{"type":"document","data":{"contentType":"onecms:editorialPage","flexPageMetadata":{"afmBanner":false,"description":"Investing in sustainable commercial buildings is not only a wise business decision but also leads to a positive impact on the environment and society.","robotInstruction":{"noFollow":false,"noIndex":false}},"flexZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p>Aside from tenants and investors, the government is also pushing entrepreneurs to make business premises as energy efficient as possible. For example, as an entrepreneur, you are required to obtain an <a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/sustainable-business/peb-non-residential\">Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)</a> if you want to sell or rent your commercial building in Flanders. </p><p>In any case, investing in energy-efficient commercial real estate provides your company with numerous attractive social, economic, and environmental benefits. We list the most important ones for you: </p><ul><li><p><strong>Long-term cost savings</strong>: sustainable buildings use energy-efficient technologies, such as <a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/sustainable-business/how-many-solar-panels-do-i-need\">solar panels</a>, LED lighting, and modern insulation materials. This reduces your energy costs and makes you less dependent on traditional energy sources. In addition, investments in water-saving systems and sustainable materials can result in lower water and maintenance costs. </p></li></ul>"}},{"componentType":"highlight","richBody":{"value":"<p>The <a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/financing/eco-renovation-loan\">ING Eco Renovation Loan</a> offers attractive financing conditions for energy-saving renovations that result in a maximum energy score after completion of the works. </p>"},"title":"Good to know:"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<ul><li><p><strong>Increased real estate value and market demand</strong>: sustainable real estate is increasingly valued by tenants, investors, and buyers. So, it can bring you attractive financial benefits. After all, it meets the growing demand for environmentally friendly and healthy working and living environments. By investing in sustainable real estate, you increase the value of your property and increase its attractiveness on the market. The result? Higher occupancy rates, longer leases, and lower vacancy costs. </p></li><li><p><strong>Positive impact on employer brand and image</strong>: sustainability has become an important factor in building a positive corporate image and attracting customers and investors. By investing in sustainable real estate, you show that you care about the environment and society, and that you want to do your part. This will boost your corporate reputation, with more loyal customers and positive word-of-mouth advertising. </p></li><li><p><strong>Smaller carbon footprint</strong>: governments worldwide have implemented laws and regulations to enhance attention to sustainability and energy conservation. Think, for example, of the <a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/sustainable-business/impact-company-corporate-sustainability-reporting-directive\">Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive</a> that comes into effect as of 2024. By investing in sustainable real estate, you comply with the applicable regulations and limit, for example, the risk of damage to your image. Moreover, investing in sustainability ensures that your real estate portfolio is future-proof and less sensitive to changes in regulations and market conditions. </p></li></ul>"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<p>Thanks to investments in sustainable real estate, as an entrepreneur you play a sustainable and responsible role in business while making a positive contribution to the environment and society. </p>"},"title":"Conclusion"},{"componentType":"highlight","richBody":{"value":"<p>The standards, requirements, and obligations mentioned in this article may change regularly. We therefore recommend that you check the specific regulations and requirements with the appropriate authorities in the relevant region for the latest information. </p>"},"title":"Good to know"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"And now?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"<ul><li>Do you want to know how to improve the energy performance of your commercial buildings? The <strong><a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/sustainable-business/sustainable-buildings-guide-en\">ING Sustainable Buildings Guide</a> </strong>is<strong> </strong>a free digital tool that helps you identify which investments to make to improve the energy performance of your properties. </li><li>Do you already know what investment you want to make? Apply quickly and online for your loan with <strong><a data-type=\"internal\" href=\"/en/business/financing/professional-credit\">ING Instant Business Credit</a></strong>.</li></ul>"}},{"componentType":"cta","textLink":{"text":"Discover the ING Sustainable Buildings Guide","url":"/en/business/sustainable-business/sustainable-buildings-guide-en"}}]},"hasMacro":false,"id":"72df8964-e00a-45b4-a9be-73f1a0ead7c9","localeString":"en-GB","mainHeaderZone":{"backLink":{"textLink":{"text":"Sustainable business","url":"/en/business/sustainable-business"}},"componentType":"editorialHeader","coreHeader":{"body":"Driven by tenants and investors, more and more business owners are investing in sustainable real estate. Greening commercial buildings is not only a wise business decision, but also an opportunity to have a positive impact on both the environment and society. What are the benefits of sustainable real estate investment?","title":"The benefits of investing in sustainable real estate"},"date":"2025-05-12","readingTime":3},"publishDate":"2025-05-12T10:26:16.852+02:00"}}