Leading Green Practice Test 2 - Answer Key

ANSWER
KEY - Leading Green Practice Test 2 - V4 Green Associate (101q)

Question 1
A project team is confused as to what gerrymandering refers to when deciding the LEED
Boundary. What is the property area?
Question 1 Explanation:
The question is misleading at first but at the end it is specifically asking about the property area,
nothing to do with LEED. The Project Boundary is defined as a platted property line of the project
defining land and water within it
A Total area within the platted property line not including any nonconstructed areas
B Platted property line of the project defining land and water within it
C Portion of the project site submitted for LEED certification

Total area within the legal property boundaries of the site; it encompasses all areas of the site,
D including constructed and nonconstructed areas
Question 2
The LEED rating system is a non-profit organization that ensures fairness and credibility by:
Consensus of committees, registered members, technical advisory groups and board members.
A Hiring Industry experts
B Following government regulations
C A consensus-based process
D Hiring Academic experts
Question 3
Renewable energy is a great way to offset the peak demand during a hot summer day. Demand
response is another great way to shift peak demand and an event is triggered by who?
The utility/energy provider initiates a DR event when it is at peak demand
A Utility Company
B Building Automation System
C Facility Manager
D Building Operator
Question 4
As humans have progressed over time they have created indoor micro-atmospheres through
mechanical and natural ventilation and humans now spend ___ % of our time indoors:
Humans spend 90% of their time indoors
A 60%
B 70%
C 90%
D 80%
E 95%
Question 5
LEED has many tools in order to assist project teams, including LEED online’s feedback button.
What is the main distinction between a LEED interpretation and CIR?
There are three significant ways in which LEED Interpretations are different from Project CIRs: 1.
Precedent-setting LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable
rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED interpretations posted before their
registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project
registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. A Project CIR can only be used by the project that
submitted it. 2. Published Online LEED interpretations will be published in a searchable database at
usgbc.org. Project CIRs are not published publicly. 3. Subject to consensus-based review LEED
interpretations undergo review by the USGBC member-selected volunteer LEED committees. Project
CIRs are created by the certification review teams at the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI)
A LEED interpretations are not published publically
B LEED interpretations only apply to one specific project
C LEED interpretations are more costly to submit than CIRs

D LEED interpretations are precedent-setting
E LEED interpretations are created by certification review teams
Question 6
Di Santo Engineering wants to take green measurements that would reduce the use of potable
water. Suggest a strategy do to this:
Dual flush toilets can result in a reduction of 2/3 of water used by conventional toilets
A Increasing the infiltration of stormwater runoff
B Installing an onsite septic system
C Installing a dual flush toilet

D Installing a bioretention pond
Question 7
The success of LEED depends on ongoing performance and a number of major backbone
concepts. Select three which are integral to green building and sustainability: (CHOOSE 3)
See study guide v4 for explanations
A Integrative process
B Cradle to Grave
C Systems thinking
D Life cycle approach
E Open systems
F Linear planning and design processes
Question 8
What must the project team submit via LEED Online in order to verify prerequisite and credit
compliance?
LEED v4 Sample Credit Forms: http://www.usgbc.org/sampleforms
A CIR
B LEED Scorecard
C Letter of attestation
D Credit Forms
Question 9
Credit point weightings are determined based on LEED v4 Impact categories. Choose one of the
seven attempts to reduce negative environmental impacts throughout the materials life-cycle.
This impact category promotes: Local Biodiversity, Habitat Protection and Open Spaces Global
Biodiversity, Habitat Protection and Land Preservation Sustainable Use and Management of
Ecosystem Services
A Enhance human health and well being
B Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles
C Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change

D GHG Emissions Reduction from Materials and Water Embodied Energy Use
E Protect, Enhance and Restore Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
Question 10
A project is trying to determine if its Floor to Area ratio (FAR) is high enough that it can count
which of the following spaces as vegetation for open space:
Projects that achieve a density of 1.5+ floor-area ratio (FAR), vegetated roofs can be used toward the
minimum 25% vegetation requirement.
A Parking lots shaded with solar panels
B Extensive Green Roof
C Concrete balconies
D A courtyard or ground level terrace
E A turf grass field
Question 11
LEED is one of many green building rating systems today. Some are more stringent and some
are looser. Name 3 additional green building rating systems: (Choose 3)
• Green Globes is an online green building rating and certification tool that is used primarily in
Canada and the USA. • BREEAM is the world's leading environmental assessment method and rating
system for buildings and is based in the UK. • Living Building Challenge is a more stringent green
building rating system and is a yes or no system without points.
A Green Globes
B Watersense
C Green Screen
D ASHRAE
E BREEAM
F Living Building Challenge
Question 12
Increased ventilation can result in a trade-off between high IAQ and decreased energy
performance. How can an engineer minimize an increase in energy?
Demand-control ventilation is based on monitoring spaces and only increasing the ventilation when
set points are reached. This is based on having CO2 sensors/monitors in the room. For example, if a
room has five people in it and then ten more come in, the CO2 in the air would go up. The sensor
would register this and increase the airflow. If the ventilation is only increased as needed, the
operating costs go down instead of the system running at a maximum at all times. All occupied
spaces must receive some outdoor air.
A Compartmentalization of all multi-occupant spaces
B Using demand controlled ventilation
C Only supplying densely occupied spaces with outdoor air

D Installing higher rated MERV filters
Question 13
Demand response programs are gaining popularity in an attempt to shift our peak demands.
What is it called if an office tower consumes electricity from the grid at night while contributing
energy back to the grid during the day resulting in electricity?
Net-zero energy projects use no more energy from the electrical grid than can be produced from on-
site renewable energy systems
A Green power
B Zero point energy
C Net-zero Energy
D Carbon Offsets
E Waste free energy
Question 14
The USGBC and GBCI are the two main governing bodies of the LEED rating system. What is the
GBCI responsible for?(CHOOSE 3)
Other options are run by USGBC. GBCI was founded in 2008.
A Overseeing LEED credential maintenance
B Third-party technical reviews of registered LEED projects
C Developing the LEED rating systems

