Recently, I was asked by leading land and property data experts, Landmark Information Group, to contribute my views towards their report on property sector sustainability: Reflections and Predictions for Sustainability in the Property Sector in 2025.
The report outlines the property sector’s current position on sustainability and what the rest of 2025 could have in store. In the process, Landmark spoke to a panel of leading sustainability experts from across the industry, including Latham & Watkins, Taylor Wimpey, Savills, as well as asking me for my views as Operations Director – Commercial, Bridging and Real Estate at OSB Group.
Integrating ESG offers long-term value
One of the main thrusts of the report is that by integrating meaningful environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices into business-as-usual activities, industry stakeholders have an opportunity to drive long-term value. Not only does this approach aid compliance with regulatory and legislative requirements, but it is increasingly attractive to investors and employees alike.
At OSB Group the team has led a drive to embed ESG and sustainability best practice into the business. Responsible lenders will continue to prioritise sustainability matters appropriately but other geo-political and macro-economic events such as the war in Ukraine, higher interest rates and higher energy costs have, more recently, had a greater focus.
Sustainability though, will continue to be a thread that gradually gets embedded into everything we do. Looking ahead, I think it’s more regulatory burden that will remain a focus. We’ve got ISSB, TNFD, TCFD and the continued evolvement of Transition Plans.
I think many lenders are still working their way through how they will respond to the regulatory requirements now and on the horizon, when lenders may be better placed on focussing on opportunities, initiatives, and value creation.
Making sustainability a priority
As Landmark’s report attests, the next generation of home buyers and renters – soon to be the majority – view sustainability as a priority. Commercial landlords are also increasingly factoring it into their property investment decisions. In fact, Landmark research shows that 93% of property professionals say their clients are concerned about the future threat of climate change.
Collaborative initiatives, such as this report, help to keep sustainability front of mind as industry stakeholders seek to learn from each other in their efforts to integrate ESG and sustainable practices. We’re making real progress thanks to the high level of collaboration across the industry, with firms coming together to share knowledge and best practices.
In two to three years' time, I’d like to be in a position where we don't need a separate sustainability function anymore because it's fully embedded across the business.
You can read Landmark’s report here: Reflections and Predictions for Sustainability in the Property Sector in 2025.
By : 
Comments
Complete the form on this page to submit your comment, and register your interest in the Landlord Leaders Community.