In today’s context, shopping centers have a great opportunity to contribute to global sustainability through the implementation of sustainable strategies. These spaces are essential for economic activity and are also key points for influencing the environmental awareness of millions of people. At SUMAC, we understand this potential and offer comprehensive solutions to help you transform your shopping center into a sustainability model.
Why Are Sustainable Strategies Important in Shopping Centers?
According to the UN, shopping centers generate significant amounts of waste and contribute considerably to greenhouse gas emissions. Adopting sustainable practices therefore benefits the environment while improving corporate reputation, attracting conscious consumers, and generating long-term economic savings.
Among the most notable practices are reducing energy and water consumption, efficient waste management, and obtaining certifications such as TRUE or Zero Waste, which foster the circular economy and reduce environmental impact.
How SUMAC Can Drive Sustainability in Your Shopping Center
At SUMAC, we have over 20 years of experience helping clients across Latin America. We develop strategies that combine sustainability, energy efficiency, and compliance with international standards. Among our featured services for shopping centers:
- Sustainability Audits: We identify areas for improvement in waste management, energy and water consumption, and indoor environmental quality. We design personalized action plans aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Energy Efficiency: We help reduce energy consumption through strategies for both projects in design and existing installations.
- Environmental Certifications: We support clients in obtaining certifications such as TRUE, Zero Waste, and EDGE, which guarantee sustainability and improve the shopping center’s public perception.
- Zero Waste Initiatives: We advise on implementing policies to reduce waste and foster reuse and recycling — key strategies to attract a more committed clientele.
Success Stories: Leading Change in Latin America
Our experience is backed by the success of landmark projects across Latin America:
- Mall Plaza, Chile and Colombia: Thanks to our team’s specialized advisory in sustainability and energy efficiency, Mall Plaza achieved LEED certification. We implemented measures that resulted in reduced energy, water, and embodied energy consumption in project materials. Our mission is to drive innovation and environmental commitment at every stage of the construction process — from planning through execution — ensuring shopping centers meet the highest sustainability and energy efficiency standards.
- City Center Rosario, Argentina: We conducted an energy audit at the City Center Rosario complex in Argentina — a project that allowed us to make a difference in the energy efficiency of one of the region’s most iconic entertainment destinations. The energy audit was a meticulous process involving evaluation of all complex areas, from lighting to climate control systems, using cutting-edge technologies and a highly trained team.
- Parque Arauco, Chile, Colombia, and Peru: Our team conducted 13 simultaneous audits at shopping center complexes, focused on developing energy and water efficiency strategies to optimize resource consumption across each project. To ensure quality and validity of these strategies, professionals accredited under international standards were involved.
Benefits of Certifications and Sustainable Strategies
Implementing these practices provides both tangible and intangible benefits:
- Reduction of operational costs.
- Improved brand image and greater customer loyalty.
- Compliance with environmental regulations, avoiding potential penalties.
- Contribution to the development of more responsible and conscious communities.
Transform Your Shopping Center with SUMAC
Sustainability is not just a trend — it is a necessity. At SUMAC, we want to be your partner in leading this change. We can design effective strategies that reduce environmental impact, boost profitability, and increase market value.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today and discover how we can help you make a difference. 🌱
