Shenzhen stood out from 429 candidate cities from 64 countries and regions to win the World Smart City Award at the 2024 Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC) in Barcelona, demonstrating China’s extraordinary strength and potential in building smart cities.
Centred on the theme of “building a new smart city benchmark, making city smarter and life better“, the “comprehensive solution for building a smart city” by Shenzhen integrates the city’s people-oriented concept of smart city construction and provides several highlight cases.
The jury committee believes that Shenzhen has comprehensively demonstrated its innovative solutions in key areas such as enabling technology, transportation, energy and environment, governance, industry and economy, livability and inclusiveness, infrastructure and construction, and created an intelligent and humanistic digitised city by its unique urban philosophy, foundation and landscape.
Concerning urban governance, Shenzhen has preliminarily built up the digital twin base for the city area, which combines nearly 10,000 BIM refined models of major buildings, forming the digital twin data system covering three primary categories (urban basic space, management targets and IoT perception) and 25 subdivisions, and offers 4,000+ data services.
The city has created 200+ digital twin application scenarios including one graph for urban water management, one graph for power charge, storage and discharge, planning and design of the 5th-phase rail transit, and promoted the application of digital twins in urban areas like Houhai, Xiangmihu and Guangming Science City.
For example, by creating applications for urban flood prevention and relying upon the graph for urban water management, flood disaster risk model and contingency plans for different working conditions, Shenzhen utilises 3D models to simulate floods in key districts and analysis of affected areas, reinforce the accuracy of identifying water-logging risks and explore new paths of addressing the issue.
The Xiangmihu digital twin comprehensive application depends on high rendering capability to visually present complex surface and underground space planning, assists in digital decisions such as city silhouette review and urban landscape design, and advances the establishment of a lifecycle digital twin management model of key districts including planning, design, construction and operation.
The Singapore Interior Design Award (SIDA) 2024 celebrated the pinnacle of spatial and interior design excellence at the awards Gala Dinner held on 8 November 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, attended by Guest-of-Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance and National Development, with over 500 guests from design, architecture, and the built environment business sectors.
Presented by the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS), SIDA is an annual competition aimed at recognising exceptional projects and practitioners in the design industry worldwide. The award also features a dedicated category for Singapore-based designers – Luminary – one of the highest levels of recognition in Singapore, honouring designers who have significantly impacted the industry.
In its 8th edition, SIDA 2024 had received almost 700 submission entries from 12 countries. Submissions from Singapore made up a significant share of the submissions with 492 entries, with Malaysia and China trailing. This year also saw new submissions from Cambodia and the United Kingdom, an exciting observation which underlines SIDA’s nascent reach outside Singapore. A total of 107 participants from 8 nations were honoured with the SIDA 2024. United by a strong design know-how and diverse experiences, the jury panel for SIDA 2024 is made up of internationally renowned experts, creatives, and industry leaders in the fields of design, architecture, and hospitality.
Brandon Fee, Chairman of SIDA 2024, is heartened: “Since its inception in 2017, SIDA has grown from a platform dedicated to spotlighting Singapore-based designers to a highly respected regional competition that sets the bar for design excellence across Asia. Each year, our finalists represent a dynamic blend of experienced professionals and emerging talents, illustrating that SIDA’s design-centric criteria ensure a level playing field for all, regardless of project scale or budget.”
Winners and highlights include:
Lifetime Achievement Award: Simon Ong, Kingsmen Creatives (Singapore)
Designer of the Year: Averse Yau, A Blue Cube Design (Singapore)
Young Designer of the Year: Dickson Phoon, Twothree Design (Singapore)
Best Design Firm of the Year: Super Assembly (Singapore)
Design Educator of the Year: Ho Sock Yee, Temasek Polytechnic (Singapore)
Design of the Year: EDL Regional Headquarters, Gwen Tan, The Afternaut Group (Singapore)
As the world of interior design continues to grow and evolve, SIDA offers a valuable platform for showcasing creativity, skill, and innovation. The competition not only brings attention to talented designers but also shines the spotlight on young designer students seeking to join the profession through SIDA Youth Category. In alignment with its commitment to nurturing emerging talent, the award has expanded to include the inaugural SIDA Youth Excellence Award, an annual bursary programme recognising three students enrolled in local Institute of Higher Learnings (IHLs) with S$3,000 each.
