Sustainable development is a constant concern in the management of Investis’ property portfolio. While for many years the focus has been on the comfort of tenants during interior renovations, Investis is more and more committed to reducing the carbon footprint of its property portfolio with a view to achieving the objectives of the Swiss government’s 2050 Energy Strategy, which is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero (Net Zero Strategy). As an intermediate step, the Climate 2030 plan in the Canton of Geneva aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% until 2030 (Plan climate cantonal 2030 – baseline of 1990). In Switzerland, buildings account for approximately 30% of the total CO₂ emissions, making them one of the most energy-intensive sectors.

strategy

Investis takes its environmental responsibility seriously and has been monitoring the energy consumption of its buildings since 2020. Its strategic planning is firmly focused on sustainable development criteria, reflecting its unwavering commitment to enhancing the real estate portfolio in a sustainable manner. This strategy is based on the following pillars:

• –Energy Efficiency: Investis invests in energy efficiency improvements, such as renovate properties (envelope renovations, window replacements, …) and energy optimisation measures, such as optimising heating systems and installing LED lightings, which also reduce operation costs.
• –Decarbonisation: Investis aims to replace existing fossil fuel heating systems with non-fossil heating systems or to connect to urban heating systems wherever possible.
• –Water Consumption: Investis integrates water flow reducers in sanitary appliances to reduce water consumption.
• –Tenant’s Education: Investis provides guidance and training to tenants on eco-friendly practices.
• –Tenant’s Well-Being: Investis renovates flat interiors, creating a pleasant environment.
• –Optimising Building Space: Investis explores opportunities to optimise unused areas such as attics or to add additional floors to existing buildings whenever possible and economically viable.

Constraints

Investis has adopted a forward-thinking approach, planning renovations over the long term to group interventions and to maximise cost-effectiveness and efficiency, much like its approach to apartments’ renovations. Since the portfolio consists mainly of properties in inner-city areas, the path to sustainability is not always a straightforward one. The Group has to deal with several constraints:

• –Stringent Regulatory Framework: Particularly in Geneva, Investis faces heavy procedures and permit authorisations that often result in delays in renovation projects.
• –Resource Availability: Ensuring the availability of materials and a skilled workforce can sometimes be a constraint.
• –Historical Preservation: Some of the buildings are subject to historical preservation regulations, making facade renovations very difficult and sometimes impossible.
• –Urban Heating Deployment: The delayed or unplanned deployment of urban heating systems by the cities complicates Investis efforts to transition to alternative, more sustainable heating sources.
• –LTDR: Specific regulations in Geneva add administrative constraints to the sustainable renovation of buildings (Law on Demolitions, Transformations and Renovations – LDTR).

In this segment, all companies are conscious of their responsibility in reducing their environmental footprint. The business operations are aligned with this commitment through:

• –Process Improvement: Investis continuously enhances its operational processes to reduce CO₂ consumption. This includes digitising paper-based procedures and minimising on-site visits by employees. Its transition to electric vehicles for operations is well underway.
• –Eco-Friendly Products: Investis emphasises the use of eco-friendly products and prefers local providers to minimise its environmental footprint.
• –Innovative Solutions: Investis focuses on innovative solutions that promote the efficient use of resources, such as water, energy and raw materials, to reduce its environmental footprint.
• –Education: Investis strives to educate customers and employees on eco-friendly solutions and measures.
• –ISO 14001: Hauswartprofis and Rohr are both certified and in compliance with the ISO 14001 environmental management system standard.

The journey towards sustainability is a long-term effort, involving shifts in both individual habits and work processes. Investis is committed to accelerating this transition and actively encourages eco-friendly initiatives. Together, the company and its employees can make a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable future.