What is a common way to earn credit in the Materials and Resources category?

In the Materials and Resources category of LEED V4, earning credit is heavily focused on sustainable practices related to the materials used in construction. One of the primary ways to achieve this is by utilizing recycled or sustainably sourced materials. This approach supports a reduction in negative environmental impacts, promotes responsible sourcing, and encourages resource conservation.

Using recycled materials helps minimize waste and decrease the demand for new resources, which can lead to significant energy savings and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction and processing of raw materials. Similarly, sustainably sourced materials—those harvested in a way that considers environmental impact and resource renewal—contribute to sustainable ecosystems.

The other options do not align with the core goals of the Materials and Resources category in LEED. Traditional building materials often do not meet the standards for sustainability and resource efficiency. Energy-efficient fixtures pertain more to the Energy and Atmosphere category, while reducing material costs, while potentially beneficial from a budget perspective, does not inherently reflect sustainable practices or sourcing strategies.