BD+C stands for Building Design and Construction, referring to a specific rating system within the globally recognized Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program.
Understanding LEED BD+C
LEED BD+C is a comprehensive framework developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for designing, constructing, and certifying green buildings. It is specifically tailored for projects that involve:
- New Construction: Brand-new buildings from the ground up.
- Major Renovations: Significant overhauls or additions to existing structures.
The core purpose of LEED BD+C is to provide a structured pathway for creating environmentally responsible and resource-efficient buildings. It allows project teams to:
- Holistic Green Building: Focus on a wide range of sustainability features, ensuring a comprehensive approach to green design and construction.
- Maximize Benefits: Optimize the environmental and economic benefits of green building practices throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Aspects Covered by LEED BD+C
The BD+C rating system evaluates various aspects of a building's design and construction to ensure sustainability. Projects earn points across several categories, with the total points determining the certification level (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).
Here are the main credit categories within LEED BD+C:
- Location and Transportation (LT): Encourages walkable communities, alternative transportation, and responsible site selection.
- Sustainable Sites (SS): Promotes environmentally sensitive site development, reducing pollution and protecting natural habitats.
- Water Efficiency (WE): Aims to reduce indoor and outdoor water consumption through efficient fixtures and landscaping.
- Energy and Atmosphere (EA): Focuses on optimizing energy performance, promoting renewable energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Materials and Resources (MR): Encourages the use of sustainable building materials, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
- Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ): Prioritizes occupant comfort, health, and well-being through improved air quality, lighting, and acoustics.
- Innovation (IN): Rewards projects for exceptional performance and innovative strategies not covered elsewhere.
- Regional Priority (RP): Addresses specific environmental issues relevant to a project's geographic location.
Practical Insights and Examples
Engaging with LEED BD+C means integrating sustainable practices from the initial conceptual design through construction completion. For example:
- Design Phase: An architect might specify a high-performance building envelope to reduce energy demand, incorporate natural daylighting, or plan for rainwater harvesting.
- Construction Phase: Contractors focus on diverting construction waste from landfills, using low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and adhesives, and ensuring proper commissioning of building systems.
- Material Selection: Choosing materials with recycled content, locally sourced, or third-party certified for environmental attributes (e.g., FSC-certified wood).
- Site Management: Implementing erosion control measures during construction and designing landscaping that requires minimal irrigation once complete.
By following the LEED BD+C guidelines, projects contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing environmental impact, conserving resources, and creating healthier spaces for occupants.
For more detailed information on the LEED program and its various rating systems, you can visit the official website of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) at www.usgbc.org.
