Back to all blog posts

The real estate industry’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Reading time: 3 minutes

In the pursuit of a sustainable future, the real estate industry is a crucial player in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

WHAT ARE THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS?

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were first adopted by the United Nations in 2015. The 17 goals act as a blueprint for building a better world by 2030.
Each goal focuses on a different global issue. From eliminating poverty, to ensuring equality for all, and protecting the environment.

sustainable development in real estate

WHAT PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE TOWARDS ACHIEVING THE SDGS?

We’re only 6 years from 2030, the deadline to meet the goals. So how close are we to achieving the SDGs?

Unfortunately, it’s not all good news. Progress towards the goals was slowed due to the climate crisis, wars, a weak economy, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2023 progress report was an important wake up call. Unless everyone doubles down on their efforts to meet the SDGs, particularly in areas like sustainable development in real estate, we may not get there.

Despite the slow progress towards the goals, the UN maintains that there is still time to turn things around. We have access to unprecedented knowledge, technology, and resources. And with only a few years to meet the goals, it’s essential that we all use the resources available to take action.

sustainable development in real estate

THE VITAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN REAL ESTATE AND THE SDGS

The SDGs and the real estate industry have a symbiotic relationship.

The real estate industry has the opportunity to contribute positively towards a number of the SDGs, particularly in areas related to sustainable development in real estate.

Likewise, meeting the SDGs is vital for the real estate industry. Achieving the SDGs would create flourishing cities and foster economic growth.

sustainable development in real estate

OPPORTUNITIES FOR REAL ESTATE TO SUPPORT THE SDGS

As stated by GRESB: “Given that the real estate industry accounts for half of global wealth, 40% of the world’s consumption of primary energy and a third of all anthropogenic CO2 emissions, there is no mistaking that the industry can contribute to achieving certain Global Goals”.


Here are just a few ways the real estate industry can support the SDGs:

SDG #3: Good health and wellbeing

Real estate influences occupants’ health and well-being through building design, indoor air quality, access to green spaces, and promoting a healthy lifestyle within communities.

SDG #7: Affordable and clean energy

Real estate developers and property owners can incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems into their buildings. This promotes clean energy and reduces carbon emissions.

sustainable development in real estate

SDG #11: Sustainable cities and communities

The real estate sector significantly influences urban development. Creating sustainable and inclusive cities involves developing green buildings, efficient transportation systems, affordable housing, and accessible infrastructure.

SDG #12: Responsible consumption and production

Real estate developers and property managers can promote responsible consumption by reducing waste generation during construction, using recycled materials, and implementing efficient water and energy management in buildings.

SDG #13: Climate action

Real estate has a considerable carbon footprint through construction, energy consumption, and building materials. Implementing green building standards, using eco-friendly materials, and promoting energy efficiency in buildings can contribute to mitigating climate change.

SDG #17: Partnerships for the goals

Collaboration between governments, businesses, communities, and stakeholders is crucial for achieving sustainable development. The real estate industry can partner with various entities to implement sustainable practices and innovations.


HOW ALVÉOLE’S NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS SUPPORT THE SDGS

At Alvéole, our vision is a greener world where humans and pollinators can thrive. It won’t come as a surprise that our mission is aligned with the SDGs.

Specifically, we’re committed to supporting goals #12: Responsible consumption and production and #15: Life on land through the work we do, contributing to sustainable development in real estate.

Goal #12 targets include ensuring that people have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and to adopt lifestyles in harmony with nature.

At Alvéole, we contribute to this by spreading awareness through our educational workshops and meaningful interactions between beekeepers and clients.

Goal #15 aims to mobilize financial resources to conserve natural habitats and halt biodiversity loss.

By partnering with us, our clients are choosing to financially invest in biodiversity conservation. They are educating their teams and greater communities, supporting native pollinator habitat, and participating in research on urban biodiversity and pollinator abundance.


By aligning their practices with the SDGs, the real estate industry has the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing environmental impacts, promoting social equity, and fostering economic growth in a responsible manner.


Related articles

There are over 25,000 pollinator species who need our help. Learn how Alvéole has teamed up with Pollinator Partnership to protect pollinator habitat.
Read more
The opportunities building owners have to positively impact the environment and reap numerous benefits, as explained by Alvéole’s CEO.
Read more
From spreading environmental awareness to supporting pollinator habitat, discover the top environmental benefits of an Alvéole urban beekeeping program.
Read more

You can help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals

Discover how your property can make a difference. Take this quiz to see if your building is eligible.

Take the quiz