What is a sustainable product in the context of LEED?

In the context of LEED, a sustainable product is defined as one that is produced with minimal environmental impact and reduced resource consumption. This encompasses a broad range of factors that contribute to sustainability, including the efficiency of the production process, the sourcing of materials, and the overall lifecycle of the product.

By focusing on minimal environmental impact, the product not only considers how resources are extracted and processed but also addresses how the product is utilized and its end-of-life management. Reduced resource consumption means that the product should ideally use fewer materials and energy in its creation, aligning with LEED's broader mission of promoting practices that protect the environment and conserve resources.

While products made from recycled materials, those with long lifespans, and products sourced locally all contribute to sustainability in different ways, they do not encompass the full spectrum of what makes a product sustainable according to LEED principles. Producing products with minimal environmental impact and resource usage captures the comprehensive criteria necessary for sustainability in this context.