As a property developer, what does achieving the LEED EBOM Gold certification mean for UŠĆE and BEO?

Achieving the LEED EBOM Gold certification is a significant milestone for us. It recognises our commitment to creating buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also promote the well-being of everyone who uses them. We’ve invested in sustainable practices across our properties over several years. Being the first company in Serbia to receive the WELL Health-Safety certificate by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) for eight of our assets, including UŠĆE and BEO, shows our dedication to health and safety standards. These certifications demonstrate that we’re not just following trends but setting new benchmarks in green building and operational excellence.

Can you tell us about the specific energy efficiency and water conservation measures you’ve implemented and their impact on operational performance and environmental sustainability?

Absolutely! We’ve been actively enhancing energy efficiency across our properties. In 2023, we focused on optimising our heating and cooling systems and upgraded lighting to LED in stores and offices. We also improved the efficiency of our cooling plants. These efforts led to a 5.8% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous year, saving 5,091 MWh and reducing CO₂ emissions by 6,297 tonnes.

To reduce energy needs we promote the use of products and services with improved energy saving performance, with the aim of reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to the achievement of a sustainable society.

Water conservation and the smart use of water resources is a key focus area for us. We’re utilising water-saving technologies, planting indigenous plants that require less water, and installing drip irrigation systems to use water more efficiently. We’ve also implemented an Energy Management System to monitor water usage effectively. We’re even planning to harvest rainwater for landscaping in the future. These measures not only benefit the environment but also ensure sustainable operations for years to come.

How have tenants, customers, and the local community responded to these sustainability efforts?

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Tenants and customers appreciate our commitment to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment. The local community recognises that we’re investing in their well-being, not just in our buildings. By focusing on sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices, we’ve built stronger relationships with all our stakeholders, who value our efforts to contribute positively to society and the environment.

How do these LEED certifications enhance the marketability and value of UŠĆE and BEO and align with your long-term goals?

The LEED certifications significantly boost the marketability and value of our shopping centres. They signal to tenants and customers that we prioritise sustainability and operational excellence. This aligns perfectly with our long-term goals of building a resilient real estate portfolio that can withstand market changes and long-term challenges like climate change. By integrating ESG principles into our business strategy, we’re ensuring that we create lasting value for our shareholders, tenants, employees, and the broader community. MPC Properties is an active member of the Serbia Green Building Council, thereby affirming our joint commitment to green practices.

The LEED EBOM Gold certifications for UŠĆE and BEO shopping centres are more than just accolades; they’re a testament to our commitment to building greener, healthier communities. Through energy-saving initiatives, innovative water management and collaborations with experts like Energo Group, we’re demonstrating how real estate can make a meaningful impact on environmental and social progress. As we continue on this path, we’re not only enhancing the value of our property assets but also fostering stronger connections with everyone who interacts with them.

Special thanks to operations project managers, Sanja Rubeša – Ušće (left) and Tijana Bogdanović – BEO (right), who successfully completed the LEED EBOM certification procedures for these two shopping centres.