JDC Archives - Page 5 of 7 - JEG Tower @ One Acacia Cebu, Philippines

January 20, 2021January 20, 2021

Choosing the Best Office Location in Cebu City

Being the center of economic activity in the Visayan Region, Cebu has emerged as the main driver of trade and business outside Luzon and Metro Manila. More than its bustling tourism and hospitality industry, Cebu City’s office and residential portfolio have grown over the years. Many local and multinational companies that are looking to expand their operations nationwide prefer to lease an office located in the Queen City of the South.

Cebu’s central business district is divided into two master-planned estates, namely Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park. Both offer a fair share of work, live, and play developments that promote a holistic lifestyle options for employees, students, and families. The Cebu CBD has evolved into a lifestyle destination at the center of the city, successfully integrating commercial, retail, and lifestyle concepts in one central hub.

With numerous options, how can companies choose the best office to lease in Cebu City? Here are some factors that you should consider:

Location

One of the most crucial considerations in finding the best office space for your business is its location. A great business address is easily located and accessible, not only by clients and potential customers, but also by its employees.

An ideal office location should also be near key establishments such as food stores, marketplaces, hospitals, malls, and public transport hubs. Companies can also consider its distance to their competitors or proximity to its partners within the area to make and execute strategic decisions better.

Building

Companies looking for the best office space for lease in Cebu should also consider the building and structure itself. Inquire about the added amenities and facilities that it offers and how they are maintained. An ideal office should be situated in a building that is well-kept and provides the support a business needs in order to grow and expand in the long run.

Another factor to consider is the building’s green and sustainability features. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have given more importance to their health and well-being, even outside the comforts of their homes.

An ideal office location should be in a building that promotes a holistic approach to its tenants’ wellness. Green buildings are structures that are designed, constructed, and operates to reduce negative impacts on the environment and improve the health and well-being of its occupants.

Workspace

Space is arguably the most vital when choosing the perfect office for your business. Factor in the size of your company and the total amount of space you need to take up in order to function effectively and most efficiently. An ideal office space should also support the possibility of your company’s expansion and growth in the future.

Some businesses also prefer to have their company culture and identity be reflected in their workspace. This should also be one of your most important considerations as many studies prove that the workplace design significantly contributes to the innovation and productivity of the employees and the company itself.

Finding the best office space for your business can be challenging and overwhelming. However, with the right considerations and priorities in mind, choosing the most ideal workplace for your company should boil down to options that reflect your company values and culture, provide for your needs, and support your business goals.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the newest office and commercial development in the heart of Cebu City. Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development by the PropertyGuru Awards, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified building is one of the most ideal office locations in Metro Cebu. It is also shortlisted as the Best Office Development by the same award-giving body.

Complementing sustainability with sophistication, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has invested in top-grade technology to provide the most ideal working environment and become the best workplace in Cebu for local businesses and multinational clients.

Want to locate in this world-class green building? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. For inquiries and more information about JEG Tower @ One Acacia, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

January 7, 2021January 7, 2021

MERV 13 Filters: Are they worth the investment?

With workers and workplaces facing increased hazards associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released their recommendation and guidance for businesses that will reopen amid the pandemic. To prevent the spread of the virus within enclosed public spaces, landlords are advised to prioritize upgrading their building’s air filtration system.

The CDC said that businesses should ‘improve central air filtration to MERV-13 or the highest [standard] compatible with the filter rack, and to seal edges of the filter to limit bypass’ to reduce the risk for office workers. HVAC air filters are necessary to remove contaminants from the air in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation such as workplaces.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has also recommended upgrading air filters in HVAC systems to at least MERV 13 for better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants.

What is MERV?

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is an effectiveness scale for air filtration systems developed by ASHRAE in 1987. The scale goes from 1 to 16 which indicates the filter’s capacity and efficiency to capture smaller particles.

A MERV-13 rating means a filter is able to catch 90% of particles in the 3-10 micron (μm) range, 90% of particles in the 1-3μm range, and 50% of particles in the range of 0.3-1μm.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes MERV 13 filters to ensure the utmost safety and protection of its occupiers against the virus and other airborne threats. The MERV13 filter is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry, usually used in hospitals and other high-risk facilities. It promotes a healthy breathing environment, and it will not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi.

