Construction Magazine August 2015 | Page 36

AMDEC GROUP

The future sustainability of our built environment is in the hands of today ’ s property developers

The iconic Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct in Johannesburg ’ s leafy northern suburbs has set the precedent for sustainable cities in South Africa for over a decade , starting long before the green building movement officially began in the country .

Today , it continues its legacy of pioneering sustainability . Leading South African property company Amdec are owners in Melrose Arch . By taking a long-term view and optimising the critical mass of mixed-use developments , Amdec has become a front-runner in green building innovation in South Africa .
Josef Quraishi , Head of Sustainability and Green Building for Amdec group , stated it will continue to push the sustainability envelope .
Sustainability is a win-win Amdec sees sustainability as a win-win . “ When we develop , we look at the broader context of investing in communities . A thriving community is good for business ; the more attractive a community is , the more desirable our buildings become ,” said Quraishi .
He adds : “ Amdec will continue with our commitment to find new and better ways to create greater sustainability and better resource efficiency , and use our hard-earned experience in sustainable development not only to benefit those who live , work and visit our developments , but also for the property industry as a whole .”
Quraishi believes that , as a pioneer in sustainable development in South Africa , Amdec has a lot to
36 August 2015