Business
Cold Solutions Earns Prestigious LEED Gold Certification

First Multipurpose Temperature-Controlled Warehouse in Africa to Achieve This Milestone
Leading cold chain solutions provider, Cold Solutions Kenya Limited, has been awarded the highly coveted LEED Gold (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This recognition follows a rigorous assessment of its state-of-the-art temperature-controlled warehouses in Kenya, making it the first facility of its kind in Africa to achieve this status and setting a new benchmark in cold storage technology.
Having launched operations in Kenya just two years ago, Cold Solutions has now joined the ranks of global green building leaders. The LEED Gold certification, the second-highest rating in the LEED system, reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the highest international standards for environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
What is LEED Certification?
LEED certification is an internationally recognized framework developed by the USGBC to evaluate the environmental performance of buildings. The system emphasizes energy efficiency, sustainable materials, indoor air quality, and innovative design. Achieving this certification positions Cold Solutions’ facilities as environmentally responsible, energy-efficient, and safe for both human well-being and the planet.
The Nairobi facility has already garnered multiple certifications, including YUM!, FSSC 22000, World Health Organization Good Distribution Practices (GDP), and the Pharmaceutical Poisons Board approval for the storage of food and pharmaceuticals. The addition of LEED Gold certification further elevates its standing in the industry.
Leadership and Innovation in Sustainability
Commenting on this achievement, Azhar Rifai, Co-head of Cold Chain Strategy at ARCH Emerging Partners—the investment firm backing Cold Solutions in East Africa—said:
“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious certification. Being the only temperature-controlled warehouse in Africa to achieve LEED Gold status underscores our commitment to sustainability and innovation. This milestone reflects the dedication of our team to achieving global environmental and operational standards, while also aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on environmental responsibility.”
To earn LEED Gold certification, a project undergoes evaluation using a points-based system called the LEED Credit Library. This system assesses factors such as energy efficiency, carbon emissions reduction, and the protection of health and environmental quality. Projects achieving higher point totals demonstrate exceptional environmental responsibility, with Platinum certification being the highest honor, requiring over 80 points.
Sustainability Features of Cold Solutions Facilities
The certification process highlighted several key features of Cold Solutions’ warehouses:
- Renewable Energy Solutions: Integration of solar power to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
- Ammonia Refrigeration: Use of environmentally friendly refrigeration systems to minimize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- Water Reclamation: Systems designed to conserve water and improve resource efficiency.
- Efficient Equipment: Deployment of advanced technologies to enhance energy performance and reduce carbon footprints.
“Achieving LEED Gold certification not only confirms our commitment to sustainability but also ensures that our operations support clients in reducing their carbon emissions while enhancing overall energy efficiency,” Rifai added.
A Future Built on Sustainability
The LEED Gold certification solidifies Cold Solutions’ role as a pioneer in sustainable cold storage in Africa. By setting a new standard for environmentally conscious building practices, the company is paving the way for the future of green infrastructure in the region, aligning both environmental and business priorities.
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