Riyadh, November 25, 2024 – The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to environmental sustainability, as its renovation project for the Riyadh headquarters has been awarded the prestigious LEED Gold Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This recognition not only highlights SAMA’s dedication to creating sustainable and efficient spaces but also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader sustainability objectives outlined in Vision 2030.
LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the world’s most widely recognized and utilized green building rating system. The certification is awarded to buildings that meet rigorous standards in various aspects of environmental sustainability. These include energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable site development, and improvements in indoor environmental quality. By earning the LEED Gold status, SAMA’s Riyadh headquarters has demonstrated a commitment to designing, constructing, and operating a building that minimizes its environmental impact while enhancing the well-being of its occupants.
The LEED rating system is renowned for its comprehensive approach to measuring a building’s environmental performance. It evaluates numerous criteria, such as the facility’s location, energy and water efficiency, reduction in carbon emissions, environmental responsibility, and overall operational efficiency. Through this evaluation, LEED ensures that buildings are not only energy-efficient but also contribute positively to the environment and surrounding communities. By meeting these stringent standards, SAMA’s Riyadh headquarters joins a select group of buildings globally that are leading the charge toward sustainable development.
This achievement is a key step in SAMA’s broader strategy to integrate sustainability into its operations and infrastructure. By pursuing LEED Gold certification, the bank underscores its dedication to environmental stewardship and its role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s vision for a more sustainable future. The renovation project exemplifies how large-scale institutions can embrace green building practices to reduce their environmental footprint, while also enhancing operational efficiency and the health and comfort of those who use the space.
The LEED Gold certification also complements Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goals under Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, reduce the Kingdom’s dependence on oil, and foster sustainable development across all sectors. As the Saudi Central Bank continues to modernize its infrastructure, this achievement reflects the government’s broader commitment to achieving sustainability targets and creating a resilient, environmentally-conscious future.
SAMA’s renovation project not only contributes to the Kingdom’s economic and environmental aspirations but also sets a benchmark for other government institutions and private sector organizations to follow. With sustainability at the core of its operations, SAMA continues to play a vital role in advancing the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives that are integral to the long-term success of Saudi Arabia's development agenda.