Why we invest in corporate responsibility
Balancing economic, environmental and social criteria protects the interests of our shareholders and our customers' shareholders.
Our partnership approach to corporate responsibility, Building Together, is also beneficial for the people who live near to our properties and developments, for our employees and suppliers, for wider society and for the environment.
As Executive Officer at British Land, Peter Clarke, explains: "A long-term business needs to develop and manage buildings that stand the test of time, meeting increasingly stringent regulatory requirements and occupiers' growing expectations." He adds: "We also need to manage risk, realise opportunities and value our customers, our brand and our reputation."
By improving resource efficiency at our properties we are reducing the impact of rising energy bills, fuel prices and landfill taxes on our occupiers. This is particularly important at a time when businesses are under pressure to reduce costs. Our occupiers, investors and employees are increasingly concerned by sustainability issues, from an environmental, regulatory, financial and risk point of view.
By working with local communities we are enhancing the local environment for our occupiers, as well as for local people. Developing buildings which meet local needs and have local support is a vital part of the planning process. Investing in good causes and providing training and employment opportunities also helps us to generate local goodwill, driving footfall at our retail properties and enhancing our reputation.
