LEED Green Associate Practice Test

Which category includes impacts related to the sustainable use and management of ecosystem services?

1. Water quality protection

2. Promote sustainable and regenerative material resources cycles

3. Enhance the value proposition of green building

4. Protect water regimes and natural hydrological cycles

The correct answer is: Promote sustainable and regenerative material resources cycles

The chosen answer focuses on the promotion of sustainable and regenerative material resource cycles, which encompasses the responsible use of raw materials and aims for a positive effect on ecosystem services. Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans derive from nature, including clean air, water purification, pollination of crops, and provision of habitat for wildlife. By promoting sustainable and regenerative practices, such as recycling materials, sourcing sustainably produced resources, and minimizing waste, projects can contribute to the health of ecosystems, thereby sustaining their services. The other options, while related to environmental considerations, do not directly address the management and sustainable use of ecosystem services to the same extent. For instance, protecting water quality and natural hydrological cycles refers more narrowly to water resources rather than the broader concept of ecosystem services as a whole. Enhancing the value proposition of green building is largely focused on the benefits of green buildings for occupants and communities, rather than the direct influence on ecosystem services. These distinctions clarify why the correct answer center on sustainable and regenerative approaches to material resource management.