LEED Version 5 - What Are The Five Things You Need To Know?

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), has been a cornerstone of sustainable building practices in Ireland, with over 200 projects certified.

The latest iteration, LEED Version 5 (v5), is currently in consultation, and is set to be launched in 2025. For all project teams who are familiar with Version 4 and 4.1, this update is a step change in sustainability standards and brings greater focus on reaching net zero carbon and resilient and healthy places. It will be a challenge to adopt the new version of LEED, but at CBRE, we look forward to the implementation of a rating tool that aligns with future climate goals, sustainability issues and legislation.

1. Enhanced Focus on Decarbonsation

LEED v5 places a strong emphasis on decarbonising the building industry. This shift reflects the urgency of the climate crisis and aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. The focus on decarbonisation aligns with Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, which targets a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Implementing LEED v5 standards can help building project to meet national goals and European targets for whole of life carbon.

Operational Carbon Projection: New prerequisites require projects to assess and project their operational carbon footprint, encouraging the adoption of low-carbon technologies and practices.

Building Decarbonization: LEED v5 promotes the use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient systems, and materials with low embodied carbon.

2. Resilience and Adaptation

LEED v5 introduces new credits and prerequisites aimed at enhancing the resilience of buildings to climate-related risks.

In Ireland, where climate change impacts such as increased rainfall and flooding are becoming more prevalent, these resilience measures will ensure buildings are future-proofed, ensuring long-term sustainability and safety.

Assessment for Climate Resilience: Projects must evaluate potential climate risks and incorporate adaptive measures to mitigate these risks.

Resilient Design: Encourages the use of materials and construction methods that enhance the durability and adaptability of buildings.

3. Social Equity and Inclusion

A significant update in LEED v5 is its emphasis on social equity and inclusion. The new framework aims to create environments where diversity, equity, and inclusion thrive.

This focus on social equity aligns with national policies promoting social inclusion and community development. By adopting LEED v5 standards, Irish projects can contribute to creating more equitable and inclusive communities.

4. Health and Wellbeing

LEED v5 continues to prioritize human health and wellbeing, with enhanced credits for indoor environmental quality, access to natural light, and biophilic design.

In Ireland, where indoor air quality and access to green spaces are growing concerns, these updates can significantly improve the health and well-being of building occupants.

Social Impact Assessment: Projects must assess their social impact, considering factors such as community engagement, accessibility, and equitable access to resources.

Equitable Outcomes: Credits are awarded for initiatives that promote social equity, such as affordable housing, inclusive design, and community benefits.

5. Alignment with EU Regulations and the EU Taxonomy

LEED v5 has been designed to align more closely with global sustainability standards, including EU regulations and the EU Taxonomy. This alignment ensures that LEED-certified projects meet stringent environmental and social criteria set by the EU.

This alignment simplifies compliance with both LEED and EU standards, streamlining the certification process and ensuring that projects contribute to Ireland’s and the EU’s sustainability goals.

LEED Version 5 represents a significant evolution in sustainable building practices, with a strong focus on decarbonization, resilience, social equity, and health. For Irish building projects, adopting LEED v5 standards can drive significant environmental and social benefits, aligning with national and EU sustainability goals. Although it will be a challenge at first, Irish construction and interiors projects can lead the way in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable built environment.