How can LEED site development improve the health and well-being of building occupants and communities?

1 Reducing pollution

One of the benefits of LEED site development is that it can help reduce the amount of pollution that is generated and released by buildings and their activities. For example, LEED site development encourages the use of low-emitting materials, renewable energy sources, water-efficient fixtures, and stormwater management practices that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and runoff. By reducing pollution, LEED site development can improve the air quality, water quality, and climate resilience of the building and its surroundings, which can have positive effects on the health and comfort of the occupants and the community.

2 Enhancing biodiversity

Another benefit of LEED site development is that it can help enhance the biodiversity of the site and its surroundings. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms and ecosystems that exist in a given area, and it is essential for maintaining ecological balance and providing ecosystem services. LEED site development encourages the preservation and restoration of natural habitats, the use of native and adaptive plants, and the creation of green spaces and wildlife corridors that can support the diversity and abundance of flora and fauna. By enhancing biodiversity, LEED site development can improve the aesthetic, recreational, and educational value of the site and its surroundings, which can have positive effects on the mental and emotional well-being of the occupants and the community.

3 Promoting active transportation

A third benefit of LEED site development is that it can help promote active transportation among the occupants and the community. Active transportation refers to any mode of travel that involves physical activity, such as walking, biking, or using public transit. LEED site development encourages the integration of the site with the existing transportation network, the provision of safe and accessible routes and facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, and the reduction of parking spaces and vehicle trips that can discourage active transportation. By promoting active transportation, LEED site development can improve the physical fitness, mobility, and accessibility of the occupants and the community, which can have positive effects on their health and productivity.

4 Fostering social interaction

A fourth benefit of LEED site development is that it can help foster social interaction among the occupants and the community. Social interaction refers to any form of communication or cooperation that involves human relationships, such as chatting, sharing, or collaborating. LEED site development encourages the design of spaces and amenities that can facilitate social interaction, such as plazas, courtyards, gardens, or meeting rooms. By fostering social interaction, LEED site development can improve the sense of belonging, trust, and support among the occupants and the community, which can have positive effects on their happiness and satisfaction.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?