Highlighting key certifications

Over the past year, we have worked hand-in-hand with our ecosystem to deliver outstanding results, including sector-leading project certifications. These include 43 Green Star Certifications comprising 13 New Build, 13 Net Zero, 8 Existing Building Performance (EBP), 6 Interiors and 3 WELL certifications, together with 11 EDGE Prelim Certifications and 15 EDGE Post Construction certifications. Below are just a few examples from this 2024 portfolio:

• Liberty Two Degrees (L2D) became the first property group in South Africa to receive the Net Zero Waste Level 2 certification from the GBCSA for five of its malls in Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, Bloemfontein, and Cape Town.
• Nedbank branches at Alex Mall and Fox Street, Johannesburg, proudly received their Green Star Interiors ratings, underlining their commitment to creating healthy and comfortable indoor environments for both employees and clients.
• Plumblink Head Office and Distribution Centre in Gauteng received a 4-Star Green Star PEB Custom Industrial Certification, proving that it’s possible to design industrial spaces that are mindful of their environmental impact.
  
• Menlyn Maine Residences’ was awarded a 4-Star Green Star Multi Unit Residential Design V1 rating.
  
• Balwin’s Headquarters on Corlett Drive, Johannesburg, was awarded a Net Zero Waste Level 1 certification in addition to its 6-star Green Star Office v1.1. As Built rating – the first commercial-level Net Zero Waste Level 1 (construction waste) certification in South Africa.
• The iKusasa building, situated in Johannesburg’s Oxford Parks Precinct, was the first in developer Intaprop’s portfolio to achieve both a 6-Star Green Star As Built rating and a Net Zero Carbon Level 1 certification.
• We supported two major residential property clients in obtaining EDGE certifications. Leogem Property Developments secured EDGE certifications for two developments in Johannesburg, The Lincoln Carlswald and The Mallard. And Balwin Properties secured two EDGE certifications for large residential developments – one in Kwa-Zulu Natal and one in Gauteng – Izinga and Mooikloof Eco Estates.
  

Our memorable moments

At the heart of our success are our relationships – with clients, colleagues, suppliers, and our team. These connections form the foundation of our business. So it came as a huge shock when, in February, we were informed of the tragic loss of a highly regarded member of the Solid Green family, Mthokozisi ‘Giant’ Nxumalo, a man like no other. Giant’s passing has left a deep sadness for those of us who knew him, and it is taking time to adjust to the loss of one of our own.

In recent months, our workload has meant expanding our team, and we have welcomed the following new talent:

• Amy Symington, Junior Green Building Consultant (January 2024)
• Thobeka Zuma, EDGE Project Manager (April 2024)
• Melissa Laubscher, Accountant (March 2024)
• Janki Malefane, Modelling Technician (May 2024)

Two of our team members directed the development of categories under the Green Star New Build V2 rating tool. Piloted at the end of 2023, the tool expands the minimum requirements that need to be met by project teams seeking this certification. Annelidé Sherratt, Head of Solid Green’s Green Building Certifications department, directed the Healthy category while Adrie Fourie, Head of Solid Green’s Sustainable Cities & Research department, directed the Places category.

During this year, we continued to transform our office in Parkhurst, a journey that has allowed us to explore our commitment to sustainability and the built environment. We also commissioned a stunning new mural on the street-facing side of our building, which serves as a bold statement of who we are and what we stand for.

Celebrating Industry Recognition

We are extremely proud of our team who, once again, excelled in delivering exceptional quality Green Star submissions. These were recognised when our projects were recognised in the SAPOA Awards 2024:

At the 2024 GBCSA Leadership Awards, we were delighted that Annelide Sherratt was acknowledged as runner-up for the Established Green Star. Several of our projects also received prestigious awards:

• In the Transforming Tomorrow category, various projects were featured including two projects certified this past year: 7 Parks Boulevard (As Built) and 5 Parks Boulevard (Design), developed by Intaprop with Solid Green as AP on the certifications.
• The Net Zero Submission award went to Liberty Two Degrees Net Zero Waste Retail Portfolio.
• In the Highest Rated Building category, the runner-up was Anglo-American by Intaprop for its Interiors v1 certification.
• In the Best Quality Submission category, the runners-up included Anglo-American for its Interiors v1 certification.

Strengthening Our Shared Commitment

We are profoundly grateful for the commitment that we share with our clients and colleagues to creating a regenerative future for both people and the planet. As we continue to innovate and collaborate, we look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead. We look forward to working with you in 2025 and wish you and your loved ones a restful and enjoyable holiday season!