Protect native plants during construction
Native plants on the site are a valuable resource.
There are big environmental advantages to landscaping with native plants. They can be purchased from local nurseries, but it makes more sense to protect those already on the site. Trees, shrubs, and perennials, including ferns and wildflowers, can be dug up to keep them out of harm's way and replanted when construction is complete. In the interim, they should be stored in berms (through a process called "banking in"). Wildflowers and other plants native to the site are adapted to local climate and soil conditions.
Green points
LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify.
: 1 point for developing a tree or plant preservation plan with no disturbance zones and leaving at least 40% of the buildable portion of the site undisturbed (SS 1).
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions.
/ICC-700: Up to 24 points for protecting natural resources on site with a variety of prescribed steps (503.1); 5 points for formulating a plan to restore or enhance natural vegetation cleared during construction (503.5).
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
