Philippines, 18 November 2024—Arcadis, the leading global design and consultancy firm for natural and built assets, is proud to announce that the Arcadis Philippines, Inc. (API) office in Cebu has received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 Gold Certification in the Interior Design and Construction (ID+C) category. Awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), this significant milestone has also made history as the first LEED Gold-certified office fit-out project in Cebu City and the entire Visayas region under the LEED ID+C, setting a new benchmark for sustainable workspaces in the city.
Covering 240 square meters (2,580 square feet), the API Cebu office embodies a future-forward design that fosters activity-based working, engagement and collaboration. It incorporates thoughtful elements that align with the company’s sustainability goals—creating a vibrant and inspiring workplace. The Sustainability Solutions team of Arcadis Philippines, with over 16 years of experience in green building certifications, spearheaded the certification process. This ensures that the commitment to improve quality of life is reflected in its own business operations.
“At Arcadis, we lead by example in our commitment to sustainability, not just through the solutions we deliver but in the spaces where we work. The LEED Gold certification of our Cebu office, along with our Makati office’s recognition, underscores our dedication to creating high-performance, environmentally responsible environments. We take pride in working in spaces that inspire innovation, empower our teams and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.” said Katherine Ann Resurreccion, Service Line Director, Sustainability Solutions at Arcadis Philippines.
“We are thrilled to achieve another significant milestone in our sustainability journey. This LEED Gold certification for our Cebu office is a testament to our commitment to creating sustainable and inspiring workspaces. As we continue to evolve, we will remain dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact and fostering a positive impact on our communities.” said Darneil Perez, Country Head at Arcadis Philippines.
Located on the 9th floor of the LEED Gold certified JEG Tower, the API Cebu office has the following sustainable features:
- Installing low-flow pantry faucets within the office space and having low flush and low flow sanitary fixtures for all base building toilets achieved an indoor water use reduction of 36.85%.
- Modeled energy cost saving of 23.2% was demonstrated. The total predicted annual energy consumption is 45,967 kWh/year of electricity, using daylight sensors, occupancy sensors, low-wattage LED fixtures and energy-efficient equipment, which all helped in reducing office energy consumption within our office space.
- Commissioning process activities for the mechanical and electrical systems were completed, thus supporting that what was designed is aligned with its operation.
- Aside from complying with ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2010, indoor air quality was improved through carbon dioxide monitoring, air purifying, separation strategy of cleaning supply storage and walk-off mats from the base building.
- Through conscious planning, 79% of the regularly occupied area in the office (open office) has access to quality views.
- Natural light and views: All commonly occupied spaces have access to natural light and views of the outdoors.
- Bicycle parking and a shower area: The LEED Gold-certified JEG Tower offers convenient bicycle parking and shower facilities promoting sustainable transportation and active lifestyles for our teammates.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the world's most widely used green building rating system by the U.S. Green Building Council®, recognizing best-in-class building strategies and practices. It provides a framework for healthy, efficient and cost-saving green buildings.
This latest LEED Gold Certification follows the WELL Health-Safety Rating re-certification achieved by both API offices earlier this year as well as the LEED Gold Certification of the Makati office in 2021. These recognitions demonstrate Arcadis’ continuous efforts to create sustainable, inclusive, welcoming and productive spaces that our people and clients can enjoy.