Merlin Properties is committed to 'green' with its "Net zero path" plan, with which it outlines its roadmap to be a net zero emissions company in 2030.
The plan to reach the net zero goal in eight years goes through three key pillars: reduce the operational carbon footprint by 85% in 2028 compared to 2018; use of materials with low carbon emissions, incorporation of sustainability criteria in the bidding processes for new developments and circular economy initiatives; and contracting 100% renewable energy or own energy generation through the installation of photovoltaic panels for self-consumption. The unavoidable residual footprint will be offset through internal initiatives, such as tree planting.
Likewise, aware that the greatest impact of its assets comes from the activity carried out by its tenants, the socimi has launched a pioneering measure to encourage the reduction of its emissions. Thus, it will include green clauses in the lease contracts, which contemplate the reduction of rent by 50 basic points for those tenants who have net zero emissions in their leased spaces, duly certified.
In previous years, the company had already initiated different plans to include sustainability as a backbone throughout its portfolio. Thus, it has more than 2.8 million square meters with Leed and/or Breeam certifications and 1.3 million square meters with ISO 13001 and 50001 certifications.
In terms of ESG ratings, it has a B rating for the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) organization, a score of 58 for S&P Global in ESG and 81 for the firm specialized in ESG ratings of Real Estate GRESB. In addition, Merlin has entered the Dow Jones Sustainability European Index.
