What does the term 'compliant materials' mean in the context of LEED?

In the context of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the term 'compliant materials' refers to materials that meet specific sustainability or regulatory criteria. This alignment with sustainability standards and regulations is essential for projects aiming for LEED certification, which promotes environmental responsibility in building practices.

Compliant materials play a crucial role in various LEED credit categories, such as Materials and Resources (MR) and Sustainable Sites (SS). These materials must adhere to the required performance benchmarks, such as environmental impact, resource efficiency, and health considerations. For instance, materials with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), those made from recycled content, or those that have been sustainably harvested contribute to a project's sustainability goals and enhance its overall rating.

In contrast, materials characterized primarily by aesthetic value do not necessarily meet the sustainability criteria required for LEED certification. Similarly, the broad category of any materials used in construction does not imply compliance with LEED standards. Local sourcing, while beneficial for reducing transportation-related emissions, is just one aspect of what defines compliant materials and does not encompass the entirety of the criteria involved in LEED certification.