Green Real Estate

Climate change is the biggest threat facing mankind today. The abatement potential of emissions is by far largest in the buildings sector, with the built environment responsible for one third of global carbon emissions. The topic of energy efficiency in the built environment is currently a central theme in the decision-making of investors as well as policymakers. Systematic research is scant. The work of ECCE on energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings is part of a global research initiative that addresses some of the main barriers to market adoption of energy efficiency measures.

The results and conclusions from this research have led to new economic insights on whether the private market does incorporate information on energy efficiency in the determination of rents and asset prices. The economic efficiency of energy efficiency may trigger investments and thereby substantially reduce carbon emissions. This research also has important policy implications, as it provides evidence on the importance of publicly provided information in affecting the choices of private firms about energy use. Proper design and implementation of energy labels determines whether efficiency of capital inputs can be signaled to the owners and tenants of buildings in an effective manner.

The ECCE research on energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings is featured in top scientific journals, practitioner magazined and in the popular media.