We're pleased to share two new case studies from our members to be added to the Global ESG Library, highlighting practical strategies to integrate environmental considerations at both the asset and development levels. These examples from Realterm and GARBE demonstrate how investment managers are advancing climate resilience and low-carbon innovation across the real estate sector.
Realterm – Embedding nature-based solutions to boost climate resilience
Realterm engaged Longevity Partners to assess the feasibility of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) across a portfolio of assets in the Netherlands. In response to site-specific climate risks such as drought, flooding, and soil degradation, the study evaluated green infrastructure opportunities while considering technical, ecological, and regulatory factors. The result was a tailored design guide to support implementation. Initial steps included installing rainwater reuse systems and biodiversity features such as birdhouses and bee boxes—reinforcing Realterm’s ESG+R strategy and enhancing long-term climate resilience at the asset level.
GARBE – Pioneering low-carbon construction with Germany’s tallest timber hybrid tower
GARBE’s ROOTS development in Hamburg raises the bar for sustainable urban design as Germany’s tallest timber hybrid high-rise. Completed in Q1 2024 in HafenCity, the 19-storey building combines prefabricated timber with a concrete core, achieving a balance between structural safety, material efficiency, and carbon reduction. With a mixed-use programme and innovative use of natural materials, ROOTS offers a blueprint for high-density, low-carbon living and reflects the growing role of timber in sustainable construction.
These case studies reflect the evolving ESG landscape, where asset managers are proactively embedding environmental performance into design and operation—advancing both climate goals and long-term value creation.
Do you have an initiative that has made a difference? We encourage you to share your ESG best practices with the INREV community. Submit your case study to marcomms@inrev.org for a chance to be featured on our website.
Nature-based solutions feasibility study & design guide by Longevity
Published on 28 May 2025
Realterm engaged Longevity Partners to assess the feasibility of implementing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) across a number of assets in the Netherlands, in response to climate risks including drought, flooding, and soil degradation. The study evaluated green infrastructure options specific to each site, incorporating legislative, technical, and ecological considerations. Based on this analysis, Longevity Partners developed tailored NbS recommendations and a practical design guide. Initial measures implemented include rainwater reuse systems and biodiversity enhancements such as birdhouses and bee boxes. The initiative supports Realterm’s ESG+R strategy by strengthening asset-level climate resilience and aligning with emerging regulatory frameworks.
ROOTS – Highest wooden residential tower in Germany by GARBE
Published on 24 Jun 2025
ROOTS Hamburg is Germany’s tallest timber hybrid high-rise, developed by GARBE in HafenCity and completed in Q1 2024. Standing at 19 storeys, the project pioneers climate-resilient construction through the innovative use of prefabricated timber combined with a concrete core. ROOTS integrates sustainable materials, advanced fire safety measures, and urban mixed-use programming to set a new benchmark for low-carbon, high-density development in Europe.