Biodiversity is more than just an ecological ideal—it is becoming a strategic success factor for the real estate industry. A new white paper, to which our sustainability experts Jürgen Utz and Kirsten Gulau made significant contributions, makes it clear: Those who prioritize biodiversity early on strengthen climate resilience, reduce risks, and create added value.
Here's what's in the document
- The significance of biodiversity in the context of current ESG regulations.
- What future biodiversity due diligence (BioDD) for real estate projects should encompass.
- How measures to promote flora, fauna, and the microclimate can be integrated into planning, construction, and operations.
- How to incorporate biodiversity into your project through a clearly structured process—whether it’s a new construction or simply managing an existing asset.
Relevant knowledge—for these target audiences
- Portfolio and asset managers who want to address the issue by taking initial steps.
- Investors who want to better assess ESG risks and opportunities and integrate them into their ESG strategy.
- Planners, project developers, and property owners who want to specifically integrate biodiversity into their projects.
- Sustainability officers who need to implement regulatory requirements and nature-related KPIs.
A strong network for greater sustainability in the real estate industry
From the industry, for the industry—that’s how this white paper can be described. Since fall 2022, our colleagues have been working alongside other sustainability leaders from leading real estate companies in a cross-sector network dedicated to a sustainable industry. The initiative’s goal is to jointly develop practical solutions for integrating ESG criteria—including in the areas of real estate planning, construction, and operations. This interdisciplinary exchange, initiated by MOMENI and supported by companies such as LIST, Alstria, ECE, EDGE, and Union Investment, is now providing an important impetus with the recently published guide on biodiversity: The white paper highlights how measures that promote biodiversity can contribute to the sustainability of construction projects and existing properties—and offers sound practical guidance.
Jürgen Utz has been active in the field of sustainability for over 15 years. He has led LIST’s sustainability development efforts since 2022; prior to that, he served as director of the DGNB Academy, among other roles. He is a DGNB auditor, a member of the ESG Advisory Board at FondsForum, and contributed to the development of DIN SPEC 91475. Utz shares his knowledge through lectures, publications, and as a lecturer, with a focus on the CSRD and biodiversity.
Kirsten Gulau holds a degree in biology and, as Head of the Biodiversity Division at LIST Eco, efficiently and strategically integrates the benefits of nature and the city into concepts. Previously, she was an independent consultant in the field of urban species conservation and supported companies and organizations in integrating biodiversity measures. Kirsten is actively involved with various architectural associations, among other initiatives, as well as through her digital foundation, the “Urban Nature Fund.”
