduces the extraction of materials from virgin resources, saves landfill space and saves money by reusing resources that have already been made and purchased.

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). This credit has not yet been achieved by a Harvard LEED project.

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

3.1 "Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials such that the sum of these materials constitutes at least 5%, based on cost, of the total value of materials on the project. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing components and specialty items such as elevators and equipment shall not be included in this calculation. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3–7."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 257

3.2 "Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials for an additional 5% beyond MR Credit 3.1 (10% total, based on cost). Mechanical, electrical and plumbing components and specialty items such as elevators and equipment shall not be included in this calculation. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3–7."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 258

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

3.1 "Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials, products and furnishings for at least 5% of building materials."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page.39

3.2 "Use salvaged, refurbished or reused materials, products and furnishings Tuesday, April 22, 2008 12:20 PM Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 40"

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Equation 1: Percent Reuse/Materials = Cost of Reuse Materials ($)/Total Materials Cost ($)
• Provide total project materials cost (Divisions 2-10) or provide the total project cost for Divisions 2-10 to apply the 45% default materials value.
• Provide a t Tuesday, April 22, 2008 12:20 PM include a description of the material, the source/vendor for the materials, and the product cost.
• Provide a narrative describing the materials reuse strategy implemented by the project. Include specific information about reused/salvaged materials used on the project."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 260

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, 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 materials for the project."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 207

 

[Salvaged Planks from Harvard Lyman Hall,

at Boston Materials Resource Center]

 

"To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide cut sheets or other documentation for any product/material whose manufacturer still exists. In any other case, please provide an explanation of rationalizations and assumptions made regarding material/product value."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

This credit has not yet been achieved by a project at Harvard. 

Boston Materials Resource Center

Design Phase	Recommended Approach: Activities	Recommended Approach: Responsibilities
Pre-Design	Set high goals for the recycled content of materials (over 20%). An additional point is available for over 20%.	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
Schematic Design	Research materials options with high recycled content. Use Technologies & Products: Materials/Finishes as a guide.	Architect
Design Development/Construction Documents	Include requirements for the recycled content and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications. See model Specifications language for recycled content 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/HGCI
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 and audit requirements per MR c4 requirements.	Architect
Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

Purchasing recycled-content materials fosters a transition toward sustainability through the creation of an end market for materials that would otherwise be sent to the landfill and reduces the use of virgin materials. Recycled-content materials decrease production of waste in the operations of Harvard’s suppliers, one of the first goals of Harvard University Sustainability Principles. Measuring the recycled content of building materials is “one indicator for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement," tenets of the sixth sustainability principle.

The Davis Langdon study Cost of Green Revisited found that most projects can achieve this design element at "mimimal or no added cost" (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 18). For full cite, see Financial Links. Version 2.2 of LEED has increased the percentages necessary to be awarded MR credits 4.1 and 4.2.

 

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

4.1 "Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled content plus one-half of the pre-consumer content constitutes at least 10% (based on cost) of the total value of the materials in the project. The recycled content value of a material assembly shall be 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 and specialty items such as elevators shall not be included in this calculation. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3–7. Recycled content shall be defined in accordance with the International Organization of Standards document, ISO 14021—Environmental labels and declarations—Self-declared environmental claims (Type II environmental labeling).

Post-consumer 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.

Pre-consumer material is defined as material diverted from the waste stream during the manufacturing process. Excluded is reutilization of materials such as rework, regrind or scrap generated in a process and capable of being reclaimed within the same process that generated it."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 263

 

4.2 "Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled content plus one-half of the pre-consumer content constitutes an additional 10% beyond MR Credit 4.1 (total of 20%, based on cost) of the total value of the materials in the project. The recycled content value of a material assembly shall be 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 and specialty items such as elevators shall not be included in this calculation. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3–7. Recycled content shall be defined in accordance with the International Organization of Standards document, ISO 14021—Environmental labels and declarations—Self-declared environmental claims (Type II environmental labeling).

Post-consumer 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.

Pre-consumer material is defined as material diverted from the waste stream during the manufacturing process. Excluded is reutilization of materials such as rework, regrind or scrap generated in a process and capable of being reclaimed within the same process that generated it."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 264

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

“Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled content plus one-half of the post-industrial content constitutes at least 5% of the total value of the materials of the project.

The value of the recycled content portion of a material or furnishing 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).

