What certification must tropical wood meet to be used in LEED for Homes projects?

Tropical wood used in LEED for Homes projects must meet the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification standard. This certification ensures that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. The FSC certification process emphasizes sustainable forestry practices and tracks the wood's journey from the forest to the end consumer, helping to ensure that the use of tropical hardwoods does not contribute to deforestation and that it supports the rights of forest-dependent communities and workers.

FSC certification is specifically recognized within LEED for its strong criteria around environmental stewardship and sustainable sourcing, which align closely with the goals of LEED to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible building practices. Therefore, using FSC-certified materials in LEED for Homes projects not only helps achieve certification points but also supports broader sustainability objectives in the building sector.