Marta Schantz on Sustainability in Real Estate: An In-House Perspective for AvalonBay

Sustainability in commercial real estate, city skyline with eco-friendly icons.

Redefining Sustainability: An Inside Look

In the evolving landscape of commercial real estate, the voice of sustainability is becoming increasingly influential. Marta Schantz, now at AvalonBay Communities, exemplifies the shift from advocacy to implementation. In her previous role at the Urban Land Institute (ULI), she championed sustainability initiatives as co-director of the Randall Lewis Center for Sustainability, showcasing best practices and case studies to inspire action. However, as she transitions to her new position, Schantz offers valuable insights from inside the industry, where sustainability efforts often face practical challenges.

Balancing Ambition with Reality

Schantz emphasizes the importance of practical solutions in achieving ambitious environmental goals. She notes that while AvalonBay is committed to innovative practices—like integrating solar energy into their projects—sometimes, traditional methods can provide significant improvements in building performance. The reality of sustainability work means navigating both the shiny new solutions and the dependable standards already in practice.

The Impact of Decarbonization Practices

Decarbonization remains a top priority for AvalonBay, reflecting a larger trend within the real estate industry. With increasing pressure from investors and regulations, companies are focusing on comprehensive strategies to reduce their carbon footprints. Schantz explains that her role involves assessing the effectiveness of established practices alongside new technologies, ensuring that both are employed to meet the company’s sustainability targets.

The Future of Sustainable Development

Looking ahead, Schantz’s insights are crucial for stakeholders in commercial real estate. Her in-house perspective brings a fresh understanding of the immediate impact sustainability can have on operations, pushing for a balance between innovation and practicality. As more companies like AvalonBay embrace sustainability as a core concept, they pave the way for a more environmentally-friendly industry.

Sustainability & Smart Buildings

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Marta Schantz on Sustainability in Real Estate: An In-House Perspective for AvalonBay

Redefining Sustainability: An Inside Look

Balancing Ambition with Reality

The Impact of Decarbonization Practices

The Future of Sustainable Development

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