The strategies that are eligible for reducing landscape water demand in the Water Efficiency Credit,
Outdoor Water Use Reduction, include selecting plant species that require less water and improving
irrigation efficiency. These measures are part of a comprehensive approach to minimize water use in
landscaping.
Reference: The LEED v4.1 O+M reference materials highlight the importance of plant species
selection and irrigation system efficiency as primary strategies for achieving outdoor water use
reduction1.
Reducing landscape water demand in the Water Efficiency Credit, Outdoor Water Use Reduction, can
be achieved through strategic plant species selection and improving irrigation efficiency. Choosing
native or adapted plants that require less water helps reduce the demand for irrigation.
Simultaneously, employing efficient irrigation technologies and practices, such as drip irrigation or
smart controllers, minimizes water waste. These strategies work together to significantly lower the
amount of water needed for landscaping, contributing to water conservation and sustainability goals.
Reference:
These strategies are discussed in the LEED AP Operations + Maintenance reference guide within the
section on Water Efficiency Credit, Outdoor Water Use Reduction. The guide provides best practices
for selecting plant species and irrigation methods that align with LEED's objectives for reducing water
use in landscapes.