Tung Ching Yew, President of the Society of Interior Designers Singapore, adds: “As Singapore’s leading professional body for the industry, the Society aims to position itself as a vital pillar of quality and credibility. One of our proudest milestones is achieving this through SIDA where we recognise not only veteran practitioners but also aspiring design students who will be the next generation of design leaders.”
2024 also marks the Society’s 30th anniversary. As Singapore’s leading professional body for the industry, SIDS endeavours to shape the future of the industry, profession and design. During the Gala Dinner, Tung shared significant milestones the Society has achieved over the last three decades and current challenges the industry is facing.
Addressing the recent spate of negative renovation-related news, the Society will be embarking on an awareness campaign for Singapore Interior Designers Accreditation Scheme (SIDAS) to educate homeowners and project owners on the importance of hiring accredited professionals who adhere to the highest standards in design, ethics, and safety.
At this year’s ICONIC AWARDS 2024: Innovative Architecture, no fewer than four dormakaba solutions have been awarded as winners in three categories: the new generation of terminals for time recording and the new, digital high-security safe lock series, Axessor APEXX IP, in the “Product- Building Technologies” category, the automatic door system MotionIQ in the “Energy Solutions” category and skyra, which is the cloud-based access solution in the “Product Special” category.
“We are delighted and proud to have received four awards in this neutral, international architecture and design competition. These prizes further strengthen our reputation as a design-oriented company and are a sign of recognition for creative product development and innovation. They motivate our employees to continue developing products of the highest quality,” emphasises Torsten Stolte, Managing Director of dormakaba Deutschland GmbH.
The new dormakaba terminals 96 00 and 98 00 of the new terminal generation for time recording support individual working time models, meet the specific needs of employers and are designed to adapt to different requirements and display designs. The terminals are flexible, future-proof, easy to integrate and sustainable.
The intelligent Motion IQ door system for automatic doors significantly improves a building’s energy balance while reducing operating costs, facilitating barrier-free access to the building and optimising the safe use of automatic doors. The new system only opens the door when necessary and closes it immediately after passage, as MotionIQ calculates the ideal opening time and the time the door remains open.
The smart on-demand solution skyra ensures safe and easy access to distributed critical infrastructure sites. The skyra portfolio includes a variety of locking cylinder designs for every locking situation and a rechargeable key that communicates access rights and locking information with the cloud service via the mobile app.
The new digital safe lock series “Axessor APEXX IP” sets new, significant benchmarks and standards in the field of safe locks and provides a networkable, contemporary multi-lock application. In connection with the administration and networking platform, the safe locks can be securely managed and programmed remotely. It is ideal for all companies that require the efficiency and convenience of a networked and unified safe lock solution that meets the highest security standards.
At the awards ceremony in Munich on 8 October 2024, the special prize in the “Architects of the Year” category, sponsored by dormakaba, went to Tatiana Bilbao Estudio from Mexico.
“Tatiana Bilbao’s Mexican architecture studio sees architecture as a tool for improving social situations. I am impressed how local conditions are masterfully translated into striking architectural gestures,” explained Bernhard Heitz, Strategic Product Design dormakaba, at the awards ceremony.
Cementing its leadership in the built environment sector, City Developments Limited (CDL) was conferred the pinnacle Company of the Year Award at the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Awards 2024, in recognition of its long-standing commitment and contributions to driving enterprise and value-chain transformation. Introduced this year, the Award seeks to spur firms in the sector to go beyond project-level initiatives towards outstanding achievements in their business operations and value chain, as well as workforce transformation at the enterprise level.
Embracing its ethos of ‘Conserving as We Construct’ since 1995, CDL has built a strong track record in sustainable development, pioneering green building innovation and game-changing construction methodology at its developments, while also implementing active asset management strategies to manage the carbon footprint of its commercial portfolio, in addition to stakeholder engagement initiatives to drive mindset and behavioural change within its value chain, from builders and consultants to tenants and end users, as well as the wider community.
