Marchmont recognises both the role and impact of real estate on our environment and communities. The entire Real Estate sector has a responsibility to mitigate against the damaging environmental impacts of construction and operation of buildings and to promote sustainable, healthy places for people to work and live.
Marchmont strongly believes that real estate can be part of the solution. We are experienced in identifying innovative solutions to complex and challenging development projects, and alongside our Partners, are committed to creating long-term positive environmental and social impacts across our logistics portfolio.
The logistics occupier market increasingly has high expectations for the spaces they occupy, with sustainability an increasing priority both in respect of climate impacts but also running costs. Our development strategy therefore prioritises creating high quality, Grade A units with sustainable credentials at the forefront, which are fit for the modern occupier base. Marchmont continuously seeks to evolve and adapt our approach to sustainability through harnessing latest technologies and ensuring our development schemes can adapt to changing occupier and regulatory requirements.
Currently, across our logistics development pipeline of over 1,017,120 sq ft, we have enough PV panels to generate 3,042,450 kWh of energy annually – This is enough to power 1,127 households, boil 1,216,980 kettles and make 2,433,960 cups of tea!
Turning principles into action
Our commitment to sustainability is woven through every stage of the property lifecycle and is a key influencing factor in our decision-making. We work closely with our Partners and our suppliers to prioritise innovative solutions to sustainable and low-carbon design to ensure positive long-term impact. This approach extends from the acquisition of sites through the design, planning, construction, and eventual operation of our schemes.
For both our refurbishment and redevelopment schemes, we approach sustainable design from a holistic point of view, striving to create high-quality, cost-efficient buildings that are fit for the modern occupier market, whilst limiting carbon emissions. We believe that well-designed buildings have a direct impact on the health and well-being of our occupants.
Green from the ground up: crafting sustainable spaces with innovation and care
Our development strategy prioritises achieving high sustainability standards across our logistics schemes. We target EPC A ratings and BREEAM Excellent certifications, while also striving for Net Zero in both construction and operation.
Our developments are designed with a strong emphasis on flexibility and adaptation to withstand climate change, technology advancements and evolving occupier requirements. We prioritise the use of renewable energy sources, aiming for self-sufficiency and compliance with new legislation such as Part L 2023. Additionally, we place great importance on sustainability by maximising the use of recycled materials, as well as reviewing the use of Material Passports.
Marchmont is experienced in regenerating and unlocking challenging sites which may be impacted by contamination. All of the sites within the development portfolio are brownfield sites. By prioritising the development of such sites, we are able to mitigate against adverse environmental impacts.
Our approach to design also ensures waste is minimised during operation. Some initiatives include utilisation of water leak detection systems and meters to conserve water, LAD and sensor lighting as well as seeking to reuse materials on-site rather than sending them to landfill.
Other strategies include ensuring sustainable supply chains through robust procurement processes, leveraging photovoltaic panels (PV) to provide green and affordable energy for our occupiers and facilitating the use of electric vehicles through appropriate infrastructure. We currently have 170 EV charging points in place across our developments and have included the infrastructure to facilitate the installation of 699 additional points in the future as demand for this technology grows.
We also encourage accessibility and sustainable transport solutions by incorporating cycle parking and shower facilities. The ecological credentials of the site are enhanced via enriching the surrounding landscape, habitats and biodiversity through the planting of trees, and further landscaping.
The well-being of our occupiers is paramount and our schemes are designed to optimise this. Our buildings seek to optimise natural light (a minimum of 10% roof lights incorporated into all schemes) and actively create open green spaces, which also increases on-site biodiversity.
Fulfilling our pledge: A strategic imperative for sustainable/logistics schemes
Sustainable practices will remain an integral focus of Marchmont’s development strategy as we strive to deliver the buildings of tomorrow. The integration of sustainable initiatives and green infrastructure is essential in order to achieve a more environmentally conscious and resilient future. The entire Logistics market has an opportunity to be a driving force in mitigating adverse environmental impacts. Through embracing collaboration, innovation and a commitment to sustainable practices, the industry can reduce carbon footprint whilst simultaneously enhancing operational efficiencies and cost-effectiveness, and delivering best-in-class assets for the modern occupier base.
