(B06) Green Leasing: Fact vs Fiction

Decarbonization, science-based targets, net zero goals, building performance policy, and potential SEC climate disclosures are all significant drivers for real estate industry action on energy use. For both tenants and landlords, one of the most important tools is the lease. Without a green or performance-based lease it will become extremely difficult to move buildings and/or portfolios forward in a meaningful way to meet ESG goals and performance requirements. Even so, many companies still struggle with incorporating green/performance leasing language into their standard lease form. This session will talk about the critical role the lease plays in meeting goals from the perspectives of the landlord, tenant, and legal team, while debunking some common myths of green leasing, such as: • Tenants will not sign a green lease or they will just delete this language so why bother • There is no way to get our legal and leasing teams to care • We are not the office sector so there is nothing we can do • Once we have a green lease it will be smooth sailing • There is no way to connect our social goals to the lease This panel will discuss how they have overcome green lease barriers and provide stories and helpful tips for those who are still exploring green leasing for their organizations. It will also discuss options for those who are ready to earn public recognition. Finally, this session will also provide insights into the next evolution of the green lease: the performance-based lease used to assist compliance with building performance standards. The session will be include audience polling and panelists will take questions from the audience throughout.