Green Certification, Explained

We interviewed Sven Adler, the project manager of ODOM, to discuss what makes LEED® certification so crucial for a development and how the team has worked to bring this vision of sustainability to life.

When asked what LEED® certification is all about, Sven explained, “LEED® stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It’s not just about energy efficiency. It touches on water conservation, occupant comfort, and even outdoor green spaces.” According to Sven, having this certification immediately lets residents, visitors, and businesses know that ODOM is designed with sustainability at its core. Plus, it means lower bills and a smaller environmental footprint, which everyone can appreciate.

Sven Adler, with over a decade in logistics for the German Defense Force and as an experienced Project Manager in Australia, now leads ODOM.

So why push for LEED® certification for a mixed-use project like ODOM?

“It sets us apart,” Sven says.

“We’re showing that we’re serious about sustainability. While some green measures may add to construction costs, they’ll save money over the life of the building, thanks to reduced operational costs.” For Sven and the team, pursuing LEED® certification was a natural next step for a project already focused on creating a greener, more sustainable future.

Of course, the road to LEED® certification isn’t always easy. Sven admits that applying for certification can be complex and requires working closely with third-party consultants to ensure every detail aligns with LEED® standards. “We document everything, from the design phase to construction,” he says. After construction, the building is inspected to ensure everything matches the design.

ODOM also incorporates eco-friendly features like rainwater harvesting for green space irrigation and electric vehicle charging stations. “It might cost more upfront,” Sven points out, “but it saves money in the long run, whether it’s through lower water bills or less electricity use.”

When asked about the broader impact, Sven highlights that a LEED® certification also attracts major tenants with high corporate social responsibility standards, and it raises the profile of the whole development.

Sven believes ODOM’s sustainability efforts go hand-in-hand with its community goals. “We were already focused on green spaces and energy efficiency before we even pursued LEED®,” he says. “It’s not just about meeting certification standards. It’s also about creating spaces where people genuinely want to live and work.”

As Phnom Penh continues to grow, Sven is confident that sustainability will play a bigger role in Cambodia’s real estate market. While LEED® certification isn’t yet a “must-have” for every project, it’s becoming a key factor for those looking for long-term value and environmentally friendly spaces.

There’s more to ODOM than just a place to live or work. It’s a model for what sustainable development can look like in Cambodia. Sven sums it up perfectly: “We’re showing that in a developing country like Cambodia, real estate can meet international standards and still be innovative, livable, and green.”