LEED v5 marks the most significant evolution of the LEED rating system to date, reframing sustainability around measurable outcomes rather than isolated credit strategies. As climate risks intensify and expectations around health, equity, and performance continue to rise, building professionals must be prepared to think differently about how projects are planned, designed, constructed, and operated.
This article course explores seven essential considerations that help professionals assess their readiness for LEED v5. Topics include LEED v5โs impact-based framework, system-wide decarbonization, embodied carbon measurement, integrative planning, climate resilience, human impact and equity, and the growing importance of operational performance.
Rather than focusing on point-chasing or technical compliance alone, this course emphasizes how LEED v5 influences real project decisionsโfrom early planning and procurement to long-term operations and workforce practices. While LEED v5 was first launched through the Operations and Maintenance (O+M) rating system, the concepts discussed in this course apply broadly across BD+C, ID+C, Homes, and Neighborhood Development.
This course features first-hand professional callouts that connect LEED v5 requirements to real project decisions, tradeoffs, and early planning actions. It is ideal for LEED professionals, sustainability consultants, designers, owners, and facility teams seeking a clear, practical understanding of what LEED v5 expectsโand how to prepare for whatโs next.
