Committed and Comprehensive Sustainability Work

The Kanavaranta 1 office property has made significant strides toward holistic sustainability. The building has now been awarded BREEAM In-Use certification, underscoring its strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is Europe’s leading environmental assessment system for buildings, offering a clear framework for achieving carbon neutrality and advancing social responsibility. The certification awarded to Kanavaranta 1 covers Part 1: Asset of the BREEAM In-Use framework.

Sustera, a specialist in sustainable property management, served as a consulting partner throughout the process. With the development project now complete, the property has achieved the prestigious Excellent level of BREEAM In-Use certification.

Jarno Aalto, Senior Property Manager at Newsec, who oversees the technical management of Kanavaranta 1, shares more about the process and its outcomes below.

A Carbon-Neutral Office Building Enhanced for Environmental Responsibility

Kanavaranta 1 already used CO₂-free district heating and cooling long before the BREEAM process began, having achieved carbon neutrality early on.

All electricity for the building is produced with renewable wind power, and energy-efficiency measures have reduced overall electricity consumption by an estimated 20 percent.

During the certification process, energy-efficient LED lighting was installed, and ventilation systems were optimized to automatically adjust based on CO₂ sensors monitoring occupancy and air quality.

In addition, the property’s water fixtures were upgraded to low-flow alternatives, reducing both water use and the energy needed to heat it.

The work doesn’t stop there — new projects are underway to further improve energy efficiency and enhance waste sorting and recycling, both for office tenants and the onsite restaurant.

Improving Accessibility and Biodiversity as Part of Responsible Development

Accessibility has been one of the key focus areas in the BREEAM process.

The main entrance has been made fully accessible with a wheelchair ramp and automatic doors, and new accessible restrooms have been added to office areas.

Another important sustainability theme has been enhancing biodiversity. The property’s courtyard and terraces now feature abundant greenery, and for several summers the side terrace has hosted beehives in collaboration with the Humble Bee Housing Project.

The BREEAM Process Contributes to a Better Working Environment

Social responsibility is another key element of the BREEAM framework. Throughout the certification process, tenant services at Kanavaranta 1 have been further developed to support wellbeing and sustainable daily commuting.

The property now features charging stations for electric cars and e-bikes, as well as bicycle washing and maintenance facilities. To encourage cycling, tenants have access to well-equipped shower and changing rooms and a secure indoor bike parking area for 46 bicycles.

A CO₂ monitoring system has also been installed throughout the office areas. The system continuously tracks indoor air quality and automatically adjusts ventilation to maintain optimal conditions. This ensures that the air never feels heavy and supports employees’ comfort and productivity throughout the day.

A Responsible Property That Supports Tenants’ Own Sustainability Goals

The sustainability actions and BREEAM certification of Kanavaranta 1 are important milestones not only for the property owner but also for the tenants.

Many tenant companies have their own environmental goals and criteria, making the sustainability of their office spaces a key consideration. For example, Ilmatar, a pioneer in renewable energy, chose Kanavaranta 1 as its headquarters in spring 2024 — partly because of the building’s strong environmental credentials.

Designed by Alvar Aalto, Kanavaranta 1 is a truly distinctive office property, offering tenants high-quality spaces, services, and exceptional waterfront views. Now, with its high-level sustainability credentials, it provides an even more attractive and future-ready working environment in the heart of Helsinki’s maritime district.

“Although Kanavaranta 1 was built in the 1960s, it is remarkably energy efficient. We’re pleased that our sustainability efforts have resulted in the building being awarded the high Excellent level of BREEAM In-Use certification.”

— Jarno Aalto, Senior Property Manager, Newsec

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