IGBC Green Landscape- Material Selection Credit- Local Materials

Complying with the IGBC landscape credit for using local materials can be an excellent way to support the local economy and minimize environmental impacts. The credit awards points based on the percentage of total construction and landscape materials used within a distance of 400 km from the site area. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to comply with this credit:

Step 1: Identify Local Material Sources

The first step to complying with this credit is to identify local material sources. Local materials can include building materials like bricks, stones, tiles, and wood, as well as landscaping materials like plants, mulch, and soil. Research local suppliers and manufacturers to determine which materials can be sourced from within a 400 km radius of the project site.

Step 2: Calculate the Percentage of Local Materials

Once you’ve identified local material sources, calculate the percentage of total construction and landscape materials used that are sourced locally. This can be done by determining the cost of all materials used in the project and calculating the percentage that comes from local sources. The credit requires that at least 50% of the total materials cost comes from local sources.

Step 3: Choose Local Materials

Choose local materials that meet the project’s requirements and design specifications. Work with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure that the chosen materials meet the necessary quality and sustainability standards. Ensure that the chosen materials are delivered to the project site in a sustainable manner, minimizing transportation emissions and impacts.

Step 4: Document the Use of Local Materials

To comply with the credit, document the use of local materials. This documentation should include a list of all local materials procured, the respective manufacturers, and the approximate distance from the project site to the place of manufacturing units. Manufacturer letters indicating the distance from the project site to the place of their manufacturing units should also be included. Finally, calculate the percentage of local materials sourced (in terms of cost) with respect to the total materials cost of the project.

Here’s a summary of the documentation required to comply with the IGBC landscape credit for using local materials:

Documentation Required:

• List / details of all local materials procured and respective manufacturers specifying approximate distance from the project site to the place of manufacturing units.

• Calculations indicating the percentage of local materials sourced (in terms of cost) with respect to the total materials cost of the project.

• Manufacturer letters indicating the distance from the project site to the place of their manufacturing units.

Complying with the IGBC landscape credit for using local materials can help support local economies and minimize environmental impacts. By following these steps and documenting the use of local materials, you can earn points towards the IGBC certification and create a more sustainable landscape project.