What qualifies as a high-efficiency irrigation system under LEED criteria?

A high-efficiency irrigation system is defined by its ability to conserve water while still maintaining the health and sustainability of the landscape. LEED criteria emphasize water efficiency as a key component of sustainable design, and systems that utilize significantly less water than conventional methods align perfectly with this goal.

These systems incorporate advanced technology and practices that reduce water waste, such as drip irrigation, smart controllers, and moisture sensors. By minimizing water usage, they not only contribute to environmental conservation but also can lead to reduced operational costs over time.

Meanwhile, systems that use more water under the assumption that it ensures landscape health do not align with the LEED philosophy of efficient water management. Likewise, while systems that operate without electrical power or rely solely on manual operation may have their merits, they do not necessarily guarantee significant water savings, which is the primary criterion for defining a high-efficiency irrigation system within LEED standards.