Latest news with #LEEDPlatinumCertification


Business Wire
10-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Neal Gerber Eisenberg Achieves LEED Platinum Certification for New Office at The Bell
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Neal Gerber Eisenberg (NGE) is proud to announce that its newly built-out office at Chicago Landmark building, The Bell, has achieved LEED Platinum Certification under the LEED v4 Interior Design & Construction (ID+C) rating system—the highest level awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. Based on public data, NGE is the only law firm in Chicago to have achieved this distinction. The firm's relocation to 225 W. Randolph in May 2025 was guided by a commitment to environmental excellence. The project earned 85 points across all eight LEED categories, making it the second largest LEED v4 ID+C Platinum Certified interiors project in Illinois. 'Our goal was to create a space that reflects our values—efficient, inclusive, and forward-thinking,' said Sonia Menon, Chief Operating Officer of NGE. 'We didn't just want a beautiful office; we wanted one that actively reduces our environmental impact and supports the well-being of our people. This certification validates the rigor and intentionality behind every design and construction decision.' Key sustainability achievements include: Materials & Resources: NGE earned nearly every available point in this category by diverting over 75% of construction waste from landfills, reusing existing furniture and selecting products with proven low-carbon footprints through Environmental Product Declarations, as well as carbon reduction plans. A full life-cycle assessment guided material choices, resulting in a 32% reduction in embodied carbon. Water Efficiency: Achieved over 40% water use reduction from EPA baselines across all plumbing fixtures, saving a projected 170,000 gallons annually through low-flow, touchless automatic fixtures and collaboration with the base building owner. Energy & Atmosphere: An 18% reduction in energy consumption beyond code, achieved through high-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting with daylight and occupancy sensors and ENERGY STAR-rated equipment. Indoor Environmental Quality: The 'right to light' was a major theme of the project's design and ensuring that employees have access to natural daylight became a primary design element. The design prioritized daylight access, acoustic comfort and healthy air. Low-emitting materials were used throughout, and enhanced air quality strategies and acoustic performance measures support a healthier, more productive workplace Innovation & Regional Priority: The project achieved exemplary performance across multiple credits, and NGE's comprehensive composting program qualified the project to document a related LEED Pilot Credit, which are proposed credits that are used to test and evaluate innovative strategies before they can be considered for formal incorporation into the LEED rating system. Location & Transportation: The office is steps from major transit lines and bike routes, enabling employees to reduce their commuting footprint. The building's central location also provides easy access to essential services, reinforcing NGE's commitment to sustainable urban integration. 'This isn't just about a certification—it's about leadership,' said Robert G. Gerber, Managing Partner. 'We're proud to set a new standard for sustainability in the legal industry and to show that environmental responsibility and business performance can go hand in hand.' The project was guided by sustainability consultant Laci Hoskins of NovoSustainability, who added: 'NGE's achievement is a model for how tenant spaces can push the boundaries of sustainable design. Their commitment to transparency, innovation and measurable impact is truly exceptional.' NGE plans to build on this momentum by advancing its ESG initiatives and sharing best practices with peers across the legal and business communities. About NGE Neal Gerber Eisenberg is a leading law firm trusted by entrepreneurs, public companies, private businesses, and their owners to handle sophisticated legal matters. With nearly forty years of client partnerships that span the globe, the firm delivers personalized service and practical solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. More than one-third of NGE attorneys are recognized in the latest Best Lawyers in America listing, and the firm represents numerous Fortune 100 companies as well as many of the most respected private enterprises. NGE is also a valued advisor to startups and growth-stage companies, offering strategic counsel that evolves with their business.


Mid East Info
02-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
LEED Platinum Certification Places Emirates Electrical Engineering's Al Waha Headquarters Among UAE's Elite Green Buildings
Only 141* buildings in the UAE have achieved Platinum status, the highest level of recognition under the global Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. Emirates Electrical Engineering (EEE), a member of Al Rostamani Group, founded by Abdulla Hassan Al Rostamani in the early 1950s and a key contributor to the UAE's power infrastructure, has been awarded the LEED Platinum Certification ( LEED v4 ID+C Platinum ) for the sustainable design of its new, energy-efficient headquarters at Al Waha Complex, placing it among a select group of LEED Platinum-certified buildings in the UAE, including landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Mall of the Emirates. The new headquarters serves as a live demonstration of EEE's in-house capabilities in delivering integrated sustainable energy solutions. By completing all design, engineering, and implementation internally, EEE has set a practical example for other businesses looking to reduce their energy footprint. The company now aims to extend these services to clients seeking to enhance operational efficiency and align with the UAE's Green Agenda 2030 and Net Zero by 2050 objectives. Industry Leadership and Global Standards LEED is the world's most widely used green building rating system, distinguished by its rigorous benchmarks in energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. There are 713** LEED-certified buildings across the UAE at various levels, with a growing number of applications driven by the country's sustainability goals, regulatory frameworks, and market demand. Al Waha Complex stood out during the LEED Platinum certification process for its zero-waste transition and exceptional performance in the Energy and Atmosphere category, earning the full 36 points, which is a rare achievement for a retrofitted building. Key features include: High-performance energy- and water-efficient systems On-site solar power generation and smart grid integration Use of sustainable materials and landfill waste diversion Enhanced indoor air quality and infrastructure for green commuting Prabash Manthara, General Manager of Emirates Electrical Engineering, stated: 'Our office integrates cutting-edge energy-saving technologies and on-site solar power generation, demonstrating the tangible benefits of sustainable design—from cost savings to healthier workplaces as well as contributing surplus energy to DEWA's Smart Grid. This achievement exemplifies our role in advancing the UAE's energy transition and inspires industry-wide adoption of green practices' 'Achieving the LEED Platinum Certification positions EEE as a leader in green building practices, potentially attracting environmentally conscious clients and partners. Moreover, our commitment to sustainable operations can have a ripple effect on the community by promoting eco-friendly initiatives and contributing to a cleaner, greener future for all.' Ms. Deepthy K B, Senior Director, GBCI MENA, commented: 'The LEED Platinum certification of Al Waha office demonstrates the commitment of Emirates Electrical Engineering & Al Rostamani Group towards achieving the highest level of recognition in green building design and construction. This achievement further strengthens their organizational vision towards creating healthy and equitable workspaces for their employees and stakeholders through actionable net-zero and climate action targets. It is an honour to recognize this project during the 25th anniversary of LEED.' The adoption of internationally recognised standards such as LEED plays a critical role in advancing the UAE's Green Agenda 2030, particularly in clean energy, carbon reduction, and sustainable infrastructure. Projects like Al Waha Office demonstrate how technical capability and in-house delivery can support measurable, scalable progress in sustainable development. As more companies align with these frameworks, the collective impact will help accelerate national progress toward Net Zero by 2050 and reinforce the region's leadership in sustainable development. Sources : numbers accurate based on the time of publishing * **


