What is LEED?

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership. By following green-building standards, buildings can conserve water, reduce waste, minimize miles driven, use green materials and implement sustainable strategies.

Getz Pharma believes in forward-thinking by constantly taking environmentally conscious efforts to achieve a sustainable world. Named after Pakistan’s largest island and Ramsar Convention-protected site, the Astola plant was envisioned nearly 9 years ago by the Getz Pharma team, led by CEO, Khalid Mahmood. The green building facility will use less energy, passive heating, and cooling which will improve the air quality while potentially reducing carbon emissions. With the completion of the Astola plant, Getz Pharma has achieved its goal of promoting sustainability and efficiency in its operations. The project is a remarkable achievement in the Green Building industry and is a moment of pride for Pakistan.

The Astola plant is designed, constructed, and validated to obtain:

•  World Health Organization (WHO) Prequalification
•  Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) Certification
•  European Medicines Agency (EMA) Accreditation for Good Manufacturing Practice

Impact of Astola on Sustainability

Energy Solve International (ESI) was invited by the Astola project team to facilitate the LEED Platinum Level Certification process of the new green unit. ESI conducted a study from May 2016 to May 2017, to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a ‘Green Building’ and to obtain the coveted LEED rating from the USGBC, under the LEED Version 3 – new construction rating system. As a result, ESI founded and encouraged Getz Pharma to go for LEED Platinum Level Certification due to Astola’s uniqueness. Astola is designed to maintain its commissioning efficiency levels at all times, consuming less energy and water than estimated. A savings monitoring and verification mechanism has been installed for this purpose. By choosing to use a futuristic sustainable approach, the Astola plant will dramatically reduce water and energy consumption.

By choosing to use a futuristic sustainable approach, the Astola plant will dramatically reduce water and energy consumption.

Factors that led to LEED Platinum Level Certification by the USGBC Sustainable Site

• More than 20% of green and pedestrian-oriented paving spaces are provided to promote occupant mental comfort.
• There is on-site stormwater management.
• High energy-efficient equipment such as steam boilers, motion sensor lights, and centralized air-conditioning systems have been installed.

Contribution to the Environment

• 59% reduction in potable water consumption
• 42% reduction in carbon emissions
• 42% reduction in energy consumption
• 7,000 indigenous trees, plants, bushes and shrub

Construction Management

A set of waste management guidelines were followed throughout. Not to forget 24% of the material used was procured from regional sources and 21% was from recycled material during the construction phases of Astola. Construction wastage was disposed of to divert a minimum amount of waste to the landfill.

By achieving this prestigious certification, Getz Pharma has set a precedent for the corporate sector, that economic growth can very well be accomplished alongside preserving and protecting the environment.