HOW A GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL LEADER UNLOCKED NON-TRADITIONAL RETURNS FROM REAL ESTATE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND BUSINESS IMPACT

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a strategic imperative that drives long-term value. Leading companies are seeking innovative ways to generate returns that go beyond financial metrics, creating positive social and environmental outcomes as part of their growth strategies. This case study showcases how Creekbank Associates partnered with a global industrial corporation to transform their approach to real estate management, delivering not only financial returns but also meaningful environmental and social benefits.

The Challenge: Identifying New Value Streams from Extensive Realty Assets

Executives from a global industrial corporation, overseeing more than one million acres of real estate assets across multiple continents, were under pressure to do more than just comply with environmental regulations. Their board had set a new directive: “do more better.” This call to action demanded that executives find innovative ways to use their realty assets to save money, generate revenue, and improve their social and environmental impact.

However, corporate leaders faced significant obstacles:

• Unclear Strategy: They were unsure how to select project sites for maximum benefit, lacking a cohesive approach to project identification and execution.
• Cultural Resistance: There was a lack of internal buy-in, with some leaders not fully embracing these initiatives.
• Knowledge Gaps: The organization had limited expertise in aligning environmental performance metrics with business dynamics.

Given these challenges, the corporation needed a trusted partner with deep experience in sustainability strategy to help them move forward with confidence and clarity.

Our Approach: Strategic Solutions for Nature-Based Impact

Creekbank Associates was brought in to develop a structured, data-driven strategy that could integrate business, social, and environmental metrics. We worked closely with the client to craft a roadmap that aligned their real estate strategy with sustainability goals. Our comprehensive solution focused on three core areas:

• Strategic Business and Project Solutions: We designed a decision support toolbox that allowed executives to make informed decisions about where to implement nature-based solutions (NbS) across their asset portfolio. This included evaluating properties for environmental uplift potential, quantifying financial returns, and appraising social benefits.
• Internal Engagement and Education: We conducted workshops and training sessions across the company to ensure alignment and support from key stakeholders. This internal capacity building empowered leaders and staff to understand and champion sustainability projects.
• Implementation and Communication Tools: We developed a scalable, web-based dashboard for tracking NbS projects and created templates for public communications that showcased the company’s progress toward environmental and social commitments.

Results: From Industry Laggard to Sustainability Leader

Our engagement resulted in swift and meaningful changes, positioning the corporation as a leader in integrating NbS into their business operations. Key outcomes included:

• Improved Decision-Making: Leaders gained a robust asset evaluation framework, enabling them to make strategic decisions about which sites to prioritize and how to balance environmental, social, and financial returns.
• Stronger Internal Support: Through workshops and training, leaders across divisions became engaged and supportive, viewing NbS as a tangible way to drive both sustainability and business value.
• Enhanced Public Reputation: The company’s new approach to managing its real estate assets elevated its reputation as a sustainability leader within the extractives industry, shifting public perception from being a laggard to a pioneer.

Ultimately, the company launched a new global group focused exclusively on sustainability initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable growth and setting a new standard for integrating environmental and business outcomes.

Building a Roadmap to Triple Bottom Line Impact

This case study illustrates how a structured, well-supported strategy can unlock tremendous value from existing assets. By aligning sustainability efforts with business objectives, companies can achieve triple bottom line outcomes—financial, social, and environmental. If your organization is looking to navigate similar challenges and opportunities, Creekbank Associates is here to guide you through every step of the journey.

For more information on how we can support your organization’s sustainability goals, visit Creekbank Associates or reach out to schedule a consultation.