Agility Logistics Parks’ warehouses in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, have achieved a major milestone in energy efficiency and sustainability by becoming the first in West Africa to receive the EDGE Advanced certification, awarded by the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This prestigious recognition underscores Agility’s commitment to eco-friendly buildings and reflects the growing importance of energy efficiency in the logistics sector in Africa.
The global EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) standard is a benchmark for energy-efficient buildings, overseen by the IFC, a branch of the World Bank. The EDGE Advanced certification requires buildings to be at least 40% more energy-efficient than the market average. By obtaining this certification for their 26,952 square meters of warehouses in Abidjan, Agility’s parks set a shining example in sustainability.
The benefits of Agility’s EDGE Advanced warehouses in Abidjan are undeniable. They achieve energy savings ranging from 57% to 74%, water savings from 53% to 57%, and significantly reduce the amount of embedded carbon in building materials (up to 69% less). This energy efficiency results from a carefully thought-out design, including a reduced window-to-wall ratio, enhanced roof and exterior wall insulation, and special lighting. Water consumption is also reduced through the use of plumbing systems in restrooms and kitchenettes that save water.
Agility’s decision to pursue the EDGE Advanced certification for its warehouses in Côte d’Ivoire demonstrates its commitment to supporting sustainable construction practices and providing high-quality infrastructure that meets international standards. This approach enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and supports economic growth, creating opportunities for employment and prosperity.
Geoffrey White, CEO of Agility Africa, emphasizes the company’s dedication to leading the way in modern, energy-efficient warehouse parks to meet the growing demand across the continent. Agility’s warehouses, used for storage and distribution, enable local and multinational businesses to adhere to international standards and meet the increasing demand of the African market, contributing to improved logistics efficiency.
It’s worth noting that the Abidjan park is not Agility’s first site to achieve EDGE Advanced certification. In 2022, an Agility Logistics Parks warehouse in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, became the first warehouse in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to achieve this prestigious certification. This development aligns with Agility’s vision of creating world-class logistics bases that support growth and competitiveness for businesses in Africa.
Agility’s warehouses in Côte d’Ivoire are tangible proof of the company’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and economic development in Africa. They demonstrate Agility’s ability to adhere to the highest standards while offering advanced logistics solutions for local and international businesses operating in Africa. Agility Logistics Parks’ expanding network aligns perfectly with the opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance and develop regional and international trade.
The warehouses in Abidjan by Agility highlight the company’s leadership in eco-friendly logistics and serve as a reminder that the logistics sector in Africa is evolving for the better, thanks to sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives like these. It’s a significant step forward deserving of applause and emulation by other players in the African logistics sector.
