In LEED, what does the term 'waste stream' refer to?

The term 'waste stream' in the context of LEED refers specifically to the flow of materials that are discarded as waste. This encompasses all materials that are no longer considered valuable or useful to the initiating party and are typically sent to landfills or other disposal methods. Understanding waste streams is crucial for LEED certification, as it allows for the assessment of waste management practices and the potential for waste reduction strategies throughout the project's lifecycle.

By focusing on the management and reduction of waste streams, a project can enhance its sustainability profile. This can involve recycling, reusing materials, or implementing strategies to reduce the total amount of waste generated. Evaluating waste streams effectively is a critical part of achieving certifications aimed at minimizing environmental impact within the Materials & Resources category of LEED.