Nedbank's new environmentally friendly office should be energy and resource efficient

Nedbank Namibia inaugurated the site where will be located the new headquarters of the bank in the central business district.

The headquarters will be located on Freedom Plaza, in addition to the skyline of the central business district and the cityscape in general, and should encourage awareness of the myriad benefits of green architecture.

To minimize greenhouse gas emissions, the design will incorporate a measurement system that, at "a very granular level," will monitor and control the efficient use of energy.

Speaking at the event, Lionel Matthews, managing director of Nedbank Namibia, said that they were building a great place to work for the Nedbankers, as well as an ideal place for clients bank and investments.

"It is generally accepted that buildings consume 40% of the world's energy, 25% of our fresh water and generate 40% of landfills. That's why it was essential for us to design, build and operate a building that is energy efficient and resource-friendly and environmentally friendly, "he added.

The mayor of the city of Windhoek, Muesee Kazapua, who delivered the keynote speech at the event, congratulated the bank for its continued confidence in the economy.

"Infrastructure development on this scale is a testament to the fact that Namibia's investment policy and the political climate prevailing in our country remain at the heart of our economic development," he added.

Meanwhile, Nedbank is aiming for a five-star green rating for its new headquarters, the second-highest rating possible.

Silke van der Merwe: Nedbank's chief operating officer, said the project "further illustrates our commitment as a responsible corporate citizen to contribute to sustainable practices, but also provides an environment for their employees that allows them to to be part of a sustainable future ".

At the same time, Nedbank has also launched a three-year program to prepare staff and introduce sustainability practices into their existing buildings.

Caption: (fltr) Charl de Kock, Deputy Chief of Real Estate Services, Nedbank Group; Councilor Muesee Kazapua, Mayor of Windhoek Nedbank, Lionel Matthews, Director General of Namibia, and Lawyer Theo J Frank, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nedbank Namibia.