D Responding to LEED Credit Interpretation Requests
E Administration of the LEED exams
Question 15
The LEED Rating system can only permit certain types of buildings, spaces and neighbourhoods
to pursue LEED certification. What defines this restriction?
MPRs are the minimum characteristics or conditions that make a project appropriate to pursue LEED
certification. These requirements are foundational to all LEED projects and define the types of
buildings, spaces, and neighborhoods that the LEED rating system is designed to evaluate.
A LEED Online
B The LEED Reference Guide
C Minimum Program Requirements

D LEED Prerequisites and Credits
Question 16
You are working at an interior design company who is trying to reduce their long-term
environmental effects. Which 2 of the following would you suggest? (CHOOSE 2)
Reusing materials or furnishings reduces the demand for new materials and thus preserves virgin
resources. Demountable walls are part of designing for flexibility which reduces the demand for new
building materials over time. An EPD just states what the effects of a product are on the environment
and people. A product may perform better in some environmental categories than others as listed on
the EPD. The EPD helps project teams compare products to choose those that do less harm.
A Selecting refurbished furniture
B Only selecting Energy Star rated fixtures for dish washers
C Installing demountable interior nonstructural walls

D Choosing products that have a published Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)
E Ensuring that the site is composed of 75% native plants
Question 17
The abundance of impervious parking results in many detrimental environmental impacts. How
does LEED discourage the use of single driven conventionally gas operated vehicles?
stion 17 Explanation:
Preferred parking is the parking spots closest to the main entrance of a building (exclusive of
spaces designated for handicapped persons). For employee parking, it refers to the spots that
are closest to the entrance used by employees. Its helps to meet the requirements of the Green
Vehicles credit.
A Maximizing open space within the LEED boundary
B Encouraging the addition of off-street parking only
C Share a multi-level parking structure amongst a number of buildings

D Set aside some preferred parking spaces
E Putting 100% of parking underground
Question 18
Which standard or program compares the energy performance of multiple buildings?
The EPA created ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager®, which is an online tool that can be used to
measure and track energy and water consumption as well as greenhouse gas emissions. It can also
benchmark the performance of one building or a whole portfolio of buildings. Portfolio Manager is an
ideal tool for facility managers to track the performance of a building or group of buildings.
A ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010
B Energy Policy Act of 1992
C ASHRAE Standard 55-2010

D ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
Question 19
Daylight has many benefits due to credit requirements except:
Improved thermal comfort is not considered a benefit
A Connecting buildings with the outdoors
B Improved thermal comfort
C Reduce electrical lighting requirements

D Reinforce circadian rhythms
Question 20
The building code of Reykjavík does not allow rainwater harvesting but the project requires the
credit for LEED certification. How should the project proceed?
Other solutions will need to be found to reduce potable water use indoors
A Request an exception from the LEED project reviewer to allow the reduction anyway
B Submit a CIR to a LEED project reviewer
C Install the system in anticipation of receiving legal exception

D Submit a LEED Interpretation to a LEED project reviewer
E Find alternative solutions for indoor water use reduction
Question 21
Several LEED credits offer two approaches to meet credit compliance. Two approaches
are: (Choose 2)
A prescriptive based approach requires that each component is built to a certain standard (e.g., Wall
R-value at least 20). A performance based approach requires that the building as a whole performs to
a certain standard (e.g.,uses less energy than the same building built to prescriptive standards). As an
example, there are two different paths to satisfy energy efficiency. The prescriptive path is simpler
and can be achieved without the aid of any software, as the standards have already been
established. The performance path is more complicated but can result in substantial savings. Within
the past few years there has been a shift to more performance based approaches to comply with
codes, standards, legislation and voluntary green initiatives. The shift is away from materials’ single
attributes toward system or assembly attributes.
A Prescriptive path
B Choose from a selection of referenced standards
C Performance path
D Submit an Alternative Compliance Path (ACP) request
Question 22
LeadingGreen has a project specific question in regards to a prerequisite in water efficiency as
well as an unrelated credit in the same credit category. How should the project team proceed?
CIRs are only for one credit or one prerequisite. They cost $220 each.
A Submit one CIR covering both the credit and prerequisite
B Submit a LEED interpretation Request
C Submit 2 LEED interpretation Requests – one each for the credit and prerequisite
D Submit two CIRs - one each for the credit and prerequisite
E Submit one LEED interpretation Request, for the prerequisite
F Submit one CIR only, for the credit

Question 23
Commissioning is the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its
systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to
meet the owner's project requirements. What is its median payback?
Commissioning can be expensive but, compared to the savings it achieves over time, it's one of the
best investments a building owner can make. There are many studies that show the benefits of
commissioning with examples of installation errors that cost building owners thousands of dollars a
year unnecessarily. A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found the following: 'For
existing buildings, we found median commissioning costs of $0.27/ft2, whole-building energy
savings of 15%, and payback times of 0.7 years. For new construction, median commissioning costs
were $1.00/ft2 (0.6 % of total construction costs), yielding a median payback time of 4.8 years
(excluding quantified non-energy impacts).
A 0.7 years
B 6 months
C 2 years
D 1.5 years
Question 24
A team is involved in a LEED Charrette as part of the integrative process and as a LEED
consultant you must tell them that materials should be selected based on: (CHOOSE 3)
These options essentially identify the triple bottom line. 3Ps
A The cost of the material
B The location and travel distance of the manufacturing plant only
C The environmental impact of extracting and manufacturing the material

D How long the material has been used in other projects
E The company’s corporate social responsibility plan
F The impact the material has on society

Question 25
Which of the following credits has the intent of reducing usage of single occupied vehicles?
This is the only one to attempt to reduce our dependence on single occupied vehicles as the rest of
the options deal with the type of vehicle.
A Green Vehicles
B Thermal comfort
C Sensitive Land Protection

