CoreNet Global advocates net-zero buildings

Multinational corporations should strive for net-zero buildings as optimal outcomes of their long-term energy management and energy conservation strategies, according to CoreNet Global.

'We support the principle that smart and responsible energy policies and practices reduce corporate carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions, (and) we encourage our members’ companies to drive energy efficiency to optimal levels with net-zero buildings as a top measure of long-term success,' CoreNet Global said.

Net-zero buildings are commercial facilities that produce at least as much energy as they consume. Corenet is the association for corporate real estate (CRE) executives.

The organisation calls on federal governments around the world to incentivize building owners, investors and occupiers who proactively reduce their carbon footprints through the use of green energy development and retrofits.

'Office, industrial, retail and other types of commercial real estate account for 40% of the world’s annual energy consumption, making energy management and energy conservation socially responsible corporate practices,'said Chairman Jim Scannell, also senior vice president of Administrative Services at The Travelers Companies.

Corenet said there will be 'tangible benefits for companies and management teams which prioritize energy efficiency and take steps to reduce the carbon footprint'. 'They will realize meaningful return on investment financially, socially and environmentally,' it added.

It is the first time that corporate occupiers representing the demand side of the commercial real estate industry have spoken with a unified voice to advocate for public policy issues and corporate practices that impact business and society. In its 2012 Industry Leaders Opinion Poll, 90% of CRE executives who responded regard energy management as the most urgent issue facing the CRE industry.

'We’re beginning to see the huge environmental, social and economic benefits that energy-independent facilities are offering,' Scannell added.

CoreNet Global’s 7,900 members make it the world’s leading association for corporate real estate and workplace executives, service providers, and economic developers.