AFI Cotroceni Mall, part of the portfolio of real estate developer AFI Europe, achieved LEED Gold certification under the LEED v4.1 O+M (Operations and Maintenance for Existing Buildings) rating system from the US Green Building Council (USGBC) in recognition of its quality and sustainable vision. The extensive certification process was coordinated by Colliers Romania’s ESG Strategic Advisory department.

With a total gross lettable area of 90,000 square meters, AFI Cotroceni shopping mall achieved LEED Gold certification under LEED v4.1 Operations + Maintenance (O+M) rating system, the latest version of the standard for existing buildings. LEED v4.1 O+M certification is an ongoing commitment to implement the sustainability practices initiated as part of the certification process with a requirement to recertify every 3 years.

“We are proud that our sustainable efforts and investments helped us achieve LEED Gold certification. This is the best recognition that we are always focused on the needs of our clients and partners”, says Sorin Scintei, General Manager AFI Cotroceni.

AFI Cotroceni achieved recognition for various sustainable strategies like energy efficiency, reduced water consumption, efficient waste management, sustainable purchasing policies and improved indoor air quality, community benefits and support for alternative means of transport. As a result, AFI Europe, the owner of AFI Cotroceni shopping center and of a portfolio of over 500,000 square meters in Romania, becomes the largest local developer of office buildings and shopping centers having the entire real estate portfolio certified or in the process of being certified under the LEED rating system, with the support of Colliers Romania’s ESG Strategic Advisory department.

“The LEED Gold certification of AFI Cotroceni represents a recognition for both the efficiency of the building and the high level of satisfaction of its occupants and visitors. The project team included specialists from all departments of the shopping center, thus, integrated strategies were implemented to maximize the health and wellbeing of occupants and to improve the project’s operating practices. LEED certified buildings reduce carbon emissions and are essential in addressing the climate crisis and meeting the developer’s ESG goals”, says Roxana Isopescu, Senior Sustainability Consultant | ESG Strategic Advisory.