What does EQ refer to in the LEED framework?

Within the LEED framework, EQ stands for Indoor Environmental Quality. This category emphasizes the importance of creating healthy indoor spaces that enhance the well-being and productivity of the building occupants. It focuses on factors such as air quality, lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustic comfort, all of which contribute to a person's overall comfort and health within a built environment.

LEED credits related to Indoor Environmental Quality encourage strategies that improve ventilation, reduce exposure to contaminants, and promote natural light, among other aspects. By addressing these elements, projects can help provide a higher quality of life and drive occupant performance, which is becoming increasingly recognized as vital in sustainable building practices.