D Green Power and Carbon Offsets
E Access to Quality Transit
Question 26
When you look at the globe one can see that it is composed of mostly water. What percentage
is fresh?
Drought conditions are stressing our limited existing water supply and could even potentially lead to
water wars or opportunities to export water. 2.5% is fresh (according to Nat Geo)
A 5%
B 5%
C 1%
D 10%
E 3%
Question 27
LeadingGreen development proposes a new strategy for an ultra-energy efficient building but is
having issues with municipal code and as a result:
The strategy will need to be reworked to fit with the local electrical code.
A The project team must alter the design
B The energy model must be proven effective for approval
C LEED supercedes the code

D A CIR must be submitted and approved by a LEED Reviewer
Question 28
A facility manger is integral to LEED for Existing Building certifications. What preventative
routine tasks should they perform to ensure a high level of IAQ? (CHOOSE 2)
Checking the CO2 sensors and the outdoor airflow monitors as well as replacing filters are tasks the
facility manager could do periodically to make sure the system is functioning as designed and to
prevent air quality issues
A Replace air filters
B Conducting a full building flushout and indoor air quality test weekly
C Calibrating sensors
D Minimize the project reverberation time by replacing damaged ceiling tiles
E Dusting all blinds with electrostatic cloths
Question 29
ASHRAE, MERV, FSC and ISO are some of the standards embedded in the LEED rating system.
While FSC is used for wood products, what is the ISO 14000 standard used for?
The ISO 14000 product oriented standards include Environmental Labels and Declaration, Life Cycle
Assessment, and Design for Environment. These standards are intended to be applicable for
assessing the environmental performance of products and services as well as providing guidance on
improving their environmental performance. The ISO 14020 series standards, Environmental Labels
and Declaration, are communication tools that convey information on environmental aspects of a
product or service to the market. These standards are used for recycled materials to label their pre
and/or post consumer content. There is no such thing as a pre-approved or certified LEED product
A Material VOC limits
B Mercury free lamps
C Environmentally preferable
D Pre approved products for LEED
E Solid waste management plan
Question 30
You are a LEED consultant and a client has asked you how the project can increase its density?
Density is a measure of the total building floor area or dwelling units on a parcel of land relative to
the buildable land of that parcel. The other options assist with surrounding density credits.
A Select and infill site with 75% previously developed land
B Ensure the site has 10 diverse uses adjacent to the building
C Build a mixed-use facility with amenities on the first floor

D Shrink the building footprint to maximize the FAR
E Select a site within a dense neighbourhood
Question 31
Throughout the LEED documentation process many different stakeholders are involved. Which
document establishes the terms and conditions of the LEED Certification Program to which the
building owner is bound?
Agent's authority: agreement allows an agent to act on behalf of an owner to perform certain actions.
Certification agreement: The purpose of the Agreement is to establish the terms and conditions of
the LEED Certification Program (the 'Program,') to which are bound. The Program consists of the
process whereby GBCI reviews documentation submitted by participants to determine if a building,
interior space, or neighborhood, as described to GBCI, complies with the requirements of the LEED
Green Building Rating System and has accumulated the minimum number of points necessary to
achieve pre-certification or a particular level of LEED Certificatio. OPR: documents how the owner
expects the building to function. LEED certification approval is what is awarded to a building, it is
not a document that establishes terms and conditions for the Program. BOD the OPR in tech terms
A Agent's authority
B Owner's project requirements
C Certification agreement
D LEED certification approval
E Basis of Design
Question 32
As a building ages how does its emissions change?
Continuous monitoring and ongoing commissioning help maintain systems and keep their
performance optimized to keep emissions lower over time. Most systems will degrade over time
A They fluctuate
B It depends on the utility rate
C They decrease
D They increase
E They remain consistent
Question 33
In the Systems Thinking process, closed systems are synonymous with which of the following?
Both open and closed systems are part of the Systems Thinking process, which is crucial for green
buildings. A closed system is a circular loop where there is extraction, use and then reuse. A system
that creates, then redefines itself after its useful life to serve another purpose. In a closed system,
there is no waste—cradle to cradle. An open system is a linear progression where there is extraction,
use and then disposal. A system that creates, serves its intended purpose, then perishes as waste
after use—cradle to grave.
A Cradle to grave performance
B Leverage points
C Minimum Program Requirements (MPRs)

D Cradle to cradle performance
Question 34
Unintentional consequences are a risk for any design decision regardless of the industry.
Looking at how intertwined the triple bottom line is, what is a possible environmental
externality when buildings use a lot of potable water?
Compensated and may have little choice in the transaction. Air pollution, for example, is a visible
externality of manufacturing, the cost of which is generally paid by others. Externalities can be either
negative or positive for both parties affected. Consider the effects of locating an oil refinery adjacent
to a residential neighborhood: air pollution and associated health effects, noise pollution, light
pollution, increased traffic, risk of industrial accident (all negative externalities) and availability of
high-paying jobs, increased tax base for schools and other infrastructure (positive effect).
A Increased environmental burdens on the water supply
B Decreased building energy efficiency and increased consumption
C Decreased rainwater runoff

D Variable utility rates specific to water
E Decreased water used for irrigation due to native plants
Question 35
A project team is going through its first LEED application process and is very disorganized. In
order to ensure all green building goals are being met they should use:
LEED project checklist is the quick list of what credits the project team has decided to pursue in the
pre-design phase, based on the project vision and the project's green building goals.
A LEED Handbook
B LEED project checklist
C LEED rating system overview and introductions

D LEED Online documentation
Question 36
By locating a project near public transit the team can benefit through all of the following
except:
Light is not directly related through the use of public transit
A Reduced land impacts due to parking
B Reduced automobile dependence
C Reduced light pollution

D Reduced GhG emissions from transportation
Question 37
When calculating building energy performance, what is included as process energy (Select 3)?
process energy generally comes from equipment that is plugged into a wall outlet (it has a plug
load). Examples of process energy include: • Computers • Office equipment • Kitchen stoves •
Kitchen refrigerators • Washers and dryers • Elevators and escalators (these don't have regular
plugs, but are considered process energy for LEED) Non-process, or regulated energy generally
includes built-in building components: • Interior and exterior lighting (parking garage, security,
landscape, architectural) • HVAC • Hot water heating • Toilet exhaust • Ventilation
A Walkway lighting
B Washing machine
C Domestic Hot water heater