Mr Chia Ngiang Hong, CDL’s Group General Manager, said, “As a homegrown developer, we have contributed to shaping Singapore’s skyline and the built environment for over six decades. It is a tremendous honour to be an inaugural recipient of the prestigious Company of the Year Award, which affirms our unwavering commitment towards quality and excellence. Through our continued focus on digitalisation and innovation, we will chart new growth pathways, drive transformation within our value chain and support the shared vision of a future-ready built environment for Singapore.”
In addition to the prestigious Company of the Year accolade, CDL received the Quality Excellence Award, marking its 12th consecutive win since 2013. This award recognises leading progressive developers and builders for their commitment and achievement in delivering high-quality homes through workmanship excellence and quality assurance programmes.
Driving Business and Value Chain Transformation through Digitalisation and Innovation
Innovation has been a key driver in CDL’s business and decarbonisation journey and consistently remains one of the Group’s top-voted material environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues since 2017. In the move towards a low-carbon world, CDL continues to leverage innovation and digitalisation to support business growth and transformation.
Through the implementation of digital tools such as the Common Data Environment (CDE), it has boosted project outcomes by enhancing collaboration and communication in its property development workflow, which involves multiple stakeholders. For its Union Square redevelopment project, CDL has embarked on the CDE pilot and expects to achieve productivity improvements and other beneficial outcomes during the development process.
Since 2022, CDL has also started introducing the use of robots at its worksites, making a significant step forward in the construction process by enhancing precision, safety and efficiency, enabling the completion of complex tasks such as tile grouting and rebar tying with greater accuracy and consistency.
In July 2022, the use of robots for tile grouting was first trialled at its Executive Condominium (EC) project Piermont Grand, and will be implemented at its other EC projects, Lumina Grand and Copen Grand. These robots are utilised by tiling sub-contractors and streamline the process of marking grout lines, which allows for speed and ensures uniformity and accuracy in tile placement.
As an extension of its commitment to enterprise and value chain transformation, the Group has also focused on aligning its major subsidiaries with its decarbonisation and sustainability goals. The Group’s wholly-owned hospitality subsidiary, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Limited (M&C), recently achieved the esteemed Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification for its six hotels in Singapore: Copthorne King’s Hotel, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore, M Hotel Singapore, M Social Singapore, Orchard Hotel Singapore and Studio M Singapore.
Securing GSTC certification is aligned with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and the Singapore Tourism Board’s Sustainability Roadmap. Some key features implemented by M&C include innovative in-room technology, zero single-use plastic by 2050 and several social impact initiatives.
Asset Portfolio Decarbonisation through Innovative Stakeholder Engagement
To enhance a building’s overall energy efficiency, influencing user behaviour through engagement initiatives is vital. In 2014, the CDL Green Lease Partnership Programme was introduced to support and encourage its commercial tenants to reduce their energy consumption and environmental footprint. Under the programme, tenants are provided support in greening their offices to obtain the BCA Green Mark Office Interior certifications.
Piloted City Green Tenant Bonus Programme at Republic Plaza
In July 2024, CDL piloted its City Green Tenant Bonus Programme, a first-of-its-kind decarbonisation initiative for tenants at its flagship Grade A office building – Republic Plaza. As an extension of CDL’s Green Lease initiative, this programme aims to promote, encourage and incentivise tenants to adopt sustainable practices and effectively reduce energy consumption. Participating tenants will receive energy savings and dollar-for-dollar rebate incentives in the form of CDL vouchers at the end of the 12-month programme, as well as sustainability knowledge and resource support.
Through this initiative, if all qualified tenants collectively achieve a 10 percent energy reduction, Republic Plaza can reduce its annual Scope 3 carbon emissions by up to 264,000 kgCO2e – equivalent to the energy needed to power 150 4-room HDB flats for an entire year. Reducing tenants’ carbon emissions will also help address CDL’s Scope 3 GHG emission source.
Building on its core value of collaboration, CDL is committed to providing resources and knowledge to help tenants reduce energy costs and advance their journey towards sustainability. CDL’s credibility in sustainability will provide a first-in-industry experience to CDL’s tenants, further strengthening the close landlord-tenant relationship.