Why is it important during a pandemic?

Offices can be hotspots for virus and disease outbreaks caused by recycled air and decreased ventilation. Through high quality and top-grade air filters, the indoor air quality of commercial buildings is dramatically improved.

MERV 13 air filters are long-term investments for commercial developments, not only during a pandemic. Aside from protecting its tenants from virus cross-infection and improving their health, better indoor air quality also upgrades the working environment for office buildings.

“Improving indoor air quality has been shown to increase business productivity through being a factor in reducing absenteeism due to health issues,” Michael Glindro, LEED AP BD+C said. “After all, we do spend a majority of our day in the office so taking steps into creating a healthy work environment will benefit the triple bottom line.”

Premium green buildings such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia emphasize the importance of uplifting the quality of life of its tenants through a holistic approach to well-being. The 22-storey LEED Silver Pre-certified building ensures that the highest standards for health and safety are observed and followed during a pandemic or not.

December 11, 2020December 11, 2020

How JEG Tower promotes occupant safety in the workplace

As part of JEG Development Corporation’s commitment to a holistic promotion of health and well-being, the company continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology that ensures the safety and protection of its tenants especially in the new normal.

Designed and constructed with the Cebuanos in mind, JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers more than its green features and amenities that contribute lesser negative impacts to the environment. Named as 2020’s Best Commercial Green Development, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified Silver establishment utilizes one of the top-grade technologies to encourage proper and effective handwashing: the Dyson Airblade.

The Dyson Airblade is a sensor-operated, touch-free hand dryer that is equipped with the HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration system that purifies the air that is used to dry hands.

According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings could help in the fight against COVID-19 or any public health emergencies through two key elements: prevention and control.

The Department of Health (DOH) has emphasized that along with wearing face masks and physical distancing, proper hand hygiene remains one of the best defenses against the coronavirus. It also reduces the spread of bacteria and other harmful threats to the environment. This is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as studies found that the virus can ‘stay alive’ and be transmitted through surfaces.

Touch-free Technology

Dyson Airblade utilizes an infrared LED sensor technology that reduces skin to skin contact after washing hands. This touch-free system encourages the most hygienic user experience that is programmed to automatically detect and trigger HEPA purified air for drying.

Studies also show that damp hands can carry and transfer up to 1,000 times more bacteria than dry hands. With a 10-14 second dry time, Dyson Airblade hand dryers can reduce the transmission of bacteria up to 40%.

The Restroom Environment

Research has found that viruses can also thrive in indoor environments with poor air circulation and lower indoor air quality. Dyson Airblade hand dryers are built with HEPA filters that are proven to capture 99.97% of particles, including bacteria and viruses in the air. This helps in minimizing the duration of exposure to any potential infectious materials in any enclosed space.

Lower environmental impact

The Dyson Airblade hand dryers are also aligned with JDC’s push for green real estate and sustainability. This technology cuts up carbon dioxide emissions by up to 85% compared to other hand dryers. More than 90% of the hand dryer’s emissions come from in-use, meaning a faster drying cycle and less energy used. Energy-efficient hand dryers such as the Dyson Airblade also encourages up to 85% less usage of paper towels which means fewer trees are cut down and used in production.

Want to learn more about this technology? Reach out to Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. You may also contact us at (+63) 2-8403-55-19 or info@kmcmaggroup.com.

November 26, 2020December 2, 2020

JEG Tower @ One Acacia wins Best Commercial Green Development

JEG Development Corporation’s first green and premier high-rise tower, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is recognized as the Best Commercial Green Development during the 8th Property Guru Philippine Property Awards. The leading sustainable development in Cebu was awarded in the virtual gala last November 25, 2020.

The company is also the first local Cebuano company to win the Best Commercial Green Development award, making the recognition more meaningful as JDC aims to give back to the people of Cebu by providing world-class green features and amenities especially in the post-lockdown business landscape.

As one of the few LEED pre-certified Silver developments in the Visayan region, JEG Tower goes beyond being one of the frontrunners of sustainability and sophistication. This 22-storey office and retail building is a state-of-the-art landmark in the heart of the Cebu Business District pioneered and developed by a homegrown Cebuano developer.

