Designer Outlet Algarve was awarded the international certificate “BREEAM”, the “world's leading method of sustainability analysis, applied to the planning of projects, infrastructure and buildings”.
This shopping center «was recognized for successfully complying with the highest standards of sustainable management, having obtained the classification of “Very Good” in terms of the performance of the building and “Excellent” in the management of the building».
The certification process measures, among other aspects, the overall building management policy, energy expenditure and the environmental impact of the centre's activities, including CO2 emissions, as well as consumption and waste management. Care for the comfort of employees and customers (amount of natural light, optimization of temperature, sound intensity or air quality) and the location of facilities close to public transport were also taken into account.
The areas in which Designer Outlet Algarve obtained the best ratings (above 50%) for obtaining certification in “Asset Performance” were in “Health and Well-being” (60,1%), “Energy” (66,7 %), Transport” (55,5%), “Water” (75%), “Materials” (92,3%), “Waste” (100%), “Land Use and Ecology” (66,6% ) and “Pollution” (63,6%).
In terms of building management, the ratings were even better: “Management (71,74%), “Health and Well-being” (67,5%), “Energy” (73,3%), “Water” ( 76,9%), “Materials” (90%), “Land Use and Ecology (100%) and Pollution (75%).
For Miguel Paraíso Guerreiro, director of Designer Outlet Algarve, «this certification is very important because it attests to our daily commitment to sustainable performance and the responsible management policy of Designer Outlet Algarve. In addition to being a safe space for shopping, Designer Outlet Algarve is also recognized for respecting the environment, in all dimensions of its activity».
Since its inception, Designer Outlet Algarve has always had very strong environmental concerns, which have become increasingly important, not only in the operation of the Outlet, but also in promoting sustainable practices with customers.
In terms of energy, electricity comes 100% from renewable sources, with only LED lighting and lighting activation control systems.
«We are already carrying out the control and regulation of temperatures in technical and common areas, in order to reduce energy consumption», highlights Miguel Paraíso Guerreiro.
On the other hand, Designer Outlet Algarve is still working on improving the production and distribution of heated water, with a view to reducing peak consumption of equipment and increasing their useful life. For this purpose, flow reduction systems were applied to faucets and urinals and water consumption is monitored for better assessment and planning of water savings.
For the biggest outlet in the Algarve, recycling must become a fully installed and unquestionable reality. In this sense, awareness-raising actions are frequently carried out with tenants and service providers. It should be noted that in 2021, Designer Outlet Algarve recycled 79% of the waste produced in its operation.
“We have provided a container for used clothes, shoes and accessories to give them a second life. We work with the company Sarah Trading so that we can guarantee the greatest transparency and that accompanies us in the process of circular use in these pieces of clothing», adds Miguel Paraíso Guerreiro, also mentioning that the container or “Dropbox”, located next to the square in front of the Adidas store, is available to all visitors.
Comments