October 13, 2025

Artico Cold Chain, under AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. (ALLHC), is setting new benchmarks in sustainable cold storage in the Philippines. With aspirations to secure major certifications and implement renewable energy projects, the company is redefining how logistics facilities can deliver both operational excellence and environmental stewardship.

 

With a network of seven strategically located sites in Laguna, Cebu, Pampanga, Batangas, Pangasinan, and Iloilo, Artico provides cold storage facilities to ensure that goods move swiftly and securely through key transport hubs, thereby boosting speed-to-market and overall supply chain efficiency. Backed by a total capacity of 31,500 pallet positions, its facilities provide scalable services for industries ranging from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and industrial products—helping ease supply chain challenges while supporting both local enterprises and global brands.

 

According to IFC (International Finance Corporation) estimates, the market for cold chain is expected to reach $160 billion in annual investment by 2050 in emerging markets. 

 

Setting the Standard with EDGE Advanced

 

Artico Biñan 1 has been awarded an EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Advanced certification by certifier Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI). EDGE Advanced is the second level of the EDGE standard, which means the cold storage facility has met the 40% energy efficiency threshold. EDGE, an innovation of the IFC, is a green building certification that quantifies and independently verifies a building’s resource efficiency and low-carbon operations.  According to the assessment report, the facility’s resource-efficient design is expected to deliver 55% savings in energy, 26% savings in water, and a 96% reduction in embodied carbon of materials compared to a local baseline. This milestone highlights several key advantages, including significantly reduced energy consumption and a much lower carbon footprint that contributes to broader climate goals. It also brings long-term cost savings from improved efficiency while strengthening Artico’s position as a trusted partner for environmentally conscious clients.

 

These high-efficiency results were achieved through several key building improvements at the Biñan 1 facility. For optimal thermal performance, walls and roofs utilize mostly white paint, resulting in a high Solar Reflective Index (SRI) to minimize solar heat gain. This is complemented by the installation of high-efficiency insulation across the roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings, achieving a superior (lower) U-value for better thermal retention. The design strategically manages light and energy using an efficient Window-to-Wall Ratio. Operationally, energy consumption is further reduced through the replacement of traditional lighting with LED fixtures and the integration of dimmable motion-sensor controls in all cold storage areas. Finally, water efficiency is ensured by replacing all faucets with low-flow rate aerators. “Achieving EDGE Advanced certification positions Artico at the forefront of sustainable cold storage,” said Amena Arif, Country Manager, IFC Philippines. “It demonstrates how Philippine logistics facilities can meet global standards for operational efficiency, net-zero readiness, and environmental stewardship.”

By achieving this milestone, Artico Biñan 1 has demonstrated its net-zero readiness. The facility already operates using net-zero emission clean energy, positioning it as an Edge Zero Carbon-ready project committed to securing the more advanced Zero Carbon Certification. Looking ahead, Artico aims to have the remaining six (6) facilities EDGE-certified by 2028, a commitment that signals a strong priority to sustainability at scale.

 

Building a Greener Supply Chain

 

Complementing its EDGE Advanced certification are other sustainability initiatives across the Artico network. Specifically, Artico Mandaue and Artico Biñan 2 are already operating under the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), ensuring the use of 100% renewable energy.

 

“Artico’s sustainability initiatives such as the EDGE Advanced certification and renewable energy transition are testament to our commitment to building facilities that are not only reliable but also environmentally responsible,” said Robert S. Lao, President and CEO of ALLHC. “These efforts bring us closer to our aspiration of being a national cold chain operator that supports both communities and climate goals.”

 

Artico’s sustainability journey is aligned with Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI)’s medium-term goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. These initiatives reinforce ALLHC’s role as a key industry player, proving that logistics facilities can drive progress for both business efficiency and environmental responsibility.

 

With its nationwide network and pioneering sustainability projects, Artico is shaping the future of cold chain logistics in the Philippines, keeping freshness right while building a greener tomorrow.