Scoring Net Zero: Supporting Decarbonisation Management in Real Estate Industry

We introduce a comprehensive scoring model designed for both listed and non-listed companies within the real estate sector, offering a systematic approach to evaluate and benchmark their progress in achieving Net Zero commitments. The guide encompasses five distinct implementation categories: Targets, Strategies, Organisational Structure, Operational Measures, and Tracking/Monitoring/Reporting. These categories are identified through a prior qualitative study, which extensively examines Net Zero strategies and expert interviews. Utilising these identified measures, we have developed a framework and executed an extensive survey involving ESG professionals in the industry representative of companies exceeding $1,000 billion in AuM. The goal is to establish a ranking system for these measures, ultimately creating a robust scoring system to assess holistic strategies. The implemented scoring system contributes to this initiative in three significant ways. Firstly, it streamlines the process for companies seeking to commit to net-zero carbon emissions by providing a structured evaluation framework. Secondly, it aids in pinpointing potential gaps in green actions within the strategies of these companies. Lastly, it enhances the transparency surrounding the quality of net-zero commitments, thereby mitigating the risk of (unintentional) greenwashing practices.