Viewpoint | Creating Resilience
The Sustainability Gap
Closing the Gap: How Occupier Sustainability Goals Present Opportunities for Landlords and Developers
July 1, 2025 9 Minute Read
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There is a clear gap between the sustainability goals of major occupiers and the environmental performance of the buildings they occupy. This disconnect presents a significant opportunity for landlords and developers.
The insights from this report reveal that among the 100 largest occupiers of prime Auckland office space, 78 have set greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and 49 are committed to achieving net zero. These organisations currently lease 325,000sqm of office space, with 77% of that in sustainable buildings.
In contrast, the industrial sector shows a much wider gap. Of the 100 largest prime industrial occupiers, 59 have emissions targets and 28 are pursuing net zero. Yet only 16% of the 928,000sqm they occupy is in sustainable premises.
As more organisations face mandatory climate-related disclosures and 2030 sustainability targets draw nearer, the demand for high-performing green buildings is expected to grow.
This report explores how these trends are influencing leasing decisions and what they mean for the future of New Zealand’s office and industrial property markets.
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