What does the LEED credit for Construction Waste Management aim to achieve?

The LEED credit for Construction Waste Management is focused on reducing the amount of waste that is generated during the construction process and promoting the diversion of that waste from landfills. This approach is significant because construction and demolition activities are responsible for a substantial portion of waste sent to landfills. By implementing effective waste management practices, such as recycling, reusing materials, or donating surplus items, projects can significantly minimize their environmental impact.

This credit encourages project teams to develop a waste management plan that outlines how they will manage waste on-site, track its disposal, and ensure that materials are diverted from landfills whenever possible. The end goal is to promote sustainable building practices by minimizing waste, leading to both environmental and economic benefits, as reducing landfill use can lower disposal costs and contribute to overall resource conservation.

By prioritizing waste reduction and diversion, the Construction Waste Management credit aligns with LEED’s overarching objectives of sustainability and efficient resource use, making option B the correct choice.