Czech Republic Interest in sustainability is growing

The research shows that the sustainability issue has so far been most addressed by large multinationals, who expect properties to be equipped with sustainable technologies such as heat pumps, heat recovery units, energy-efficient smart lighting and photovoltaics. Experts from Colliers predict that interest in this topic will also increase next year, but among smaller local companies.

The growing emphasis on sustainability and ESG is particularly evident in large global companies. This commitment is naturally reflected in their local operations and property selection. When deciding on new premises, they carefully assess whether they will have a low carbon footprint and meet not only internal standards, but also comply with current legislation. While the focus on ESG factors is not quite as pronounced for local companies, we expect this dynamic to change soon as more and more businesses integrate these aspects into their sustainability strategies.
Miroslav Kotek, head of Industrial Real Estate at Colliers

While in new modern buildings the implementation of sustainable technologies is relatively easy and landlords themselves actively contribute with different ideas, older properties often present more complex challenges. Smaller or local landlords have not yet shown much willingness to invest in renovations. This puts tenants in a situation where they have to get personally involved in finding alternative solutions and possibly allocate their own funds to renovate and modernise existing buildings.

Any measure taken to achieve greater sustainability comes with increased costs, which are ultimately borne by the tenants. They must therefore take this into account in their budgets. On the other hand, they save on operating costs in the medium and long term and expect that investments in sustainable technologies and efficient energy solutions will ultimately translate into financial savings.
Miroslav Kotek

The customers of these tenants - large multinational companies that have sustainability firmly embedded in their strategies - also play an important role. Moreover, attention to current trends strengthens the image of a brand or company in the eyes of customers and the public.

From January 2024, some large companies will be required to provide regular information on progress towards their ESG objectives, i.e. environmental protection, fairness of relations with employees, and responsibility and ethical working practices. This obligation will gradually be extended to other companies. However, the driving force behind the demand for sustainable solutions tends to be the companies themselves. They have already integrated ESG objectives into their business strategies in recent years. As a key part of the supply chain, the manufacturing and logistics sectors are essential to achieving these goals.