Built from environmentally friendly materials, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is characterized by its energy-efficient features, reduced water usage, and efficient waste management. It is one of the few developments that has allocated recycling space for a Materials Recovery Facility and dedicated 20% of the estate to green spaces, including a unique green rooftop that provides an outdoor space for its occupiers.

JDC Chief Operating Officer Marko Sarmiento expressed that this has been their vision from the start. “We take pride in this recognition as it validates and reinforces our vision to push for a green and sustainable recovery, not just for Cebu but for the whole country,” he said.

“We aim to inspire other developers to take the first steps in offering high-quality spaces that make people feel valued and protected. We wanted to elevate the experience of our occupants with sophisticated workplace design, and environment that revolutionizes work and life,” he added.

Certain features of the property are focused on protecting public health and well-being, including future workplace wellness initiatives for their occupiers. “Especially with the emergence of COVID-19, we wanted to highlight how important it is to invest in a healthier workplace that uplifts the wellbeing of its tenants,” Brand Manager Ayla Gomez said.

Estate Manager Stefan Garcia also noted that the investment they made in pursuing a sustainable, green building is worth it, especially as more Filipinos realize the importance of putting their health and safety first.

“The pandemic has been an eye-opener for most of us,” Garcia mentioned. “Going back to our vision of revolutionizing work and life, JEG Tower @ One Acacia will open its doors to companies who put a premium on their employees’ welfare.”

PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards recognizes the country’s frontrunners in the real estate industry. It covers a wide range of accolades that feature the best in sustainable real estate, design, and architecture in the country.

November 17, 2020November 17, 2020

How JEG Tower ensures workplace safety

In the Philippines, the eventual return to the physical offices seems inevitable as businesses and companies move to recover and help restart economic activities. With the re-entry in mind, more developments are focusing on sustainability and pandemic-proofing their workplaces to guarantee the protection of public health and wellness.

JEG Development Corporation (JDC) is one of the green developers that has envisioned, prioritized, and built spaces that have its occupants’ needs and comfort in mind. JEG Tower @ One Acacia has state-of-the-art green features, earning them a LEED pre-certified Silver accreditation, and a nomination for Best Office Development in the 8th Property Guru Asia Property Awards.

One of its main features focuses on improving office mobility and decongesting key common areas in the building. Through technology, JEG Tower is equipped with Mitsubishi Destination-Oriented Allocation System (DOAS) elevators to ensure strategic and safe movement within the building. These elevators are integrated with the installed turnstiles that allow for a unique lift assignment, making it easier to contact trace and assures a less crowded lobby.

This also adds another layer of contactless protection to the building as it reduces the need to press a button for a car call. Through the automated assignment, the allocated car only has one destination, allowing for reduced waiting or time, and energy efficiency.

Study shows that DOAS technology is a good control system to conduct crowd control or group movements. Destination-controlled elevators have better overall handling capacity that can transport more people effectively, and passenger transfer times are also made faster with a set delivery route.

Transitioning to Safer Workplaces

The green recovery has posed many benefits or advantages, especially in the post-lockdown business landscape. Data shows that it is a consensus among organizations that remote working is only a temporary solution. Recalibration in safe office builds and design needs to settle on a sustainable new normal that allows for a hybrid workforce and distributed workplace.

In line with the shift to sustainable adjustments and habits, experts believe that urban mobility is also expected to improve especially in highly-dense metropolitans. Like JEG Tower @ One Acacia, similar properties should be accommodating for alternative modes of transportation as people look for a more green or efficient way to move around.

With inclusivity and resiliency, going for greener workplaces can jumpstart the opportunity to regenerate more resilient, environmentally sustainable cities. This will encourage more stakeholders and developers to build back better and greener globally.

Let us discuss your green workplace re-entry. Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com.

November 10, 2020November 10, 2020

JEG Development Corporation Underscores Sustainability as Key to Cebu’s Economic Recovery

Months after the threat of being the country’s COVID-19 epicenter in June, Cebu City is now gradually resuming to its normal operations following the period of being under the strictest quarantine measures.

With the city government allowing the return in operations of over 1,300 traditional jeepneys last November 3 and the Department of Health announcing that Cebu City is showing signs of herd immunity the day after, the Queen City of the South is well on its way to restart the economy.

