11.350 | Spring 2023 | Graduate

Sustainable Real Estate

Lectures 10-12

Lecture 10: Topical Discussions [Siqi Zheng]

Lecture notes (PDF)

Lecture Notes (PPTX)

Climate risk and insurance market crisis  

Leave or rebuild: Is managed retreat an option?  

Readings

No readings assigned.

 

Lecture 11: Policy as a Game Changer for Sustainable Real Estate [Siqi Zheng]   

Lecture notes (PDF)

Lecture Notes (PPTX)

Policy landscape and the impacts on pro forma cash flow   

Positive externality and “carrots” policies:   

  • Subsidies for green buildings   
  • FAR bonus   

Negative externality and “sticks” policies:

  • Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (UK)   
  • Building performance standard: Local Law 97 (NYC) and BERDO 2.0 (Boston)   
  • Risk disclosure mandates: Boston Seaport case   
  • Building energy codes   

Readings

US energy code landscape

Matisoff, D. C., D.S. Noonan, and M.E. Flowers (2016). “Policy Monitor—Green Buildings: Economics and Policies.” Review of Environmental Economics and Policy 10(2): 329–346.

 

Lecture 12: EDGE: Reinventing Sustainable Real Estate in the Digital Age [Zhengzhen Tan]  

[No video or lecture notes available]

This case highlights the journey of EDGE that once fit a traditional real estate business model but has transformed to develop some of the most sustainable buildings in the world with novel digital technologies. By examining the transformation of EDGE, this case explores the potential that digital technology has in advancing sustainable buildings, and the challenges and risks that arise with implementation. Students will learn the following:

  • How OVG/EDGE was able to convert sustainability and technology investments into business value; how to build a business model and competitive advantage to capitalize sustainability
  • The synergy between digital technology and building sustainability
  • How to build capabilities in the development process 

Guest speaker: Coen van Oostrom, Founder and CEO of EDGE

Readings

EDGE case study (PDF)

Optional Reading

Porter, M., and J. Heppelmann (2014). “How Smart, Connected Products are Transforming Competition.” Harvard Business Review, November 2014.

Course Info

Learning Resource Types
Lecture Notes
Lecture Videos
Multiple Assignment Types