Fortem Capital Achieves Milestone as First Project in Mexico to Attain LEED Certification for Communities
Fortem Capital Achieves a Historic Milestone in Sustainable Development
Fortem Capital, a prominent real-estate fund manager, has made headlines by securing recognition from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for its innovative urban development project in Mexico. This groundbreaking project has become the first development in Mexico to earn the prestigious Gold-level certification under the LEED for Communities Plan and Design v4.1. Announced during the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo held in Los Angeles, California, this achievement marks a significant step forward for sustainable real estate in Latin America.
A Vision for Sustainable Investment
As urban areas continue to expand, the need for sustainable development has never been more urgent. Fortem Capital has positioned itself as a leader in this space by integrating financial performance with social and environmental impact at every stage of the real-estate investment cycle. With a focus on creating enduring value, the company is setting a benchmark for the region, establishing a model that promotes both profitability and sustainability.
Located in Mexico City’s metropolitan area, the newly developed community spans across 88.5 acres and includes a mix of residential, multifamily, and commercial spaces. Notably, the project features over 807,000 square feet of public parks, emphasizing the integration of green spaces into urban life. This commitment to comprehensive planning reflects Fortem Capital's vision which prioritizes economic, social, and environmental value, ensuring that the development unfolds responsibly and sustainably.
Commitment to Community and Environment
Ignacio García de Quevedo, the Managing Director of Fortem Capital, articulated the company’s philosophy: “Real-estate investment must create lasting value—economic, environmental, and social. This certification validates our commitment to an integrated investment model that drives responsible development and enhances community well-being.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Fortem Capital's approach, whereby every decision is motivated by a desire to improve the lives of those in the community.
Innovative Features of the Development
The project showcases a multitude of innovative features designed to minimize environmental impact. It includes a zero-discharge water system powered by two treatment plants, which recycle 100% of the water utilized for irrigation needs. Additionally, the urban development incorporates LED lighting and fiber-optic connectivity, along with independent drainage systems, creating a modern and eco-friendly urban environment. Such advancements not only adhere to sustainable standards but also emphasize the company’s dedication to leading by example within the real estate sector.
Bernardo Fernández Cueto, Executive Director of Latitud 23 Developments, acknowledged the significance of this achievement, stating, “This milestone shows that when a transversal vision guides every decision from the start, new standards become possible. Our goal is to create communities that meet real housing needs while generating value for people, the environment, and cities.”
The Role of Institutional Investors
The involvement of institutional investors has been paramount in reinforcing an investment model that promotes responsible real estate development in Mexico. Miguel Sánchez Navarro, Chairman of Fortem Capital, mentioned that this success reflects the strength of the company's vertically integrated platform, which aligns investment management and development under a single strategic vision. This integration ensures that institutional capital is effectively utilized and managed, resulting in consistent performances and lasting value for stakeholders.
Fortem Capital's ongoing commitment to its integrated investment model is underscored by its principle of “Building Value in Every Investment.” The firm recognizes that true value emerges from a careful balance between economic performance, environmental responsibility, and social impact.
About Fortem Capital
Our firm, Fortem Capital, stands out as a significant player in the real estate domain, with over $750 million raised through various public and private investment vehicles. Our focus lies in high-conviction investments across hospitality, residential, and industrial sectors throughout Mexico. Backed by a vertically integrated platform, we bring deep local expertise and a discipline that is crucial in sourcing, structuring, and operating projects that foster long-term value creation.
Since 2024, Fortem has also been a proud signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), highlighting our unwavering commitment to key values such as Transparency, Integrity, Responsibility, Teamwork, and Sustainability.
About Latitud 23 Developments
Latitud 23 Developments complements Fortem Capital as a leading real estate developer specialized in hospitality, residential, and industrial projects across Mexico. Through strategic partnerships with local enterprises, it has developed over 2.5 million square meters of land and a built space over 300,000 square meters. This commitment to an authentic, sustainable, and place-driven development model underscores its mission to shape communities that resonate with their unique contexts.
In summary, Fortem Capital's achievement in obtaining the first-ever LEED certification for a community in Mexico not only highlights their innovation in sustainable real estate but also sets a precedent for future developments. As they continue to advocate for responsible investment and community-friendly projects, they reaffirm their role as trailblazers in the sector.