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New pilot credit will help manufacturers qualify for LEED® points

Under a new pilot credit, LEED Pilot Credit 43, manufacturers whose products have been reviewed through Underwriter Laboratories (UL) Inc.'s UL Environment Environmental Claims Validation, Sustainable Product Certification, Environmental Product Declaration or EcoLogo programs will qualify for innovation points within the LEED program. Projects earn points that contribute to meeting LEED requirements, which are set forth by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

The recently released pilot credit, which serves as a "trial run" credit before its formal adoption into the LEED rating system, rewards LEED projects for using products whose life cycles, ingredients and other environmental attributes are high-performing and more transparent.

"This move toward increased performance, transparency, authenticity and third-party verification of manufacturers' claims will help transform the market," says Steve Wenc, president of UL Environment. "Our goal is to bring clarity to the marketplace, and we’re thrilled to be a part of USGBC's high standards for buildings."

To achieve the new pilot credit, LEED projects must demonstrate that, based on value, at least 10 percent of nonstructural products meet one of the following requirements:

• Have environmental claims verified by a third party
• Are certified to third-party multi-attribute performance standards
• Are accompanied by a life-cycle assessment report or third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration

All products and materials used for the pilot credit must meet minimum low emissions requirements as a prerequisite to ensure good indoor air quality. Products can meet the prerequisite by achieving GREENGUARD Children and Schools Certification.

Nonstructural product types that qualify under the new pilot credit include gypsum board, doors, insulation, heating and cooling systems, hot water tanks, office furniture and panel systems, among others.

To help architects, manufacturers and other stakeholders understand the requirements of the new pilot credit, UL University has developed a new online course for LEED project teams. Scheduled for June 28, the free webinar is expected to support continuing education requirements for LEED accredited professionals, architects and designers. For more information about the webinar or to register, visit www.leedproductcredit.com.

For more information about the new pilot credit, click here.

6/27/2011  

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