CBRE Group, Inc. has recently announced that it is launching the Real Green Research Challenge (RGRC), which is a four-year, US $1 million commitment from the commercial real estate services firm to fund sustainability research and innovation. The announcement was made at the Climate Group’s Climate Week NYC.
“We are pleased to announce the creation of the industry’s first dedicated funding mechanism to support substantive research for commercial real estate,” said Dave Pogue, CBRE’s Global Director of Sustainability and head of the global sustainability taskforce that developed the RGRC. “Through this collaborative approach, we hope to create a meaningful impact in sustainable commercial real estate practices.”
The company is now accepting submissions for research proposals. Its goal is to develop solutions to critical environmental challenges facing the industry.
The market is becoming increasingly aware of the impact commercial buildings have on the environment, and CBRE has realised that often there has been a gap between good ideas and the financial support necessary to move them forward. CBRE has also committed to market data, as well as other services that only a firm of its calibre can provide.
CBRE has put together a panel of experts to evaluate the research proposals. The judges who have been chosen come from a variety of backgrounds, including industry, academia, and non-governmental organisations.
Categories which may be considered for funding are as follows:
“Commercial buildings can generate serious environmental impacts for both current and future generations. However, smart research and innovation can significantly reduce these impacts,” said Mark Kenber, CEO of The Climate Group. “Therefore we support CBRE’s efforts with the RGRC and applaud its commitment to bringing its resources to bear for positive environmental change.”
