Gert Dijkstra: The Business Case for ESG in Real Estate | SALT Talks #100

Gert Dijkstra is the Senior Managing Director at APG Asset Management, responsible for Global Networks and Peers and for Investing in the Netherlands. Formerly he was Chief Strategy & Communication and member of the Board at APG Asset Management. More and more, asset management companies are placing an emphasis on investing in socially responsible companies. APG created GRESB, standing for Global Real Estate Sustainable Benchmark, now used by over 180 asset managers. This measures responsible environmental behavior like energy and water reduction. Pension fund management companies are beginning to collaborate in order to streamline the ability to evaluate and monitor institutions’ commitment to key environmental factors like carbon reduction. “We can report on listed companies with regard to their sustainable development goals and results.” Adherence to ESG commitments involves communication with clients and shareholders. Five-year sustainability goals are set and these standards are weighed along with the likelihood of investment returns. 20-30-year targets are also overlaid in building a global portfolio aligned with long-term ESG goals. ————————————————————————— To learn more about this episode, including podcast transcripts and show notes, visit salt.org/talks Moderated by Anthony Scaramucci.