The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has certified the first wave of projects under LEED v5, the latest version of the world’s most widely used green building rating system. More than a dozen projects across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia achieved certification, representing over 12 million square feet of space across nine countries.
Launched in early 2023 for select pilot projects, LEED v5 was shaped by feedback from 60 early adopters worldwide. Roughly one-third have now completed certification, ranging from office towers and distribution centers to retail shops and sports venues.
“The first LEED v5 projects are trailblazers, not only demonstrating green building leadership but also playing a critical role in shaping today’s definition of a high-performing, resilient, healthy, and sustainable building,” said Sarah Zaleski, chief products officer, USGBC. “By serving as early users of the rating system, these building projects have helped refine and strengthen LEED v5 and exemplify how it can be adapted to every building type, sector, and market around the world.”
The first certified project worldwide was the Portobello Shop Jardim Social in Curitiba, Brazil, which earned LEED Platinum in October 2024. The retail project prioritized energy optimization, water efficiency, and occupant health.
“What our clients really care about are the benefits delivered when the building enters operation,” said Guido Petinelli, founder and CEO of Petinelli Inc. “Measuring performance is critical to show that we are delivering on our promises of reduced operating costs and increased comfort and well-being of occupants. When that happens, pursuing LEED O+M is a foregone conclusion for these clients.”
Other notable early adopters include:
More than half of the inaugural projects achieved Platinum, the program’s highest level.
According to the UN Environment Programme, buildings generate roughly 40% of global carbon emissions, with operations alone responsible for 27%. Because most of the 2040 building stock already exists today, LEED v5 emphasizes both new construction and the retrofit of existing structures.
USGBC says the updated system focuses on three pillars:
Studies by the U.S. General Services Administration have shown that LEED-certified buildings consume less energy, cut operational costs, and provide a measurable pathway toward decarbonization.
Certification for Operations and Maintenance (O+M) projects under LEED v5 will be available this fall, with Building Design and Construction (BD+C) following later this year.
Originally reported by Kerry Pianoforte in Coatings World.
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