Investing Smarter: How Technology Drives Sustainability in Real Estate

Sustainability matters. Not just for real estate, but for everyone else living on this blue-green rock. Climate change is real, and it has always been real. This was not a recent development. These problems stem from decades upon decades of human industry destroying the environment for personal gain.  

Real estate doesn’t have to destroy the environment to be profitable.  Sustainability can be achieved with the technology developed today. Thankfully, the real estate industry has funds and innovation ready to go. But some profit-minded folks might think sustainability shouldn’t be something to consider. Slipping past the amorality of such a stance, sustainability has practical benefits that ultimately improve the bottom line. 

Sustainable Technology for the Real Estate Industry

Sustainable real estate investments have changed the way real estate companies build buildings and develop land. Green innovations are quickly gaining traction amongst many industries. They save energy, make logistics easier, and reduce environmental impact all in one. 

Sustainable Building Materials

Construction is the biggest carbon footprint of the real estate industry. On top of the necessary land development, construction can take up a ton of resources. Those raw materials impact the environment at every stage. Sustainable alternatives to the typical concrete and steel should be taken into account.

Cross-laminated timber is a tried-and-tested alternative in countries like Spain. Few can deny the beauty of the Spanish countryside, and all that is possible with sustainable technology.  In addition to alternative materials, consider reusing materials from previous projects. Companies should start asking themselves why they dispose of perfectly usable resources.

Data Analysis

Big data plays a key role in showing the tangible numbers behind sustainability efforts. Sensors and software can track the resource consumption of each project. While the first run will inevitably have waste, it’s the second run where that data bears fruit. The data gathered from the initial test will spot any wasteful issues, such as inefficient use of materials. There might even be a strange power spike that nobody recognized until the numbers showcased it.

Energy Efficiency

Keeping energy efficient means projects won’t burn through power like wax in the summer heat. Tracking how much energy you consume with every project is the first step. Technology such as next-gen electronics and the previously mentioned data analysis will help with that. Once that’s figured out, firms can start replacing inefficient appliances and look towards alternative energy sources.

Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is the flashy way to make a sustainability statement. Thankfully, all that flash has genuine benefits behind it. Solar power is one of, if not the most, popular alternative energy sources for a reason. The sun is, quite literally, free for everyone. Once those panels are set up,  buildings can start to generate their own energy, lowering utility bills and reducing their environmental impact. With the right build, structures will generate more energy than they know what to do with.

Integrating Sustainability into Real Estate Business

The first step is adopting sustainable technologies, but companies need to put those technologies into action. For total integration, real estate businesses should consider the following:

Partner with Sustainable Companies

Although every step towards sustainability matters, you’re just one business. It’s crucial to partner up with companies that hold similar goals and values.  Renewable energy suppliers and eco-friendly manufacturers should be at the top of your networking list.  Partnering with these companies means sustainability can be achieved much easier. It’s also a shining example of what sustainability can accomplish.

Invest in Research and Development

Research and development means being proactive about sustainability solutions. What exists now is just the prototype for what comes next. Technologies like 3D printing and recycled materials keep making strides. Being on the first floor of those innovations not only makes you sustainable but an industry leader.

Listen to Your Community

Your tenants and local community hold valuable insights into their sustainability priorities. Use surveys or casual conversations to understand their needs—whether it's enhanced recycling programs, energy-saving features, or other green initiatives. By incorporating their feedback, you can create properties that are eco-friendly and positively impact the community.

Sponsor Sustainability Events

Sustainability events can bring awareness to companies and communities, furthering the cause. Plus, it’s a great place for networking with potential partners and clients. It’s a forward-thinking strategy that helps the company and the overall goal of sustainability.

Train Your Team

Employees must understand the value of sustainability. Not just for its benefits, but the practical ways they can help achieve that goal. Teach them about the benefits of sustainability. If they already appreciate it, give them the avenues to make the most of that knowledge. A company where every person is dedicated towards a common cause will go far with any goal.

Final Thoughts

Sustainability must become the industry standard for so many reasons. It’s not only the right thing to do for the environment, it’s the right thing to do for your company’s bottom line. It won’t be an easy path, but it’s worth treading for the potential impact it can have on the environment and community.