ESG IS NO LONGER A RISK WHEN...

In various places, there are complains that progress in implementing the ESG is slow. But on reflection, it quickly becomes clear that an incredible amount has happened in a short time. And especially where one would not normally expect it, e.g. in logistics companies, a booming sector.

Actionism is good in this case, as the apparent contradiction between land sealing, 24-hour delivery and buildings whose outer shell is often more of an anti-theft device than a focus on ecological concerns, is exemplified. Is there a brand award for the greenest logistics property or a building certificate established on the market for the most climate-friendly logistics property? Not yet - at least not comprehensively and priced into the market. Yet the offsetting possibilities that can be achieved are certainly attainable. On the one hand, the kilometres driven can be significantly reduced through a wise choice of location and optimised logistics processes, which saves not only costs but also CO2 emissions. On the other hand, close consultation with the respective municipality can ensure that the often criticised land consumption or land sealing is curbed. 

The greatest leverage can be found in the transformation of the existing halls - especially since this has hardly come into focus so far. This could change in the future. There is no way around the decarbonisation of the real estate stock. I expect that the legislator will tighten the reins considerably with regard to CO2 consumption in the coming quarters. 

Companies that operate unsustainable logistics properties are clearly entering a negative spiral. Not immediately, but with notice. The so-called ESG criteria, which describe the extent to which a property is sustainable in environmental, social and governance terms, are aimed in this direction. To put it more bluntly: failure to meet these criteria results in poorer credit ratings, poorer resaleability, investor reticence and even penalties. ESG and logistics real estate are therefore a risk for those who do not take the path in the foreseeable future.