RSP, a global multidisciplinary architectural and engineering design group headquartered in Singapore, came out on top in the Singapore Business Review list of Singapore’s most notable architecture professionals under 40, with six of its local architects making the final cut out of a total of 20 outstanding peers recognised.
In search of the best architecture professionals under 40, Singapore Business Review reached out to more than 25 architecture firms in Singapore this year. Nine female architects and 11 male architects made the list this year after a rigorous nomination review process.
RSP is especially proud to be acknowledged as a powerhouse in nurturing the next generation of outstanding architectural professionals, with all the finalists being homegrown talents. It underscores the group’s commitment in training and expanding the skills of young, local architects, and mentors the next generation of leaders who can meet the challenges in a rapidly transforming world.
Within the context of the built environment, architecture firms like RSP are experiencing hiring competition not only within the sector but also from external industries due to the demanding nature of the profession. As one of the most established architecture firms in Singapore, RSP has developed a method to retain quality team members.
“Our winning formula in retaining top talents involves providing them a sense of purpose and a clear road map for growth and licensure. Apart from offering training in both professional and soft skills, we customise a development programme based on their position, domain strengths, and goals while allowing each of them space to hone their abilities,” shares Ng Meng Hui, Managing Director at RSP.
Singapore’s Most Notable Architects Under 40 from RSP
Samantha Wong, 35, RSP Associate
Having graduated with a Master of Architecture from the National University of Singapore, Samantha is a Registered Architect known for her balance of innovation and user-centric design. She seamlessly integrates regulatory requirements whilst prioritising sustainability and inclusivity. Her experience with EPIC Homes, where she built homes for Orang Asli families, deepened her commitment to community-focused architecture. Her key projects include Grand Park City Hall and Mandai Bird Paradise.
Jocelyn Yong, 36, RSP, Senior Associate
Jocelyn, with a Master’s in Architecture from the University of New South Wales and over a decade of experience, has shaped award-winning projects like the SIT Punggol Campus Court with Super Low Energy buildings. Her portfolio includes Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, Alexandra Hospital Healing Campus, and Lions Home for Elders. Inspired by her childhood in under-resourced elder care, Jocelyn is dedicated to revolutionising healthcare design. She employs advanced technologies to create eco-friendly, community-focused spaces, driven by a commitment to societal impact.
Matthias Fabian Alexander, 37, RSP, Associate
Matthias, a Taylor’s University Architecture graduate, excels in collaborative design, integrating architects and engineers for project success. With a Green Mark Accredited Professional (GMAP) certification, he has worked in diverse sectors including institutional and residential developments. Key projects include the Dunearn 386 residential project, Angel Playing Cards Factory, and the National Archives Singapore. Matthias remains committed to advancing the architectural field through meticulous planning and innovative problem-solving.
Chin Qin You, 38, RSP, Associate
Qin You has refined her design skills through diverse projects, from high-end residential to large-scale commercial ventures. Previously focused on private residential projects, she now leads significant commercial and civic addition and alteration projects. She had a pivotal role in CapitaSpring, an iconic project that showcases her proficiency in blending innovative design with functional excellence. Qin You is dedicated to understanding how the built environment influences interpersonal dynamics, viewing design as a transformative force that shapes lifestyles and communal interactions.
Huijuan Lim, 39, RSP, Senior Associate
With over a decade of experience, Lim Huijuan is a dependable and driven architect, whose notable works include the Cyan condominium, Pavilion Park landed housing, One Holland Village mixed development, and MINDEF Annex. Huijuan excels in managing resources and delivering projects on time and within budget, always considering the end-user’s perspective to enhance design and functionality. Outside work, her passion for long-distance cycling and dragon-boating has honed her discipline and teamwork.
Md Shaziran Bin Md Shahabdeen, 39, RSP, Associate
Shaziran Shahabdeen is a creative and accommodating architect known for fulfilling client visions while navigating budget and site challenges. His project management excels in clear communication, using precise emails and graphical notes to ensure effective collaboration with consultants, contractors, and clients. Shazi skillfully analyses projects to prioritise tasks and manage timelines, contributing to major projects like Funan, One Holland Village commercial and residential development, St Regis Hotel and Service Residential A&A Works.
