LEED v5 Points Categories Explained

Understanding LEED v5 Points Categories

In LEED v5, the Building Product Selection and Procurement credit awards points based on the selection of environmentally responsible materials across nine product categories. Projects can earn up to 5 points by selecting products that meet specific criteria related to climate health, human health, ecosystem health, social health and equity, and circular economy. Each product category's adjusted value is calculated using a multi-attribute score, and points are awarded based on achieving certain thresholds.

Product Categories and Scoring

The nine product categories include paints and coatings, adhesives and sealants, flooring, walls, ceilings, insulation, furniture, composite wood, and plumbing fixtures. To calculate the adjusted value for a product category, you need to multiply each product's multi-attribute score (MAS) by its value, sum these values, and then divide by the total unadjusted value of all products in the category. This process ensures that only the highest value in each criteria area is awarded, preventing double counting.

Calculating Adjusted Values

To determine the adjusted value for a product category, use the following equation:

Product category adjusted value for LEED = (Product A MAS * Product A value + Product B MAS * Product B value + ...) / Total value of all products in the product category * 100

If the adjusted value exceeds 100%, the project earns 1 point. If it exceeds 200%, the project earns 2 points. Points are awarded for each product category up to a maximum of 5 points.

Criteria Areas and Achievement Levels

Products are evaluated based on their performance in five criteria areas: climate health, human health, ecosystem health, social health and equity, and circular economy. Each criteria area has three achievement levels, and products can earn higher values by meeting multiple criteria areas. This approach incentivizes the selection of products that promote human and environmental health, support regenerative sourcing practices, and foster a circular economy.

Practical Guidance from Real Project Experience

When selecting products for a LEED v5 project, focus on those that have been certified or verified by recognized third-party programs. For example, products that comply with the Mindful Materials Common Materials Framework (CMF) or the AIA Architecture and Design (A&D) Materials Pledge are likely to meet the criteria for this credit. Engage with manufacturers early in the design process to understand their product's multi-attribute scores and how they can contribute to your project's sustainability goals.

LEED v5 Requirements and Thresholds

This credit does not apply to structural, enclosure, or hardscape materials, which are addressed in other credits like MRp2: Quantify and Assess Embodied Carbon and MRc2: Reduce Embodied Carbon. The credit is designed to evaluate finish materials such as paints, coatings, flooring, and walls, and their impact on the overall environmental performance of the project.

Points for Multi-Attribute Achievement

Projects can earn points based on the number of product categories in which they select eligible materials that meet the required criteria. The table below shows the points awarded for achieving different numbers of product categories:

Number of Product Categories	Points
1	1
2	2
3	3
4	4
5	5

How ISG Can Help

At ISG, we specialize in helping projects achieve their sustainability goals through strategic material selection and procurement. Our team can assist in identifying products that meet the LEED v5 criteria, calculating adjusted values, and maximizing points for your project. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your LEED certification efforts.