D Desktop computer
E High efficient HVAC unit
F Elevator
Question 38
A large percentage of our landfill is composed of construction and demolition debris. A
construction waste management plan can help divert some of that waste and should include:
The construction waste management plan will describe where construction and demolition debris is
going to go. The plan outlines diverting construction debris from landfills through reusing, salvaging,
and recycling materials. Part of this decision is to use commingled or separate recycling. The value of
the waste does not matter nor does its distance for this credit
A If recycled waste would be commingled or separated
B New technologies and materials that will help reduce waste
C The value of the materials being diverted from the landfill

D The distance that the recycled goods were purchased from the project site
Question 39
Which statement is true for a project to qualify for the LEED BD+C: Homes rating system?
LEED BD+C: Homes and Multifamily Lowrise: Single-family homes and multi-family residential
buildings of 1 to 3 stories. Projects 3 to 5 stories may choose the Homes rating system that
corresponds to the ENERGY STAR program in which they are participating.
A The project can be a 3 story or less low-rise multifamily residential project
B The project must be a single family residential project
C The project can be an 8 story mid-rise multifamily residential project

D The project cannot be a multistory residential project
Question 40
Looking at the Triple Bottom Line, which of the following sites would contribute the most to
Environmental Stewardship?
Locating the project near public parking may reduce parking requirements but this is not the
best course of action. • An old building will significantly minimize the impact on the
environment as well as ensure existing infrastructure is in place. • Parkland near basic services
should be avoided as park land should be treasured. • A previously undeveloped site is a
greenfield and would not earn many points.
A A previously undeveloped site
B Locating the project near public parking
C An old building
D Parkland near basic services
Question 41
Quality open space is not a result of which of the following?
Open Grid pavement is for cars and not people
A A walking path to a courtyard
B A community garden with many crops
C Native vegetation which is accessible

D Open grid pavement unbound for 50%+
Question 42
When deciding which refrigerant to use in a buildings cooling system a constant conflict
between the effects of ODP and GWP are a result of:
If a cooling system achieves greater efficiency only at the environmental price of using a chlorine-
containing refrigerant, an inevitable environmental conflict exists
A CFCs have the high ODP and thus should not be used
B Refrigerants that have a high ODP are less efficient
C Refrigerants that are neutral to the ozone layer are less efficient
D Refrigerants containing ozone layer gases
Question 43
At what point in the project do teams submit the proper documentation for Construction
Review?
LEED projects are ready for review, before the project is occupied, but after the substantial
construction completion
A After registration and certification fees are paid
B After 10 months of occupancy in the project
C Upon substantial construction completion

D As each construction phase is completed in a design-build project
Question 44
What stakeholder in a project is known for aiding the team by understanding credit interactions
and documentation requirements?
AP+ is higher than a GA. Bonus point in Innovation for using a LEED AP
A LEED Green Associate
B GBCI review
C HERS rater
D LEED AP+
Question 45
The USGBC was created in 1993 and then proposed the need for a green building rating system
in the building industry. What has always been important for LEED’s success? (CHOOSE 3)
LEED has always been consensus-based, market driven and voluntary. Although it is a non-profit this
is not one of its guiding principles. USGBC member committees develop the LEED Rating System via
a robust consensus process that has been refined since its inception
A It is a non-profit
B It is completely government financed
C It is the best green building rating system

D It is market driven
E It is consensus based
F It is voluntary
Question 46
A project is looking into options for alternative water sources for irrigation. Which should they
select? (CHOOSE 2)
The question specifically asks for alternative water sources and thus watersense is out of the scope.
A Graywater
B Watersense fixtures
C Potable Water
D WhiteWater
E Blackwater
F Stormwater
Question 47
If a building owner wants to evaluate the impact of its energy, water, solid waste, materials and
transportation systems it would use the following metric:
Carbon Emissions is the basis for all evaluations of sustainable practices (environment)
A Carbon Emissions
B Life Cycle Costing
C ESC impact
D CO emissions
E ODP and GWP
Question 48
There is a term to measure the equivalent of an occupant used in LEED. Which one of the
following would equal one of those terms?
The term is FTE for full-time equivalent and the word full-time gave away the answer.
A A part-time telemarketer
B An art gallery visitor
C A full-time barista
D A University student
Question 49
A residence at a school is analyzing the cost-benefit ratio of only installing ENERGY STAR
appliances. How can the project analyze if this is a favourable decision?
The LCA would help determine the payback period of the higher first costs.
A Reviewing the building's energy use for ways to improve efficiency
B Use energy modelling software to prioritize the projects OPR
C Carbon Offsets purchased to minimize appliance energy emissions

D A life cycle assessment of the trade-offs between the capital and operating costs
Question 50
A United Nations study indicates that which of the following percentages of the ecosystem
services that have been assessed worldwide are currently degraded or used unsustainably?
No explanation provided.
A 60%
B 50%
C 90%
D 40%
Question 51
A project team wants to reduce the heat island effect, add vegetated open space and manage
stormwater runoff. (CHOOSE 3)
Low SRI material increases the heat island as opposed to a high SRI. Solar panels don’t improve
open space or stormwater runnoff
A Trees
B Landscaped planters on a terrace
C Low SRI paving materials

D Vegetated roof
E Parking spots shaded with solar panels
Question 52
A project team has defined the project scope and has a specific question regarding an MPR. The
project team would determine the target certification level through:
ENERGY STAR portfolio manager - an online tool for facility owners to measure and track energy and
water consumption as well as GhGs. CIR are specific questions regarding one credit or one
prerequisite. They are submitted using LEED Online or using a standalone CIR form. LEED Online - is
the tool used for documenting the project. LEED Interpretation is a Precedent setting version of
Credit Interpretation Rulings LEED Scorecard helps teams decide what credits to achieve.
A LEED Interpretation
B LEED Online
C CIR
D ENERGY STAR portfolio manager
E LEED Scorecard
Question 53
Avoiding purchasing energy derived from fossil fuels and focusing on onsite renewable energy
will financially benefit a project by:
Renewable energy sources are sustainable, unlike nonrenewable sources which are limited cannot be
replenished as fast as they are being consumed. This question asks about an economic benefit –
avoiding nonrenewable pricing fluctuations.
A Avoiding escalating market prices
B Reduce the environmental destruction from raw material extraction
C Minimize the amount of greenhouse gases