American Standard, a sanitary ware brand that is part of LIXIL, recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of the American Standard Design Award (ASDA) 2024 Grand Prize winner and regional finalists at a special awards ceremony and exhibition in Singapore.
The competition attracted strong interest from nearly 5,000 registrants from six countries across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Entries were judged and advanced through national and regional competition rounds, by a panel drawn from over 30 experts from the architecture, design and sanitary ware industry.
The ASDA 2024 theme of “Home Away From Home” challenged student designers to apply their knowledge and creativity to design innovative solutions for a hospitality bathroom that recreates the warm and inviting feeling of home, resonating with the American Standard brand claim of LIFE.LOVE.HOME.
Ricardo Noel Bonalos, an undergraduate design student at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines emerged as the ASDA APAC Grand Prize Winner, with his entry titled “SereniScape Retreat: Your Personal Urban Oasis”. His winning entry presented a harmonious blend of natural elements and thoughtful design, where the bathroom becomes a haven where guests can unwind, reconnect with themselves, and experience the dual warmth of a homey atmosphere and the refreshing touch of a tranquil oasis. The use of customisable cabinets that allows guests to adapt the space to their individual needs adds a unique personality to the bathroom and addresses the challenge of catering to diverse guest preferences without imposing difficulty on hotel owners.
Ricardo said, “This project required meticulous attention to detail and careful consideration of materials, fixtures, and furnishings. Although this process was time-consuming, it was incredibly educational. Participating in the ASDA has taught me invaluable lessons about the art of designing spaces that feel both familiar and welcoming, even within a commercial context. It has boosted my confidence and prepared me to tackle real-world projects with a more refined approach. It’s provided me with a unique platform to learn from the best minds in the field, and the opportunity to receive feedback from industry leaders and peers has been incredibly enlightening.”
Antoine Besseyre Des Horts, Leader, LIXIL Global Design, Asia commented, “The ASDA was created as a platform to nurture and recognise upcoming talent in the industry. The calibre of entries keeps impressing ASDA judges. It is rewarding to see the ASDA platform grow to more than 1,000 submitted entries from across the region, focusing on the theme “Home Away From Home”. What truly defines a home is the delicate balance of design, space, and practicality.”
“When travelling away from home, we desire a space that relaxes, inspires, and rejuvenates. No matter the style, colour, or decor choice, it is the sense of comfort that greets us every time we step into the room. The regional finalists from six different countries were able to convey that through their winning projects and had the opportunity to receive mentoring from the distinguished judging panel. We are pleased to congratulate all the ASDA 2024 winners and finalists and look forward to their continued success” Antoine continued.
The ASDA 2024 regional finalists and first placed National winners are:
Ricardo Noel Bonalos – APAC Grand Prize Winner / Philippines National Winner from the University of Santo Tomas
Davy Sophonn – Cambodia National Winner from Kirirom Institute of Technology
Luist Yansen – Indonesia National Winner from Tarumanagara University
Podsatorn Keela – Thailand National Winner from Khon Kaen University
Mai Hà Võ – Viet Nam National Winner from Danang Architecture University
Minh Chau Nguyen – Australia & New Zealand Winner from Deakin University
Each national winner won a cash prize of US$2,000 and was mentored by their national ASDA judges in their advance to the APAC regional finals. The APAC Grand Prize winner was awarded a total cash prize of US$5,000. All regional finalists were also invited to an exclusive tour of the LIXIL Experience Centre, Singapore and a curated design workshop at the LIXIL Design Centre.
Yoma Land, a prominent real estate developer in Myanmar, has been honoured with prestigious accolades at the Real Estate Asia Awards 2024, clinching the Developer of the Year – Myanmar and Green Technology Initiative of the Year – Myanmar for its innovative and sustainable approaches in the industry.
The company has set a high bar with its vision of “Building Better Communities for the Future of Myanmar,” which has manifested through a series of pioneering projects centred around sustainability and meaningful community engagement.
