Primer Distribution Center (PDC), the in-house warehousing and distribution hub of the Primer Group of Companies, has secured the prestigious Green Mark Gold Certification from Singapore, making it the first and only Filipino-owned Green Mark-certified building in the Philippines.
Constructed in 2018 within the industrial hub of Cupang, Muntinlupa, the Primer Group designed the PDC to encompass a 5,000sqm office and warehouse space, and an additional 10,000sqm storage facility. Since its inception, the building was designed to be sustainable and energy efficient.
Green Features of PDC
PDC stands as a testament to Primer’s Group unwavering commitment to environmentally-responsible practices. As such, rainwater harvesting and filtration systems have been integrated in the building to provide non-potable water sources for sanitary purposes. Rigorous waste management practices are also in place to ensure that all operational waste is meticulously sorted for recycling. Moreover, the building promotes natural air flow, utilizes LED lighting, and reduces electricity consumption through Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
“The building’s architecture adheres to green standards, ensuring the preservation of existing landscape elements while meeting security and safety requirements,” shares Edward Evangelista, Primer’s Administrative Services Manager.
Not only does PDC’s electrical design optimized lighting efficiency, but the mechanical design also focused on minimizing refrigerant use in the Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) layout. Fire safety measures are also considered with the use of HCFC fire extinguishers, which are free from ozone-depleting substances.
The Certification Process
The Green Mark Certification Scheme, meticulously crafted by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore, serves as a comprehensive assessment tool for evaluating the environmental performance of new and existing buildings in Asia. It champions sustainable design principles and encourages the adoption of best practices in construction and operational processes.
For Primer Group, PDC’s attainment of Green Mark Gold certification resonates deeply with its enduring commitment to environmental stewardship.
Despite the challenge of obtaining Green Mark Certification, PDC prioritized compliance from the start of construction, resulting in a smoother application process. Monthly monitoring ensures adherence to environmentally safe practices, including the use of LED lighting and natural ventilation. G-Energy provided support during the certification process, guiding the Primer team through energy conservation plans and audits.
In the Philippines, there are only five Green Mark-certified buildings—four of which are Singaporean-owned.
Looking Ahead
Primer Group of Companies remains resolute in its dedication to sustainability. All Primer-owned facilities are set to pursue Green Mark Certification where applicable, with ongoing efforts focused on securing Gold Certification for the Primer Workplays Building and completion of the Chiller plants process. This dedication to green building practices aligns with Primer's broader mission of environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.
To know more about the PDC’s Green Mark Gold Certification, visit www.sleb.sg/Building/GreenMarkBuildingsDirectory and filter the search to Philippines.
