An introduction to the basic principles of sustainable real estate and the most popular certification and rating systems real estate professionals should be familiar with to understand how social and environmental issues affect valuations and appraisals.

A key function of real estate is to provide safe, reliable and affordable housing. It turns out that meeting this basic need for shelter for all people is a challenge. Knowing the risks and opportunities and creative solutions can empower real estate students and professionals to be a part of the solution.

Due to the large impact real estate has on the climate and on communities, and its long-term nature as an asset class, environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors are increasingly important–for the world and for investors, owners, and occupiers.