TWO GREEN THUMBS UP

AUSTRALIA is paving its way to a greener world more than any other country, according to the latest Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB).

The report analysed data from 637 listed property companies and private equity real estate funds worldwide, and 56,000 of their buildings with an aggregate value of USD $2.1 trillion, to find that Australia and New Zealand is leading the way in sustainable building.

In the five years since the GREB has been running, the region has been awarded the top title multiple times. 

Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA) CEO Romilly Madew says this is an important feat for Australia’s real estate market in the world’s fastest growing industry.

“Green building is the world's fastest growing industry – and Australia is leading the charge,” says the Madew.

“The report underscores our regional leadership in sustainability, and serves as a reminder of why Australia is one of the best real estate markets in which to invest.”

70 per cent of participants from Australia and New Zealand were rewarded in the highest quadrant for regional green leadership, compared with 35 per cent in Europe, and 32 per cent in North America and Asia.

Two Australian companies, ISPT and Lend Lease, were also highlighted as ‘global sector leaders’ in the report.

“We congratulate Lend Lease and ISPT for their outstanding leadership,” says Madew.

“Both these companies are committed to investing in sustainable business models that will ensure the long-term success of their organisations.

“Australia's real estate sector is demonstrating that it has a long-term commitment to sustainability that stretches far beyond this financial year or this electoral cycle.”