Arabian Business
08-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate: DIFC launches Heights Tower with sales starting April 16
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced that sales of residences in its new mixed-use development, Heights Tower, will begin on April 16, 2025. The project, developed by DIFC Developments, occupies the final plot within the original DIFC district and represents the Centre's second residential development. The tower is scheduled for completion in 2029, the Dubai Media Office said in a statement on Monday. DIFC's latest residential launch Heights Tower will feature 366 luxury residences across 32 floors, ranging from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom duplexes. The development also includes seven floors dedicated to shell and core offices and retail spaces for food and beverage outlets and shops. 'The Heights Tower embodies DIFC's commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable community, aligning with Dubai's growing prominence as a live-work-play lifestyle destination. Setting a new benchmark for urban living, this striking addition to the Dubai skyline seamlessly integrates wellbeing, connectivity, and convenience to meet the evolving needs of ambitious professionals at the forefront of finance and innovation in DIFC,' Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer, DIFC Investments said. Located on Al Sukuk Street in the heart of DIFC, the tower will be adjacent to the upcoming Four Seasons Private Residences and will provide connectivity to Gate Avenue, the district's retail and lifestyle hub. The location offers views of Dubai Creek Harbour to the east and the Sheikh Zayed Road skyline to the west, with select units featuring Burj Khalifa views. The development will include various amenities such as a family lounge, an outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool, and a fitness centre. The building's design incorporates interlocking geometries and biophilic elements, with contactless, smart workspaces intended to foster community and work-life balance. In line with the Centre's sustainability initiatives, Heights Tower aims to achieve LEED Platinum Certification. Savills has been appointed as the master broker for the project. The announcement follows Centre's recent recognition with the Metasys Pioneer Award 2025, highlighting its innovation in building and property management.


Gulf Business
08-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Residential sales set to begin for DIFC's Heights Tower
Image: Dubai Media Office/ DIFC Dubai International Financial Centre ( Heights Tower, developed by DIFC Developments, is located on the final plot within the original DIFC district. The mixed-use development is positioned as a new 'live-work-play' destination and will offer a premium address at the heart of the Centre's expanding international community. The tower is adjacent to the upcoming Four Seasons Private Residences and provides direct access to Gate Avenue, DIFC's retail and lifestyle destination. Here's what DIFC's second development features Scheduled for completion in 2029, Heights Tower marks DIFC's second residential development and a key step in the centre's evolution as both a business and lifestyle hub. The project will feature 366 luxury residences, including one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom duplexes. It also includes seven floors of shell and core office space and retail areas designed for F&B outlets and stores. The residential component spans 32 floors. Heights Tower will be brought to market by Savills, which has been appointed as the master broker. The launch follows several major announcements from DIFC 'The Heights Tower embodies DIFC's commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable community, aligning with Dubai's growing prominence as a live-work-play lifestyle destination,' said Saleh Al Akrabi, chief real estate officer, DIFC Investments. 'Setting a new benchmark for urban living, this striking addition to the Dubai skyline seamlessly integrates wellbeing, connectivity, and convenience to meet the evolving needs of ambitious professionals at the forefront of finance and innovation in DIFC.' Heights Tower features biophilic design The development will incorporate biophilic design principles, featuring interlocking geometries and smart, contactless communal workspaces. A curated mix of retail and dining options, a family lounge, a temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre further enhance its lifestyle offering. In line with DIFC's sustainability goals, Heights Tower aims to secure LEED Platinum Certification. The building, located on Al Sukuk Street, will offer panoramic views of Dubai Creek Harbour to the east and the Sheikh Zayed Road skyline to the west, with select units boasting vistas of the Burj Khalifa.