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Docks Brusxels becomes the first major shopping centre in Europe to receive CO2 neutrality certificate

Representatives of the shopping centre Docks Bruxsel recently announced that it has been awarded the “CO2 neutral – gold company” certificate from CO2logic/South Pole, making it the first major shopping centre in Europe to receive this certification. The company’s exceptional design and construction have contributed to the structure’s low carbon emissions. Other notable accolades include a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating in the construction sector.

Docks Bruxsel is a shopping centre located in the Schaerbeek neighbourhood of Brussels, Belgium. The shopping centre opened in 2016 and is known for its modern and innovative design. It features over 110 stores spread over four levels and offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, beauty products, electronics, and home goods. Docks Bruxsel also includes several restaurants and cafes, as well as a large food court with a variety of dining options. It also has a cinema and a fitness centre.

One of the unique features of Docks Bruxsel is its focus on sustainability. The building is designed to be energy-efficient, with solar panels on the roof and a rainwater collection system. The shopping centre also promotes environmentally friendly practices, such as recycling and reducing waste. The entity’s strong commitment towards sustainable and ecological practices are evident in the building’s design.

Rather than relying on air conditioning, the shopping centre utilizes a natural ventilation system. The centre has 4,500 m² of solar panels and makes use of the heat generated by a nearby incinerator. The solar panels generate a significant amount of energy, producing up to 520 MWh annually, which is equivalent to the average energy consumption of 115 households in Brussels.

It has a 580m³ rainwater collection basin that is filtered and treated for various uses, such as cleaning, cooling, and sanitary facilities. This rainwater is also used to water the green walls. During Christmas, it utilised the rainwater to fill the ice rink and powered it entirely with 100% green energy generated through its solar panels. Amongst other things, the shopping centre has two beehives on the rooftop that accommodate approximately 80,000 bees.

The carbon neutrality certificate issued by CO2logic / South Pole is a certification that demonstrates that a company has taken measures to reduce their carbon footprint and has offset any remaining emissions through the purchase of carbon credits or investment in renewable energy projects. The certification is awarded after an independent verification process that ensures that the company has taken the necessary steps to achieve carbon neutrality. The CO2logic / South Pole carbon neutrality certification is a way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and to differentiate themselves in the marketplace by showing that they are taking concrete steps to reduce their carbon footprint.Top of Form

Several countries across the globe have attempted to create eco-friendly shopping centres. Some of the most notable initiatives include The Change Initiative in Dubai, UAE, Vauban Eco Shopping Village in Freiburg, Germany, The Good Planet Foundation in Paris, France, The Forum in Helsinki, Finland and The Darwin Centre in Sydney, Australia.

These shopping centres are designed to be environmentally sustainable, with features such as energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, waste reduction and recycling programs, and eco-friendly transportation options. They are also often focused on promoting eco-friendly products and services, as well as educating the public about sustainability and environmental issues.

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