In addressing the critical shortage of affordable housing, Yoma Land introduced City Loft, Myanmar’s first mortgage-backed condominium project. This initiative, in partnership with Yoma Bank, offers a 25-year mortgage plan requiring only a 20% down payment, making homeownership more accessible for the nation’s young professionals. The project’s success is evident in its rapid sales, with an average of 70 units sold per month.
Another groundbreaking venture by Yoma Land is the Estella project, which showcases the company’s commitment to tackling energy challenges. Estella is the only project in Myanmar to incorporate solar power, equipped with solar panels and batteries as a primary energy source. This not only provides a sustainable power alternative but also includes maintenance and a warranty as part of the estate management fee. The project witnessed an exceptional response, with 527 villas sold on the first launch day, highlighting the market’s enthusiasm for innovative and eco-friendly living solutions.
Yoma Land’s ventures extend beyond conventional real estate developments. It was the first to introduce small-space living concepts in Myanmar, catering to a market traditionally accustomed to larger living spaces. These studio units, measuring just 312 square feet, have been a hit, selling out quickly due to their thoughtful design and functionality. The developer also prioritises the use of local materials and craftsmanship, overcoming challenges associated with overseas sourcing. This local focus is evident in unique design elements like the StarVillas’ façade and walk-in wardrobes.
Recognising the necessity of clean water, Yoma Land has equipped all its developments with dedicated water treatment plants, ensuring access to potable water. Additionally, each estate is supported by solar farms ranging from 11 to 15 acres, which not only provide sustainable energy but also help mitigate frequent power cuts.
Community engagement is another cornerstone of Yoma Land’s strategy. The company hosts educational and health-related campaigns, including mini-marathons and Zumba classes, which foster both physical and mental health. It has also been proactive in community health initiatives, becoming the first developer in Myanmar to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to residents, a significant step at a time when only government hospitals were authorised to administer vaccines.
The vibrant community life at Yoma Land’s developments is further enriched through regular cultural and seasonal events, which help to foster a strong sense of belonging and community spirit.
Yoma Land’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community welfare has not only enhanced the real estate landscape in Myanmar but has also set a commendable benchmark for others in the industry. Through its dedication to building not just homes but holistic communities, Yoma Land continues to make a profound impact on the future of the country.
Pueblo de Panay, a township master-planned by Singapore’s premier urban planning firm Surbana Jurong, triumphed with the Masterplan Development of the Year – Philippines at the coveted Real Estate Asia Awards 2024 for its strong urban planning and community development that fosters inclusive growth in the Philippine countryside.
Situated in the heart of Capiz, a mere 45-minute flight from the Philippines’ capital Manila, Pueblo de Panay Township enjoys a strategic location that enhances its appeal and accessibility – with its proximity to key amenities and economic centres ensuring convenience for residents and businesses alike.
It offers a diverse range of amenities and facilities, embodying a holistic vision that integrates residential, commercial, educational, recreational, and industrial elements within its perimeters.
The township’s master plan incorporates green spaces, eco-friendly infrastructure, and energy-efficient solar technologies. Only 60 percent of the 670-hectare township is buildable, and the rest is reserved for open areas. In constructing its buildings and spaces, it utilises local materials like basalt rock and Capiz shells, honouring its roots and promoting sustainability.
At the same time, the trees, plants, and other flora used in the landscapes are endemic to the local area, ensuring that the local fauna is supported by familiar and necessary conditions. These steps minimise the township’s environmental footprint and enhance the quality of life for its residents, contributing to the long-term resilience of the community.
Pueblo de Panay also ensures that the voices and aspirations of the community are heard and integrated into the development process through inclusive planning processes, stakeholder consultations, and partnerships with local government units and other organisations. It now has over 60,000 foot traffic daily, composed of locals and tourists.
As part of this commitment, the township has fully donated, lent, and subsidised rents for parcels of land or spaces of buildings within the township for use by various government agencies. The Provincial Government of Capiz has started the construction of the new Capiz Provincial Capitol within the township, and the Roxas City government will soon be unveiling the design of the new Roxas City Hall to be located nearby. Both buildings, when finished, will officially make Pueblo de Panay Township the new seat of government in the City of Roxas and the Province of Capiz.
