What does the LEED Water Efficiency credit emphasize?

• A. Reducing water use and promoting sustainable water management.
• B. Maximizing energy efficiency of building systems.
• C. Improving indoor air quality through ventilation.
• D. Encouraging use of potable water for all landscaping.

Answer: (A)

Water efficiency in LEED focuses on reducing the demand for potable water and managing water resources more sustainably. The best choice captures both reducing water use and promoting practices that manage water wisely, including using non-potable sources where appropriate and supporting efficient fixtures and irrigation. This aligns with LEED WE credits that aim to cut indoor and outdoor water consumption and encourage water reuse and monitoring.

Other ideas in the options relate to different sustainability areas: maximizing energy efficiency targets energy performance rather than water use; improving indoor air quality through ventilation is about air quality, not water; and encouraging the use of potable water for all landscaping increases demand on a precious resource, which contradicts the goal of reducing potable water use.