C5.6: Use Regional Materials

(3-5 points)

INTENT

Reduce energy use for transportation; increase demand for regional materials, plants, and soils; and promote regional identity by supporting the use of local resources.

REQUIREMENTS*

Percent calculations are based on cost or replacement value. If only a fraction of a material is extracted, harvested, recovered, and manufactured within the specified distances, then only that percentage (by weight) shall contribute to the regional value.

• Use materials, plants, and soils that are sourced within the distances specified in the table below such that they constitute at least:
  • 30 percent of total materials cost 3 points
  • 60 percent of total materials cost 4 points
  • 90 percent of total materials cost 5 points

Material Type	Distance Requirements
Soils, compost, and mulch	Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur within 50 miles (80.47 kilometers)
Boulders, rocks, and aggregate	Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur within 50 miles (80.47 kilometers)
Plants	All growing facilities and suppliers for the plant must be within 250 miles (402.34 kilometers)
All other materials	Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur within 500 miles (804.67 kilometers)

RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES

• Identify regional sources for plants, soils, and other landscape materials, including those that are salvaged or reused or contain recycled content.
• Confirm that plant re-wholesalers and retailers obtain their products regionally.
• During construction, ensure that the specified local materials, plants, and soils are installed or used.

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