Moreover, it has served as an economic catalyst, generating around 6,000 jobs and attracting investments to stimulate economic growth. This is evident with the accreditation of the 7.4-hectare Pueblo de Panay TechnoPark by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, offering incentives to different IT-BPM locators.
The Real Estate Asia Awards is a prestigious programme designed to honour outstanding real estate projects, developments, and companies throughout Asia that consistently redefine the standards of excellence in the industry and push the boundaries of innovation to make a long-lasting impact on the community.
Grundfos, a provider of advanced pump solutions and water technology, announced recently that it has achieved a Platinum medal rating from EcoVadis. This recognition places Grundfos in the top 1 percent of companies rated worldwide, showcasing its unwavering commitment to sustainable business practices.
EcoVadis is one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings, assessing more than 130,000 companies’ actions and practices on their corporate and social responsibility. Using its international standards, EcoVadis has evaluated Grundfos across four key areas: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement to award the business a Platinum medal rating.
Since the last assessment (Gold medal rating), Grundfos has implemented additional measures and policies to strengthen social and environmental responsibility across the value chain. At the same time, the company has made significant progress towards both water and climate ambitions, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement.
“We are very proud of the Platinum rating, which I would like to dedicate to our hardworking and dedicated colleagues worldwide. It encourages us to keep pushing ourselves to enhance our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices that include progressing towards net zero by 2050, fostering a fair, inclusive, and safe working environment, enforcing strong ethical business standards, and ensuring sustainable procurement across our entire value chain,” said Louise Koch, Senior Director, Group Head of Sustainability, Grundfos.
Silvio Vanzo, Group Senior Vice President, Purchasing, Grundfos added, “Achieving Platinum certification highlights Grundfos’ commitment to conduct business in a responsible way, but it also highlights the close collaboration and trust between us and our loyal suppliers and customers. Their cooperation and input have been instrumental in strengthening and enhancing our ESG practices throughout the entire value chain.”
Grundfos sustainability highlights include:
Environment: SBTi validated 2050 net-zero target
Climate: Since 2020, Grundfos has reduced its CO2 emissions by 11.7 percent (2023). Through a new Power Purchase Agreement, the company is set to meet its target of a 50 percent reduction in operational carbon emissions in 2025 – five years ahead of the company’s original 2030 goal.
Water: In 2023, Grundfos solutions enabled customers and end users to save an estimated 1.6bn m³ of water and reduced water withdrawal in their own operations by 48 percent since 2020.
Labour & Human Rights: To foster a fair, inclusive, and safe working environment, Grundfos has robust labour policies and practices across its value chain.
Ethics: Grundfos has implemented rigorous anti-corruption measures, conducts regular audits, and provides extensive training to ensure ethical practices are maintained throughout its operations.
Guest-of-Honour, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, presented the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 to Professor Gertjan Medema at the Award Ceremony and Banquet held at The Clifford Pier, The Fullerton Bay Hotel earlier in June 2024. Professor Medema is awarded for his breakthrough research and discovery, and significant contributions in the field of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). His research revolutionised the application of WBE for virus detection in wastewater during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the emergence of COVID-19 in early 2020, Professor Medema, a renowned microbiologist and an expert in water quality and health, and his team recognised the need for early detection and monitoring and began collecting wastewater samples across the Netherlands to test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. He quickly focused his team’s research on curbing the spread of the virus in the community through wastewater surveillance. The results were promising when evidence of the virus was detected in the wastewater of several cities even before they were officially reported in these cities.
Professor Medema’s work has been foundational in establishing WBE as a tool for public health surveillance during the pandemic. The impact of his work was evident from his first publication in this area which garnered substantial attention with over 1,400 citations and more than 34,000 views between 2020 and 2023. Wastewater surveillance has since been adopted worldwide as a powerful tool for the early detection of diseases like SARS-CoV-2, even before cases are reported through clinical testing. This in turn provides valuable insights into the prevalence of the virus in a community, and a proven cost-effective and non-invasive method for tracking the spread of the disease.
Launched in 2008, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize honours outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world’s water problems by developing or applying innovative technologies or implementing policies and programmes which benefit humanity. The Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize is one of the key highlights of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW).
