BR Interview | Genesis property’s approach to esg is collaborative and tenant-centric

Cătălin Năstăsoiu , VP of Marketing Strategy at Genesis Property , spoke to BR about the developer’s full transition to renewable energy and the next steps in the company’s sustainability journey.

By Ovidiu Posirca

How will Genesis Property’s transition to renewable energy shape the future demand for offices and private student accommodation facilities?

At Genesis Property, our transition to renewable energy isn’t just a policy change; it’s a transformative headway towards redefining modern workspaces and accommodations for future young professionals. By aligning our operations with rigorous ESG principles, we not only adhere to global sustainability standards but also cater to the growing eco-conscious demographic. Our commitment is evident from our strategic shift to 100% renewable energy across our portfolio, which significantly enhances the desirability of our properties.

Our frequent surveys and constant research show that today’s and the future’s workforce prioritise sustainability. They are increasingly inclined to align with organisations and facilities that mirror their values. Therefore, integrating renewable energy solutions positions Genesis Property as a leader in both attracting and retaining discerning tenants and employees who are committed to environmental stewardship.

What are the next steps in the company’s sustainability journey, following the transition to renewable energy?

Building on our pivotal shift to renewable energy, Genesis Property confidently advances its sustainability agenda with more ambitious and innovative initiatives. Starting 2013, Genesis Property’s portfolio has held the BREEAM “Very Good” certification, and it is now pre-evaluated for the BREEAM “Outstanding” status, reflecting our longstanding commitment to environmental excellence.

In 2021, Genesis Property became the first real estate company in Romania to join the UN Global Compact, thus committing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) principles.

Significant investments, including installing 1080 PV panels at YUNITY Park generating about 680 kWh annually, help us progress towards our net-zero carbon emissions target by 2024, a decade ahead of the European Green Deal timeline. This effort is supported by our shift to a 100% certified green energy supply, expected to cut carbon emissions by at least 3,500 tonnes each year.

In 2023, Genesis FM achieved the Eco-Management Audit Scheme (EMAS) certification, further demonstrating our rigorous commitment to environmental management and sustainability. That same year, we received the SBTi (Science Based Targets Initiative) validation for our near-term science-based targets.

In 2024, Genesis Property began reporting its ESG performance to the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB).

As for next steps, at Genesis Property, a company founded by Liviu Tudor, we remain diligent and consistent in achieving our sustainability goals, continuously elevating the excellence of our services. We support our tenants in meeting their environmental objectives, fostering lasting partnerships that advance our collective journey towards a greener future.

How do you approach the ESG topic from the perspective of your tenants?

Our approach to ESG is collaborative and tenant-centric, while our developments are not just physical spaces, but vibrant ecosystems where four generations coexist harmoniously. We celebrate diversity in age, culture, and social backgrounds, which enriches the community experience. The creation of YUNITY Park represents our binder to these values. This space is designed not just to enhance workplace efficiency but to cultivate a vibrant community aligned with our tenants’ ESG goals.