Boston Properties, Inc. (NYSE: BXP), the largest publicly-traded developer, owner and manager of Class A office properties in the United States, today announced that it has been awarded Nareit’s 2019 “Most Innovative” Leader in the Light Award. This award is given to only one company, and is the highest achievement in sustainability innovation for all REITs and real estate companies.
BXP was selected by a panel of judges that evaluated environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and the results of the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB®) assessment. The Company ranked among the top 4% of worldwide participants in the 2019 GRESB assessment, earning an eighth consecutive “Green Star” recognition and the highest GRESB 5-star Rating.
Noteworthy accomplishments in 2019 included: (1) significant progress towards achieving public energy, emissions and water goals, (2) a green power deal that is expected to reduce the emissions of our Massachusetts portfolio 78% in 2019 below a 2008 baseline, (3) the installation of the largest indoor lithium-ion energy storage system of its type in the US, (4) $1.85 billion of green bonds issued since November of 2018 and impact reporting on the use of proceeds, (5) the implementation of Fitwel to support healthy building design and operational practices across 16 million square feet, (6) increased social disclosures, health and wellness, and diversity and inclusion metrics, and (7) the addition of a volunteer day benefit that provides paid time off for eligible activities.
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“I am proud of this recognition from Nareit, which further reinforces BXP’s leadership position in sustainable development and operations,” stated Owen Thomas, CEO of BXP. “We believe that through the execution of our business strategy we can make positive economic, environmental and social impacts and support the vital centers of research, commerce and civic life where we operate.”
“I am delighted by the progress we continue to make on environmental and social issues, and the capacity we’ve developed as an organization to provide transparent, high quality ESG information to our stakeholders,” stated Ben Myers, Director of Sustainability at BXP. “In an industry that can be resistant to change, innovation is hard. I am thankful for the efforts of Nareit to highlight the ESG performance of its members, and for all BXP employees, consultants, customers and partners who find purpose in delivering positive outcomes for people, planet and profit.”
This award extends BXP’s track record of recognition and leadership in ESG. Since 2008, the company has certified over 21 million square feet of its current in-service portfolio at the highest LEED certification levels of Gold and Platinum.
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