The design and construction under the principles of circular economy are key to reducing waste and emissions, according to Ortiz. Strategies such as recycling, reuse, and durability are fundamental to this approach. A case study on LEED certification v4.1 highlights the importance of concepts such as accurate disclosure of recycled content, circular design, zero waste, TRUE Zero Waste programs, and closed-loop products.
The LEED v5 version reinforces sustainable construction by rewarding the use of materials with low embodied carbon and positive environmental attributes. This new version includes criteria such as the use of structures, enclosures, and landscaping materials with carbon footprint, as well as products with multiple environmental benefits and multi-attributes.
The demand for environmental criteria is growing, and the real estate industry is progressing in the adoption of certifications that confirm its commitment to the environment and provide access to financial benefits. According to a study by EY, 64% of surveyed companies have implemented ESG strategies to address policies for reducing energy consumption, corporate governance, and social actions.
Alicia Silva, CEO of Revitaliza Consultores, highlights that LEED certification confirms the commitment to quality and positions Mexico as a leader in the implementation of ESG criteria in its assets. The new version of LEED aligns with resilience and decarbonization trends.
Regarding construction materials, wood, cement, and steel lead their use due to the need to mitigate climate change. Wood, in particular, stands out as a renewable material that stores carbon and reduces embodied emissions, as long as it is used responsibly.
Juan Huicochea Mason, CEO of MICMAC, highlights the growth of wood use as an aesthetic and sustainable alternative, due to the demand for less industrialized products and the need to reduce the carbon impact in construction. The adoption of environmental responsibility approaches in construction not only helps to mitigate the climate crisis but also positions companies in an increasingly sustainability-focused real estate market.
