Ciudad Mallorquín receives LEED precertification and consolidates itself as a new model of planned and sustainable city in Colombia

• The master plan of Ciudad Mallorquín received the LEED for Cities and Communities precertification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), an international recognition for its environmental management, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, and social impact. The precertification was verified by the Green Business Certification Entity, an independent third-party institution.
• The master plan includes, among other components, the construction of 16,000 housing units—90% of them social housing—under a compact city model that ensures access to most services within minutes.
• More than 36% of the project’s area is allocated to public parks equipped with bike lanes and urban furniture, creating a large-scale interconnected green infrastructure.

The master plan of Ciudad Mallorquín, led by Grupo Argos’ Urban Development Business, has been internationally recognized with the LEED for Cities and Communities precertification, granted by the U.S. Green Building Council. It is the first urban project in the Colombian Caribbean region to obtain this distinction. This recognition endorses compliance with the highest standards of environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, mobility, urban planning, and quality of life. Located north of the Barranquilla metropolitan area, the master plan spearheaded in its initial stages the construction of 16,000 housing units, 90% of which are Social Interest Housing (VIS).

In addition to addressing the housing deficit in the department, the project also redefines the way cities are planned and built in the country. Conceived as a comprehensively planned development with a long-term vision, its master plan positions itself as a national benchmark in urban sustainability.

“This recognition confirms that Ciudad Mallorquín was planned from the outset with a long-term vision, technical rigor, and global sustainability standards. The precertification applies to the entire master plan, including its future stages. From its conception, we adopted sustainability and inclusion approaches that are now acknowledged under the highest international standards. Ciudad Mallorquín is the result of years of technical work, institutional collaboration, and the conviction that it is indeed possible to transform the territory in a sustainable and inclusive way.”

Daniel Sarabia
Urbanism and Infrastructure Manager
Grupo Argos

Planned Sustainability from the Outset
From its earliest phases, Ciudad Mallorquín was conceived under a compact and connected city model with one core premise: that its residents could easily access healthcare, education, commerce, recreation, and public transportation without depending on private vehicles. This approach enhances quality of life, reduces CO₂ emissions, and promotes more efficient mobility.

Sustainable Urbanism with Measurable Impact
The LEED precertification was achieved thanks to a comprehensive approach that integrates multiple dimensions of sustainable urban development. The master plan of Ciudad Mallorquín has been designed to promote active mobility through a network of bike lanes, accessible public transportation, and spaces that encourage walking and cycling. In terms of water and energy efficiency, the project incorporates advanced technologies for water management and responsible energy use, prioritizing sustainable solutions in infrastructure and urban facilities. Strategies for responsible waste management have also been implemented, with an emphasis on recycling and circular economy practices. Finally, the project prioritizes quality of life and social equity through a diverse housing offering, active public spaces, and cultural, sports, and social facilities that strengthen community bonds and ensure equitable access to essential services.

“For Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) in Colombia, it is a source of pride to support Ciudad Mallorquín in achieving its precertification—an important milestone that reflects the commitment to sustainable urban planning with high impact for the country. This project sets a benchmark for the region and for the transformation of our cities toward resilient models that are responsible with both people and the environment. Since 2019, we began conversations with Grupo Argos’ Urban Development Business and, from there, have facilitated technical resources and mechanisms for data transparency, which were fundamental to ensuring the rigor and credibility of each stage of the process.”

María Alexandra Cardona Peña
Architect
GBCI Colombia

Economic, Urban, and Social Contribution
Ciudad Mallorquín is an economic, urban, and social engine that is transforming the northern area of the Barranquilla metropolitan region. In its first stages, the project has generated more than 3,000 direct jobs and 6,500 indirect jobs annually, with an investment exceeding COP 2.5 trillion. Its consolidation is expected to increase property tax revenues in Puerto Colombia by 50%, strengthening the territory’s fiscal capacity and enabling greater investments in infrastructure, public services, and social programs. Today, more than 2,800 families already live in this new urban environment, where parks, fairs, and community activities promote social cohesion and a strong sense of belonging.

A Latin American Benchmark in Sustainable Urban Development
With this LEED precertification, Ciudad Mallorquín’s master plan becomes one of the few large-scale urban projects in Latin America recognized by the USGBC. Its focus on comprehensive planning, sustainable mobility, and social equity positions it as a replicable model for other cities in Colombia and across the region.

“We celebrate this joint achievement and reaffirm our commitment to continue accompanying Ciudad Mallorquín on its path toward full certification, promoting best practices that contribute to competitiveness, sustainability, and the quality of life of communities.”

María Alexandra Cardona Peña
Architect
GBCI Colombia