https://www.thelandsite.co.uk/files/articles/901e9043b6c711ea98240afeec538f48/1244-63ad6b98bf863025283638.jpeg 442

Achieving Carbon Neutral Goals in Commercial Property

Posted by The Landsite on 29th December 2022 -

title

It’s fair to say we all need to be not only aspiring to but transitioning to net zero.  One of the crucial ways a business can reduce its footprint is through its real estate.

The effects of lockdown

In 2020 we saw the country in total lockdown.  Who can forget the sight of empty streets as millions of us closed our doors to the outside world.  During this period of forced hibernation, there was a marked improvement in air quality as the daily commute for thousands of workers ground to a halt.    Operational carbon footprints created by workplace offices and commercial workspace was unsurprisingly down too. 

Achieving Net Zero?

We can achieve net zero emissions by 2050 through a wide-ranging green strategy focused on a shift to renewable energy and new technology.  

So, how can lower carbon footprint levels be achieved going forward?  Undoubtably, a net zero carbon building must be the smart way forward.  Along with minimising energy costs as a low carbon workplace, the building will go a long way in helping businesses to achieve their own goals in reducing their carbon footprint. 

Construction costs can often be substantial with current carbon-neutral materials being approximately 60% more expensive than the most common materials.  However, a building with a net zero carbon agenda and technologically advanced office space can be seen as a more attractive option and a deciding factor in securing potential occupiers.  The value of sustainability becomes more of a ‘must-have’ requirement for both occupier and commercial property owners.  

Refurbishment of existing buildings

For many occupiers remaining in their existing office space, a sustainable re-design or refurbishment with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) certification in addition to BREEAM, NABERS, Cycle Score and WELL accreditation can impact and contribute to their carbon footprint.   However, this is much harder to achieve in older buildings.  Historical construction techniques mean that retrofitting an older building can be more complicated than in newer greener buildings.  

A net zero carbon building is a smart choice for both landlords and occupiers. Alongside minimising energy costs as a low carbon workplace, the building will go a long way in helping corporates to achieve their own goals in reducing their carbon footprint.

Find all the real estate services and properties you are searching for on The Landsite

Read more articles in TLS Insights magazine - Your #1 source for real estate trends, data and insight December / January 2023 


Tracey Turner

The online destination for property developers and investors.

Link to The Landsite business profile

23rd December 2024
Get on Board for Investment Opportunities in Hillingdon
UK Property Forums has teamed up with Hillingdon Council for a unique one-day investor conference
Read more
18th December 2024
Housebuilder Commits to Regenerating Bedworth with Affordable Partner and £21.9m Investment
Top 10 UK homebuilder, Keepmoat, is partnering with whg and investing £21.9m into Bedworth to deliver 95 new homes
Read more
18th December 2024
Colliers Donates Surplus Tech to Youth Homelessness Charities Backed by LandAid
Commercial real estate firm Colliers has donated more than 350 refurbished laptops to youth and homelessness charities this year, through LandAid’s Computers 4 Charity appeal
Read more