D Energy Hedging
Question 54
Mlotek Construction are subcontracted to manage the waste of an old LEED certified building.
How can the subcontractor use nonrecyclable waste which is nonhazardous to earn points?
Waste-to-energy is 'the conversion of nonrecyclable waste materials into usable heat, electricity, or
fuel through a variety of processes, including combustion, gasification, pyrolization, anaerobic
digestion, and landfill gas (LFG) recovery. It works fine if strict air guidelines are followed.
A Exclude it from the credit calculations
B Burn it on site
C Send it directly to the landfill

D Waste-to-energy
Question 55
Which of the following options does LEED not rewards a project for?
While locating the project near existing infrastructure reduces the strain on the environment, LEED
does not award points for a strategy such as locating a project close to existing power or sewer lines.
A Providing EV charging stations
B Locating a building in a historic district
C Locating near existing utilities

D Selecting a site with a priority site
E Selecting a site with nearby diverse uses
Question 56
LeadingGreen Development purchased a struggling project mid-way through the design
process. As early as they could after the purchase an integrative approach was held and
daylighting was the main ticket item. What would be a low-cost solution for improving
daylighting at this point in the project? (CHOOSE 2)
While all of the choices impact lighting, changing the types of furnishings and the colors of the
interior are inexpensive strategies to improve daylighting and reduce glare, both of which would
increase the quality of the indoor lighting.
A The colors of the surfaces
B The height of the glazing panes in the curtain wall system
C The location of windows

D The types of furnishings
E Narrowing the building’s structure
Question 57
A project team is investigating rainwater runoff and the possibility of capture and treating it for
reuse. Which of the following will hold water and reduce the rate of runoff?
Dry pond (detention pond) is used to store excess rainwater. Dry ponds are basins whose outlets have
been designed to detain runoff for some minimum time (e.g., 24 hours). The rainwater will slowly
seep into the ground to recharge aquifers or discharge as determined by the pond design to allow
pollutants to settle.
A Build up as opposed to out and reduce the building footprint
B Only specify native and adaptive plants
C Direct runoff into dry ponds

D Install only 50%+ permeable pavement
Question 58
Which of the following should be considered early in the design process when planning room
layouts?
Hearing is one of the most crucial means of survival in the animal world, and speech is one of the
most distinctive characteristics of human development and culture. Better acoustics do matter:
research links poor acoustic performance to sleep disturbance, increased blood pressure and heart
rates, and stress. In schools, where communication between students and teachers affects the
learning process, acoustic performance is essential. In Healthcare projects, the acoustic environment
affects patients’ privacy and recuperation. The Minimum Acoustic Performance prerequisite applies to
Schools only and addresses classrooms that facilitate teacher-to-student and student-to-student
communication while the Acoustic Performance credit addresses both work spaces and classrooms.
Soft walls help this credit as well by absorbing sound as well as building orientation and room
geometry affect acoustical distribution
A Which employees get window offices
B The effects of ETS particulate matter on room surfaces
C How the building flush out will be conducted

D Acoustic performance
Question 59
A project is attempting to meet the IEQ credit for enhanced air quality. Which aspect of the
requirements could negatively impact the indoor air quality?
Air intakes should be located near fresh air sources and away from exhaust or smoking areas. The
other options could be done incorrectly but would not negatively affect the air quality over time.
A The location of outdoor air ducts
B Materials with no VOC
C MERV filters
D The location of entrance grates or mats
Question 60
Which of the following items are not completed by the commissioning authority to achieve the
Enhanced Commissioning credit?
This is accomplished in the EQ credit category
A Ensure the operator and occupant training is delivered effectively
B Review building operations after 10 months of substantial completion
C Verify SMACNA best practices are followed throughout construction

D Verify the inclusion of training requirements in the construction documents
Question 61
Green roofs tend to be quite expensive and have long payback periods. How does it pay for
itself the quickest?
This questions asks the greatest means in which the roof can pay for itself. Since energy prices are
the most expensive part of building operations, it is the correct answer.
A Incentives gained from the municipality due to rainwater runoff reduction
B Lower cooling and heating costs
C Larger natural habitat for birds

D Allows occupants on a zero lot line site gain access to the outdoors
E Enhanced the work environment to ensure productivity is maximized
Question 62
When selecting refrigerants, what is most important for the project team to take into account?
The choice of replacement refrigerants considers the trade-offs between performance, ozone
depletion potentials (ODP) and global warming potentials (GWP).
A A determination of the refrigerant’s overall global warming potential
B The cost of the refrigerant
C The availability of the refrigerant

D An analysis of trade-offs between performance, global warming, and ozone depletion
Question 63
In the Indoor water use prerequisite and credit, what is the baseline case compared to?
Design case versus the baseline case as determined by the EPAct of 1992 is the correct answer.
A EPAct of 1992 or 2005
B Average water consumption based on a similar LEED project
C Design case installed in the building

D UPC and IPC
E The ICC
Question 64
FTE counts are how LEED measures occupancy for which of the following items? (CHOOSE 2)
Indoor water use may require occupancy calculations to determine the baseline and design case
usage. When calculating the number of bicycle storage units required for occupants and visitors the
occupancy count is needed.
A Indoor water use reduction
B Outdoor water use reduction
C Toilets required
D Renewable Energy system submetering
E Bicycle Parking and Showers
Question 65
An apartment building is trying to decide if they want to allow pets into the building. When
should a project team follow SMACNA guidelines?
SMACNA guidelines are used for some LEED credits in the Indoor Environmental Quality credit
category. The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Contractors Association (SMACNA) has a set
of indoor air quality guidelines that are used to help manage air quality issues resulting from
construction and renovation in order to minimize indoor air quality issues.
A To select components and materials with low VOC content
B To minimize indoor air quality issues caused by construction
C To develop a green cleaning program

