In our pursuit of sustainability, we are focused on decarbonization efforts at the building level. Several projects incorporate innovative technologies and energy-efficient systems, aimed at significantly reducing carbon emissions. From smart design choices to energy system retrofits and commissioning, we are dedicated to creating structures that not only stand the test of time but also stand as examples of responsible development in our ongoing battle against climate change.
Sustainability
OVERVIEW
Woodbourne believes that incorporating sustainability principles into our business practices offers lasting environmental and social benefits. Our thoughtful approach provides the potential to positively impact the communities we help create.
Whether it is investing in the construction of net-zero properties, receiving industry-leading certifications, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, or upholding the highest standards, doing the right thing is integral to our mission.
We firmly believe that creating more sustainable properties is not just ethical – it is simply good business.
45 %
of projects certified
under BOMA BEST or LEED *
56 %
of projects have an
ENERGY STAR score above 75 **
100 %
of the firm is internally-owned
* Across all operating assets as of December 2023.
** Based on 2022 scores across all ENERGY STAR-tracked assets.
As an owner, developer, and operator of real estate properties, Woodbourne and its employees understand the importance of responsible investing guided by structured and thoughtful protocols that help shape the firm’s impact on stakeholders.
Externally, we have formally incorporated sustainability factors into our investment due diligence process, in addition to voluntarily adhering to reporting frameworks like GRESB, B Corp, and UNPRI to further embed sustainability into the firm. Internally, we have adopted policies and procedures that are in the best interest of our employees and the communities we serve. Sustainability efforts have the potential to augment property-level marketing and leasing efforts, increase employee morale, create operating efficiencies, add value, and provide additional safety, stability, resilience, and durability to projects.
Key Milestones
2021
- Began to formalize sustainability program
- Engaged a sustainability consulting firm
- Retained a Special Advisor, Sustainability
- Hired a full time Sustainability Manager
2022
- First GRESB submission
- Published inaugural Sustainability Report
2023
- Became B Corp Certified
- Became a UNPRI Signatory
- Commenced data tracking across all operating assets
- Began construction on first net zero carbon building in Toronto
Certifications + Industry Alignment
Sustainability Approach
Our approach to real estate is grounded in a genuine commitment to address climate change. From practical, energy-efficient designs to responsible property and office management, sustainability is a key consideration in our business endeavours. Our aim is not just to build communities, but to actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
COMBATTING CLIMATE CHANGE
Decarbonization
Resource Efficiency
Several projects leverage innovative technologies to minimize water, waste, electricity, and gas consumption – ensuring sustainable development without sacrificing quality. Through conscientious design, we are shaping spaces that exemplify our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and promoting a sustainable future.
RESILIENCE
Prioritizing resilience in real estate entails not only preparing for physical climate risks, but also adapting to evolving regulatory frameworks related to sustainable design. In addition to regulatory compliance, Woodbourne incorporates resilient building materials, infrastructure, and design practices to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events on its communities and further enhance value and appeal.
Building Strong Communities
Our commitment extends beyond building structures; we are dedicated to cultivating vibrant communities. Within our residences, we foster a sense of belonging and connectivity among residents and with the surrounding areas. By prioritizing strong, inclusive communities, both within our buildings and among our team, we are not just constructing spaces, we are shaping environments where individuals and businesses can thrive.
HOLDING OURSELVES ACCOUNTABLE
We uphold robust internal corporate governance practices, encompassing firm-wide processes and investment-level protocols to integrate sustainability considerations effectively. Employees at all levels adhere to strict guidelines on standards of compliance, business ethics and financial governance.
We are committed to following and implementing best practices in terms of transparency and governance and adhering to key reporting frameworks, which include GRESB, B Corp and UN PRI to ensure that stakeholders have a clear understanding of how we manage and disclose our environmental and social impacts. To that end, we have set measurable sustainability goals and key metrics that will enable us to track our progress and reduce our impact. This dedication to transparency is a testament to our unwavering commitment to responsible, ethical and sustainability business practices.
Sustainability Goals
Target
Metric
Applicable to
Target Year
There is no certainty that Woodbourne will achieve any of these goals at all or by the above target years.
CORPORATE INITIATIVES
$1000000 +
in corporate donations and
sponsorships since 2014
510 +
employee volunteer hours in 2023
$250
per employee per year to the charity of
their choice per Woodbourne’s Community
Involvement Policy
CHARITABLE PARTNERS
Example Sustainability Initiatives
1
Affordable housing units, artist live/work studios
2
Community center and cultural hub
3
Onsite childcare
4
Fitness center, yoga/spin studio
5
Well-located near high transit, high walk scores
6
Energy and water efficient appliances, efficient lighting and design elements
7
Low-flow water fixtures
8
Recycled materials used during construction
9
Storm water retention, gray water reuse systems
10
Recycling, composting
11
Electric vehicle charging stations, bike storage, car-share parking stalls
12
Energy recovery ventilators, condensing boilers
13
Geothermal energy systems and thermal energy tanks
14
Deep lake water cooling system
15
Green roofs, community gardens, bee hives
16
District energy system
17
Bird-friendly window glazing
18
High albedo roofing surfaces
19
Publicly accessible outdoor space, art walking trails, biking trails
20
Farmers’ market
- Affordable housing units, artist live/work studios
- Community center and cultural hub
- Onsite childcare
- Fitness center, yoga/spin studio
- Well-located near high transit, high walk scores
- Energy and water efficient appliances, efficient lighting and design elements
- Low-flow water fixtures
- Recycled materials used during construction
- Storm water retention, gray water reuse systems
- Recycling, composting
- Electric vehicle charging stations, bike storage, car-share parking stalls
- Energy recovery ventilators, condensing boilers
- Geothermal energy systems and thermal energy tanks
- Deep lake water cooling system
- Green roofs, community gardens, bee hives
- District energy system
- Bird-friendly window glazing
- High albedo roofing surfaces
- Publicly accessible outdoor space, art walking trails, biking trails
- Farmers’ market
This is for illustrative purposes only. Woodbourne has considered and has incorporated the above ESG elements through various projects. Developments are evaluated on a project-by-project basis and as such, not all of the above elements may be considered or reflected in the project. The above is not an exhaustive list and this does not constitute a guarantee that any or all of the above will be reflected in any Woodbourne project.