Despite the temporary pause brought about by the pandemic, local real estate developer JEG Development Corporation (JDC) is committed to drive the historic city to new heights and to realize a more progressive and resilient future.

What started as a holding company founded by the late Jose E. Garcia in 1994, JDC has evolved into a real estate company 10 years after and is now led by Garcia’s grandson, JDC’s Chief Operating Officer, Marko Sarmiento.

Under Sarmiento’s leadership, the company began developing strip malls and residential projects and is now set to unveil a state-of-the-art green building with the launch of JEG Tower early next year.

“JDC’s main thrust has always been to enrich the lives of the communities where our properties are built. We may be a relatively new player in the industry, but our local roots are strong and deep, which is why we are committed to always uplift Cebu through our properties especially with the many adjustments because of the pandemic,” said Sarmiento.

Reinventing the workplace

The threat of the virus has permanently skewed how businesses are done, and this includes the workplace.

For JDC’s Brand Manager, Ayla Gomez, as businesses slowly transition back to normal operations, it is the perfect time to rethink old ways and to shift mindsets to consider things that may not have been prioritized as much before.

“Even before the pandemic, we have always envisioned JEG Tower to be the game changer that challenges the perspective of businesses when it comes to the workplace. We want to encourage them to put a high priority to providing a healthier workplace, because we see the greater impact on our overall wellbeing and the world we live in,” Gomez said.

JDC Estate Manager Stefan Garcia also added that through JEG Tower, JDC is driven to develop the healthiest workplace in the city.

“By pivoting towards green development, Cebu would be a better place to live, work and do business in, as this would reduce both pollution and illness by improving the air quality, waste management, and livability of our urban areas,” Garcia shared.

“JEG Tower is built using green techniques, with management plans for soil erosion, waste management, and air quality. A less polluted environment ensures better health, especially lung health, which proved to be a key factor for people during this pandemic,” he reiterated.

Extending their assistance to Visayas

JDC’s efforts to help Cebu get back on its feet after the lockdown was not limited to its properties. Through their affiliate foundations like Vivant Foundation, Inc., the family behind JDC continuously contributes to the ongoing sustainable development of communities in Visayas. 

For instance, VFI’s Projects, Liadlaw and RELY, provide solar electrification for off-grid schools in Region VII, while simultaneously sponsoring a technical-vocational course in Electronic Installation and Maintenance with Solar to ensure the maintenance of the solar electrification systems and future livelihoods for students in the region.

The future of real estate in Visayas

With the launch of JEG Tower set to happen imminently JDC is all geared up to push the envelope and redefine the future of the property industry not just in Cebu, but the whole country.

JDC’s deep regard for the welfare of its tenants, their employees, and the communities they are in has gained the attention of many including the Property Awards Asia, where JEG Tower was nominated as The Best Office Development, making them one of the very few Visayas-based properties that managed to get shortlisted.

To know more about JDC, JEG Tower and it’s other properties, head over to https://jegdevelopment.com.

September 9, 2020September 14, 2020

JEG Tower @ One Acacia Showroom: What to expect?

As the completion of JEG Tower @ One Acacia gets nearer, potential building occupiers and office lessees can have a more realistic view and feel of how their workspace could look like through the building’s showroom.

Located on the tower’s 7th floor, the showroom will feature and demonstrate some of the reasons why you should consider locating your business at the best workplace in Cebu City.

JEG Development Corporation’s first high-rise venture has implemented sustainable design for all its office spaces. As one of the newest premium green buildings in Cebu, the office spaces at the JEG Tower elevate the human experience by promoting their health, wellness, and safety without compromising the condition and wellbeing of the planet. Each office unit aims to maximize benefits for the occupants’ well-being and improve their work performance and output.

JEG Tower’s offices utilize the Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) air conditioning system that is more energy efficient and provides better indoor air quality for the building tenants. According to technical reports and ratings, this type of air conditioning system can reduce energy costs by up to 30 percent or more. VRF also has the potential to deliver long-term savings for building occupiers.

Office tenants can also enjoy Cebu City’s captivating views from their workstations provided by the large windows on each unit. Larger windows are more ideal in a workplace environment as it allows maximum natural lighting for the employees’ comfort and health. Numerous studies have found that exposure to daylight and access to natural views improve employees’ moods and boost their morale. They are also found to be more productive if they are working in a setting with ideal and ample lighting.