D To develop an integrated pest management plan
Question 66
Increased rainwater runoff can lead to detrimental environmental and economic impacts
through energy required to pump the excess rain water and tax dollars required to treat and
pump it as well as: (CHOOSE 2)
Eutrophication is the process by which a body of water acquires a high concentration of nutrients,
especially phosphates and nitrates. These typically promote excessive growth of algae. As the algae
die and decompose, high levels of organic matter and the decomposing organisms deplete the water
of available oxygen, causing the death of other organisms, such as fish. Eutrophication is a natural,
slow-aging process for a water body, but human activity greatly speeds up the process.
A Sedimentation of adjacent streams
B Sedimentation through impervious parking lots
C Eutrophication
D Increased use of potable water
E Decreased project efficiency
F Increased heat island effect

Question 67
Penn State has many laboratories with sensitive equipment that must be kept uncontaminated.
They are going ahead with a renovation plan.What would a sub-contractor need to safely
handle a product during installation?
Material Safety Data Sheets are intended to provide workers and emergency personnel with
procedures to safely handle a product during fabrication, installation, or in a life-safety event. The
information given in an MSDS is not a comprehensive disclosure of contents, nor does it fully address
all potential health hazards that may be associated with a product.
A An Environmental product declaration document
B Material Safety Data Sheet
C The construction waste management plan to know how much material to divert
D SMACNA guide to use MERV
Question 68
There are harmful and benign emissions as a result of our lifestyles. Which one of the following
is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that can be found in the ground, groundwater, or building
materials?
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas produced by the decay of naturally occurring
uranium in soil and water. Radon is found in outdoor air and in the indoor air of buildings of all
kinds. Radon is a proven carcinogen and exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung
cancer after smoking.
A Volatile organic compounds
B Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
C Urea-formaldehyde
D Radon
Question 69
Select three different ways that an urban planning consultant on a LEED for Neighbourhood
Development project would suggest?
These are examples of source reduction and space-efficient strategies.
A Choose products made in factories that support worker health
B Structural insulated panels
C Select products that ship with less packaging

D Select only low VOC and non-off gassing products
E Advanced framing
F Reducing hallways
Question 70
Demand response is new to LEED V4. What is not a benefit from it?
DR is automatically initiated by the utility in what is known as a DR event
A Energy generation and distribution efficiency
B Grid reliability
C Operator convenience
D Reduced GhG emissions
Question 71
A team is trying to reduce potable water for irrigation and should avoid:
Building level metering will track the whole building's water use but not allow a determination
regarding whether the irrigation potable water use is being reduced. Irrigation water use would have
to be tracked separately.
A Only use grass for athletic fields
B Using treated water
C Installing building level meters

D Using smart sensor demand based technologies for irrigation
Question 72
Rob Ford is trying to decide if he needs to hire a LEED AP for his upcoming brand new City Hall
in Toronto. What is the purpose of a LEED AP?
The purpose (or intent) of having a LEED AP on the project is to 'support and encourage the design
integration required by LEED to streamline the application and certification process. Although
projects will receive a point for having the correct LEED AP specialty on the project, this is not their
purpose.
A To serve as the project administrator
B To earn a point in Innovation in Design
C To make all the sustainable design decisions

D To streamline the LEED process
Question 73
McDuckold Restaurant wants to strengthen their corporate sustainability report by decreasing
indoor water demand. How can the restaurant do this?
High efficiency toilets have a tremendous water savings over conventional flush fixtures. The other
options offset potable water not reduce demand.
A Using rainwater for toilets
B Use cooling tower condensation for flushing toilets
C Recycling water from laundry machines for urinals

D Install high efficiency toilets
Question 74
Selecting a site in the middle of Manhattan will positively impact the environmental side of the
triple bottom line through:
Manhattan is a dense area and developing within its limits saves virgin land for farmland and
wildlife
A Protection of undeveloped land
B Lead to flexible zoning rules
C Availability of existing parking

D Decreasing the Heat Island Effect
Question 75
Water from a dishwasher is being recycled. What can most jurisdictions not use this water for?
Dishwasher water is usually considered blackwater and thus it cannot be reused anywhere in most
jurisdictions.
A Flushing Toilets
B Irrigation
C All of the above

D Process water in cooling towers
Question 76
How would Bethancourt Landscaping Engineers prevent stormwater runoff?
Vegetated roof would capture and treat the water that would eventually run off the site
A Minimizing the quantity of open space in the project boundary
B Installing a vegetated roof
C Replacing native plants with turf grass to capture and filter the water
D Locating the building 40 feet from a water body
Question 77
There are 3 Architecture firms collaborating on a single project at the University of Toronto. The
integrated design process is very dependent on:
Integrative projects are based on integrative teams and frequent, collaborative communications
A Collaborative team members
B Linear planning
C Cost-based decision making

D Working toward individual goals
Question 78
A project team is debating over pursuing LEED or just building to code and saving money.
Which of the following is not a green building principle?
All aspects of the project should be performed together in an integrative and holistic manner –
not separately
A Looking at long term savings
B Committing to green building early in the process
C Budgeting the planning and design costs separately from the operations costs
D Multidisciplinary approach
E Commitment to the process through the life of the project
Question 79
LeadingGreen selected to gut an existing building in a historic district which will help with
which 2 LEED credit: (CHOOSE 2)
Sensitive land protection tries to avoid sensitive areas and encourage the development of a
previously developed site Process of elimination is always a good way to double check
A Access to Quality Transit
B Building life cycle impact reduction
C Surrounding Density & Diverse Uses

D High Priority Sites
E Sensitive land protection
Question 80
What is one of the primary tasks for an integrated project team during the Discovery phase?
Approaching certification using an integrative process gives the project team the greatest chance of
success. The process includes three phases: Discovery, Design and construction (implementation),
and Occupancy, operations, and performance feedback. Discovery is the most important phase of the
integrative process as collective understanding of system interactions are reached during the
discovery phase.
A Register the project via LEED Online
B Understanding system interactions
C Make certain there is a local waste hauler that recycles waste

