Navigating LEED EB-(O+M): A Step-by-Step approach to comply Location and Transportation Prerequisite for Transportation Performance

Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Sustainable building practices aim to reduce the environmental impact of transportation by encouraging the use of alternative modes of transportation. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system offers credits to buildings that are able to reduce their reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Step-by-step approach to comply with the LEED (existing building operation and maintenance) for Location and Transportation Prerequisite: Transportation Performance is discussed here.

Step 1: Conduct a transportation survey

The first step in achieving this prerequisite is to conduct a transportation survey for the building. This survey must be administered using the USGBC system. The survey should include questions about the transportation options available to building occupants, such as walking, biking, telecommuting, using public transportation, carpooling, and driving alone.

Step 2: Achieve required response rate from the survey

Review the rating system to determine the required response rate for the transportation survey. If the daily average number of visitors is greater than the number of building occupants, visitors should also be included in the survey.

Step 3: Determine transportation performance score

Once the required response rate has been achieved, the transportation performance score can be determined. This score is calculated based on the average pounds of CO2e per one-way trip per occupant for each transportation mode. The transportation performance score ranges from 0 to 100, with a minimum score of 40 required to achieve this prerequisite.

Step 4: Prepare documentation for certification review

After the transportation survey has been conducted and the transportation performance score has been calculated, the necessary documentation should be prepared for the certification review. This documentation includes confirmation of the weighted occupancy and whether visitors were included in the survey, the completed transportation survey, and the calculated transportation performance score.

Complying with the LEED EBOM Location and Transportation Prerequisite: Transportation Performance requires a thorough approach to reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. By conducting a transportation survey, achieving the required response rate, calculating the transportation performance score, and preparing the necessary documentation, buildings can significantly reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.