Which would contribute to compliance with Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space?

Which would contribute to compliance with Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space?
A . A mall with an indoor atrium, featuring a reflective roof
B . A parking lot that serves as the location for a monthly flea market
C . An intensive vegetated roof, provided the building has at least a 1.0 Floor to Area Ratio (FAR)
D . A forested area containing nature trails, that also achieves Sustainable Sites Credit, Site Development C Protect or Restore Habitat

View Answer

Answer: D

Explanation:

According to the LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, the Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space requires the project to provide outdoor space greater than or equal to 30% of the total site area (including building footprint). At least 25% of that outdoor space must be vegetated, have overhead vegetated canopy, or be a water body. Option A does not qualify as outdoor space, Option B is not vegetated or a water body, and Option C only applies to projects with a FAR of less than 1.0. Option D meets the requirements for both outdoor space and vegetation, and also contributes to the protection or restoration of habitat1. References: LEED v4: Building Design + Construction Guide, Sustainable Sites Credit, Open Space, Requirements1