Dubai Islamic Bank has introduced its Unlocking Sustainable Finance initiative, starting with an inaugural real estate forum in the UAE. The event gathered 80 industry leaders and concluded with major green property agreements alongside the launch of the bank's client advisory platform, Green Concierge.
World Environment Day is a prompt. What matters is everything before it. From Asia-Pacific real estate to European hotel groups, and a landmark EU directive that came into force this month, we look at the organisations and governments proving that sustainability has moved from the edges of the built environment to its centre.
Hospitality leader Accor has launched a five year global eco-initiative to test and scale resource-saving technologies across its international network. The project targets the validation of over 100 environmental systems by 2030, beginning with an intense operational focus on commercial water efficiency. Partnering with non-profit Water Unite, the company will pilot advanced recycling and reuse systems across its portfolio.
The Green Building Initiative has launched Ascent Building Certification for the UK and EU markets. This science-based system evaluates sustainability and resilience across global commercial property portfolios. Building on the success of Green Globes, it provides a transparent framework. The certification helps investors achieve measurable ESG performance while adapting to local regulations and environmental standards across all building lifecycle phases.
AECOM and CityUHK School of Energy and Environment have signed a strategic MoU to boost Hong Kong’s climate resilience. The partnership links academic research with infrastructure expertise to meet sustainability goals. Planned initiatives include a joint laboratory, shoreline management research, and student internships. This agreement aims to transform scientific innovation into practical environmental solutions for the community.
Measurabl has announced a major leadership transition with the appointment of Maureen Waters as Chief Executive Officer. Waters, who previously served as President, takes over from Co-founder Matt Ellis as the company seeks to accelerate its growth within the real estate data sector. During her time as Chief Growth Officer, Waters oversaw significant operational improvements and the launch of a free sustainability solution used across 47 countries.