JEG Tower’s bathrooms will also utilize innovative fixtures that conserve water and promote reduced water usage. The building’s greenspaces are also maintained by water efficient landscaping that ensures minimal water waste.

Watch out for JEG Tower @ One Acacia’s showroom updates soon! For site viewings, contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com. You may also call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519.

August 11, 2020September 14, 2020

The Future of Workplace: Contactless features and smart technology

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly raised the awareness of how easy germs and viruses can spread within communities and shared spaces. As companies commence their workplace re-entry programs, considerations on how they can protect their employees within the space become the top priority in the new normal.

While the extent of the changes in the post-pandemic office is still uncertain, workplace strategists and experts argue that this event will accelerate the digital transformation of companies, allowing faster adoption of advanced workplace technology.

The rise of smart technology

Many businesses adapt to the new normal by incorporating innovation and advanced technology in the office. Majority are transitioning to create a contactless (or at least a low-touch) office experience as it becomes the new standard for the health and security of their employees.

Given this shift in focus, the unprecedented rise of smart technology in offices and commercial buildings will be very apparent in the new normal. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security. All of these conveniences will start to be the standard in eliminating and reducing risks after the recent pandemic and other health threats.

Replacing touch with gesture

Since the World Health Organization reported that viruses can be contracted from contaminated surfaces, offices will seek to limit contact in operating key equipment such as printer screens, elevator buttons, door handles and replace them with technology-enabled by sensors. Workplace strategists expect more sensor-automated doors and screens to be more common moving forward that removes the need for touching handles or pressing buttons.

Eliminating high-contact surfaces

As employees return to the office, they are likely to be conscious of the threat that even the smallest element of the shared environment can produce. Building developers and commercial institutions should consider the benefits of new advancements in technology such as voice or motion-activated technology.

Implementing solutions such as voice-controlled elevators, remotely operated printers, and increased use of sensors throughout offices would substantially reduce workplace risk. In more secured offices, emerging technologies such as facial recognition can further reduce contact and exposure among colleagues.

Hospital-grade workplace

In the longer term, many experts have predicted that people are becoming more aware of contagious diseases and how fast viruses can spread in offices and other shared spaces. The community built inside the workplace could have elements similar to a hospital. From going for materials and surfaces that can withstand heavy cleaning to installing industry-grade air filters, offices in the new normal will prioritize maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy space for its occupants.

Future-forward commercial establishments such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, utilize the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values or MERV filters that can capture particles in the air from 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). Higher value in MERV ratings leads to better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants.

JEG Tower utilizes the MERV13 filter, which is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry. It promotes a healthy breathing environment, and it will not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi. Some MERV filters can even filter pollen, dust, and microscopic droplets in the air to a certain extent.

August 4, 2020September 14, 2020

JEG Tower Focus – Additional Safety Features for Disease Prevention

JEG Tower @ One Acacia aims to provide the best workplace in Cebu City. With the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic, this 22-storey premium green building will be adapting additional measures to ensure the safety of its tenants and employees.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this new coronavirus strain can be spread in three main ways:

Person-to-person via direct contact;
Person-to-person via airborne respiratory droplets produced when an infected person cough or sneezes;
Surface-to-person via contact with surfaces or objects that hold the virus, followed by an individual touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

LEED-certified buildings, like JEG Tower, were designed, constructed, and operates to high standards for health and cleanliness, they reduce the risk of exposing its tenants to infection, effectively preventing the spread of the virus within the building. Following the meticulous standards set by the industry, it is designed to uplift and promote the overall health and well-being of its occupiers. More than its improved indoor air quality, ventilation, and ideal lighting. Other notable post-pandemic adoption features will also be installed.

Minimized contact

To limit the exposure and human to human contact, JEG Tower is redesigning entryways to the building and within the establishment. Sliding doors will be installed at the ground floor entrance. Employees and visitors can also input their information through QR code check-ins available at the reception area in the lobby.

Tenants are also being given the option to avail of adding more space for proper distancing. Multiple floor takers have an option to build an internal staircase between floors. This can be utilized to minimize the employees’ constant use of the tower’s elevators.

