Materiality analysis
The sustainability themes at the core of our strategy were defined for the first time in 2011 and we began GRI reporting in 2014. In 2019 we conducted a materiality analysis and updated our sustainability program. Our new materiality analysis and sustainability focus areas were updated in 2022 based on industry analysis, stakeholder input, and impact on business operations.
Based on our strategy and the wishes of our stakeholders, the following four themes became the core focus areas of Sponda’s sustainability operations:
- Our properties make a difference. We are creating the net-zero buildings of the future by reducing emissions together with our partners. We look for ways to increase circularity and biodiversity in urban spaces.
- Spaces bring us together. Our properties are the cornerstones of a safe, healthy, and sustainable community. We make daily sustainability actions easy for our tenants and promote active collaboration.
- People make it happen. We put the health, safety, and wellbeing of our employees first. Our people can grow in an open and inclusive working culture.
- Building on a progressive foundation. We lead the industry in sustainability. We develop sustainable practices and strive to safeguard human rights together with our partners.
How we analysed materiality
In our 2022 materiality analysis, an external partner surveyed and interviewed our most significant stakeholders. The online survey was made available to the public through both our internal and external communication channels. The survey was completed by a diverse group of our stakeholders, including Sponda employees, tenants, visitors to our properties, our management team and owners, as well as our suppliers, contractors, architects, and consultants.
The interviews were conducted with 19 stakeholders from key stakeholder groups. The interviewees were selected from among our management team and owners, other key personnel, tenants, representatives of city and state councils, and representatives of real estate associations. During the interviews, the stakeholders were asked about the most important themes for the real estate sector and Sponda, including positive and negative impacts, potential and actual impacts, as well as risks and opportunities.
Based on the online survey and interviews, we prioritised the material topics.
Our material topics |
|
Environment | · CO2 emissions reduction · Circular economy · Biodiversity · Sustainable construction · Energy efficiency · Renewable energy |
Society | · Community engagement · Health and safety of the facilities · Tenant satisfaction |
Employees | · Employee satisfaction · Diversity and equal treatment · Good working environment |
Governance | · Ethical business conduct & transparency · Sustainable supply chains |
The survey proved that environmental topics were the most important, with a high level of agreement among respondents. The interviews further confirmed this, highlighting the importance of reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and increasing the use of renewable energy.
Additionally, the results showed that more recent topics such as biodiversity, circular economy, community engagement, and diversity and inclusion have become essential for us. The analysis revealed that we can contribute to society’s well-being through urban development and by working with tenants to reduce emissions. However, challenges remain, including some old, energy-inefficient buildings and possible social issues in the supply chain.
Our new sustainability programme for 2023–2025 is based on these findings.