What is the primary focus of LEED’s MR Credits?

The primary focus of LEED's Materials and Resources (MR) Credits is to reduce the environmental impact of materials. This is achieved through practices such as encouraging the use of sustainable materials, recycling, and minimizing waste. The MR Credits promote responsible sourcing and lifecycle considerations, which help in mitigating the negative effects that building materials can have on the environment. By emphasizing the reduction of resource depletion and environmental harm, these credits aim to foster a healthier, more sustainable building ecosystem.

While enhancing energy efficiency, improving material performance, and promoting renewable energy sources are all important components of green building practices, they are more directly addressed in other credit categories within LEED. The MR Credits specifically target the material aspects of construction and operation, making the reduction of environmental impact their central objective.