Are you ready to transform your understanding of sustainable real estate? In this episode of Dear Desk Diary, we sit down with Greg Davison, the visionary founding partner of Hollen+. Greg opens up about his journey from private equity to a mission-driven focus on sustainability, motivated by the birth of his first child. He shares invaluable insights into the importance of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, offering practical advice on how to enhance energy efficiency in buildings while boosting property value and marketing potential.

Discover the latest trends in building sustainability as we unpack the complexities of building accreditations and the growing emphasis on occupant wellness and air quality in a post-COVID world. Greg explains how higher EPC ratings can significantly increase rental and capital values, referencing a pivotal JLL report. He encourages landlords to align office spaces with corporate net-zero goals, stressing the importance of preparing for future regulations like EPCB by 2030. We also delve into the trend of tenants demanding environmentally sound and flexible office spaces to meet their corporate sustainability agendas.

Finally, we explore the dynamic post-COVID landscape of sustainable commuting and office spaces, emphasizing the need for facilities that encourage emission-free travel and enhance employee wellness. From flexible working arrangements to the forward-thinking concept of 15-minute cities, we cover various aspects of creating a wellness-focused work environment. Greg also demystifies ESG accreditations such as BREEAM and Neighbours, discussing their relevance for different building projects. We wrap up with a look at the potential of AI in real estate, highlighting early innovations in energy efficiency monitoring and ESG reporting, and balancing its promise with the complexities of job security. Join us for an episode packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies!