When the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) first introduced LEED in 1998, it started a movement, formalizing the language around sustainable buildings and establishing a framework for evaluating design performance. Since then, LEED has evolved to reflect the challenges and priorities at the given time of each new iteration. With the release of LEED v5, the most transformative update yet, USGBC is moving beyond a “checklist mentality” and putting carbon front-and-center. v5 shifts focus from energy to operational and embodied carbon emissions.
LEED v5 is the most holistic approach to sustainability that USGBC has released to-date. It introduces three foundational pillars that underpin every credit category: decarbonization, ecology, and quality of life. While those ideas existed in past versions, they were scattered across credits and operational strategies.
Decarbonization is No Longer an Option
Arguably the most consequential update to v5 is that LEED Platinum certification now requires prerequisites for carbon performance. This is a major shift from the “choose your own adventure” model of past versions, where projects could selectively pursue point-based strategies without necessarily addressing core environmental impacts. Today, to achieve Platinum, you must demonstrate how your building is actively decarbonizing—operationally and materially.
This is where electrification becomes non-negotiable. Cities like New York are enacting ambitious carbon neutrality goals and investing in cleaner grids. Electrifying buildings positions them to take full advantage of these decarbonized energy sources as they come online. It’s a long-term strategy, but one that acknowledges the lifecycle of buildings—50 to 100 years or more—and sets the groundwork for a lower-carbon future.
In contrast, installing fossil fuel systems like methane-based boilers locks us into an archaic way of heating and cooling a building. While it’s true that in some regions, the grid is still dirtier than gas today, that gap is shrinking. If we’re to play the long game, electrification plus decarbonization equals meaningful emissions reduction.
v5 Requires a Roadmap
LEED v5 mandates that projects develop a formal decarbonization plan early in the design process, including operational and embodied carbon strategies. These roadmaps can’t be one-size-fits-all. Climate zone, building orientation, window-to-wall ratio, and local shading context influence what “carbon-smart” design truly means. There are no shortcuts—teams need to engage in early, site-specific planning to drive impactful outcomes.
On the embodied carbon side, this includes not only structure, but also interiors. Most interiors are renovated multiple times during a building’s lifespan, and the cumulative carbon impact of these fit-outs can eclipse the original structure. Low-carbon materials, mass timber hybrids, and bio-based finishes should be considered from day one.
Steps for Owners and Project Teams
The path forward doesn’t depend on future innovations—we already have the technology, design strategies, and expertise needed to act now. What’s missing in certain projects is early alignment among stakeholders and a commitment to clear, measurable goals.
At the start of any project, stakeholders must determine a carbon budget. Collective agreement on this limit provides the clarity and shared purpose needed to drive decision-making across the entire design and construction process.
There are several strategies owners can adopt now to prepare for decarbonization:
- Design for all-electric systems: Position your building to benefit from a cleaner grid tomorrow by designing for electrification.
- Prioritize passive strategies: Use climate-sensitive design to reduce demand—optimize orientation, minimize thermal bridging, and invest in high-performance facades.
- Treat interiors as critical: Specify low-carbon and bio-based materials for fit-outs, not just the structure.
- Set carbon goals from day one: Align stakeholders and consultants on clear performance targets before schematic design begins.
- Explore renewables: Whether on-site geothermal or off-site solar, renewable sourcing will help reduce peak demand and emissions.
The Look-Ahead
LEED v5 is a turning point, challenging us to move from intention to implementation. Decarbonization is no longer aspirational—it’s a design imperative. The tools and strategies necessary are within reach. With early planning, strong partnerships, and the courage to lead, we can deliver buildings that go far beyond the checklist.
About the Author
Jonce Walker
Jonce Walker, LEED AP, CSBA, Fitwel Ambassador is a Principal and the Global Director of Sustainability and Wellness for HLW. He spearheads the firm’s sustainable design initiatives, including managing BEYOND, HLW’s sustainability consultancy, and advocating for carbon-neutral construction via the AIA 2030 Commitment. With nearly two decades of cross-sector experience, Jonce integrates sustainability into all design stages, aiming to exceed project expectations, enhance ecological benefits, reduce carbon emissions, and improve occupant health and wellness.