Akropolis Group Achieves Sustainability Milestone
Shopping and entertainment centers Akropolis, located in Vilnius, Klaipėda, and Šiauliai, have been evaluated under the internationally recognized BREEAM In-Use sustainability standard, earning “Very Good” ratings. Dominykas Mertinas, the Head of Marketing and Communications at Akropolis Group, emphasizes that obtaining certification for these centers is a key strategic objective for the company. “Achieving certification for our shopping centers is integral to the ESG initiatives of Akropolis Group, which prioritize environmental stewardship, social accountability, and robust corporate governance. We are thrilled that our efforts in creating spaces that are both enjoyable for visitors and supportive for employees have been acknowledged by esteemed global sustainability experts,” states Mertinas.
Understanding BREEAM Certification
The BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification from BRE Global validates that a building complies with rigorous sustainability standards. The previous “Good” ratings for the Vilnius and Klaipėda Akropolises and the Vilnius Akropolis Business Centre have now been upgraded to “Very Good,” while the Šiauliai Akropolis has retained its earlier “Very Good” rating. Additionally, the Akropole Alfa shopping center in Riga has also achieved a “Very Good” rating under the BREEAM In-Use category. Another center, Akropole Riga, has received a “Very Good” certification in the New Construction category.
Meeting Sustainability Goals Ahead of Schedule
“We aimed for all our shopping centers to earn a “Very Good” rating according to the BREEAM standards by 2026, so achieving this milestone a year ahead of schedule is a significant achievement for us. The certification process has not only allowed us to confirm the sustainability of our buildings but has also guided us in enhancing the experience for both our employees and visitors. Our recent initiatives focus on visitor convenience, including the installation of free drinking water stations and updated facilities for childcare and individuals with disabilities,” adds Mertinas.
Areas of Assessment for BREEAM Certification
When evaluating a building for BREEAM certification, several key areas are assessed, including the internal environment (health and wellbeing), energy usage for heating and cooling, water consumption, transportation solutions, choice of materials, waste management, and impacts on ecology and pollution.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
Akropolis is dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability through a range of effective initiatives. The implementation of water-efficient devices, advanced lighting systems, and a continuously upgraded building management system contributes to responsible resource management and cost reduction. By providing drinking water stations, the shopping centers aim to minimize the reliance on single-use plastics. Additionally, facilities designed for families and individuals with disabilities enhance the overall visitor experience, while designated rest areas for employees foster a better work environment. Active waste sorting and recycling practices, alongside comprehensive flood risk assessments and technical evaluations, further demonstrate Akropolis’s commitment to environmental responsibility and the longevity of their buildings.
Certification Process by Vesta Consulting
The BREEAM certification audit for the shopping centers was conducted by Vesta Consulting, a firm specializing in building sustainability certification and consulting.