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, pages 213-214

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Provide the total project materials cost (Divisions 2-10) or provide the total project cost for Divisions 2-10 to apply the 45% default materials value.
• Provide a tabulation of each material used on the project that is being tracked for recycled content. The tabulation must include a description of the material, the manufacturer of the material, the product cost, the pre-consumer and/or post-consumer recycled content percentage, and the source of the recycled content data."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 267

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

• “Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or other responsible party, declaring that the credit 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-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, pages 213-214

 

The USGBC has determined that 45% of the total project cost is the default value for the cost of materials on a construction project. Electrical and mechanical can not be included in the calculation for MR credit 4.

 

“To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide a product cut sheet, product literature, or letter from the manufacturer that clearly indicates whether each material contains post-consumer or post-industrial recycled material or both, and what percentages by weight.”

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (2) (16.66%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (2) (7.98%, 12.45%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines Program

Recycled Content Product Directory - California Integrated Waste Management Board

Green Spec Building Green, Inc.

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 2 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. Use Technologies & Products: Materials/Finishes as a guide.	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). See model Specifications language for regional 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/HGCI
Construction	Review submittals for appropriate documentation (material cost & location / distance of extraction & manufacture) – don't accept materials w/o 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 and audit requirements per MR c5 requirements.	Architect
Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

The purchase of locally manufactured building materials supports the local economy, which aligns with the fourth Harvard University Sustainability Principle to support long-term economic, environmental and socially responsible decision-making.

In order to enable comparative analysis of sustainability implications, life cycle analysis of building materials is necessary. In addition to the local economic benefits of the use of locally extracted and manufactured building materials, less overall embodied energy, and therefore less overall energy, is spent due to shorter distances traveled in transport of these materials. The intent of selecting regional materials is that it stimulates the local economy and decreases the overall amount of energy used to transport building materials to the site.

 

The Davis Langdon study found that "with the modifications made to this requirement under LEED 2.2, which added the requirement for local extraction as well as local manufacture, this credit became very difficult to achieve." Therefore it is difficult to assess what the cost implications may be (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 18). For the full cite, see Financial Links. 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-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

5.1 "Use building materials or products that have been extracted, harvested or recovered, as well as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project site for a minimum of 10% (based on cost) of the total materials value. If only a fraction of a product or material is extracted/harvested/recovered and manufactured locally, then only that percentage (by weight) shall contribute to the regional value.

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing components and specialty items such as elevators and equipment shall not be included in this calculation. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3 - 7."

 

5.2 "Use building materials or products that have been extracted, harvested or recovered, as well as manufactured, within 500 miles of the project site for an additional 10% beyond MR Credit 5.1 (total of 20%, based on cost) of the total materials value. If only a fraction of the material is extracted/harvested/recovered and manufactured locally, then only that percentage (by weight) shall contribute to the regional value."

- LEED for New Construction Version 2.2 Reference Guide pages 271-272

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

Please note: these requirements will change in LEED for New Construction version 2.2.

5.1 "Use a minimum of 20% of building 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."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 221

5.2 "Of the regionally manufactured materials documented for MR Credit 5.1, use a minimum of 50% of building materials and products that are extracted, harvested or recovered (as well as manufactured) within 500 miles of the project site."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 222

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Provide the project's total project cost (for application of 45% default factor) or total materials cost. Note this reported value must be consistent across all MR credits.
• Complete the regional materials calculation table in the Submittal Template. The following information will be required to fill in this table: product name for each tracked material; percentage of product, by weight, that meets both the extraction and manufacture criteria; distance between the project site and extraction/harvest/recovery site; distance between the project site and the final manufacturing location.
• Provide an optional narrative describing any special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's credit approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 275

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect or 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."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 221

 

5.1 "To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide a

• product cut sheet, product literature, or letter from the manufacturer indicating the location of manufacture and
• cost/value for each material."

5.2 "To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide a

• product cut sheet, product literature, or letter from the manufacturer verifying the
• cost/value, location of manufacture and extraction, harvesting, or recovery for each material."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

The US Green Building Council issues Credit Interpretation Rulings to clarify material in the reference guide or to answer questions on specific building projects.

