What Sustainable Sites credit will this decision impact the most?

An owner has insisted on using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level.

What Sustainable Sites credit will this decision impact the most?
A . Site Development-Protect or Restore Habita
B . Site Assessment
C . Heat Island Reduction
D . Light Pollution Reduction

Answer: A

Explanation:

Using a non-native or non-adapted plant species on both the vegetated roof and ground level will impact the Sustainable Sites credit Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat the most. This credit requires that at least 20% of the site area (excluding building footprint) or 5% of the site area (including building footprint) must be vegetated with native or adapted plants. Non-native or non-adapted plants do not qualify for this credit and may also have negative impacts on the local ecosystem and biodiversity. The other credits are not directly affected by the choice of plant species, although they may have other requirements related to vegetation, such as shading, reflectance, or lighting.

Reference: LEED v4 BD+C Reference Guide, Sustainable Sites Category, SSc Site Development-Protect or Restore Habitat, page 648.