SEGRO accelerates: stage I of BREEAM In-Use certification project completed
SEGRO, a leading owner, developer and manager of modern warehouse and production space, has successfully completed the first stage of BREEAM In-Use certification for existing buildings in Poland, scheduled for 2025.
The company's goal is to achieve BREEAM In-Use certification by 2027 for all properties in its portfolio that have not yet obtained green certification.
SEGRO's commitment to responsible construction is evident in its actions and business strategy. From 2022, new buildings must meet the requirements of BREEAM New Construction certification at a minimum level of Excellent. This year, the company went a step further by initiating the BREEAM In-Use certification process for its older properties in Poland. The first stage of the project, scheduled for 2025, was completed ahead of schedule. It covered 16 buildings with a total area of 335,000 sq m, located in 11 SEGRO warehouse parks.
In existing buildings covered by certification, the developer has implemented solutions that support the reduction of energy and water consumption and improve the quality of the indoor environment and user comfort. These measures include the use of energy-efficient systems and installations, water-saving fittings and household appliances, as well as solutions that improve the operational efficiency and functionality of the buildings.
Bartosz Michalski, Director, Logistics, Poland, SEGRO, comments:
“For years, we have been implementing innovative solutions in our buildings, which are necessary to achieve the goals set out in our business strategy and our sustainability targets. BREEAM In-Use certification is a natural next step in this direction. Introducing further improvements across such a large part of our portfolio requires excellent coordination and cooperation. The project was managed by our Property Manager teams, whose experience proved extremely helpful. It was also extremely important to gain the understanding of our customers, who, following the changes, confirm that the results are visible and, what is extremely important to us, they rate them positively.”
The use of certified buildings helps to reduce operating costs and achieve greater energy efficiency. The implementation of new solutions increases their functionality and durability. Such facilities offer more comfortable working conditions thanks to better air quality, lighting and acoustics. Elements such as green spaces and relaxation areas have a positive impact on the well-being of users.
Properties with BREEAM In-Use certificates are attracting increasing interest from investors and potential customers, mainly companies looking for spaces that meet high environmental standards. The importance of this issue in the Polish warehouse property market has been growing in recent years, partly due to the introduction of the EU's CSRD directive. Certification ensures compliance with current and future legal requirements for energy efficiency and environmental protection. It also supports sustainable development goals and ESG strategies, including the pursuit of net-zero emissions.
Bartosz Michalski, Director, Logistics, Poland, SEGRO comments:
“The initiatives we undertake are consistent with the assumptions and direction set by the BRE organisation. After the successful completion of stage I, we are continuing our work, enriched with knowledge and new experiences. We can now begin preparations for the next phase of the project, scheduled for 2026. Seventeen buildings from SEGRO's portfolio in Poland will be certified."
The company plans to carry out the final, third stage of the project in 2027.
About SEGRO
SEGRO is a UK Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), listed on the London Stock Exchange and Euronext Paris, and is a leading owner, manager and developer of modern warehouses, industrial property and data centres. It owns or manages 10.8 million square metres of space (116 million square feet) valued at £21.4 billion serving customers from a wide range of industry sectors. Its properties are located in and around major cities and at key transportation hubs in the UK and in seven other European countries.
For over 100 years SEGRO has been creating the space that enables extraordinary things to happen. From modern big box warehouses, used primarily for regional, national and international distribution hubs, to urban warehousing, located close to major population centres and business districts, it provides high-quality assets that allow its customers to thrive.
A commitment to be a force for societal and environmental good is integral to SEGRO’s purpose and strategy. Its Responsible SEGRO framework focuses on three long-term priorities where the company believes it can make the greatest impact: Championing low-carbon growth, Investing in local communities and environments and Nurturing talent.
Striving for the highest standards of innovation, sustainable business practices and enabling economic and societal prosperity underpins SEGRO’s ambition to be the best property company.
See www.SEGRO.com for further information.