KELLY MEISSNER
EXECUTIVE INSIGHT
Sustainability is paramount across various industries , including real estate . This sector is increasingly recognising the importance of eco-friendly practices , as highlighted by Ventas ’ s VP Corporate ESG & Sustainability Kelly Meissner . A leading real estate investment trust specialising in the ownership and management of research , medicine and healthcare facilities , Ventas champions the development of sustainable buildings ensures that enhancing environmental performance goes hand-in-hand with resident wellbeing .
With a diverse portfolio spanning senior housing and healthcare facilities across geographies , Ventas is committed to achieving net zero operational carbon emissions by 2040 .
Here , Kelly explains how this ambitious goal not only reflects a dedication to reducing environmental impact but also aligns with long-term shareholder value , setting a benchmark for the industry .
Q . WHO IS VENTAS ?
» We are a real estate investment trust that acquires and manages healthcare and senior housing properties . We own and operate properties in the US , Canada and the UK , including senior housing communities , outpatient medical buildings , research centres and healthcare facilities .
Our mission is to create environments that help people live longer , healthier and happier lives .
Q . WHY COMMIT TO NET ZERO BY 2040 ?
» We made this commitment in March 2022 , exceeding our previous goal to decrease absolute carbon emissions by 30 % by 2030 . Our investors focus on decarbonisation , its risks and implications for long-term shareholder value .
We aimed to increase our ambition beyond our Paris Agreement-aligned goals . We wanted to understand how our portfolio could achieve net-zero cost-effectively . Our modelling indicated we could reach operational net zero by 2040 . We had robust data for our Scope 1 and 2 emissions , built over years and based on over 90 % actual data .
Our analysis showed that achieving net zero operational carbon emissions would result in lower energy and maintenance costs .
It would also create more resilient assets , improve air quality and occupant comfort and enhance tenant and resident attraction and retention .
At Ventas , leads all corporate initiatives , projects and reporting efforts related to sustainability . She also coordinates across the organisation and externally on ESG matters .
KELLY MEISSNER
TITLE : VP , CORPORATE ESG & SUSTAINABILITY
COMPANY : VENTAS INDUSTRY : REAL ESTATE
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