MERLIN Properties and NTT DATA have reached a new sustainability milestone with the achievement of Spain's first LEED Zero Carbon certification. Awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the certification recognizes the Ruiz Picasso 11 building and marks an important milestone in the decarbonization of Spain's real estate sector.
LEED Zero Carbon certification recognizes that the building has achieved carbon neutrality in its operations by fully offsetting the carbon emissions generated each year.
One of the project's defining features is the breadth of its carbon offsetting approach. It goes beyond the emissions associated with the common areas managed by the property owner to also include the energy consumption of tenant-occupied spaces, including offices and retail units.
To achieve this, a comprehensive assessment of the building's emissions was conducted, covering both energy consumption — electricity and fuels — and commuting-related emissions. The commuting footprint was quantified through dedicated surveys that gathered information on attendance frequency, modes of transportation, and travel distances. These data were then incorporated into the building's overall carbon footprint calculation.
As part of the certification, MERLIN Properties has also committed to maintaining carbon offsetting for a minimum of three years, ensuring the building continues to operate with climate neutrality.
This project further strengthens MERLIN Properties position as a leader in the decarbonization of Spain's real estate sector, supporting the sustainable transformation of its property portfolio.
NTT DATA served as the sustainability consultant for the project, reinforcing its expertise in ESG consulting for the real estate sector through the delivery of a pioneering initiative in Spain. Drawing on its innovation capabilities and extensive experience in real estate sustainability consulting, NTT DATA played a key role in structuring and validating an approach aligned with the rigorous LEED Zero Carbon requirements in a market where no national precedent previously existed.
The collaboration between MERLIN Properties and NTT DATA highlights the value of combining vision, technical expertise, and innovation to accelerate the transition to a more efficient, transparent, and climate-aligned real estate model.