What is the main focus of the Materials and Resources category?

The main focus of the Materials and Resources category within LEED V4 is indeed promoting sustainable material usage and waste management. This category emphasizes the importance of sourcing materials responsibly, reducing the environmental impact of material extraction and manufacturing, and encouraging the use of recycled, reclaimed, or environmentally friendly products.

Sustainable material usage aims to minimize resource depletion and limit harmful emissions associated with production processes. Likewise, effective waste management practices ensure that materials are reused, recycled, or safely disposed of, thus reducing landfill waste and encouraging a circular economy. This helps in significantly lowering the building's overall impact on environmental resources and supports long-term sustainability goals.

Understanding this focus is crucial for project teams aiming to earn LEED credits related to materials, as it guides design decisions and procurement processes throughout the construction and operation of a building.