By Indhira Desangles
Special for El Inmobiliario
Until very recently, when we talked about corporate real estate, the impact and co-responsibility in the process of change in favor of improving the quality of life of people and the planet in a balanced and environmentally respectful way was not included within its strategic priorities.
Sustainable practices and actions, in fact, were not a decisive factor in demand either: the population hardly included among their decision factors the reduction of polluting emissions or construction with sustainable materials.
Thus, benefits such as the savings provided by greater energy efficiency or the contribution to the environment of a more rational waste management were not taken into account in residential and commercial construction.
However, this has changed dramatically today, and it can be said that, in the real estate world, the perspective of investors and buyers includes, as a priority, transformation as a long-term vision, with the aim of seeking and promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
This means that construction and marketing decisions take into account the impact they will have on the environment and society, as well as on the economic and financial well-being of customers and people in general.
The real estate industry is considered a key sector for environmental sustainability, since from the point of view of sustainable business real estate project developments, there is a commitment to the environment and corporate social responsibility.
However, for a corporate real estate project to be sustainable, a series of practices and strategies must be taken into account to reduce the environmental impact of construction and building use, including:
1. Energy efficiency: This involves designing and building buildings that use the least amount of energy possible, through the installation of LED lighting systems, thermal insulation, natural ventilation, among others.
2. Use of renewable energy: renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines can be incorporated to generate electricity in the building.
3. Bioclimatic design: A bioclimatic design involves the use of sustainable building materials, as well as proper building orientation to make the most of sunlight and natural ventilation.
4. Waste management: This involves reducing the waste generated during the construction and use of the building, and managing it properly to minimize its environmental impact.
5. Efficient use of water: rainwater collection and reuse systems can be implemented, as well as devices to reduce water consumption in the building.
In addition to these practices, a responsible business policy must also be in place regarding waste management, minimizing the carbon footprint, and promoting sustainable practices among its employees and customers.
Ultimately, it's a commitment to the environment and society that brings long-term benefits for everyone. Sustainable transformation implies a paradigm shift in how we live and interact with the planet, seeking to preserve natural resources and ensure a better future for generations to come.
The author is a specialist in commercial and corporate real estate, with more than 20 years in the market.
Acropolis Corporate Center, Spatium, 8th Floor, Piantini. Santo Domingo. Dominican Republic, 10127.
