Commentary

Net zero goals not just for new buildings

Here’s why the push towards green buildings applies across the property lifecycle

April 28, 2021

The French astrologer and physician Nostradamus once said “For a long time, I have been making many predictions.” Nostradamus would have fit in well with the JLL Research team as we also make many (well thought-out) predictions.

One of our recent reports explores the Top 10 global CRE trends in 2021. The trends have a strong ESG flavour with responsible real estate, humanising workplace, health imperative, and race to net-carbon zero featuring strongly.

The Climate Group estimate that 40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings, and if left unchecked are to double by 2050. The decarbonisation of real estate has, therefore, become a more relevant theme for investors, occupiers and financiers of real estate.

We believe that every CRE decision within the property lifecycle should consider net-zero carbon. While the discussion remains orientated towards new developments, it is important to adopt sustainable design principles and specifications when looking to develop, refurbish or fit-out existing assets.