Written by: Slobodan Cupać, Head of Technical Operation and Facility Management
For over a decade, MPC Properties has been actively promoting green construction. MPC was the first company in Serbia to certify an existing building—the UŠĆE Shopping Center in 2014. Today, we proudly maintain an impressive portfolio of commercial buildings certified and designed in accordance with LEED, BREEAM, and WELL Health & Safety standards. In 2024, both UŠĆE and BEO Shopping Centers achieved LEED EBOM GOLD certification, followed by MERKATOR, UŠĆE Tower 1, NBC1, and NBC2.
The essence of green construction lies in considering the project’s environmental impact throughout its entire life cycle—starting from the idea, planning, and design, through execution, and all the way to usage.
Importantly, all certifications were completed during regular operations, with the active participation of tenants.
This process not only enhanced the quality of experience within our buildings but also, through the careful selection of equipment and optimization of technical systems, ensured optimal comfort while significantly reducing energy consumption (electricity, heating, and cooling) and water usage. It also improved waste management, reduced harmful emissions, increased efficiency, monitored waste streams, and protected watercourses. As a result, we contributed to the preservation of public health and set an example for both professionals and the public on the benefits of green construction.
Meeting the certification requirements demanded significant adaptation of existing facilities and additional investments. Measures included reducing water consumption, improving energy efficiency, enhancing air quality, and establishing sustainable practices for materials use, maintenance, and cleaning – the outcome: significant energy savings and reduced CO₂ emissions.
Through this journey, we learned how much can be achieved with optimal system adjustments, innovation, and a dedicated team effort.
ENERGY & DECARBONIZATION
Throughout the years, MPC has implemented the Green Agenda, which includes efforts to decrease its carbon footprint and, accordingly, implement energy efficiency measures. Key initiatives include:
- Replacing all existing lighting with energy-efficient LED systems.
- Optimizing HVAC operations by replacing older systems with new, high-efficiency ones.
- Reducing heat load by improving building thermal insulation.
- Installing PV solar plants to operate in prosumer mode, using generated electricity for our own consumption (e-chargers, e-scooters, bicycles, etc.).
- Utilizing natural ventilation for building air conditioning
Although Serbia has not yet fully implemented regulations to allow all necessary permits for solar plants for self-consumption, MPC has already completed feasibility studies across all assets to enable green energy production and further reduce our carbon footprint.
WATER, WASTE & CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Across our certified retail and office portfolio, MPC has implemented water-saving measures by using low-consumption devices and equipment.
At UŠĆE Shopping Center, we improved our waste management process by installing a composting machine—a successful example of circular economy practices at the facility level.
On our office assets, green roofs planted with sedums and native species reduced water consumption, while the use of solar panels for hot water preparation further lowered energy use.
HEALTH, SAFETY & INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY WELL
Health & Safety Certification and Recertification are regularly implemented across all MPC assets, reflecting our long-term commitment to the health and safety of staff, visitors, and stakeholders. The process is successfully coordinated with Energo Energy Efficiency Engineering, a member of the WELL committee, and MPC’s sustainability consultant.
Every year, air and water quality are measured, and policies are revised to ensure clean, safe, and healthy spaces. This certification was especially relevant during the COVID-19 crisis, as the WELL Health-Safety Rating provided a trusted framework for guiding and validating efforts on critical health and safety issues.
While specific COVID-specific measures (such as barriers and sanitary pads) were later phased out, MPC continues to adhere to the International WELL Building Institute’s (IWBI) framework, maintaining resilience and preparedness for future emergencies.
Additionally, all MPC assets are equipped with BMS and EMS systems connected to Power Scala, enabling precise monitoring and efficient adjustment of operational parameters.
Slobodan Cupać
Head of Technical Operation and Facility Management at MPC Properties
SMART OPERATIONS & DATA
MPC uses specialized software for preventive and corrective maintenance across all assets. The software automatically generates work orders in line with annual maintenance plans.
Savings and performance improvements are tracked through our energy management system, which monitors key operational parameters and provides insights for further optimization.
TENANTS, COMMUNITY & MOBILITY
Shopping centers like UŠĆE and BEO in Belgrade demonstrate how environmental responsibility can be harmonized with community engagement. Both centers hold LEED EBOM Gold certifications, showcasing their commitment to sustainable operations, waste management, and building maintenance.
Initiatives such as PV solar plants, composting programs, e-vehicle charging stations, and bike-friendly infrastructure reduce environmental impact. At the same time, green spaces like rooftop gardens improve urban biodiversity and provide relaxation areas for visitors.
Equally important, these centers host ESG-driven programs, educational workshops on sustainability, and public events such as the UŠĆE Eco Festival and Green Wheels Adventure with Porsche. Through these initiatives, UŠĆE and BEO foster vibrant, eco-conscious spaces that promote both ecological stewardship and community well-being.