Wyss Hall (2) (24.48%, 18.23%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Blackstone (2) (33.48%, 11.48%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (2) (71.98%, 12.41%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

 

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 2 through 10 – Indicate those materials that are likely to be renewable. Use the Materials Tracking Sheet.	Contractor
Schematic Design	Research renewable material options. Use Technologies & Products: Materials/Finishes as a guide.	Architect
Design Development/Construction Documents	Include requirements for renewable materials and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications (targeted materials). See model Specifications language for renewable 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/HGCI
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 and audit requirements per MR c6 requirements.	Architect
Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

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 Harvard University 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.

The Davis Langdon study found that, previously, 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. LEED 2.2 has lowered the threshold, making this credit more achievable (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 19).  For the full cite, see Financial Links.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Use rapidly renewable building materials and products (made from plants that are typically harvested within a ten-year cycle or shorter) for 2.5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project, based on cost."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 277

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Use rapidly renewable building materials and products (made from plants that are typically harvested within a ten-year cycle or shorter) for 5% of the total value of all building materials and products used in the project."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 227

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Provide the project's total project cost (for application of 45% default factor) or total materials cost. Note this reported value must be consistent across all MR credits.
• Complete the rapidly renewable materials calculation table in the Submittal Template. The following information will be required to fill in this table: product name for each tracked material; material manufacturer; total product cost for each tracked material; percentage by product, by weight, for each material that meets the rapidly renewable criteria.
• Provide an optional narrative describing any special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's credit approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 279

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect or 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-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 227

 

Because so few projects have been able to have 5% of the project's material value, in LEED-NC version 2.2, the requirement has dropped to 2.5% for this design element. An Innovation and Design credit is available for projects if over 10% of the total materials costs is made up of rapidly renewable materials.

 

"To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide a product cut sheet, product literature, or letter from the manufacturer verifying the cost/value of the products/materials and that the reported materials are manufactured with rapidly renewable resources."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

Hamilton Hall (15.36%)* (LEED-NC v2.1)

Building Green, Inc Green Spec

Environmental Design and Construction

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. Use Technologies & Products: Materials/Finishes as a guide.	Architect
Design Development/Construction Documents	Include requirements for certified wood and submittal of the appropriate documentation in project specifications (targeted materials). See model Specifications language for certified wood.	Architect
Construction Documents	Adapt the LEED Materials Submittal Cover Sheet to be included on all submittals, specific to the project. Include in specifications.	Contractor/HGCI
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 and audit requirements per MR c7 requirements.	Architect
Construction	This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

The intent of this credit is to specify and utilize wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for structure, framing, rough carpentry and finish carpentry. The use of FSC certified wood is a way that the university promotes the long term health and productivity of forests. The goal of the first Harvard University Sustainability Principle 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 marketplace. Life cycle analysis of FSC wood would be consistent with the fourth Sustainability Principle, which is a commitment to "developing planning tools to enable comparative analysis of sustainability implications and to support long-term economic, environmental and socially responsible decision-making."

In regard to the cost of certified wood, The Forest Stewardship Council states: "Like all products it depends on the availability but on the whole familiar items will be roughly the same price as non-FSC items." (FSC)

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Use a minimum of 50% of wood-based materials and products, which are certified in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) Principles and Criteria, for wood building components. These components include, but are not limited to, structural framing and general dimensional framing, flooring, sub-flooring, wood doors and finishes. Only include materials permanently installed in the project. Furniture may be included, providing it is included consistently in MR Credits 3–7."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2, Reference Guide page 281

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Use a minimum of 50% of wood-based materials and products, certified in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council’s Principles and Criteria, for wood building components including, but not limited to, structural framing and general dimensional framing, flooring, finishes, furnishings, and non-rented temporary construction applications such as bracing, concrete form work and pedestrian barriers."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 231

 

LEED-NC Version 2.2

"A list of items (and/or components of products) claimed as FSC certified including product type, manufacturer, and the appropriate entity's COC certification number. Each product name can then be cross-referenced with the manufacturer or vendor COC number during the LEED certification review."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2, Reference Guide page 284

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or 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-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 231

 

"To support the calculations in the LEED Letter Template, please provide copies of vendor invoices for each certified wood product, demonstrating that the requirements of the credit are met. Also, please provide FSC chain-of-custody certificates for each applicable product with chain of custody number indicated. Please also provide documentation of the products/materials cost/value."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

Blackstone (59.63%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

90 Mount Auburn Street (89.69%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

The Forest Stewardship Council