New project achieves great success in sustainable development
The new buildings project in Ciutadella del Coneixement has reached an important milestone in terms of sustainability and respect for the environment by obtaining LEED Platinum certification. This accreditation, awarded by the United States Sustainable Building Council (USGBC), is part of a LEED Campus (together with the BIST (Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology) project), and represents the highest recognition for sustainable buildings. It also underscores the project’s commitment to green building and sustainable practices.
The new buildings, designed by Double Twist, Mirag and ZGF, will be located at the Mercat del Peix Research Center and will integrate several innovative features aimed at minimizing environmental impact. These include the use of recycled materials, advanced energy efficiency systems and waste management solutions.
LEED Platinum certification, the highest level within the various LEED levels, is based on several criteria, such as energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, sustainable site selection, efficient use of water and use of sustainable materials. In this project, solutions such as laboratories with efficient air conditioning systems, optimization of natural lighting and the use of renewable energies have been implemented. The more detailed features that make the building a LEED Platinum are the following:
- Certified wood structure
- Wooden sunscreens, designed with an innovative helical shape to maximize efficiency and functionality
- Use of native and adapted plants that require little or no irrigation
- Implementation of low-flow technologies in faucets, showers and toilets
- Installation of gray water reuse systems and rainwater harvesting to reuse it for irrigation and cisterns
- Use of materials with a high recycled content in the building’s construction
- Installation of photovoltaic panels on roof
In addition, the building includes spaces dedicated to advanced research, demonstration laboratories, meeting rooms and breakout areas, all designed to promote a healthy and productive work environment. This combination of world-class facilities and environmental commitment makes the project an example to follow in the sustainable construction sector.
The Ciudadella del Coneixement project seeks not only to be a leading research center, but also a model of urban sustainability that can inspire future developments around the world. With LEED Platinum certification, the new buildings are consolidated as a reference in sustainability and architectural innovation.
For more information about this project, you can visit Ciutadella del Coneixement and Mercat del Peix website.
