Macerich®, one of the nation’s leading shopping center owners, developers and operators, is sharply focused on sustainability as a long-term, fully integrated business approach. Throughout its operations, the company is actively integrating sustainable practices designed to ensure a healthy environment for employees, retailers, shoppers and communities. These efforts are designed to help conserve resources while simultaneously supporting the company’s business goals.
For Macerich, the positive economic returns stemming from sustainable practices are equally as important as the social, cultural and environmental benefits. These endeavors complement the company’s longstanding philosophy of engaging and giving back to its local communities. The company initially implemented a strategic energy plan, which focuses less on certifications and more on making changes across the board to help save energy and the environment, while delivering lower costs. Since then, a comprehensive, five-year sustainability plan was launched. Sustainability is integrated across the portfolio and tailored to each property. Elevating sustainability within the company’s corporate culture is a cornerstone of Macerich’s commitment.
What We’re Doing at Northgate
-
Seeking to be California’s first regional mall to be LEED Certified, Northgate’s entire renovation is based around the idea of “green” – from new HVAC units, drought-resistant/local flora landscaping and nano doors to clerestory windows and using building materials made from recycled and re-used products.
-
We use green cleaning products at our center wherever and whenever possible.
-
The center has implemented new lighting protocols that allow us to minimize our energy use and lower our carbon footprint without any impact on the shopping experience.
-
In the Management Office, Security Office and Guest Services, there is a highly successful paper, plastic and glass recycling program in place.
-
Compost-friendly, biodegradable cups made from corn starch are distributed for guests and employees to use instead of plastic or Styrofoam ones at the Guest Services’ water station.
-
Northgate has discontinued its practice of ordering water bottles for the Management Office, Guest Services and Security employees, instead urging them to use the re-usable cups and glasses provided.
-
All of the new bathrooms have low-flow, automated, and recycled water features.
-
The Management Office and Security Office lights are on timed sensors to save energy.
-
When possible, the Management Office purchases re-manufactured printer ink and recycles the empty toner and ink cartridges.
-
Northgate has stopped ordering printer paper for our offices that is not made from recycled paper. We have also created scratch-paper notepads from lightly-used printer paper.
-
All memos, community newsletters and other miscellaneous collateral are made from recycled or sustainable materials when available.