D Secure project financing
Question 81
A new University building is being constructed at MSU and wants to know which of the
following purchasing decisions should be made.
Just by recognizing the 3 standards you should know they are good for LEED and thus correct. FSC-
certified paper products are environmentally preferable because they reduce the demand for virgin
resources. Purchasing food locally meets the goal by supporting the local economy. Computers and
equipment that are ENERGY STAR rated meets the goal because they use less energy and enter sleep
mode when not in use
A High VOC carpets and carpet pads, low VOC furniture, green cleaning products
B Paper towels that are FSC certified, cafeteria food from a local farm, ENERGY STAR computers
C High VOC paints, low SRI roofing materials, metal furniture

D Power adapters, new textbooks made from new-growth wood pulp, trash cans
Question 82
A project wants to increase security and help late-night office employees find their cars after
sun down but is concerned about light pollution and energy consumption after the parking lot
is closed. How can the project save money over time and help their employees?
This is a tricky question as you may be confused from the late-night worker comment as well as the
‘building closed’ note. When a building is closed it is assumed no occupants are inside nor are there
any cars leaving and thus shutting off lights while its closed saves energy and still allows late-night
workers to find their cars before closing.
A Installing timers that shut off the lights after closing
B Install lights on the 5th floor of the building to shine down on the parking lot
C Ensure that the non-shielded lights illuminate the path users take to their cars
D Use shielded LED fixtures that are on 24 hours day
Question 83
Buildings are becoming more and more specific and require different items based on their
location and space type. How does LEED address this?
New versions of LEED cover the big changes that occur when the rating system gets overhauled
every 3-4 years. LEED Pilot Credits facilitates the introduction of new prerequisites and credits to
LEED. The process allows projects to test credits that haven't been through USGBC's complete
drafting and balloting process. The LEED Rating System adaptations can be considered extensions of
existing rating system to address specific types of spaces or requirements for international projects.
A LEED Rating System Adaptations
B LEED for International Projects
C LEED Pilot Credits

D New versions of LEED
E LEED Innovation in Design Points
Question 84
How many credit categories do the LEED BD+C rating systems have?
Each BD+C rating system has 8 credit categories: • Location and Transportation (LT) • Sustainable
Sites (SS) • Water Efficiency (WE) • Energy and Atmosphere (EA) • Materials and Resources (MR) •
Indoor Environmental • Quality (EQ) • Innovation (IN) • Regional Priority (RP) Even though it has 1
credit and 1 prerequisite, LEED v4 does not include the Integrative Process (IP) as a credit category.
A 7
B 9
C8
D6
Question 85
How could a long-term palliative care building enhance patient privacy?
Sound isolation is part of acoustic performance. In healthcare, patient privacy is important -
discussions between doctors and patients should be private
A Installing acoustic insulation
B Designing patient rooms to be located underground
C Ensuring that all spaces have a view of the outdoors

D Designing patient rooms to be located at the buildings peripheries
Question 86
What is not part of a waste reduction strategy?
The goal is to reduce waste
A Recycling
B Source reduction
C Mercury Disposal
D Waste Disposal
Question 87
The triple bottom line is a more telling perspective on the holistic effects of any item. Looking
at green buildings, what are two economic benefits in the triple bottom line?
The other options deal with economic or social benefits from Green buildings
A Reduced utility costs
B Less materials sent to the landfill
C Save land and reduce the development of green fields

D Reduced liabilities due to poor indoor air quality causing health issues
E Increasing the tax base to the community
Question 88
Your new vacation home will be located in the Alps and you cleverly decide to supply your
toilet water with snow from the mountains. How does this decision affect the future of the
project?
Consider the information given and the goals of LEED - to curb climate change. Are snowpacks
growing or shrinking due to climate change? Overall they are shrinking. If a building or area depends
on the snowpack and the snowpack is diminishing, building design should consider water
conservation for the future.
A The project could emphasize water conservation
B The project could later choose to pursue an infill design
C The project could later choose to pursue adaptive reuse

D The project could commission the project throughout its life
Question 89
Which strategy can the project team suggest if the building owner wants to maintain ongoing
energy efficiency and performance?
Building Automation Systems (BAS) are systems that use computer controls to monitor and
control building subsystems for maximum operating efficiency and reporting
A Enhanced Commissioning prior to occupancy
B Fundamental Commissioning
C Enhanced Refrigerant Management

D Building Automation Systems
Question 90
What standard does LEED use to define an alternative vehicle, like my car?
American Council for Energy Efficient Economy is ACEEE
A ACEEE annual vehicle rating guide
B Green-e certification
C Land Trust Alliance

D Institute of Transportation Engineers
Question 91
The integrative process has many benefits. Select the greatest one:
The way to reduce costs LEED projects and green building in general is through the use of the
integrative process. It is when green building is an add-on to the traditional construction process
that it becomes more expensive.
A Reducing costs over traditional construction processes
B Maximizing opportunities for integrative, cost-effective adoption of green design & construction strategies
C Score the most LEED points possible

D Obtaining local, state, and federal incentives for green design and construction strategies
Question 92
A project in the middle of the desert wants to utilize the great amount of sunlight to increase
daylighting but at the same time reduce energy use. How can this be accomplished best?
Installing windows that are appropriate for the climate and that are strategically located is the
correct choice
A Designing the building to locate private offices, janitorial rooms, storage closets along the perimeter of the building
B Maximizing the amount of windows along the south façade
C Selecting a site which is adequately shaded by surrounding buildings

