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Learn, explore and connect at Circle 2026

13:30 - 18:00Coima Fondazione Riccardo Catella

LEED v5 D+C Updates and Innovations: Advancing Sustainability

Workshop

Explore key updates to LEED v5 BD+C and ID+C. This session will delve into the Integrative Process category, highlighting new assessments and requirements for achieving Platinum certification. Gain insights into project priority categories through detailed discussions. Discover European alternatives to traditional energy modeling in the Energy and Atmosphere (E+A) prerequisites. Additionally, we'll introduce the latest updates on new templates and tools, ensuring your projects align with cutting-edge sustainability practices. This workshop is a must for sustainability professionals seeking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of green building standards. 

Speaker
Vessela Valtcheva-McGee
Market Development Director EE @ GBCI Europe
Jai Vardhan Yadav
Senior Technical Manager @ Green Business Certification Inc.
Stefano Adami
Operation Manager @ Greenwich srl
13:30 - 18:00Lombardini22

LEED v5 O+M Innovations: Sustaining Excellence

Workshop

Understand the advancements in LEED v5 Operations + Maintenance (O+M). This session will provide a thorough explanation of the O+M certification process in relation to Arc, emphasizing updated data entry points. We’ll also offer essential guidance on recertification under LEED v5 O+M and discuss how the integration of O+M/Arc supports GRESB’s annual reporting objectives. This workshop is designed for facility managers and sustainability professionals eager to enhance their expertise in evolving green operation standards. 

Speaker
Ken Simpson
Vice President, Certification Performance @ Green Business Certification Inc.
13:30 - 18:00Generali Tower @ City Life

LEED v5 and EU Taxonomy Integration: Aligning Standards

Workshop

Explore the integration of LEED v5 with the EU Taxonomy. Begin with an introduction to the EU Taxonomy framework, then delve into how LEED v5 addresses taxonomy alignment for Building Design + Construction (BD+C) and Operations + Maintenance (O+M). Gain clarity on applying Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs) and Pilot Credits within the Project Priority category. This session is essential for professionals seeking to synchronize sustainable practices across global and European standards.

Speaker
Ingemar Hunold
Partner @ ES EnviroSustain GmbH
Heather Payson
VP of Technical Product Development @ U.S. Green Building Council
Elisa Sirombo
GET
13:30 - 18:00Fondazione Riccardo Catella & Coima HQ

LEED for Communities: Scaling Impact

Workshop

Delve into the LEED for Communities program. Begin with a comprehensive overview and introduction to the rating system, exploring its technical details to understand its full potential. Learn the step-by-step submittal process to ensure a seamless journey to certification. We will highlight the success of the LEED for Communities certified Porta Nuova business district, showcasing its best practices. Engage in providing valuable feedback to shape future developments of the rating system. Additionally, discover synergies with the SITES program to enhance green infrastructure and community resilience. This session is perfect for community planners, large-scale developers, and sustainability advocates aiming to enrich community resilience and sustainability. 

Speaker
Vatsal Bhatt
Vice President - LEED for Communities @ U.S. Green Building Council
13:30 - 18:00Liberty Tower @ bip.Verco

GRESB and Arc: Optimizing Portfolio Performance

Workshop

Dive into the latest updates across Arc, LEED v5 O+M, and GRESB —highlighting how these frameworks and tools can be leveraged to scale sustainability opportunities into new markets. Learn proven strategies from guest speakers guiding you through portfolio data management, planning, certification readiness, and performance verification - capabilities essential for credible ESG disclosures and stronger GRESB scores.

Speaker
Jeff Benavides
Director of Portfolios & Performance @ U.S. Green Building Council
Chris Pyke
Chief Innovation Officer @ GRESB
19:00 - 22:30Leonardo da Vinci Science & Technology Museum

Welcome Reception

Savor local Italian food and drink specialties while reconnecting with familiar friends—and making a few new ones—at the Circle Welcome Reception. This charming venue even offers a unique chance to explore the museum exclusively after hours.