World-leading fragrance and flavor business Firmenich briefed JLL to analyze the viability of refurbishing their existing Johannesburg-located premises compared to relocating. The decision was made to refurbish the existing premises and to re-engineer the building performance and interiors to deliver on the global Firmenich sustainability values; acting on climate change, embracing nature and caring about people.

Achieving the highest Green Star certification by the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) - World Leadership, 6 Star Green Star Rating in September 2022, the Johannesburg workplace sets the standard for health, wellbeing and inclusivity. Highlights include:

• Rooftop solar PV with battery storage provides continuous power supply even during disruptive power outages. It delivered a 75% reduction in municipal power usage compared to historic consumption

• Rainwater collection systems commissioned by Firmenich cut the use of municipal-supplied water on-site by 67%; reverse osmosis treatment provides potable water to buildings; the remaining water required comes via natural underground water. Other innovative measures mean lavatories use 84% less water and 82% less CO₂ than conventional toilets

• Technology optimizes resource consumption, tracking CO₂ levels, water consumption and electrical usage, facilitating the management of the working environment and helping ensure responsible use

• The revamp brings the outdoors inside, with an interior courtyard for all-year round use, while outdoor space with large indigenous acacias enables employees and guests to be at one with nature