Diane Rusignola

Host’s Michael Chang, Nareit’s Leader in the Light Leadership Personified Award winner, said the REIT’s goals include building on a climate risk program and executing sustainable finance strategies.

CEO Jonathan Stanner said that the REIT has more than $400 million of liquidity.

CEO Brent Smith said the REIT has achieved roughly 800,000 square feet of new leasing for 2023.

Veris Residential’s Anna Malhari said the built environment is “such a large piece of the [ESG] puzzle.”

Senior Manager Anita Battle said Equinix has created a progressive culture that employees lean into.

CEO Paul McDermott said the REIT is also looking ahead to value creation opportunities for investors through its renovation programs.

At a REITworld general session on the future of REIT proptech and innovation, panelists said data can help REITs achieve efficiencies and determine what success looks like.

Deloitte’s Lauren Pesa said Scope 1 and 2 will inevitably be included in the SEC climate rule and REITs can prepare for that now.

The Clean Energy Buyers Association’s Kevin Hagen says that much of the negative impact of carbon in real estate comes from electricity, so energy efficiency and access to clean energy are key.

The RMR Group’s John Forester said the company examines its emissions, green leases, and flood data on a quarterly basis as well.

Michelle Powell from Management Leadership for Tomorrow says companies need to set DEI goals in order to stay relevant and gain a competitive advantage.