RICS publishes first official guidance on carbon management

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) said on Thursday it has published professional guidance on the carbon management of real estate. The move is a result of growing demand among tenants for energy-efficient property and follows the introduction of Commercial Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in the UK.

'Carbon Management of Real Estate - A guide to best practice', provides professional advice and standards to all Chartered Surveyors when advising their clients or employers on the development of organisational carbon management strategies. In addition to identifying legislative changes, the guidance note identifies best-practice initiatives for those businesses looking to build on their environmental credentials while also improving their financial bottom line.

The guidance focuses on benchmark assessment (carbon footprinting); carbon emission reduction techniques; taxes and incentives; forecasting an organisation’s future carbon footprint and financial and carbon emissions appraisals.

'The financial case for greater energy efficient property in the UK is growing,' said RICS, pointing out that CBI / GVA Grimley's recent Corporate Real Estate Survey reported that 61% of companies would pay more rent for a 'green' building.

'This timely guidance will be of great assistance to all Chartered Surveyors who are consultants, whether internal or external, when advising businesses on the carbon management of their real estate. It can prove invaluable to have a full understanding of the business case to manage and reduce carbon emissions and this document both outlines how to prepare the business case and signposts the reader to further information,' said RICS' Ann Hayward.