MR Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables
Intent
The intent of this prerequisite is to reduce waste generated by building occupants and ensure that recyclable materials are properly collected, stored, and diverted from landfills.
This requirement reinforces the idea that sustainability is not just about design and construction—it continues throughout the operational life of the building.
Requirements
Projects must provide dedicated areas that are:
Required Materials
At a minimum, recycling must include:
In addition, projects must also address at least two of the following waste streams:
Key Design Considerations
To successfully implement this prerequisite, project teams should consider:
Location and Accessibility
Recycling areas should be convenient for occupants and efficient for waste collection.
Sizing and Flexibility
Storage areas should accommodate current needs and anticipate future waste volumes.
Separation vs. Commingling
Depending on local recycling infrastructure, materials may be separated on-site or combined and sorted off-site.
Coordination with Haulers
Understanding local recycling capabilities is critical to designing an effective system.
Special Case: Retail Projects
Retail projects may need to conduct a waste stream study to identify the most common recyclable materials and design storage accordingly.
Why This Matters
This prerequisite establishes the foundation for operational waste management, ensuring that buildings are equipped to support recycling throughout their lifecycle.
Without proper infrastructure, even the most sustainable material strategies during construction can be undermined during building operations.
Official FAQs
Which of the following materials is REQUIRED to be included in recycling collection under LEED for MR Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables?
B. Plastic
C. Concrete
D. Gypsum
✅ Answer: B
In addition to standard recyclables, how many additional waste streams must be addressed for MR Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of Recyclables?
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
✅ Answer: B
• 👉 In addition to Paper, Cardboard, Glass, Plastics and Metals
projects must also address at least two of the following waste streams:
• Batteries
• Mercury-containing lamps
• Electronic waste (e-waste)
Which of the following is a required recyclable material?
B. E-waste
C. Cardboard
D. Lamps
✅ Answer: C
A project provides recycling for paper, cardboard, glass, plastics, and metals but does not include batteries or e-waste. Does it comply?
B. No
✅ Answer: B
👉 Must include at least 2 additional streams
A project provides recycling areas that are difficult for occupants to access but easy for waste haulers. Does it meet the prerequisite?
B. No
✅ Answer: B
👉 Must be accessible to both occupants AND haulers
A project uses a commingled recycling system where materials are sorted off-site. Does this meet LEED requirements?
B. No
✅ Answer: A
👉 LEED allows commingling if supported by local infrastructure
Why is this prerequisite critical to LEED?
B. It supports operational waste management
C. It improves energy performance
D. It reduces water use
✅ Answer: B
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