Common area bathrooms will have foot handles and sensor automated fixtures such as automatic faucets and toilet flushing will be installed.

Improved indoor air quality

Disease-causing viruses and bacteria spread in the workplace faster through the air that circulates in the office. Utilizing the highest-grade air filters and its fresh air system, JEG Tower significantly improves the indoor air quality for tenants inside the tower.

Space for sanitation and disinfection

Each office space or unit has a provision to construct their shower facility. This will be available in the tower’s parking floor for the convenience of the tenants. This is also included to support employees’ improved hygiene and serve as an additional disinfection or sanitation feature within the establishment.

Commute to work alternatives

Many studies show that there is an added risk of exposure for people who commute to their work while riding public utility vehicles. To reduce this risk, JEG Tower will provide additional bike racks to discourage tenants from commuting to work and minimize their exposure to other people.

Other amenities for alternative forms of transportation are being considered such as scooter parking and corresponding charging stations. Premium green buildings emphasize the importance of uplifting the quality of life of its tenants by ensuring that the highest standards for health and safety are observed and followed. With the vision of upgrading the workplace lifestyle and improving the well-being of its occupiers, JEG Tower @ One Acacia invests in state-of-the-art technology and the latest innovation to provide security and safety from diseases the Cebuanos deserve.

July 28, 2020September 14, 2020

The LEED Advantage: Should commercial buildings in the Philippines go for LEED certification?

As more people become aware of the benefits of a green building in the workplace and the community, many developers are pushing for sustainable and green real estate in the Philippines. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is one of the certifications that buildings in the country can apply to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of its occupants.

Developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), it is an internationally-recognized green building certification program that provides a third-party verification that a building was designed and built following strategies aimed at improving performance, increasing energy savings, water efficiency, and carbon emissions reduction, stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts, and improving indoor environmental quality.

LEED certification is achieved by five main LEED Rating Systems evaluating different aspects of building and construction. Primarily, commercial and office buildings follow LEED Building Design and Construction (BD+C); LEED for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C); LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M).

These rating systems allow developments to gain points pre-, during, and after the construction phase. Points collected by establishments determine which kind of certification they achieve: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Certified. As establishments correctly implement a strategy, they earn LEED points. The more points earned, the more sustainable the building is.

LEED certification is also recognized globally. It is the most widely adopted benchmark as its standards apply to buildings operating at a global, regional, and local levels.

People, Planet, Profit

LEED certification differentiates buildings from the rest. It shows how companies put a premium on their tenants’ safety, comfort, and security while staying inside the establishment. It is also a statement for sustainability as green practices and strategies are upheld from the design, materials used, construction, and operations of the building. Lesser construction waste is also produced.

Moreover, a LEED certification also benefits developers and property owners, highlighting the ‘profit’ aspect of the program. Green buildings result in reduced energy and water usage, effectively lowering operating costs. LEED-certified buildings have a greater resale value and drastically elevate a company’s branding and public image.

Transitioning to the ‘new normal’, office buildings are applying stricter rules and regulations as some companies begin their business re-entry. These guidelines emphasize the health and security of building occupants against disease-causing bacteria and viruses, especially after numerous studies have attributed faster virus spread in the workplace.

One of the main aspects of LEED-certified buildings is its improved indoor air quality. Research has attributed virus outbreaks in office spaces to poor indoor air quality especially in confined spaces. These studies suggest that the filtration of recirculated air may be effective in reducing the transmission of airborne and infectious diseases. High-grade filters remove dust, vapors, bacteria, and fungi, and also effectively capture viral particles spread by droplet nuclei.

Additionally, LEED-certified buildings optimize the ventilation inside office spaces. Research also found that an increased ventilation rate effectively reduces the cross-infection of airborne transmitted disease by diluting the contaminated air inside the space more rapidly and decrease the risk of cross-infection.

LEED is the new standard

Given the important role of the work environment in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, LEED certification is the new standard in securing the health, well-being, and safety of building occupiers. LEED’s basic principles of people, planet, and profit offer a cohesive standard for developers and property owners to forward the state of well-being of tenants and employees in the workplace.

Pursuing higher quality spaces encourage responsible building and developments that go beyond mere structure. Through green accreditation systems, the welfare of the community in and out of these spaces are prioritized.

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