Decarbonizing buildings is critical to meeting climate goals. The built environment is responsible for over 40% of global carbon emissions and nearly one-third in the U.S. (USGBC, 2023). Operational carbon from building energy use is now central to climate strategies and asset valuation. State and local jurisdictions are increasingly requiring carbon reductions through codes and building performance standards, while companies—from developers to tenants—are tracking emissions as part of ESG commitments.  

LEED v5 raises the bar with stronger requirements for energy performance and whole-building life-cycle assessment, helping projects align with market expectations and regulatory trends. Join USGBC Michigan for a Transformation Forum exploring practical tools, resources and strategies to cut emissions, boost market value, and position your portfolio for an ultra-low-carbon future. 

Hosted in Detroit, a city defined by resilience and reinvention, this forum will explore how decarbonization is shaping the future of Michigan’s built environment.  This program will feature Bedrock’s vision for Detroit’s Easy Riverfront, offering a real-world look at a major development while it is still taking shape.  The evolving vision emphasizes a vibrant, broadly accessible waterfront shaped through community engagement. 

From there, attendees will explore how decarbonization, resilience, LEEDv5 and other high-performance strategies can translate into action across Michigan’s built environment.  Through shared discussion and diverse perspectives, the forum will bring together the ideas, expertise and connections needed to turn ambitious goals into practical action.