Cold Solutions Kenya secures LEED Gold Certification

This makes its temperature-controlled warehouses in Nairobi the only facility of its kind in Africa to achieve such recognition, setting new benchmarks in cold storage technology.

Established just two years ago, Cold Solutions Kenya's facility was awarded the Gold certification, which is the second-highest level in the LEED rating system. The evaluation recognized the facility's commitment to green building standards, including energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and indoor environmental quality.

LEED certification is an internationally recognized rating system that evaluates the environmental performance and sustainability of buildings. It prioritizes energy efficiency, the use of sustainable materials, indoor air quality, and innovation in design and operations.

With this certification, Cold Solutions Kenya’s warehouse is now classified as a "green building," underscoring its focus on reducing environmental impact, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring the well-being of its occupants.

The facility already holds several certifications, including YUM!, FSSC 22000, the World Health Organization's Good Distribution Practice (GDP), and certification from the Pharmaceutical Poisons Board for storing food and pharmaceutical products.

Azhar Rifai, Co-head of Cold Chain Strategy at ARCH Emerging Partners—the investment firm backing Cold Solutions in East Africa—expressed excitement over the achievement.

"We are extremely proud to receive this prestigious certification. Being the only temperature-controlled warehouse in Africa with LEED Gold status is a significant vote of confidence in our business. Cold Solutions Kenya continues to raise the bar in cold storage technology by embracing innovation and sustainability to improve service delivery. This milestone reflects our commitment to sustainability and climate goals in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on environmental responsibility,” he said.

The LEED certification process uses a point-based system, called the LEED credit library, to assess various environmental factors. Points are awarded for actions that reduce carbon emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and protect the health and environment of the surrounding area.

Achieving LEED Gold certification demonstrates Cold Solutions Kenya’s dedication to environmental responsibility and human well-being.

To attain such a high level of certification, the facility implemented measures to minimize greenhouse gas emissions, use efficient equipment, incorporate renewable energy solutions like solar power, and employ ammonia refrigeration systems. These efforts help reduce emissions and support clients in achieving their sustainability goals.

The LEED rating system ranges from Certified to Platinum, with Platinum being the highest level. Buildings can earn a maximum of 110 points, with 80 or more points required for Platinum certification.

Each level reflects the building’s success in meeting key sustainability goals, including reducing CO2 emissions, improving energy performance, enhancing indoor air quality, and promoting material sustainability.