World population growth, water poverty, progressive increase in water consumption, poor management of water resources, and the existence of obsolete infrastructures are significant factors contributing to the global water problem. In the context of buildings, users consume water and generate waste.
There are strategies for water savings and efficiency that can be applied in the design and maintenance of buildings.
In this article in our series on the “water footprint in real estate” we will explore how LEED Certification strategies play a key role in promoting practices and technologies that drive water management efficiency.
How does LEED evaluate water efficiency?
One of the categories evaluated by LEED is “water efficiency”. On the one hand there is LEED BD+C “building design and construction”, and on the other hand LEED BO&M “building operation and maintenance”. LEED BD+C includes 3 mandatory prerequisites and 4 scored credits:
- Reduction of outdoor water use
- Reduction of indoor water use.
- Water measurement of the building.
- Reduction of outdoor water use: 2 points
- Indoor water use reduction: 6 points
- Use of water in cooling towers: 2 points
- Water measurement: 1 point
LEED BO&M includes 2 mandatory prerequisites and 4 scored credits:
- Reduction of indoor water use.
- Water measurement of the building.
- Reduction of outdoor water use: 2 points
- Indoor water use reduction: 5 points
- Use of water in cooling towers: 3 points
- Water measurement: 2 points
Mandatory prerequisites do not count towards the final score, but must be present in order to obtain certification.
Some items, such as “reduction of outdoor water consumption”, are repeated.
This means that as a prerequisite you need a minimum reduction in consumption, but if you achieve a greater reduction, you can get up to 2 points.
Water use is also evaluated in the “sustainable plots” block, where it is studied how rainwater is managed and whether or not the drainage system is sustainable.
“sustainable plots”, where it is studied how rainwater is managed, and whether or not the drainage system is sustainable.
Ineria’s commitment to water management
LEED certification not only benefits building owners and occupants, but also contributes to the well-being of the planet by reducing the water footprint of the real estate industry.
In a world where water resources are becoming increasingly scarce, the adoption of standards such as LEED is essential to address the global challenge of water management in an effective and sustainable manner.
At Ineria Management we recognize this, and have a team of experts who can help you obtain your certification, ensuring a responsible and progressive approach to the preservation of this valuable resource.