D Appropriately modeling and locating the windows
E Maximizing the glazing ratio
Question 93
Selecting a site in proximity to diverse uses is encouraged in LEED. Which of the following are
categories of use-types? (CHOOSE 2)
This question specifically asks for the categories not the actual uses which are five categories of use
types: Food retail Community-serving retail Services Civic and community facilities Community
anchor uses
A Restaurants
B Police stations
C Food Retail
D All retail stores
E Community Anchor
Question 94
An environmentally preferable purchasing policy is encouraged in LEED throughout the project
and more specifically during the Charrette. EPPs should pick materials that: (CHOOSE 2)
Bonus points for using material extracted manufactured and purchased within a 100 mile radius.
Durability is important because it reduces waste through retrofitting later in the life cycle.
A Being created in the same continent
B Focus on virgin materials only
C Durability
D Supporting the local economy
E Being assembled in factories that pay below average wages
Question 95
Standards are an integral part to LEED as they avoid the need of reinventing the wheel. How
are sensitive habitats identified? (CHOOSE 2)
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - The Fish and Wildlife Service keeps a list of threatened and
endangered species. The NatureServe Heritage Program - NatureServe classifies species and
ecological communities under different ratings. The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations – defines prime
farm land. US EPA Land Trust Alliance is used for Site Development – Protect or Restore Habitat in
order to know what land to finance. US EPA ECO-regions is used for Site Development – Protect or
Restore Habitat in order to know what land to finance. FEMA defines floodplains.
A US EPA Land Trust Alliance
B The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
C FEMA
D US EPA ECO-regions
E The NatureServe Heritage Program
F The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
Question 96
Feedback loops have been responsible for amplifying the detrimental environmental affects due
to our life style. Which of the following is a negative feedback loop?
A negative feedback loop is a system where the output may signal the system to stop changing. Here
the thermostat tells the system to stop running if a certain temperature threshold is reached.
A A thermostat whose temperature feedback indicates to the system when to turn off
B Warming water release more GHG to increase the temperature of our water
Increased heat islands require more mechanical cooling which generates more greenhouse gas
C emissions causing the need for more cooling
D Greenhouse gases melt more ice decreasing the Earth’s albedo leading to more warming
Question 97
The FTE is a way to measure occupancy in LEED. Which are classified as FTEs on a
project? (CHOOSE 2)
1 FTE is based off an 8 hour work day. A student is considered a visitor as they aren’t in the space for
a full 8 hour day.
A A student
B Seasonal cleaning staff
C A librarian
D A delivery person
E A receptionist
Question 98
Every project must earn a minimum number of points through credits. What is the purpose of
Minimum program requirements? (CHOOSE 3)
These requirements define the types of buildings that the LEED Green Building Rating Systems were
designed to evaluate, and taken together serve three goals: 1. to give clear guidance to customers 2.
to protect the integrity of the LEED program 3. and to reduce complications that occur during the
LEED Certification process Code compliance must be completed with or without LEED certification
A Ensure a minimum number of credits are met
B Verify buildings are meeting environmental goals
C Protect the integrity of the LEED program

D Reduce certification process challenges
E Give clear guidance to customers
F Ensure the building complies with local code

Question 99
A developer uses dampers to adequately funnel the correct amount of fresh air to each
occupied space which could help with:
Research shows by improving indoor air quality, adding daylighting and views, occupant productivity
goes up
A Lower initial costs
B A decrease in ETS
C Increased quality of views

D Improved productivity of the occupants
Question 100
Every credit category incorporates different standards to lead its sustainability. What credit
category would REACH optimization assist?
REACH is the Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals.
REACH requires all companies manufacturing or importing chemical substances into the European
Union in quantities of one ton or more per year to register these substances. The main aims of
REACH are to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks
that can be posed by chemicals, the promotion of alternative test methods, the free circulation of
substances on the internal market, and enhancing competitiveness and innovation. REACH makes the
industry responsible for assessing and managing the risks posed by chemicals and providing
appropriate safety information to their users. LEED products that do not contain substances in the
Authorization List or Candidate List can be used to meet certain credit requirements in the Materials
and Resources category
A LT
B SS
C MR
D EA
E IEQ

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What is the main distinction between a LEED interpretation and CIR?

What is the main distinction between a LEED interpretation and CIR?

What strategy would reduce the use of potable water?

What strategy would reduce the use of potable water?

ANSWER

KEY - Leading Green Practice Test 2 - V4 Green Associate (101q)

C Portion of the project site submitted for LEED certification

A Hiring Industry experts

B Following government regulations

B Building Automation System

A LEED interpretations are not published publically

B LEED interpretations only apply to one specific project

C LEED interpretations are more costly to submit than CIRs

A Increasing the infiltration of stormwater runoff

B Installing an onsite septic system

C Installing a dual flush toilet

F Linear planning and design processes

A Enhance human health and well being

B Promote Sustainable and Regenerative Material Resources Cycles

C Reverse Contribution to Global Climate Change

A Parking lots shaded with solar panels

B Extensive Green Roof

F Living Building Challenge

A Compartmentalization of all multi-occupant spaces

B Using demand controlled ventilation

C Only supplying densely occupied spaces with outdoor air

B Zero point energy

A Overseeing LEED credential maintenance

B Third-party technical reviews of registered LEED projects

C Developing the LEED rating systems

B The LEED Reference Guide

C Minimum Program Requirements

A Selecting refurbished furniture

B Only selecting Energy Star rated fixtures for dish washers

C Installing demountable interior nonstructural walls

A Maximizing open space within the LEED boundary

B Encouraging the addition of off-street parking only

C Share a multi-level parking structure amongst a number of buildings

A ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010

B Energy Policy Act of 1992

C ASHRAE Standard 55-2010

A Connecting buildings with the outdoors

B Improved thermal comfort

C Reduce electrical lighting requirements

B Submit a CIR to a LEED project reviewer

C Install the system in anticipation of receiving legal exception

B Choose from a selection of referenced standards

A Submit one CIR covering both the credit and prerequisite

B Submit a LEED interpretation Request

F Submit one CIR only, for the credit

A The cost of the material

B The location and travel distance of the manufacturing plant only

C The environmental impact of extracting and manufacturing the material

F The impact the material has on society

C Sensitive Land Protection

A The project team must alter the design

B The energy model must be proven effective for approval

C LEED supercedes the code

A Replace air filters