LEED Green Associate Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Resource to Master Your Certification!

The main purpose of source reduction is to design products and systems that minimize waste generation and reduce the toxicity of materials used. This proactive approach focuses on preventing waste before it is created, rather than managing it after it is produced. By addressing the design and materials used in products, source reduction aims to promote sustainability and lessen the environmental impact right from the start.

Increasing the amount of waste produced contradicts the fundamental goals of source reduction, as that would exacerbate environmental issues. Recycling materials is an important part of waste management, but it occurs after materials have been used, while source reduction seeks to eliminate the need for recycling by preventing waste in the first place. Enhancing the functionality of existing products does not directly relate to waste reduction or toxicity; therefore, it does not align with the primary goal of source reduction.