What type of materials does the term "regional materials" refer to in LEED?

The term "regional materials" in LEED refers specifically to materials produced near the project's location. This is an important aspect of sustainability that encourages the use of resources available in close proximity to the construction site. By sourcing materials that are locally produced, the project can significantly reduce transportation impacts, support local economies, and often rely on materials that are more environmentally friendly due to their shorter transport distances. This aligns with LEED's goals of reducing carbon footprints and minimizing environmental impact.

Using materials from local suppliers can sometimes be seen as a related concept, but it does not capture the essence of the criterion, which focuses specifically on production proximity. Hybridized materials and those that are easily transported do not align with LEED's definition of regional materials, as the emphasis is on the environmental benefits of production location rather than transport ease or material composition.